Traveling and hotels have been a part of our culture for centuries. This combination of travel and accommodations has allowed people to see many different places and meet new people. The popularity of hotel accommodations has continued to grow in recent years. However, the growth of the industry has not come without controversy.
Hotels are typically large structures that include rooms with private bathrooms. They may also offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, parking, room service, or meeting rooms. Some of these perks are especially valuable during busy travel seasons. Choosing the right hotel can make your trip enjoyable.
In addition to providing a place to sleep, hotels are often located near tourist attractions. This allows travelers to save time and hassle by not having to drive. You can also avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot in a busy city.
In addition to offering amenities, hotels are important locations for business meetings, public events, and other social gatherings. Hotels are also a good choice for families and couples. Many hotels offer amenities that are especially beneficial to special needs travelers.
One of the most popular perks of hotels is the opportunity to join a rewards program. These programs allow guests to earn points that can be redeemed for discounted airfare or gifts. There are numerous hotel chains that offer these types of rewards programs.
Over the last decade, the hotel industry has been growing at a rapid rate. In 2016, the industry grew by nearly $17 billion. During that year, the average price of a hotel room rose by 8.6 percent. But, a recent study by NerdWallet showed that, when booked at least 15 days in advance, the average rate is 15% less than during peak seasons.
Although hotels are associated with travel for centuries, they have been particularly prominent during the post-World War II era. In fact, the growth of the hotel industry was the catalyst behind the economic boom that followed the war. Moreover, hotels played a major role in domestic politics.
After the war, American hotels were an important symbol of our nation’s economic power and global empire. As more Americans began venturing abroad, these hotels were a crucial link between the nation and its foreign neighbors.
With the rise of passenger aircraft and the development of the interstate highway system, traveling became easier. Hotel prices increased, however, as the cost of labor soared.
After World War II, the hotel industry flourished in the United States, contributing to a three-decade economic boom. Millions of Americans took paid vacations during that time. It was the result of a reorganization of the distribution of wealth and income.
While the hotel industry has grown at a tremendous pace over the past decade, it still represents a small portion of the overall travel industry. Therefore, travelers should be sure to research their options before deciding on a hotel. Booking a hotel in advance can help you secure the best rate and a wider variety of amenities.