Reuters Report: Domestic Travel Trending Amid Discount Hunting
As economic concerns shape travel decisions this summer, a recent Reuters report highlights a notable shift in U.S. travel behavior. Despite falling fares, Americans are delaying bookings or opting for last-minute deals, signaling that cost sensitivity is keeping many on the sidelines this season.
Key Takeaways
- Air travel bookings are down 10%, even though average summer flight prices have dropped 7%.
- Hotel reservations have flattened or declined, with weakened demand particularly noticeable in the month leading up to check-in.
- Travelers are hunting for deals: airlines and hotels are responding with promotions like free third-night offers or discounted summer fares.
- U.S. dollar weakness is a factor: the softer dollar, about 10% lower since January, makes overseas travel more expensive, pushing travelers toward domestic or near‑home destinations.
- Booking windows are shrinking: many consumers are waiting longer to commit until the “right” price appears; this was echoed by executives at Booking and Delta.
These trends suggest a summer season characterized by shorter, deal-driven booking patterns and continued interest in domestic travel.
Washington County Hotel Performance
June 2025
While June 2025 brought a slight dip in hotel performance compared to the previous year, Washington County continues to demonstrate strong occupancy and rate levels relative to regional benchmarks. With an occupancy rate of 74.8% and an ADR of $138.36. The year-over-year changes reflect a market that is adjusting to evolving traveler behavior, offering opportunities to attract new segments and build on Washington County’s reputation as a desirable place to stay.
ETV Earns DMAP Accreditation
Explore Tualatin Valley (ETV) has been awarded the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) seal by Destinations International — a prestigious recognition of excellence, accountability, and industry best practices.
“ETV now joins over 200 top-tier destination organizations that have met the rigorous standards required for DMAP accreditation,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to this distinguished community.”
This milestone reflects ETV’s commitment to quality across key areas like governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, community engagement and destination development.
Legislative Wrap-up
Legislative Updates on Oregon Bills: HB 2977-A and HB 3962-A
Two bills introduced during the 2025 Oregon legislative session, HB 2977-A and HB 3962-A, proposed changes to how transient lodging tax (TLT) revenue could be used at both the state and local levels. While each addressed different priorities, neither advanced to final passage before the session adjourned. Below is a summary of each bill and its outcome.
HB 2977-A: Increase transient lodging tax (TLT) for wildlife conservation
Summary
- Proposed raising Oregon’s state lodging tax from 1.5% to 2.75%
- Redirected new revenue (~$30–42 million/year) to wildlife recovery, habitat restoration, anti-poaching, and education
- Renamed a key state conservation fund to support long-term wildlife planning
Legislative Path
- Passed Oregon House (36–15) and Senate Rules Committee (3–2)
- Delayed on Senate floor due to a minority report filed late in session
- Did not pass before adjournment on June 27, 2025
HB 3962-A: Redirect local lodging tax (TLT) funds to special districts
Summary
- Proposed changing local TLT rules from a 70/30 split to a 40/60 option, giving more flexibility to cities and counties
- Would have allowed up to 60% of local TLT revenue to support essential services such as fire protection, water, and emergency response delivered by special districts
- Applied to both new and grandfathered jurisdictions
Legislative Path
- Amended and passed out of House Revenue Committee
- Passed the House (31–23), but did not advance in the Senate before session’s end
Outcome
- The bill failed to pass before the 2025 session adjourned
ETV Night at the Hops Last Chance
You’re invited to join the Explore Tualatin Valley crew and show your support for the home team, the Hillsboro Hops, on August 14th!
We’re thrilled to honor our partners and all that you contribute to tourism in Tualatin Valley. Plus, enjoy a drone show after the game!
What: “Explore Tualatin Valley Night at the Hops” – RSVP for up to two free tickets which includes a $15 voucher per ticket for food and drink at the park.
When: Thursday, August 14, 2025 – Game starts at 6:35 p.m.
Where: Hillsboro Ballpark, 4460 NE Century Blvd., Hillsboro, OR, 97124
Details:
- Tickets are limited and are on a first come, first served basis.
- Tickets will be emailed electronically a week before the game on August 8.
- When you receive your electronic tickets, we’ll send you simple instructions regarding how to access and use your tickets and food voucher.
- Seats will all be grouped together, we encourage you to network with friends and peers.
- If you are bringing a child between the ages of 3 and 12 and would like them to be considered for the “play ball kid” of the game, please fill in that field on the ticket reservation form.
Questions? Email engage@tualatinvalley.org
Come and join the fun—let’s hit it out of the park together! See you at the stadium.
Tourism Grant Opportunities
Explore Tualatin Valley is now accepting applications for two tourism strategic investment grant programs for Fiscal Year 2025-26. These competitive awards support projects and events that drive cultural and economic growth while attracting visitors to Washington County, Oregon.
Foundation Strategic Investment Grant
Grants up to $20,000 per project | $100,000 total available
Supports tourism-related projects such as public art, historic preservation, cultural heritage, signage, and more.
Application Window: July 1 – September 15, 2025
Awards Announced: December 15, 2025
*Please note some guidelines have changed since Fiscal Year 2024-25 Cycle, so please review before applying.
Heart & Inspiration Event Awards
Up to $5,000 per event | $25,000 available per cycle
Provides sponsorship support for public events that encourage overnight visitation and celebrate the region’s cultural vibrancy.
Application Windows:
- Cycle 1: July 1 – September 30 (for events November 2025 – May 2026)
- Cycle 2: January 1 – March 31 (for events June – October 2026)
Awards Announced: October 31, 2025 and May 31, 2026
Eligibility
Applicants must be Washington County-based 501(c) nonprofits, government agencies, or tribal organizations. Events must be visitor-facing and tourism-aligned.
Questions? Contact us at engage@tualatinvalley.org
In the News
- Tualatin River Discovery Day, AM Extra, June 20