Traveling and hotels have a long, intertwined history. After World War II, when the postwar economic boom sent commercial travel to record highs, the hotel industry began expanding at an unprecedented rate. This expansion was fueled in part by the development of organized labor and the interstate highway system. The industry eventually became a major domestic political battleground. Today, hotels are crucial linkages between places and activities.
With rising demand and supply costs, travel and hotel prices continue to increase. In March, travel and hotel rates rose 11.7 percent, which indicates that more travelers are willing to pay for better experiences. However, travelers should not feel like they have to pay too much just to be able to enjoy their trip. Rather, they should consider the value of the experience they will receive and make sure that the trip fits into their budget.
Location of the hotel is an important factor to consider. Ideally, a good hotel will put travelers close to public transportation, making traveling convenient and easy. Additionally, a good location can make the difference between traveling by car and by public transportation. If you are staying in a downtown location, you may feel more comfortable walking to your destination and saving time on the journey.
Cancellation policies are also important to consider. Some hotels and travel companies offer flexible cancellation policies and may even give you credit for another stay. However, if you are booking a last-minute trip, you may not have a lot of flexibility to change your plans.