According to Smith Travel Research (STR), the US hotel industry saw an increase in summer occupancy, demand, and revenue.

“The industry achieved an all-time high for absolute room demand during the June-to-August time period, which was a welcomed surprise,” said Chad Church, director of special services at STR.

July reported the largest occupancy increase during the three months of summer. July also saw the largest RevPAR growth, up 8.5% to US$67.35. August experienced the largest ADR increase, up 1.5% to US$98.69. Despite earlier concerns, the hotel industry’s overall performance over the summer came as a surprising relief.

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The Obama Administration has taken steps to launch the Corporation for Travel Promotion. The initial board of directors has been announced and the Department of Homeland Security has established the funding mechanism that, combined with private sector contributions, will create a marketing program of up to $200 million per year. It will be used to attract millions of new visitors to the United States.

“This is a momentous week in laying the groundwork for attracting millions of new visitors to our country and creating thousands of new jobs,” said Roger Dow, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “The rapid speed with which the Obama Administration launched this program is concrete evidence that our government leaders embrace the importance of welcoming more international visitors.”

Read more about the article. This is exciting news for the traveling and hospitality industry!