Travel Roundup: Starwood Drops Stars, Galveston Cruise Ship Rates Stay, Sands Bethlehem Wants Smokers and More
Starwood joins others in dropping prices and amenities — Starwood & Resorts Worldwide Inc. announced it will drop prices and amenities, including stars, to complete with rivals Hilton Hotels Corp. and InterContinental Hotels Group Plc, who have already cut their ratings. Luxury hotels are the hardest hit in the recession, and most operators know that slashing stars means lower rates for business and vacation travelers. Most are willing to part with flowers, newspapers and 24-hours room service to save money. Occupancy rates for luxury hotels fell to 57 percent through July of this year, and 71 percent in last year, according to Smith Travel Research. [Source: Bloomberg] Galveston harbor pilots drop application to raise rates on cruise ships — Galveston and Texas City harbor pilots dropped their application to…
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