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Since the new year just started, it’s time to look at what the future holds for the travel business, in general, and the hotel industry, in particular. Two really interesting articles on this subject (you can find them here and here ) drew our attention and we’ve decided to sum up the 2010 travel trends for our readers.

European beach destinations already losing market share

Beach holidays are among the best sold vacations, whether we talk about European travelers or foreigners coming to Europe. While both in 2008 and 2009 the market performed quite well, the holidaymakers’ preferences towards the traditional markets – France, Spain and Greece – have shifted. Recently, markets such as North Africa (Morocco) and Eastern Mediterranean and even far beyond (Bulgaria) are starting to gain market share at the expense of the traditional markets.

Travelers are loyal

Since the travel budget is getting tighter and tighter, the travelers are playing it safe. That means they will choose destinations, airlines and hotels they are familiar with. Even in 2009 we’ve already seen more guests returning to the places they’ve already stayed. The brands are those which really benefit from this. If a traveler is pleased with a certain hotel chain, they’ll definitely be looking for them when planning a visit in a new city. Plus, savvy travelers know that they should expect some things in return for their loyalty. Just like airlines offer frequent flyer programs, hotel chains have found numerous ways to keep the customers returning to their hotels.

Always connected

Today’s travelers carry loads of electronic equipment with them, making sure they stay connected and are able to not only stay in touch with the families but also plan their next move when it comes to booking a hotel or a flight. Hotel operators should know that they need to keep up with the demand. It’s both about making sure they are visible online but also about providing guests the use of technology. Free wi-fi is seen as a must and travelers avoid hotels which charge fees for the use of internet.

With the increased popularity of Twitter, Facebook and hotel rating sites, hotels operators should know the power of social media and how easily bad reviews can ruin a hotel’s reputation.

Luxury is still appreciated…but in smaller doses

Travelers will always seek to have a good experience in the hotel they are staying. All of us are looking for upgrades and “quick fixes” and “trading” in order to get better services. But we are also looking to get value for money. Small luxury free-bees like a short massage at the spa included in the room price is enough to grab some undecided customers.

Domestic travel is here to stay

With the economic trends still looking “blurry” for the next year, travelers will not forget about “staycations”. While it doesn’t mean they just crash on the coach during their days off, it certainly means that they will travel within their home country. And of course, they will be looking for cheap accommodation and decent services.

Free breakfast equals more travelers staying in the hotel

Often when we see the price of breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant we just prefer to go to the nearest café and grab something to eat. And statistics prove us right since only 65% of hotel guests regularly have breakfast every time they stay at a hotel.

The trick is to offer free breakfast and come up with a lot of menu choices for (most) dietary requirements. Chances are not many of your guests want bacon and eggs each and every day.

Women-only hotels?

Yes, one opened in Saudi Arabia in 2007 and is successful. But that doesn’t mean hotel managers should ban men from their places. Instead, they should focus more on the women travelers – whether they travel for business or pleasure. Offering a safe environment for the lone female travelers is the best approach.

Philadelphia is a city any lover of American history should visit. It’s also a great destination for those looking for a family vacation or those looking for the modern attractions of the city. The climate of the city is humid continental with cold and often snowy winters. During the colder months, the temperatures hover around freezing.

Planning the budget

For the majority of travelers, when they plan a family vacation , they only think about going to theme parks or to a beach resort. But visiting historical sites and important cities for the American history can be an excellent way to teach the children history in a fun way.

If it’s impossible to find a vacation package to suit your plans, then you can always book the flight and the hotel separately. Flights to Philadelphia are not hard to find as the airport serving the city is a major hub for US Airways. So you should start the search on their website, especially if you are looking for deals. Typically, late winter flights are cheap but you need to take into account the possibility of bad weather and delays.

Cheap hotels in Philadelphia are plentiful but you should be careful to choose a hotel located close to Central Philadelphia or close to the public transportation. Otherwise, you should look into renting a car for the time you spend here.

Things to do in Philadelphia in February

The cold weather keeps both the locals and tourists focus on indoor activities. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be bored while staying here.

Those who know how to sing, can win $1000 each Tuesday Day. There’s a karaoke contest at the Triumph Brewery (in the Old City) which anyone can be part of. It’s a fun way to spend a night out and if you are talented you might be the lucky winner. And that’s not the only place in town where you can sing!

Philadelphia Museum of Art hosts a lot of interesting exhibitions which will definitely appeal to both adults and children. The Montiers of Philadelphia and The Horse and Man Armors are ongoing exhibitions while several others are open through the year.

America’s oldest outdoor market, the 9th Street Italian Market, is open even during the cold season. Pack your camera and enjoy the sites. You are more than welcome to try the fresh produce as well.

The Body Worlds Exhibit at the Franklin Institute is a very interesting experience for both adults and children. During the day, the ticket ($27 adults and $19.80 children includes the general admission to The Franklin Institute) while the evening ticket includes only the exhibit admission.

Where to stay

There are plenty of places to stay in Philadelphia, catering for all budgets. It’s important to look for a place located close to the sites you want to visit or close to the public transport. Otherwise, consider renting a car.

Apple Hostels of Philadelphia is located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Old City in downtown. The hostel offers free coffee and tea all day, free wireless internet, free bed linen and free billiards table. There’s a large lounge and a common kitchen guests can use. The hostel offers both private rooms (which are not listed on the online booking websites) and dorms. In early February, bed rates (in dorms) start at $30.50 per night.

Days Inn & Suites is located 2 miles from Walt Bridge, 5 miles away from Historic Philadelphia. It offers free breakfast, free internet in all rooms, free access to fitness room and free parking. All rooms have microwave and fridge. In early February, the rates for a standard double room start at $48.95 per person per night.

Econolodge Philadelphia Airport offers free airport transport, free parking and free continental breakfast. The airport is just 3 miles away. The lodge comprises 89 guestrooms, with free internet, and cable TV. All rooms have AC and Coffee/tea maker. In early February, the room rates for a private double room ensuite start at $43.45 per person per night.

Quality Inn – Philadelphia is located outside the city. There’s free wi-fi available. All rooms have AC, coffee maker, microwave and fridge. In early February, the room rates for a private double room ensuite start at $33 per person per night.

HI – Chamounix Mansion is located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. It offers a welcoming front porch and two communal rooms. It’s a nice location for those planning for an active holiday. Travelers can use the free bikes to explore Fairmount Park and play tennis nearby. In early February, the bed rates (in dorms) start at $23 per night.

There isn’t much time left until Valentine’s Day and we could bet you are looking to impress that special person in your life. And we also know that the budget is probably a problem. So, here is an idea for you. Valentine’s Day in Prague: from €63 per night.

Sure, when you think romance and Europe, you immediately think about Paris, which is not a bad idea. But room rates start at €95 per night and if you are looking for something more affordable, we are sorry to say, but Paris is not the answer (unless you want to take your loved one to a hostel. No? We thought so).

Back to Prague then. The hotel is located in a reconstructed residential building, listed today on the UNESCO Heritage List. It is very close to the Wenceslas Square, the heart of Prague. Each room has private bathroom, radio, phone, AC, TV, mini-bar and internet access. The rates include breakfast. For the Valentine’s weekend (Feb 13-15) you’ll pay €178 for the two of you. Remember that you also need to book the flight as well. If you are in Europe, look for low-cost companies which fly into Prague (and there are plenty).

Winter Resorts in Eastern Europe: Affordable, Fun and Romantic

During the turbulent economic times and when our budgets are low, we often consider travel markets which were left behind thanks to traditional destination being so popular. In this case, we are talking about Eastern Europe. Romania to be exact. The country of Dracula is also the country of stunning mountains and lovely mountain resorts. Many couples consider going for Valentine’s Day to one of the resorts – sssshhhh, I’ll tell you a secret, we are also about to book a stay – and there are quite a lot to choose from.

Sinaia, the small mountain town and resort where you’ll find Peles Castle, is a charming destination if you prefer a more laid back atmosphere slightly away from the slopes. Room rates (doubles) are general around €20 per night. You can find online quite a lot of such affordable villas.

Busteni is right in the center of action and there are many villas which stand close to the slopes. Room rates also start at €20 per night but typically they are slightly higher. Most double rooms in villas here cost €25 per night. Not all have private bathrooms and you should ask about that when you make the reservation.

As for getting to this area, the easiest way is to get on a flight to Bucharest and then take the train to the resorts. During the weekdays the Romanian National Railways (CFR) offer 25% discount to all travelers (until February 28) on the “Snow Trains” (Trenurile Zapezii). A return ticket to Busteni costs €15 per person (on one of high rank trains).

Ah! Paris… the beautiful European city which conjures images of lovers walking hand in hand and kissing. Paris is one of those cities which should be visited at least once in a life time. It offers everything you might thing of: from incredible museums, to romantic places, excellent cuisine and beautiful scenery.

What can be said about Paris without writing an entire book? We can start with the highlights, hoping that during your first visit you’ll manage to explore at least some of them. Eiffel Tower is , without a doubt, the icon of Paris. When you see a postcard of the tower, you know it’s taken in Paris! The majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, overly crowded Arc de Triomphe, quiet Sacré Coeur and impressive Chateau de Versailles are only some of the places which will amaze you once you get to visit them.

Paris is bustling no matter when you visit. In July and August, half of the locals head to the Alps or the South of France but fear not, the city is filled with the noisy tourists stumbling to visit as much as they can. Paris is so popular that there aren’t “low” and “high” seasons, just months when it’s possible to visit a place without waiting for ages to get inside. Price wise Paris is either abnormally expensive or …just expensive. In other words, rack up some money before you plant to come here.

Planning the budget and trying not to break a bank in the process

The peak season is summer, but don’t be fooled to think that summer represents only July and August. By early May tourists poor in and the prices, gradually go up. Best time to visit Paris? When the rest aren’t considering: January or October-November. February is also nice but avoid St. Valentine’s Day as the “city of lovers” gets swamped with those looking for a romantic vacation.

European vacation packages come in handy year round and they focus on different things: from romantic packages in February, to shopping sprees in the winter and everything else you can think of. Many of them focus on Paris, so chances are you’ll find something to suit your plans and budget.

However, if you want flexibility and plan to find a budget hotel or hostel for your stay, it’s better to plan things on your own. January is a slower month in Paris and it’s easy to find something which is not extraordinary expensive.

Being served by large airports, Paris doesn’t lack connections with the entire world. Flights to Paris are easily available but make sure to book slightly in advance if you want to save money. Many large carriers, including Air France, have quite a lot of good offers during the slower periods.

As for hotels in Paris , you are bound to get a headache when you look for prices. Of course, the closer to the attractions, the higher the prices and we bet you don’t want to stay near the airport, right? Occasionally, there are some hot deals available but you need to be quick and keep your eyes on the websites often. There are plenty of neighborhoods where you can stay but remember that you’ll be using the public transport quite a lot (which is a good thing since you won’t have too many headaches).

Things to do in Paris in January

The main “event” in January (and February) in Paris is… shopping. The shopping sales attract tourists from all over the world (and especially Europe). With a lot of luck and many hours spent in the stores you can easily come home with a new wardrobe for a decent price (so pack very light and allow for extra baggage on the way back home). Fashion shows are also part of the January (and February) social scene.

Concerts are always happening in Paris so January is not an exception. On January 19 and 20, Depeche Mode sing at Palais Omnisport de Bercy. You can also listen to the legendary Patricia Kaas at Casino de Paris on several January nights (8, 9 and 10).

Where to stay

Here’s a quick tip for you: private rooms in hostels are cheaper and offer enough intimacy to enjoy a vacation with your loved one. And if you decide to stay in a hostel, there are quite a lot of chances to find something affordable right in the heart of Paris.

3 Ducks Hostel is open year round and is located close to the Eiffel Tower. There’s a kitchen the guests can use. Linen is not included in the price. Breakfast is free and so is wi-fi. In January, bed prices start at $25.87 per night.

Lucky Youth offers apartments for rent at the price of hostel dorms. You’ve got a kitchen, TV and internet and share the apartment with a maximum of 8 persons. Linen and towel are included in the price. In January, rates start at $24.43 per person per night.

Grand Hotel Magenta is located close to the Montmartre area. It offers 30 rooms all with TV and phone. Some rooms have private bathrooms. Breakfast is free. In January, rates start at $34.43 per person per night.

Agil Hotel Paris Orly is located in a quiet residential area south of Paris (15 km) and is ideal if you plan to rent a car for your visit. It offers free wi-fi and car parking. There are 32 rooms all with bathrooms, TV and phone. In January, rates start at $21.51 per person per night.

Hotel du Parc Saint Charles is a small, charming hotel offering only 15 rooms. It’s also costlier than the rest of our choices but it’s great if you plan a romantic escape. It’s located close to Porte de Versailles. All rooms have AC. In January, rates start at $134 per person per night.

When someone is planning a vacation in Orlando, they typically have only one thing in mind: Disney World! But Orlando is not all about Disney – plus, Disney World is actually located in near-by Lake Buena Vista. Other things to do here include: spending time in the gardens and parks, visiting museums, golfing or just spending time in Downtown Orlando.

There are two peak travel times in Orlando: March and April and from June to August. The majority of tourists though come during summer so that’s when the prices are at their highest and you are guaranteed to bump into large crowds. Winter weather sees temperatures of 70s during the day and 50s during the night but cold fronts are possible and temperatures usually drop quite a bit after those. Still, Orlando is a year-round travel destination and if you plan to visit during the low season, you will save quite a lot of money.

Planning the budget

Orlando vacation packages are good choices both during the low season – when hotels offer discounts to lure tourists – and during the high season – when everyone is looking for some additional services offered for free.

There’s also the possibility to create your own package, by booking the flight and accommodation separately. Flights to Orlando are easy to find regardless of when you plan to travel but during the high season, make sure to book in advance. Typically two to eight weeks before you plan to leave is a good period to look for flights.

As for cheap hotels in Orlando , make sure you have quite a bit of patience while you search for them. There are quite a lot of hotels close to both the airport and Disney World and most of them offer shuttles to the theme parks.

Things to do in January in Orlando

Being a travel destination year-round, Orlando doesn’t lack events and festivals in January. It’s a great idea to rent a car if you want to have the freedom to check out the festivals and events in the near-by places.

Walt Disney World Marathon is scheduled for January 7 through January 10 and attracts thousands of runners and supporters each year. If you haven’t trained for a marathon or semi-marathon, then you can sing up for the Disney/Pixar UP & Away Family Fun Run 5K.

Sunshine Regional Chili Cook-Off takes place in the middle of January at the Kissimmee Lakefront Park. Aside from the many food stands, the event also includes live music, arts and crafts. Admission is free.

From January 23 through 31, 2010 head to near-by Eatonville for the annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts & Humanities. The event includes speaker events, a screenwriting competition and educational programs.

On January 23 and 24, the Blue Spring Manatee Festival takes places at Valentine Park, in Orange City. The event includes live entertainment, great food, arts and crafts exhibits and carnival-style rides.

Where to stay

It really doesn’t mater if you come to Orlando for the theme parks, events or just for the atmosphere because you will need a place to stay regardless of what you are up to. Since there are a lot of hotels to choose from, it’s quite hard to take a decision, so here are some places to get you started.

Extended Stay Deluxe Orlando-Universal Studios : is an excellent choice if you plan a longer holiday. The suites are equipped with refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop. There’s a one-time $4.99 fee for the wireless internet. The guests can use the swimming pool and the fitness center. Continental breakfast is free. In January, the rates for a studio suite start at $49.95 per night.

Monumental Hotel Orlando : is located close to Seaworld and Aquatica, as well as shopping and dining. The guests can use the outdoor pool. All rooms have AC and coffee makers. In January, rates start at $62.10 per night for a standard double room.

Baymont Inn & Suites Florida Mall/Orlando : is located 3 blocks from Florida Mall and quite close to the theme parks. Breakfast and wi-fi are free. Guests can use the pool and the gym. In January, room rates start at $42 per night for a 1 king bed room.

Radisson Hotel Orlando-Lake Buena Vista : is located just a quarter mile from Disney World. Guests can use the pool and the fitness center. In January, the special deals rates start at $79.80 per night for a room, while the standard rates start at $104 for a double room with breakfast included.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando International Drive : is located close to all the attractions in Orlando. The hotel offers free wi-fi. In January, the standard room rates start at $95 per night.

The Caribbean is a very popular travel destination, known for its warm weather, great beaches, countless activities and superb nature. But this doesn’t mean the area is not struggling during the economic crisis.

This article from Hospitality.net presents the travel industry index based on the Smith Travel Research database which comprises more than 2,250 hotels with some 238,000 rooms in the Caribbean.

Compared to October 2008, this year occupancy declined 5.1%. The average daily rate fell by 15.6% which pushed down the revenue per available room (RevPAR) by almost 20%. New hotels didn’t open this year so the fall in occupancy was triggered only by decreased demand.

According to the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the majority of tourists visiting the area are from the United States, Europe and Canada. The peak occupancy months are February to April, coinciding with the peak travel season in the Caribbean and the bad winter weather in the above mentioned areas.

As the markets in the United States, Europe and Canada started to see minor improvements in September and October, so did the demand for hotel rooms in the Caribbean. Compared to September 2008, this year the demand increased by 5.7% while in October it only rose by 1% (compared to October 2008). RevPAR also saw an increase in September 2009 and October 2009 (0.5% and 6.8% respectively).

Compared to last year, in October 2009, the RevPAR declined the most in the Bahamas (-17.7%) and Puerto Rico (-17.1%) while Aruba saw a decrease of 13%. The Bahamas also experienced the biggest occupancy decline (-11.2%).

What does the future hold?

The Caribbean area should see a rise in tourism as the economies in the United States, Europe and Canada gain momentum. When the economies are starting to get out of the crisis, travelers are most likely to book vacations.

However, in Europe, the hotel prices continued to fall in December (by 8%). Compared to November 2009, the prices have decreased by 4%. Many European cities decided to attract travelers to celebrate Christmas by decreased the hotel rates. Milan, Venice and Barcelona are very good examples. On the other hand, the cities where traditional Christmas Markets were held saw an increase in room rates.

The high season in Hawaii lasts from mid-December until mid-April and it’s the time when everyone seems to want to come here. Therefore, the prices tend to be on the high side and looking for deals is the easiest way to save some money. Hawaii Vacation from $830.00 per person, airfare not included.

The package comprises 7-nights accommodation in a moderate resort in Kauai. The resort is located just 8 miles from Lihue airport and it’s a great place to spend a family vacation . All rooms have AC, TV, radio, data port, fully equipped kitchen and many more amenities. There’s free wi-fi within the resort.

Make sure to also book a flight to Hawaii . You should be looking at deals for flights directly into Lihue airport but if those seem a bit too expensive, fly into Honolulu and then catch a local low-cost flight into Kauai.

Caribbean vacations are also good deals

The high season is also in full swing in the Caribbean, between mid-December and mid-March. The weather is excellent and those wanting to escape the cold weather back home flock to the islands.

Jamaica is one of the cheaper destinations in the Caribbean and you can book a 4-night all inclusive vacation here for prices starting at $392.00 per person. The offer doesn’t include the flight so make sure to book the flight to Jamaica as well. There are two big airports to choose from and deals are often available from the airlines serving both airports.

The Caribbean is a very romantic destination so don’t be shy and plan a Valentine’s getaway for you and your loved one. Special deals are already available and you can even choose among the many Valentine’s Day cruises Rates start as low as $429 for a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise, round trip flight to Miami included.

A romantic Valentine’s Day in Hawaii

Hawaii is a very beautiful and romantic place to spend Valentine’s Day . Although it’s not a very cheap destination, it surely can be an excellent way to impress your loved one. There are many romantic things to do in Hawaii and many of them don’t have to cost too much.

Niagara Falls lies on the border between New York (USA) and Ontario (Canada). The spectacular waterfall draws tourists on either side but it’s said that the sights on the Canadian side are more impressive. Also, the Canadian side draws more visitors because of the additional attractions and plentiful accommodation.

The best season to visit the falls is in the summer but a winter vacation in Niagara Falls offers a totally different experience. Winter weather is cold and temperatures generally stay below freezing (January’s daytime average is -1C/30F). Snow fall is frequent and the Niagara River is partially frozen (so boat tours aren’t possible).

Planning the budget

Visiting Niagara Falls can be a nice family vacation . Aside from visiting the falls, there are several museums to check out and lots of activities to enjoy during winter.

However, especially during the cold season, it’s probably a good idea to plan the vacation on your own, allowing for possible delays due to the winter weather. If you come from the States, book a flight to Buffalo . The airport is located about 20-30 minutes by car from the falls (allow for longer travel times during winter).

If you come from the Canadian side, you can book a flight to Toronto . Allow for at least one hour and a half to reach the falls by car, although typically it takes longer due to the traffic.

With the flight and rental car secured, it’s time to look for accommodation. Cheap hotels in Niagra Falls are incredibly easy to find, especially during low season. Although it’s a very popular vacation destination, you won’t find too many hotel chains here. Instead, you’ll be pleased to find affordable accommodation on both sides of the falls.

What to do in Niagara Falls in winter

Visiting the falls is free but during the winter season, due to the frost, it’s not possible to take the tour boats. So if you are looking for that experience, plan your vacation during the summer season. Likewise, if you want to test the rides at Marineland Theme Park, you should plan your vacation between May and October.

If you want to experience some interesting views of the falls, go to the observation deck at Skylon Tower (Canadian side). The revolving restaurant offers the same incredible views and there are arcade games at the base of the tower.

Niagara Skywheel (Canadian side) is open year round and offers a 10-minute ride in a ferry wheel. The views of the falls are great.

Winter Festival of Lights takes place in Niagara Falls (Canadian side) between November and January. More than 3 million lights are installed in the buildings and trees. The festival attracts over 1 million visitors each year. There are regular parades, comedy shows, concerts and fireworks displays during the festival.

Queen Victoria Park (Canadian side) offers the best views of the falls. In winter, the landscape is filled with white snow and barren trees. Icicles and crystalline formations form on the trees because of the mist from the falls which drifts up in the freezing weather.

Where to stay

Affordable accommodation is available on both sides of the falls although there are more options on the Canadian side. However, during winter it’s not a problem to find an affordable place to stay regardless of which side you prefer.

Falls Motel (American side) is located only minutes from the falls. All rooms have TV, fridge and coffee/tea making facilities. Room rates aren’t available online but on booking sites you can find rooms start at US$30 per night in late January.

Rodeway Inn Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located in the Fallsview Tourist Area, just two blocks from the Falls. There’s wi-fi in public areas and two restaurants on site, as well as a heated outdoor pool. The 2010 rates aren’t yet available but a one night package in November 2009 started at $79.99.

Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel (Canadian side) offers 165 guest rooms, all with AC, TV, radio, phone, coffee/tea makers and data jacks. In January, the room rates start at CAD$59.99 per night (2 queen beds).

Doubletree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton – Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located just two blocks from the falls and offers 224 guest rooms. All rooms have mini-fridge. Free wi-fi is available within the property. In January, room rates start at CAD$89.00 per night (2 queen beds).

Country Inn & Suites Niagara Falls (Canadian side) is located in the heart of the tourist district. All rooms have TV, coffee maker, hair dryer, phone and free wi-fi. In January, room rates start at CAD$58.41 per night (hot deal) and CAD$64.90 per night (standard rate).

“The Big Apple” is America’s biggest city. Also known as “The City which Never Sleeps”, New York is one of those places which have to be visited at least once in a lifetime. The city consists of five boroughs and accommodation is much more expensive in Manhattan than anywhere else. Still, most visitors come here to explore only Manhattan.

>>read more about Colorful and Magical Winter Celebrations in Manhattan

Each of the city’s boroughs has something to offer the visitors. However, with the limited time we have for our vacations, most of us only manage to visit the landmarks. The Statue of Liberty is, without a doubt, New York’s symbol. You can visit the museum at the base of the statue. Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn. Don’t be shy and explore at least bit of Brooklyn and make sure to try some of the incredible pizza. Walk back to Manhattan and enjoy the view of the island. Times Square is the heart of Manhattan and if you like the fast-pace life then you’ll enjoy spending some time here. Especially during winter, Rockefeller Plaza is a place you should check out. While the Christmas Tree won’t be here for too long, the skating rink is open during the entire winter. And there’s always a lot of shopping to do. And, of course, Central Park is definitely a place to visit, where you just plan to relax or want to visit the Zoo.

Planning the budget

No matter how you look at it, a vacation in New York is bound to be expensive. The city is expensive and it takes quite a lot to find a cheaper place to stay and which is located in a decent area.

New York vacation packages are available and you can end up saving some money especially if they comprise show tickets or discounted admission to landmarks.

But you can also create your own package. New York City area is served by three large airports. If you come from outside the US, chances are you’ll be looking for flights into JFK . The airport is located just 12 miles from Manhattan but with the crazy traffic it might take up to an hour to get to your hotel. If you fly from another US city, chances are that you’ll find cheap flights into either LaGuardia or Newark Liberty International Airport.

And speaking of expensive vacations… New York is known for the high hotel prices. Although the economic crisis has pushed the rates slightly down, it’s still hard to find cheap hotels in New York . You can forget about Manhattan if your budget is low but you can try to other boroughs. Read the reviews carefully so that you won’t end up in a dodgy area.

What to do in New York in January

Such a large city doesn’t lack events and festivals, regardless of the time of the year when you travel.

If you like shows, then you can watch Mary Poppins at the New Amsterdam Theatre from the first of the month until January 18, 2010. It is a music ideal for families and especially fort those who like the movie.

Another good choice for those who live shows is West Side Story (NY) which can be seen at Palace Theatre during January. And Cirque du Soleil : Wintuk takes place at WaMu Theatre (Madison Square Garden) during January 2010 from 11 a.m.

If you prefer concerts than you can choose among: Titus Andronicus (Mercury Lounge), Gogol Bordello (Webster Hall), Ludacris (Apollo Theater) and Patti Smith and Her Band (The Bowery Ballroom).

Where to stay

Finding a cheap place to stay in such a popular city can be quite an adventure. Most visitors prefer Manhattan because that’s where the popular landmarks are located. Don’t be shy to explore the near-by boroughs or look for hostels in New York.

Hostelling International New York is located just one block from Broadway Avenue and is the largest hostel in New York. The hostel offers free linen and towels , as well as free in-room lockers and wi-fi access. Rates start at $40 per person per night in a 4 bed dorm and $25 per person per night in a 10 bed dorm.

Jazz on Lenox is located in Upper Manhattan and offers both private rooms and dorms. There’s free wi-fi in the Lounge. Guests can use the fully equipped kitchen area. Bed rates start at $24.50 per night per person in a twin private room and $10 per night per person in a 12 bed mixed dorm.

Pink Hostels: Female Only is the first and only female only hostel in New York. It is located a block north of Central Park and offers a kitchen area, a lounge, washers and dryers. The suggested age limit is 55. Bed rates start at $50 per person per night in a twin private room and $19 per person per night in a 10 bed dorm.

International Student Center is located near Central Park and offers 50 dormitories. The guests must be between 18 and 35. Free linen is offered by the hostel. There’s a kitchen the guests can use and a lounge. Bed prices start at $20 per night per person in any dorm.

The Wanderers Inn West is located in the historic Harlem, just three blocks away from Central Park. All dormitories have their own bathrooms. During summer all rooms have AC. Free breakfast is offered by the hostel and there’s free wi-fi in the lobby. Prices start at $41 per person per night in a double bed room and $22.25 per person per night in a 12 bed mixed dorm.

The start of December doesn’t seem to come with good news for the U.S. hotel industry. According to this article all three key performance measurements decreased in the week of November 29 – December 5, 2009.

The market performance measurements are going down

Compared to the same period last year, the occupancy rate in the U.S. hotels fell by 4.9%, reaching only 47.6% on average. The average room rate (ADR) dropped by 7.3% compared to the same period in 2008, reaching $96.25, while the revenue per available (RevPAR) room dropped by 11.95%.

The highest decrease in occupancy rate was reported by Houston (Texas). The 23.2% decrease led to an average occupancy rate of 51.1% during the week of December 5. Orlando and San Francisco are doing just as worse, with occupancy rates falling by 10% in both cities.

San Francisco also reported the largest ADR decrease. It fell by 25.9%, reaching $122.94 per night. Phoenix (Arizona) and Miami (Florida) aren’t doing very well either, with ADR decreasing by 16.1% and 15.6% respectively.

When it comes to the RevPAR, the largest decrease was reported by Huston. It fell by 34.1% reaching $45.36. San Francisco had the same fate, with RevPAR falling by 33.3%.

But some numbers are going up

Out of all hotel segments, the luxury one reported an increase of 1.5% in occupancy rate reaching 61.4%.

Out of the Top 25 markets, Hawaii is leading, with the Oahu Island occupancy rate rising 15.3% to 74.7%. New Orleans (Louisiana) follows, with an increase of 13.1%, reaching 67.6%, while Tampa-St. Petersburg (Florida) reports an increase of 11.8%, reaching 52.2%.

New Orleans reported the only increase in ADR. The prices went up by 25.9%, reaching $150.39 per night. The city also reported the largest RevPAR. It went up by a whooping 42.4% and reached $101.72. Oahu Island and Tampa-St.Petersburg also reported increases by 7.1% and 1.8% respectively.

What’s the trend, anyway?

Looking back at the data for the week ending on November 28, 2009 things seem to go getting slightly worse (at least in some cities). Overall, during November 22-28, 2009, compared to the same period last year the occupancy rate fell by 1.7% and ADR dropped by 6.7%.

But Oahu Island keeps reporting increase in occupancy rate (27% for the week ending on Nov 28 and 15.3% for the week ending on Dec 5). However, several markets which reported good numbers for the previous week, are now reporting decreases.

Overall, no one is sure what would happen over the next weeks. Signs are that the occupancy rate, ADR and RevPAR are going up in certain cities. But once the winter holidays are over, there’s still a lot of uncertainty in the air.