Westin survey respondents pick sleep over sex

ByABC News
August 17, 2009, 5:34 PM

— -- A good night's sleep or great sex?

Sleep, say 51% of respondents in a study released today by Westin Hotels & Resorts.

The study of about 12,500 recent travelers in a dozen countries commissioned by the hotel chain in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of Westin's Heavenly Bed, backs up headlines that say Americans don't get enough sleep.

Some highlights:

51% of respondents would prefer a perfect night's sleep to great sex. Contrary to stereotype, more men than women picked slumber over a roll in the hay. Canadians were the only group to favor sex over sleep. (When a Westin survey asked the same question a decade ago, just 31% picked sleep.)

42% would rather find a sleeping pill on their pillow than the usual chocolate at turndown.

More than half of travelers 62% say they take an over-the-counter or prescription relaxant, sleeping pill or stress medication during an overnight stay away from home.

60% said their BlackBerry or other personal digital assistant has hindered getting a good night's sleep.

57% said a great hotel bed provides a better sleep experience than at home, which certainly was music to the ears of the Heavenly Bed folks.

During a Times Square media event Monday, Westin also announced a partnership with the National Sleep Foundation. Until Sept. 15, Westin will collaborate on a toll-free sleep hotline (888-TIME-4-SLEEP) staffed by NSF experts. Callers are invited to discuss their sleep problems with experts. Hotline hours are Monday-Friday from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. ET.