As summer draws near, the costs of traveling and hotel stays are going up. Increased labor costs, rising supply costs, and increased consumer demand are driving the prices. In March, the cost of travel rose 8.5 percent and hotel rates jumped 11.7 percent. But despite the rising costs, travelers are willing to spend more for an improved experience.
Cancellation policies
Cancellation policies for traveling and hotels vary depending on the nature of the contract. Generally, cancellation policies must comply with national laws and not be unfair to the consumer. They should also be transparent and state the consequences of cancellation. If you need to cancel your reservation, it is important to contact the accommodation provider in writing to find out what their cancellation policy is.
Most hotels allow for up to 24 hours’ notice to cancel a reservation. However, some require longer notice. Cancellation policies at hotels changed during the COVID-19 travel virus pandemic, but have largely returned to normal. Some hotels have also prioritized flexibility moving forward. Some North American hotels, for example, allow for free modification of bookings and give credit vouchers for use within 18 months.
Off-season travel
Off-season travel and hotels offer a number of benefits, not the least of which is the ability to travel at a lower price. Not only can you avoid the high-season crowds, but you’ll also be able to experience a destination’s culture and way of life with less hassle.
The off-season also means cheaper dining. Many restaurants in popular tourist regions raise their prices during peak travel season, but in off-season months, they’ll be much less expensive. Also, many of these restaurants will be catering to locals, which means the food will likely be more affordable and better quality than during peak tourism months. Another advantage of traveling in off-season months is that there won’t be swarms of tourists at the major tourist attractions.
Inclusion
Inclusion in travel and hotels is a key issue for today’s hotels and travel brands. Research shows that 82% of travelers value welcoming and inclusive experiences, and 74% value treating diverse guests fairly. To increase diversity, travel brands need to recruit employees with diverse backgrounds and incorporate diversity into their brand story. Today’s guests pay attention to the way a hotel treats them, and those that make an effort to promote diversity are more likely to earn a better reputation with them.
The travel industry is one of the most diverse industries in the world, employing people from all socioeconomic backgrounds, including up to 30% of youth. WTTC has developed new high-level guidelines on diversity and inclusion, grouped into four pillars: developing a supportive system, creating a safe and inclusive workplace, and exemplifying inclusion. Increasing diversity in the workplace is critical for driving innovation and creativity, as well as ensuring a more engaged and happier workforce.
Price comparison websites
Price comparison websites have gained popularity in recent years, and they can help you find the best prices on travel services such as hotel bookings, car rentals, and insurance. Using these sites can save you a considerable amount of money compared to booking directly with a hotel. Here are some reasons why you should use these services:
Trivago: Trivago offers price comparison for over 1.3 million hotels in over 190 countries, allowing you to book hotels right on the spot. This software as a service (SaaS) website also offers many features, such as ratings and up-to-date hotel information. You can also use filters to narrow down your search and find a hotel that meets your needs.
Airbnb
Airbnb is a website that lets you rent your property to other travelers, usually for a low cost. This service allows you to advertise your property to millions of people worldwide, and the company takes care of all the payment processing. The site is great for vacationers who want to stay in a unique venue that’s more personalized and affordable than a typical hotel.
In addition to the lower cost per night, travelers who rent an Airbnb room can share the costs. This saves money for transportation, food, and even massages! The lower costs can go a long way toward allowing more travelers to experience new places on a budget.