Hotels have played an important role in travel for centuries. They serve as a decorative showcase, a meeting place, and an essential link between people and places. The hotel industry has grown rapidly over the past decade and continues to expand.
The rise of the interstate highway system and the development of organized labor fueled the hotel industry’s growth. This helped millions of Americans take paid vacations. These earned vacations were a way for workers to increase their incomes.
As the economy recovered after World War II, millions of Americans traveled abroad in record numbers. This made hotels vital in the post-war economic recovery. A new generation of hotels was built along coastal trade routes, in leading commercial centers, and in the mountains.
Hotel rates have increased dramatically in the past decade. In March, the average rate climbed 11.7 percent. The increase was attributed to pent-up demand, with travelers willing to pay more for a better experience.
Hotels also offer a wide range of amenities, including meeting rooms, room service, business centers, parking, and free Wi-Fi. Some hotels even provide discounts for employees. Choosing the right hotel for your needs can save you hundreds of dollars over a week’s stay.
Over the last decade, the hotel industry in the United States has expanded at an unprecedented rate. Last year, the hotel industry grew by nearly $17 billion, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
While hotels have often gotten a bad rap, they remain an integral part of travel. Whether you are traveling for business, pleasure, or with the family, choosing the right hotel can make your trip a memorable one.