Finding discount hotel rooms and discount travel packages is becoming more challenging as hotel rates increase with more people traveling.
Marriott recently reported that its rates in the second quarter increased for the first time in two years. Smith Travel Research determined hotel rates in the largest 25 U.S. cities were up almost 4 percent in August.
Hotel rates are increasing as demand for rooms continue to grow. The number of rooms sold in the United States increased over 8 percent in August vs. a 7 percent year to date average. Business and leisure travel appear strong.
As more business and vacation people travel, hotel discounts will be harder to find. Increased demand will lead to positive hotel revenue growth, with fewer deals needed to attract guests.
Fall rates in New York City are approximately 12% more than a year ago. Rates would have increased even more if the city had not seen such a dramatic (27 percent) growth in new rooms opening over the last two years.
The New Orleans Omni Royal Orleans hotel is almost 90 percent occupied for October and has increased its leisure guest pricing by about 17 percent compared to a year ago.
Given increasing hotel occupancy and higher rates, savvy travelers are visiting major travel websites, including Cheapfares.com, Expedia.com, and Orbitz.com to find the cheapest available deals.
www.cheapfares.com