The celestial spectacle of a total solar eclipse is on the horizon, and travelers are flocking to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon. Choice Hotels International, a leading hospitality giant, reported a staggering 800% increase in hotel bookings for properties situated within the path of totality on April 8th. This surge in interest highlights the captivating power of natural wonders and the increasing popularity of eclipse tourism.
A Nationwide Phenomenon: The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
The upcoming total solar eclipse will be visible along a narrow band stretching from Texas to Maine, offering skywatchers across the United States a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. According to a recent State of the American Traveler report, over 20% of American travelers are considering a trip to witness this celestial event.
This total eclipse holds immense significance for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike. During totality, the moon completely engulfs the sun, creating a breathtaking celestial display. This fleeting moment of darkness is often accompanied by a stunning corona, the sun’s outer atmosphere, visible only during a total eclipse.
Choice Hotels: Your Gateway to Witnessing the Eclipse
Choice Hotels International, recognized for its diverse portfolio of hotel brands, is a top choice for eclipse chasers. With over 400 hotels situated within the path of totality, Choice offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.
Extensive Brand Portfolio:
Choice Hotels boasts an impressive collection of 22 hotel brands, including Sleep Inn, Comfort, Clarion, Cambria Hotels, and Ascend Hotel Collection. This diverse portfolio ensures guests can find the perfect balance of comfort, amenities, and location for their eclipse-viewing experience.
Exclusive Spring Offer:
In addition to a wide range of hotels, Choice Hotels is offering an enticing spring promotion throughout April. Guests booking directly through ChoiceHotels.com can enjoy the “Stay Twice, Get One Night Free” deal with the Choice Privileges loyalty program. This offer allows travelers to maximize their travel budget while exploring the wonders of the total solar eclipse.
Noha Abdalla, Chief Marketing Officer for Choice Hotels, emphasizes the company’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences for all types of travelers:
“Choice has the perfect hotel at the right price and in the right location for any event travelers want to experience, including this year’s total solar eclipse, all bookable on ChoiceHotels.com.”
Prime Locations for Witnessing Totality
For travelers seeking an optimal eclipse-viewing experience, Choice Hotels offers several properties strategically located within the path of totality. These hotels typically feature rooftop areas, outdoor spaces, or sundecks, providing unobstructed views of the celestial spectacle.
Key Locations:
- Cambria Hotel Austin Uptown Near the Domain (Austin, Texas)
- Cambria Hotel Columbus – Polaris (Columbus, Ohio)
- Cambria Hotel Plano Frisco (Plano, Texas)
- Clarion Inn & Suites Russellville I-40 (Russellville, Arkansas)
- Comfort Inn Anderson South (Anderson, Indiana)
- Sleep Inn & Suites (Columbus, Indiana)
- Sleep Inn & Suites (Galion, Ohio)
- The Lux Hotel & Conference Center, Ascend Hotel Collection (Waterloo, New York)
The Path of Totality: A Cross-Country Journey
The upcoming total solar eclipse will traverse a significant portion of the United States, offering a unique astronomical experience for residents across the country. According to NASA, the path will begin in Mexico, enter the US via Texas, and travel through several states:
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Missouri
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
Sections of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse. The celestial event will then make its way into Canada, traversing Southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton, and Newfoundland before exiting North America.
Choice Hotels: A Perfect Fit for Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond the upcoming eclipse, Choice Hotels caters to a wide range of travel styles, particularly for nature enthusiasts and stargazers. Here’s why Choice Hotels is a compelling choice for travelers seeking an outdoor adventure:
Proximity to Nature:
Approximately 30% of Choice Hotels are located near popular destinations, including beaches and national parks. This convenient positioning allows travelers to seamlessly combine their eclipse-viewing experience with outdoor exploration.
Accessibility:
Understanding the importance of accessibility for road trips and exploring natural wonders, Choice Hotels boasts a strategic distribution network. An impressive 76% of their properties are situated within one mile of a highway entrance, making them easily accessible for travelers on the go.
Choice Privileges: Enhancing Your Stay
Choice Privileges, the loyalty program offered by Choice Hotels, provides valuable benefits to frequent guests. Here’s how Choice Privileges can elevate your eclipse-chasing adventure:
Earn Points:
By staying at any of the over 7,000 Choice-branded hotels worldwide, members can accumulate points. These points can be redeemed for future stays, free nights, and other exciting rewards.
Enhanced Earning with Co-Branded Cards:
Choice Privileges offers two co-branded credit cards that allow members to earn points on everyday purchases beyond hotel stays. These points can be used towards travel expenses, including gas, groceries, and home goods, making travel more affordable.
Diverse Brand Portfolio:
Choice Privileges encompasses a diverse range of hotel brands catering to various preferences. From upscale Radisson Blu and Cambria Hotels to midscale Sleep Inn and Comfort hotels, members can choose a brand that aligns perfectly with their travel style and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. When and where will the total solar eclipse occur?
The total solar eclipse will take place on April 8th, 2024. The path of totality will stretch across the United States, from Texas to Maine, with parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experiencing the phenomenon.
2. What are some of the benefits of booking a Choice Hotel for the eclipse?
Choice Hotels offers a wide range of properties within the path of totality, catering to various needs and budgets. Additionally, their “Stay Twice, Get One Night Free” Spring promotion allows for cost-effective travel.
3. What hotel amenities are ideal for viewing the eclipse?
Hotels with rooftop areas, outdoor spaces, or sundecks provide unobstructed views of the celestial display. Several Choice Hotels within the path of totality boast these features.
4. How can I learn more about Choice Hotels and the eclipse?
Visit ChoiceHotels.com to explore available hotels within the path of totality, learn more about the “Stay Twice, Get One Night Free” promotion, and discover other Choice Hotels benefits.
5. What are some safety precautions to take while viewing the eclipse?
Never look directly at the sun with your naked eyes. Special eclipse glasses with appropriate solar filters are essential for safe viewing.
