During the post war economic boom, the hotel industry grew at an unprecedented rate. The rise of the interstate highway system and organized labor helped boost incomes. The resulting burgeoning demand for travel fueled the industry. It also served as a key battleground in the domestic political scene.
The most important thing to consider when deciding on the best hotel for your next trip is location. Hotels in central locations tend to be more crowded and noisy in large cities, making them less desirable for a good night’s sleep. In contrast, hotels located near attractions will save you time and effort by putting you where you want to be.
It’s a good idea to make your reservations early in order to take advantage of the best deals. A good place to start is with a price comparison website such as Skyscanner. It allows you to search for the cheapest flights, hotels, and car rentals in your chosen city or airport. You can even select your dates, check nearby airports, and change your flight or hotel stay to find the lowest possible rates.
Aside from saving money on accommodations, booking in advance can also ensure that you get the room you want. Some hotels offer free cancellations and changes. Others require a non-refundable deposit. However, most North American hotels will provide you with a refund for your stay if you cancel at least 72 hours prior to your arrival. You can read more about this in the online booking confirmation you receive.
Another option is to choose a hotel with a rewards program. Many chains have free rewards programs that allow you to collect points or cash back on your stays. Some of these programs even offer free accommodations and meals during your stay. Before choosing your rewards program, make sure that you are selecting a program that fits your needs. For example, you may want to choose a program that rewards you for your favorite hotels or for a particular destination.
A good travel app can deliver food directly to your hotel room, so that you can skip the hassle of dining out. You can also request for modifications to the menu items you choose. If you have a special diet or need to stay on a strict diet, ask your hotel to cater to your needs.
Other options include homesharing sites and hostels. Hostels often offer common spaces such as a rooftop bar, pub-crawls, and tours. You can also find more budget-friendly alternatives such as Zues and Sonder. Some of these accommodations offer a more authentic experience and a safe and private setting.
The cost of traveling continues to rise. This is largely due to the rising cost of labor. As a result, a recent Bureau of Labor Statistics study found that the cost of a hotel room was about 8.6% more in the United States last year.
Although the relationship between travel and hotels has been around for centuries, it became more important after World War II. The advent of the interstate highway system, the growth of organized labor, and the influx of tourists all pushed the industry to new heights.