USTA: Travel Intentions of Americans Improving
AUGUST 11, 2009 - Almost two-thirds (63 percent) of U.S. adults expect to take at least one trip for leisure purposes between August 2009 and January 2010, up from 61 percent who expressed the same intention in July 2008. Assuming Americans act on their stated intention, this will translate into an estimated 142 million U.S. adults taking at least one overnight trip during the next six months.
The travel intentions of U.S. adults appear to be on the rise, according to the latest travelhorizons(TM) survey, the nationally representative survey that is co-authored quarterly by Ypartnership and the U.S. Travel Association (USTA). Almost two-thirds (63 percent) of U.S. adults expect to take at least one trip for leisure purposes between August 2009 and January 2010, up from 61 percent who expressed the same intention in July 2008. Assuming Americans act on their stated intention, this will translate into an estimated 142 million U.S. adults taking at least one overnight trip during the next six months.
'Americans' continued strong interest in travel and positive perceptions of its affordability are positive signs for the industry,' said Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. 'The cost of travel remains at historic lows, giving consumers phenomenal options and the opportunity to stretch their dollars farther.' According to the national survey of 2,362 respondents conducted between July 21-28, 2009, the average number of overnight trips U.S. adults intend to take during the next six months increased to 2.8 from 2.6 in July 2008. Travelers remained concerned about having sufficient money for travel; however, the majority of adults who are planning to take a trip are adjusting to more limited leisure travel budgets by indicating that they expect to spend less on travel services compared to last year. They also intend to comparison shop for deals, especially online.
The July Traveler Sentiment Index(TM) (a derivative of six variables measured in the quarterly survey) also reflected consumers' improved sentiment. After falling slightly between February and April 2009, the index rose to 92.1 (against a base of 100 in March 2007), and three points above the number recorded in April 2009 (89.1). All six of the index indicators displayed gains from the last calendar quarter with the exception of one: 'money available for travel'.
'These results reaffirm our belief that downward pressure on the average household budget continues to present the biggest challenge for the industry, not interest in or the desire to travel,' said Peter C. Yesawich, chairman and CEO of Ypartnership. 'And that's precisely why value remains king for U.S. travelers.'
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
