Consumers over the last few years have turned to the internet in larger numbers to make their travel plans - sites like Expedia, Priceline, and services from Yahoo and MSN have made booking travel much easier. And whether you're traveling for business or personal reasons, your choice of hotel can have a big impact on the quality of your trip - either to your pocketbook or in your travel enjoyment.

Different types of hotels

The big chain hotels advertise regularly and with their frequent travel discounts and guarantees of service, they are usually the best bet for people - this would include Marriott, Hilton, and some of the lesser chains like Ramada and Clarion. When traveling in particular areas though, it makes sense to consider those hotels that are unique to that city. One way you can find them is through the website below. There are also specialty chain hotels like Ritz-Carlton, Doubletree, and the W hotels chain that are worth considering - they may cost more than a high end chain but the experience and memories can often be worth that extra cash outlay.

Local hotels give a unique flavor for the city you'll stay in

Area hotels can give you a flair for that city and provide a unique experience. For example, in San Diego, the Hotel del Coronado is a common tourist attraction, one that is worth staying at just to be near the beach and see the history of the hotel. Similarly, in Los Angeles, the Beverly Hills Hotel is known for its movie stars and Hollywood flair and is worth considering. New York, too, has hotels unique to that area like the Waldorf Astoria. Unless you have an attachment to a specific hotel chain, it's worth doing a little research on the city you're visiting to find the best hotel for you - maybe you'll find a place with facilities, features, or service that beats anything you've gotten before - and would make your trip that much better.