Traveling is an exciting way to see the world and experience other cultures. It also gives us a chance to relax, decompress and recharge. In fact, a recent study found that those who take more vacation days are more likely to get a raise or bonus at work. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, selecting the right hotel can make all the difference. In addition to comfort, the choice of accommodations is often defined by your purpose, budget and desire for a unique travel experience. For example, you might opt for a boutique hotel or stay in something unconventional like a treehouse or yurt.
The travel industry is a multibillion-dollar field that encompasses hotels, airlines, cruise lines and theme parks. It is also a service sector that is constantly evolving and changing to reflect customer needs. This includes the emergence of digital technology that has changed how people shop for flights and hotels and how they connect with properties.
In the past, finding lodging required a trip to a physical travel agent and the use of a paper guidebook. Flights were bought on paper tickets and reservations were made with carbon-paper slips. Then the internet came along and changed everything. Now, savvy travelers can find the best hotel for their needs and preferences with just a few clicks. It’s no wonder the industry has become so sophisticated and competitive.
Hotel reviews, star ratings, applicable loyalty programs and online booking websites provide a wealth of information that can help travelers make the right decision for their next trip. It’s important to look at multiple sources when assessing the quality of a hotel, and it can be helpful to filter the reviews by date and type of traveler. It’s also worth noting that hotels sometimes charge hidden fees such as airport shuttles, staff gratuities and internet connection charges.
Many people choose to stick with a certain hotel chain for perks and consistency. Others prefer to book independently. While it’s not always possible to avoid high rates, doing your research can help you save money. You can look up the average rate for your chosen destination on various booking websites, and compare prices at different times of year to see if there is a better deal available.
Before the internet, hotels could only change their “rack rates” on a periodic basis. During this process, thousands of brochures and cards worked their way through the travel industry, setting standard rates that would remain in place until the next update. The internet has allowed properties to offer personalized guidance during the booking process. For instance, hotels can suggest activities and restaurants that meet a guest’s needs based on previous stays or demographic data. This kind of personalization has been shown to increase satisfaction and loyalty. It can even drive future bookings.