Choice Hotels International, Inc. one of the world’s largest hotel companies, has revealed the findings from its 2015 travel trends survey. The survey found that in exchange for a discount in the new year, 55 percent of American travelers would forgo alcoholic beverages, 53 percent would give up daily housekeeping services, and 26 percent would go without their smartphone. The most important hotel amenity for the average American leisure traveler in 2015 will be free parking, ranking just ahead of free Wi-Fi and free hot breakfast.
A Spike in Leisure Travel
As the economy continues to improve, Americans are planning to spend eight percent more on leisure travel, and five percent more per trip than they did in 2014. Millennial leisure travel spending will increase by six percent, spending for families traveling with children will increase by five percent, and senior spending will increase by 33 percent. However, leisure travelers are still searching for the best deals, as 62 percent said the most influential factor when selecting a leisure travel destination was budget.
Despite being budget conscious, American travelers are willing to splurge for unique travel experiences, including “Set Jetting” (visiting a destination seen in a movie) and “Culinary Tourism” (food-inspired travel), which are projected to increase 18 percent and 30 percent, respectively, compared to 2014.
U.S. Go-To Events and Destinations in 2015
When asked which event they’d most like to attend in 2015, Mardi Gras in New Orleans (25 percent) ranked just ahead of the Cherry Blossom Festival (24 percent) and Superbowl XLVII (23 percent).
When asked which iconic American tourist attraction they’d most like to visit in 2015, 24 percent of Americans would visit the western national parks.
“Choice Hotels’ 2015 travel trend survey revealed the desire for greater value as Americans take more leisure trips, and it’s important that hotels stay abreast of the wants of American travelers in order to grow their loyalty base,” said Patrick Pacious, executive vice president, and chief operating officer at Choice Hotels. “Free Wi-Fi, free parking, and free hot breakfast are just a few of the many amenities we offer to our guests at most of our hotels, and we look forward to leveraging our brands’ offerings throughout 2015.”
U.S. Travelers Going Abroad
Furthermore, 11 percent of participants say there are planning to visit Europe in 2015. As the main desire for their trip, over half want to visitEurope’s historical sights and almost 40 percent would like to immerse themselves in European culture. The most popular European cities Americans would like to visit are London, followed by Rome and Paris.
“Americans venturing across the pond will find numerous Ascend, Clarion, Quality and Comfort brand hotels located right in the cities they want to visit the most, providing the great service and amenities they’ve come to expect from our brands,” commented Pacious.
Other findings from the survey include:
- Over 40 percent of American travelers regularly stay at mid-price hotels, like Comfort Inn, when traveling for leisure, spending an average of $115.94 per night.
- July is the preferred month for leisure travel.
- Most Americans would prefer driving to flying for leisure travel in 2015.
- While 60 percent of American travelers are planning a trip with their spouse or partner in 2015, half would rather stay home than take a vacation with Ben Affleck, Derek Jeter, Kim Kardashian, Oprah Winfrey or Warren Buffett.
