While the economy may result in a decline in business travel, leisure travelers could benefit from lower rates and assorted other deals and promotions, according to Zagat’s 2009 U.S. Hotels, Resorts & Spas survey.
“The travel industry is certainly affected by the economic crisis,” Tim Zagat, CEO of Zagat Survey, said in a news release. “But our survey shows that the hotels and resorts that continue to provide quality at fair prices are reaping rewards in the form of an extremely loyal consumer base.”
Thirty percent of people surveyed said they are traveling less for business, compared to 21 percent who said they are traveling more. Company travel policies, personal economics, economic uncertainty and high airline prices were among the reasons surveyors cited as their main reasons for less business travel.
Meanwhile, surveyors still traveling ranked New York City as the top U.S. destination for both business and leisure. San Francisco ranked second and Chicago third for business travel, while Hawaii and San Francisco rounded out the top three leisure destinations.
In addition, Expedia and TripAdvisor were selected as the best travel Web sites.
The 2009 Top U.S. Hotels, Resorts & Spas guide is available at all major bookstores for $15.95. The 2009 guide covers 1,001 hotels, resorts and spas nationwide and is based on input from more than 14,000 frequent travelers and travel professionals.