PHOENIX (AP) — Freebies and good deals on rooms at Phoenix-area hotels and resorts appear to be drawing more visitors.
Smith Travel Research, an independent lodging industry research company, says hotel occupancy rates have been on the rise in metro Phoenix this year, up 1.7 percent in January and an estimated 5 percent in February.
That's after nearly a year and a half of double-digit declines in occupancy rates because of the recession and increased competition.
And those in the hotel industry say there are early signs of a strong March because of the gradual return of business meetings and good deals at hotels.
Many of the best hotel specials already are sold out on several March dates. The offers span the lodging lineup, from extended-stay hotels to luxury resorts.
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Information from: The Arizona Republic, http://www.azcentral.com
