After World War II, the American hotel industry exploded at an unprecedented rate. The three-decade economic boom increased the incidence of commercial travel and drove incomes sky-high. The rise of organized labor helped distribute wealth more equitably, and the interstate highway system and reliable passenger aircraft made travel a breeze. The industry also became a key domestic political arena.
Location
When traveling and booking hotels, location is key. Travel websites know your location, and they show you different prices for the same hotel based on where you are. These sites use information such as your IP address, WiFi access point, and GPS location to determine your price. This information is used to give you personalized quotes.
However, you can avoid this by using a VPN. A VPN will protect your privacy and prevent websites from tracking your location. You can use it to hide your real location, so they won’t be able to track your movements and personalize your experience.
Cancellation policy
The cancellation policy at traveling and hotel chains can differ, and you may want to check the specifics to find out what the rules are. Some hotels have more flexibility than others, and there are certain restrictions that can apply to you, depending on your status and how you booked your trip. Some hotels may even change their elite status requirements, which can further impact their cancellation policies.
For example, many hotels require full payment in advance of booking. If you don’t cancel your reservation within the cancellation policy, you’ll be charged for the entire stay. In some cases, you can get a full refund, or at least a travel credit if you cancel before check-in. Likewise, cancellation policies may differ for bookings made with rewards points. Some travel providers, such as leisure travel agents, are able to negotiate cancellation policies with hotel managers.
Cost
As summer approaches, the cost of traveling and hotels is set to rise. Increasing labor costs and consumer demand are driving the trend up. In March alone, travel prices rose an average of 8.5 percent, and hotel rates rose an average of 11.7 percent. While many travelers are willing to spend a little more for an improved experience, smart booking can keep your expenses low. Using price comparison websites, booking direct with hotels and searching for discounts can help you find great rates.
Alternative accommodations
When traveling on a budget, there are many options to consider other than traditional hotels. For instance, there are Airbnb properties and other types of private houses. These options are a great option for travelers on a budget, and can cost up to 40% less than conventional hotels. As the economy recovers, more people are turning to these types of accommodations to meet their travel needs.
Alternative accommodations are growing rapidly, and hoteliers must adapt to meet this trend. The industry began as a niche marketplace where people could earn extra income while traveling, but it quickly grew to a complex market. Ultimately, the growth of the market can be attributed to the emergence of innovative business models in the alternative lodging sector.
Booking with a travel agent
Using a travel agent can be beneficial for a number of reasons. It is often free to use their services, and you will get valuable perks in return. Typically, travel agents are paid on a commission basis by the hotels they book for you. In most cases, booking through a travel agent will result in the same price as booking directly, and you will get perks that are not available when booking direct.
A travel agent understands your needs and wants and can offer recommendations that will best suit your needs. These agents have extensive knowledge of certain travel segments and destinations, and they take time to get to know you as a customer.