The rapid increase in the number of hotels linked up to wireless internet is continuing, with French hotel chain, Accor, revealing a fresh deal with Spain’s Telefonica.

Accor has announced it will deploy wireless fidelity (WiFi) networks in 40 of the group’s hotels in Spain.

The network will be made available in common areas, such as lobbies, bars and conference or meeting rooms.

Guests wanting to use the facility can purchase pre-paid cards, priced depending on the purpose of use.

Prices range from one euro for 10 minutes, to 52.50 euros (£35) for a month’s unlimited use.

Accor intends to introduce the service in its Sofitel, Novotel, Mercure and Ibis hotels by June 2004.

Accor operates 4,000 hotels in 90 countries. Details: www.accor.com