WE HOPE TO BE REOPENING SOON - CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Business Traveler Preferences: Foreign vs. Domestic

In a recent article (which you can find here), USA TODAY interviewed more than 100 frequent business travelers (many of whom volunteer information to the company) and asked them to describe their preferences between domestic travel industries and travel industries abroad. Here’s what they said:

Airlines with the best planes and customer service:

  • Singapore Airlines
  • All Nippon Airways
  • Air New Zealand
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Emirates

Herkea Jea, a frequent business traveler, says Japan’s All Nippon Airways is his favorite because of their “professional services” and “great food.”

Airlines with the best frequent flier programs and seating upgrades:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • Southwest Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Spirit Airlines
  • US Airways
  • Virgin America

According to Airlines for America spokeswoman Katie Connell, U.S. airlines have actually spent around $1 billion a month so far this year to improve customers’ travel experiences.

U.S. airports vs. foreign airports:

  • Tied

While some travelers prefer the cleanliness and organization of foreign airports, others believe U.S. airports have improved in modernization and now offer more shopping and restaurants.

Hotel comparisons:

Foreign hotels: Better for unique and classy experiences, luxury, and well-trained staff members.

Hotels in Europe and Asia tend to give you a “richer, classier experience,” says Jea. Linda Peterson, another frequent business traveler, says the staff are “well-trained… no job is too big or too small for them.”

U.S. hotels: Better for flexibility and elite members.

Stephen Tao, a television industry executive, says foreign hotels “sometimes hold too strictly to protocols” and Peterson says U.S. hotels do a better job of recognizing frequent guest club members.

Have you traveled often? If so, do you prefer domestic travel or travel abroad?