Chinese travel agents' perceptions on the hotel preferences of Chinese travelers to the United States

Hotels, as one crucial part of tour packages, are among the determining factors in shaping travelers' overall travel experience. The present research focused on Chinese travel agencies' perceptions of hotels in the United States, attempted to determine Chinese travelers' hotel preferences, and sought to assist American hotel management to prepare for future Chinese guests. Ten personal interviews were conducted to gather first hand data with general managers or a manager directly responsible for the operation of the companies' United States-bound travel from some of China's leading travel agencies. All data gathered was analyzed using qualitative research methods for precise interpretation of the participants' opinions. The research identified the existing problems that American hotels have in serving Chinese guests, determined Chinese tourists' expectations of American hotels and recommended suggestions for the American hotel industry.