travelocity

SOUTHLAKE, Texas | With the current state of the economy, the idea of jumping on a plane to ring in the New Year in a far-off destination seems best left for the jet set. However, there’s good news for travelers who plan to celebrate stateside: hotel rates are drastically declining in many parts of the country. Combined with rock-bottom gas prices, a hotel stay within driving distance is an economical way to welcome the New Year.

Travelocity tracked the top hotel destinations for New Year’s Eve and found hotel average daily rates (ADR) were down or flat from the same time period last year. For those who’ve decided to avoid the airport this holiday to cut costs, skipping the flight doesn’t have to mean staying at home.

“Since New Year’s falls in the middle of the week, a quick getaway makes more sense than an extensive trip,” said Genevieve Shaw Brown, senior editor at Travelocity. “Travelers should take advantage of lower hotel rates in cities near them to save not only time, but more importantly, money.”

According to Travelocity data, the following cities show a decrease in rates compared to New Year’s last year:

Top Hotel Destinations

Average Daily Rate (ADR)

Las Vegas - 18%
New York City - 3%
Orlando - 10%
Los Angeles - 3%
South Florida - 6%
San Francisco - 15%
Chicago - 9%
New Orleans flat
Washington, DC - 6%
Jacksonville - 4%

In addition to discounted rates, hotels across the country are offering added value to entice travelers. Depending on the destination, and subject to some restrictions and availability, look for extras like free breakfast or room upgrades to get more for less. “Value-added promotions are plentiful,” said Brown. “In Las Vegas, the Mirage and the Luxor offer a fourth night free. In ski destinations like Steamboat, kids ski free. It’s a buyer’s market, so take advantage.”

About Travelocity: Travelocity® is committed to being the traveler's champion – before, during and after the trip – and provides the most comprehensive and proactive guarantee in the industry (http://www.travelocity.com/guarantee). This customer-driven focus, backed by 24/7 live phone support, competitive prices and powerful shopping technology has made Travelocity one of the largest travel companies in the world with gross bookings of more than U.S. $10 billion in 2007. Travelocity also owns and operates: Travelocity Business® for corporate travel; igougo.com, a leading online travel community; lastminute.com, a leader in European online travel; and ZUJI, a leader in Asia-Pacific online travel. Travelocity is owned by Sabre Holdings Corporation, a world leader in travel marketing and distribution.

Jill Harrison
682-605-5716
Travelocity