Traveling and hotels play a critical role in facilitating travel. After World War II, the hotel industry experienced an explosion of growth. Postwar prosperity boosted incomes and the interstate highway system created the ideal conditions for the industry to flourish. The industry also became an important domestic political battleground. Today, the hotel industry remains a vital part of travel, connecting people from all over the world.
Location
Location is one of the most important factors to consider when traveling and booking hotels. Nearly every traveller’s plan depends on where they will stay. By utilizing a Google Map, travellers can find hotels within a 15 or 30-minute drive of their current location. Location is also used by travel websites to provide dynamic pricing. For example, if you type in “New York City,” a hotel near Times Square will be more expensive than one that is further away.
Cost
With the summer season quickly approaching, the cost of traveling and hotels is likely to rise. This is due to increased consumer demand and rising supply and labor costs. According to the latest Consumer Price Index, travel prices and hotel rates increased 8.5 percent and 11.7 percent, respectively, in March. The trend shows that many consumers are willing to pay more for an improved travel experience.
The cost of traveling and hotel accommodations can add up quickly and can significantly impact a vacation’s budget. Fuel costs, for example, can add up to huge bills. Those who travel frequently may want to consider driving instead of flying. Although the travel industry is becoming more inclusive, it still has a long way to go. The first step for companies to become more inclusive is to recruit more diverse employees and build an employer brand that attracts service leaders from all backgrounds.
Cancellation policies
The last couple of years have been turbulent for the travel industry. Travelers are cancelling bookings left and right, and hotels have responded by enacting various changes, from flexible cancellation policies to reducing change fees. Depending on the destination and the hotel’s policy, these changes may be temporary, or they could be permanent.
While some travel agencies are offering a flexible cancellation policy for their customers, many do not. Travelodge has an option for free cancellation on certain bookings. Cancellation fees are waived for guests who are more than 72 hours away from their arrival date. However, the company requires that all properties accommodate non-cancellation policies by June 2020.
Alternatives
In recent years, alternative lodging options have been on the rise. Not only do these accommodations provide a less expensive option, they can also provide a unique experience. For example, Couchsurfing allows you to stay in a local home for free or for a discounted rate. These experiences are a great way to experience the local culture. Another popular alternative to a hotel is an Airbnb listing. The service offers an expanded selection of properties and better service than most hotel booking websites. The downside to Airbnb is the difficulty in finding decent lodging, and there are a number of scam reports.
Another option is to stay with friends and family. This option is perfect for singles, couples, or families on a budget. Although you may have to pay a membership fee, the cost is far less than staying in a hotel.