I received on my desk yesterday a hard copy of the U.S. Travel Association’s “Travel and Tourism Works for America 2010-2011” report. Available to members of the association, the report provides an insightful overview of the country’s travel industry and its crucial role in the economy. (Copies can be purchased here.) Here are some key highlights I wanted to share with you:

• Domestic and international travelers spent US$704.4 billion during 2009 in direct expenditures in the United States, a decline of 8.9% from 2008. Spending increases of 5% and 9% are forecast in 2010 and 2011, respectively. ... Read More

While standing in line at a wedding reception bar this past weekend, I heard a fellow guest behind me mutter a rather discouraging word while thumbing through his iPhone.

“The line’s not that long,” I interjected jovially, trying to make small talk. ... Read More

Back in my proverbial college days of yore, I encountered a rather surly looking fellow who strutted around our dormitory like a fighter about to enter the ring. Head down, brows furrowed, shoulders broad and menacing, his natural disposition was about as inviting as that of a charging rhino.

And then I got to know him.  ... Read More

By now you’ve probably been inundated by a flurry of press releases spewing self-adulation for notching top spots on J.D. Power and Associates’ recently released 2010 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study.

I don’t knock hotel companies for issuing these. On the contrary, if you win guests in an economy where budgets have been cut to the bone, you’ve earned some bragging rights. ... Read More