The US Travel Association (USTA) predicts a rebound of the domestic travel market over the next three years. This presents a big opportunity for domestic travel destinations like Disney World and Las Vegas, who can now compete for their share of travelers who've traded their international vacation for a domestic one. Destinations that reach domestic travelers consistently with value-oriented offers will become go-to resources for this new class of traveler, but in order to compete in what promises to be a tight domestic travel marketplace, destinations should integrate these five best practices for launching a successful direct response television campaign. READ MORE

With improved benefits and guest-friendly rules, hotel loyalty programs are increasingly becoming one of the primary reasons for selecting a particular hotel. Loyalty programs now rank fourth among reasons why consumers select a hotel (the top three reasons are "Location", "Price", and "Past Experience"). Across the industry loyalty program membership is on the rise and the percentage of "Elite" members in these hotel programs rose sharply in 2011 (up 5%). This is good news for hotels because members of these programs are more likely to recommend the hotel, spend more per room, and are less sensitive to price increases compared to non-member guests. READ MORE

Clearly when a program is just about rewards, loyalty isn't achieved. Loyalty is defined as "faithful" and faithful is defined in part as "allegiance" and "trust"; neither of these can "points" alone achieve. After all, aren't points what programs share in common? Loyalty results from one's ability to gain trust. Loyal guests are actually saying, "I trust that you will recognize me as the individual that I am." READ MORE

Earlier this year, American Express conducted a survey exploring attitudes and preferences toward customer service. The survey revealed seven in ten Americans (70%) are willing to spend an average of 13% more with companies they believe provide excellent customer service. Even so, the same survey indicated that six in ten Americans (60%) believe businesses haven't increased their focus on providing good customer service. Among this group, 26% think companies are actually paying less attention to service. Consider these three truths about exceptional customer service.. READ MORE

Frequent travel programs present much value to weary travelers, who often consider their benefits as well deserved awards for the not so glamorous experiences associated with air travel. Furthermore, these programs create loyalty by recognizing the select few as more valued customers. They provide travelers with the perks of convenience and a feeling of importance. Understanding each business' unique strengths is necessary in order to allocate the right amount of resources to retain their customers. An increase of the quality of experience when staying at a hotel necessitates focus on those areas which are key drivers to creating loyalty. READ MORE