Top 10 Favorite Overseas Travel Destinations – U.S. Hotels Have the Highest Rates

Its Hotel Price Index™ (HPI™) report indicates that in 2016, amid rapid global political changes and significant currency fluctuations, the average hotel rate paid by travelers worldwide remained the same as in 2015. This year marks the third consecutive year with a global HPI score of 114, with only the North America and Caribbean regions seeing a slight 1% increase, while all other regions saw a decline.

Looking closely at the average nightly hotel rates paid by travelers in the top 10 destinations, compared to 2015, only two destinations saw a decline: Paris (down 10%) and Bangkok (down slightly by 1%). Paris was affected by the frequent terrorist attacks last year, which somewhat dampened traveler interest. Hong Kong and Singapore remained flat, with no change in the average nightly rate, while the other destinations saw an increase of around 10%, with Okinawa (up 13%) showing the most significant rise.
 

2016 Ranking of Favorite Overseas Travel Destinations
Average Nightly Hotel Rate Changes (New Taiwan Dollars)

It’s worth noting that among the top 100 popular destinations, the cities where travelers paid the highest hotel rates are all in the United States: Boston with an average nightly rate of NT$7,905, followed by Honolulu (Hawaii) at NT$7,831, and New York at NT$7,769 per night.

The launch of more budget airlines and a significant increase in flight options mean travelers can save on costs. The report also reveals destinations where hotel rates dropped by double digits, helping travelers better manage their accommodation budgets.

The euro’s depreciation and lower airfares have made traveling to Europe more affordable. Aside from Paris mentioned earlier, travelers paid over 20% less on average per night in fashion capital Milan compared to 2015, leaving more room in the budget for shopping. Other European cities that saw declines include Brussels (down 14%) and London (down 12%), the latter affected by Brexit and the resulting fall in the British pound.

Cross exploring the world’s ancient civilizations off your bucket list this year! Among the destinations that saw double-digit drops in the report, two ancient civilization hubs—Mexico City and Siem Reap—declined by 17% and 15% respectively compared to 2015. Travelers who prefer laid-back island getaways shouldn’t miss the relaxing vibes of Sabah and Boracay, which also enjoyed price drops of over 10%.