PRICES ON THE RISE

Hotels.com reports that hotel prices in Canada and the United States continued to increase in the first half of 2013. In its Hotel Price Index (HPI), Hotels.com said that rates were up 3% when compared to the same period last year. And with an average global price increase of 2% cent, North America\’s performance is strong although still shy of 2011 and the first half of 2012 when the rate of growth was at five per cent.
Jennifer Drew, director market management Hotels.com, commented: \”Canada is continuing to invest in its travel sector and the increase in current hotel prices is a direct reflection of that. Whether it\’s due to a lack of vacation time or an increase in travellers opting to drive to their vacation destinations, domestic travel has become a popular option for many Canadians. That said, although accommodation costs may be slightly higher, they\’re still lower than the peak of 2007 and deals can be found at home and abroad.\”
On a province-by-province breakdown, Hotels.com found that top performers included two provinces and one territory in the first half of 2013 with Yukon recording the highest increase at 7% year-over-year for an average of $136 per night; followed by Saskatchewan, up 5% ($150); and Newfoundland, up 4% ($179).
And not surprisingly, Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal continued to dominate in 2013 as the Most Popular Cities for domestic and international travellers. Toronto was number one for both, but Montreal and Vancouver switched spots with Montreal in second for domestic travellers and Vancouver shining as a favorite for international visitors.
Average prices paid in each of the top three cities ranged from $144 to $154 with Montreal showing the highest rates. Another popular destination, the scenic Lake Louise, held the top spot for Most Expensive Canadian Destination with a three per cent increase and average prices sitting at $289.
For more, check out http:// www.hotel-price-index.com .