ROCKVILLE, Md., -- The millennial generation has arrived, and hotels are grabbing for their loyalty. Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), one of the world's leading hotel companies, reveals the top ten unexpected travel habits of millennial adventurers in their latest study.

"Millennials haven't established allegiance with specific hotels yet, and there is such an amazing opportunity for companies to capture and build their brand loyalty," said Patrick Pacious, executive vice president, and COO at Choice Hotels. "As Choice continues to expand into upscale and urban markets, uncovering findings about this key demographic, such as millennials' inclination to impress, the desire for freebies and instant loyalty program gratification is crucial."

The Top Ten Millennial Travel Trends

Image is Everything: 27% of Millennials have stayed in a hotel to impress someone.

Live for the Now: 33% of Millennials would put off buying a home to take a dream vacation.

Foodies & Adventurers: 79% of Millennials say they are more adventurous about eating and drinking when traveling than when at home.

OId School Travel Methods: While 59% of millennials say online ratings and reviews determine their hotel selection, a shocking 35% of millennials would still use travel agents when deciding a hotel.

Get Rich Quick: 43% of Millennials believe you should receive your first rewards program benefit as soon as you sign up.

Experience is Everything: 12% of Millennials have quit their job to take a vacation or go to an event such as a concert.

Gimme Gimme Goodies: 69% of Millennials see freebies (such as snacks/sandwiches/to-go breakfast) as more important than opportunities for increased loyalty or reward points.

Comfy and Cozy is Key! Comfortable beds are the second biggest reasons Millennials will recommend a hotel to a friend (18%).

The Germaphobe Generation: 61% of Millennials carry hand sanitizer when traveling—more than any other generation!

I Can't Hear You: 30% of Millennials keep earbuds in their ears when traveling so people don't talk to them.

The survey was conducted in partnership with The Center for Generational Kinetics, which solves tough generational challenges with Millennials, Gen Y, Generation X and Baby Boomers. The national survey polled 1,000 U.S. adults, ages 18-65 between September 30 - October 3, 2015.

Uncovering the Millennial Mindset: Choice Hotels Reveals New Travel Study— Source: Choice HotelsUncovering the Millennial Mindset: Choice Hotels Reveals New Travel Study— Source: Choice Hotels
Uncovering the Millennial Mindset: Choice Hotels Reveals New Travel Study— Source: Choice Hotels

About Choice Hotels®

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. The challenger in the upscale segment and a leader in midscale and extended stay, Choice® has over 7,500 hotels, representing more than 630,000 rooms, in 46 countries and territories. A diverse portfolio of 22 brands that range from full-service upper upscale properties to midscale, extended stay and economy enables Choice® to meet travelers' needs in more places and for more occasions while driving more value for franchise owners and shareholders. The award-winning Choice Privileges® rewards program and co-brand credit card options provide members with a fast and easy way to earn reward nights and personalized perks. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com.

Forward-Looking Statements This communication includes "forward-looking statements" about future events, including anticipated development and hotel openings. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including construction delays, availability and cost of financing and the other "Risk Factors" described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, any of which could cause actual results to be materially different from our expectations.

Scott Carman
+ 1 (301) 592-6361
Choice

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