Traveling and hotels have a long and interwoven history. Their relationship has evolved over centuries, and the relationship reached a fever pitch after the Second World War, when the postwar economic boom drove commercial travel to new heights. The hotel industry exploded in size, and became an important domestic political battleground. Today, hotels play a vital role in connecting places and activities.
Inclusion initiatives in the travel and hotel industry
Inclusion initiatives in the travel and hotel industry are becoming more commonplace. The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation recently announced a plan to invest $5 million in diversity initiatives. The plan’s aim is to increase the proportion of people of color in senior management positions. Currently, people of color make up a small proportion of the industry’s workforce, and most senior executives are white. According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association, which represents 27,000 members including Marriott, Wyndham, and Hilton, 81% of top managers are white.
Diversity and inclusion are essential for modern hospitality brands. Leading hotel brands, such as Accor, have made diversity and inclusion a core focus of their operations. This commitment not only builds trust between staff and guests, but also contributes to the development of a diverse workforce.
Off-season pricing
Off-season pricing can be a great way to save money on travel and hotel stays. Many destinations are trying to reduce the impact of peak season, like Door County, Wisconsin, which hosts a half-marathon in early May. Additionally, the area plans to add a Christmas market in late November and early December in 2021, bringing more tourists to the area during slower times. Another trend is the increased number of travelers on weekdays, which are also great for finding a bargain.
The off-season is the best time to book a trip to a popular vacation destination. You can find the best hotel rates in September and October, when demand is lower. In addition, you can use a rate-shopper tool to compare hotel rates during low seasons. Make sure you plan ahead and stick with your strategy.
Choosing a hotel with a great location
While traveling, one of the most important factors to consider is the hotel’s location. This can mean the difference between getting a good night’s rest or a restless one. A good location can also mean being near tourist attractions and popular landmarks. If you are traveling to a new city, you may not be familiar with the hotels in that area.
In addition to location, a hotel should also offer amenities like air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast. Some hotels charge for such amenities, so make sure to read the fine print.
Booking in advance
While it may seem like a hassle, booking hotels in advance offers many benefits. It will save you money, ensure that you’ll get the room you want, and will give you more time to plan your trip. For example, if you’re traveling to San Diego, you’ll have plenty of time to check whether the Gaslamp Quarter is accessible or if there are any special events planned during the summer.
Booking a hotel in advance will also allow you to make an in-depth research of the hotels in your destination. There are certain hotels that are more expensive than others, and it’s important to compare rates. This way, you can avoid being stuck with an overbooked hotel or paying for a room that is too expensive for your budget.