Hotel Occupancy Rates in Hawaii Keep Going Down
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We keep hearing that the economy is starting to get a little better but the numbers don’t seem to agree with that. Hawaii’s been struck pretty hard by the crisis and May’s occupancy rates prove exactly that. While the US state is an important hub for sugar and pineapple industries, it is actually economically dependent on the tourism. The islands have something to offer for every type of traveler. Oahu is excellent for those who want to experience the islands but keep all the facilities of a large city, while those who are searching for adventure usually choose the Big Island.
Star Bulletin recently published an interesting analysis of the hotel occupancy rates in Hawaii and things are not looking promising. Statewide the occupancy rate in May this year dropped to 61.9% compared to the 68.4% registered for the same period last year. The figure is also the lowest ever since data has been recorded starting with 1987.
May, however, is off season in Hawaii, but the first cases of swine flu emerging at the beginning of the month didn’t help with the bookings. And those who came to the islands decided to rent apartments rather than stay in a hotel. Even the number of those staying in shared apartments dropped by 4.8% compared to May 2008.
The average price per room dropped as well. Not only less visitors came to Hawaii in May this year – a 6.9% drop since last year – but they also spent less.
Oahu seems to be less affected reporting the smallest decrease but the Big Island suffered from the highest decease (8.2%). The Big Island is home to some spectacular scenery: from the world’s largest volcano, to the world’s most active volcano, superb beaches, interesting caves and green valleys. Oahu is by far the most popular destination in Hawaii, offering over 30 beaches, interesting hiking trails, green parks and super snorkeling spots.
The luxury hotel market in Hawaii is doing just as worse with occupancy rates in luxury hotels dropping to little over 50% in May.
Restaurants started closing their doors because of slow economy a while ago all over the Hawaiian Islands. There is some hope that the tourism market will recover a little over the summer but no one expects any major changes this year.
