Hotels.com reveals summer travel trends

A recent Hotels.com survey has discovered how Americans plan to vacation this year.

Among those polled who are planning a vacation, nearly two-thirds (63%) will be staying at a hotel or other kind of rental property, such as a condo or resort. Despite tough economic times, only 33% plan to stay with friends and family.

Fifty-two per cent of those polled note they're looking for added perks and benefits more often than they did 12 months ago. Breakfast is a favorite complimentary offering with 87% surveyed taking advantage of this added perk when they travel.

Two fifths of those polled think it will be more expensive to travel this year than last, while 18% feel it will be less expensive. Twenty-two per cent feel costs will be about the same.

Carl Sparks, general manager of Hotels.com, said: "Properties continue to offer incredible rates and other incentives to add substantial value to the stay; this is the season of the great deal. In addition, with gas prices lower now compared to this time last year, travelers can incur a lower overall cost of getting to and from their destination."

While many Americans continue to watch their spending habits more carefully in all areas - including travel - there are many options to keep a vacation budget in check. Sparks added that planning carefully and choosing the right property can play a large role in keeping a lid on expenses. He also suggests booking early, rather than waiting for a better a rate, as prices could increase. Moreover, planning carefully and reading reviews to get other travellers perspectives on potential properties will also help contribute to a successful vacation.

About Hotels.com
Hotels.com is a leading provider of lodging worldwide, offering an extensive selection of more than 85,000 properties ranging from traditional hotels and vacation rentals to bed and breakfasts and all-inclusive resorts, including Orlando hotels, Fort Lauderdale hotels, San Diego hotels and Boston hotels. Hotels.com serves as an advocate for guests before, during and after their property stay. To help travelers choose the right property for each trip, the company provides a variety of tools and features, including property descriptions, rate calendars, maps, virtual tours, and more than one million guest reviews. Hotels.com offers additional value for guests through its Price Match Guarantee, Risk-Free Booking and welcomerewards programs.

For further information, please contact:
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Hotels.com LP
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