The relationship between travel and hotels is a long one. Following World War II, the hotel industry boomed with the postwar economic recovery, which sparked increased commercial travel. It also helped make incomes more evenly distributed. The rise of organized labor also fueled this growth, making paid vacations a reality for millions of Americans. As a result, the hotel industry became an important battleground for domestic politics. In addition to serving as a place for travelers to stay, hotels also serve as a central hub of activity and entertainment.
Inclusion and diversity in the workplace are growing priorities in the hospitality industry, with Marriott and Hyatt being recognized for their efforts. Marriott, for example, has a vice president for multicultural affairs who has sought out and worked with diverse communities to improve their corporate culture. Similarly, Hilton recently talked about its diversity initiatives with TravelPulse. However, the industry still has a long way to go to attract diverse employees. Research suggests that two out of five travelers will change travel providers or brands if they don’t feel comfortable in their environment. This could cost travel companies an estimated $212 billion in lost revenue.
Before booking a hotel, be sure to find out its cancellation policy. Most hotels require a minimum 24 hours notice for cancellations. However, some are more flexible than others. Some offer full refunds or change policies, while others charge a cancellation fee. You can check this policy on the website of the hotel.