PHOTO: Miami experienced the greatest increase in occupancy for New Year's, but room rates increased by only 4 percent
For those who want to party like it's 2015 on New Year's, TravelClick recently unveiled America's top three party destinations to ring in the coming year.
According to hotel booking data from TravelClick, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Miami are the top party destinations for New Year's 2015, each boasting strong increases in occupancy and room rates year-over-year.
For the period of Dec. 30 to Jan. 1, hotel occupancy increased in Vegas, L.A. and Miami by 11 percent, 13 percent and 19 percent, respectively. In turn, room rates in Vegas, L.A. and Miami increased by 8 percent, 9 percent and 4 percent, respectively.
"The occupancy and average daily rate (ADR) increases are both impressive and statistically significant, especially in comparison to 2013," said John Hach, Senior Vice President of Global Product Management at TravelClick. "They represent the strongest growth in occupancy and ADR in over five years. Hoteliers in these cities are experiencing sustained levels of growth in all major market segments: group, business and leisure. This balanced portfolio of advanced reservations are indicative of a trend TravelClick accurately forecasted beginning back in the second quarter of 2014."
But why the big jump in occupancy and ADR in Vegas, L.A. and Miami ?
"All three cities are top tourism markets and benefit from a strong mix of domestic and international business," Hach said. "They are all traditionally top winter markets, due to their warmer weather and other points of interest that attract tourists from all walks of life."
It's no surprise that Vegas, for one, is attracting a great deal of visitors up until the last days of 2014. The destination broke its own record of 39,727,000 visitors (set in 2012) this year, exceeding 40 million visitors with two weeks left to spare in 2014. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) projects Sin City will welcome nearly 41 million visitors by the end of the year.
Interestingly enough, despite having the greatest occupancy increase among the three destinations, Miami's rates didn't increase as much as those in Vegas and Los Angeles. For those who want to experience a top party destination but are on a bit of a budget, Miami may be your best bet.
Hach also said that the areas surrounding the destinations are worth a look on New Year's. He highlighted Reno (close to Vegas), Irvine (in the Greater Los Angeles area) and Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
"These alternative destinations are a short car ride to the larger destinations and may offer air, hotel and car rental package that provide greater value," Hach said. "It often proves wise to speak with a professional travel agent for advice on special travel packages."
Travel packages can include promotions from local destination and tourism organizations, Hach said. Hach also advised to shop multiple travel websites and to be sure to check out your preferred hotel's own site before booking.
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