
Opening the USA Page on The Wandered
September 20, 2024
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Welcome to the The Wandered - USA! This marks the launch of our new page dedicated to exploring the United States through travel tips and hacks that will make your journey as smooth as possible. Whether you are an international traveler or a local explorer, we aim to provide insights that will truly enhance your experience in the USA. All travel hacks we discover will be shared with you without exaggeration, helping you navigate through the vast and diverse landscapes of this incredible country.
The Top 3 hotel chains in the USA
When it comes to finding accommodation in the USA, travelers often turn to large hotel chains for consistency, comfort, and convenience. Let’s take a closer look at the three biggest hotel chains in the United States, each offering a unique blend of luxury, affordability, and extensive reach.
1. Marriott International
- Number of hotels: Over 8,600 hotels in 138 countries (approximately 5,500 hotels in the USA).
- Number of employees: Around 377,000 employees globally.
- Average room price: Rates range from $100 to $600 per night, depending on the brand and location.
- Annual revenue: Approximately $20.97 billion in 2023.
- Years in operation: 97 years (founded in 1927).
Ownership and leadership:
The company was founded by J. Willard Marriott and his wife Alice Marriott. Currently, it is led by CEO Anthony Capuano, with the Marriott family still heavily involved in the company’s operations. The Marriott family has built a legacy based on strong values of hospitality.
Advantages:
- Extensive variety of brands, ranging from budget-friendly (Fairfield Inn) to luxury (Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis).
- Strong loyalty program (Marriott Bonvoy) offering significant perks for frequent travelers.
- High standard of service across all properties.
Disadvantages:
- Higher-end brands can be quite expensive.
- Customer complaints about overcharges and complex cancellation policies at certain locations.
Interesting Fact: J. Willard Marriott started the company as a root beer stand in Washington D.C. before expanding into the hotel industry in the 1950s.
2. Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc.
- Number of hotels: Over 7,100 hotels in 123 countries (about 5,100 in the USA).
- Number of employees: More than 300,000 employees globally.
- Average room price: Between $80 and $500 per night, depending on the brand.
- Annual revenue: Around $10.54 billion in 2023.
- Years in operation: 105 years (founded in 1919).
Ownership and leadership:
Hilton was founded by Conrad Hilton. Today, the company is publicly traded, with Christopher J. Nassetta serving as CEO. The Hilton family no longer owns the company but continues to be associated with its name, particularly through cultural icons like Paris Hilton.
Advantages:
- Known for its hospitality innovation, including introducing in-room televisions and central reservation systems.
- Strong presence in both urban and resort locations.
- The Hilton Honors loyalty program is highly rated for flexibility and rewards.
Disadvantages:
- Some properties, especially older ones, are in need of modernization.
- Service consistency can vary significantly between brands.
Interesting Fact: The Hilton Hotel chain was the first to introduce the minibar concept in the 1970s.
3. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
- Number of hotels: Over 9,200 properties across 95 countries (approximately 6,000 in the USA).
- Number of employees: Around 14,000 employees.
- Average room price: Typically between $60 and $300 per night.
- Annual revenue: $1.55 billion in 2023.
- Years in operation: 36 years (founded in 1988).
Ownership and leadership:
Founded by Trammell Crow, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is now led by CEO Geoffrey A. Ballotti. Wyndham grew rapidly through mergers and acquisitions, becoming one of the largest hotel franchises in the world.
Advantages:
- Affordable accommodation options, making it accessible for budget travelers.
- Wide range of locations, especially in suburban and rural areas.
- Simple and user-friendly rewards program (Wyndham Rewards).
Disadvantages:
- Focus on budget travelers means some properties can be dated or less luxurious.
- Customer service experiences can vary significantly.
Interesting fact: Wyndham Hotels launched the first loyalty program that allows members to earn points from renting vacation homes, expanding beyond traditional hotel stays.
Each of these hotel chains has established a significant presence in the USA and worldwide, offering travelers a range of options for every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for luxury, affordability, or a mix of both, these chains have something for everyone.
As we continue to explore the USA, The Wandered - USA will bring you more detailed guides, tips, and inside information to make your travel easier and more enjoyable. Stay tuned!