January, 2009

“2009 is expected to be a buyer’s market now that the softening economy has created far more price sensitive travelers.”

Despite a fairly strong first half of the year which included economic growth of 3.5% in the second quarter, the third quarter of 2008 “was less robust,” according to Business Week. Weak consumer confidence, a rising unemployment rate and inflationary pressures punctuated by a major rise in the price of fuel cut into demand for U.S. hotel rooms in the third quarter of 2008. Income growth from wages has slowed as businesses feel the pressure from the weak economy.

According to PKF Hospitality Research, hotel room supply in the U.S. rose 2.5% in 2008 and will climb 2.7% in 2009. While economic uncertainty, slowing travel demand, shorter length of stays and a shorter booking window make the job of a hotelier more difficult, this is not doom and gloom.

Read More About Lodging Forecast 2009

What should a traveler to San Diego expect when visiting? During the guest experience, a “home away from home” feel should be clear…

We hope they receive a warm welcome from anyone they touch prior to arriving at one of our hotels, however, that might be a bit out of our control. A nice flight with pleasant flight attendants, great rental car agents, great taxi drivers…that is a city-wide goal for the “Wow San Diego Experience” but again, a bit outside of our control.

A hotel guest should expect an accurate reservation, warm smile, suggestions on what to do if appropriate and a smooth check-in. Read More About San Diego’s Perfect Hotel Guest Experience