Inflation won't stop summer travelers from visiting Erie.

People are looking to more regional options for a summer getaway but still want to get out after being trapped at home by the pandemic. Gas prices have caused many consumers to look more local for trips, but not abandon travel completely.

Hotel personnel in Erie are preparing for a busy travel season. With gas at $5 a gallon, they expect regional travelers to be drawn to Erie for its various summer attractions. Our location is expected to bring in more visitors from major cities nearby.

According to the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Diamond Hospitality Services, Laurie Woolslayer, people are traveling and are more likely to look for places that are a tankful of gas away.

"Summer is a busy time for us here in Erie," said Woolslayer. "We have beautiful Presque Isle and lots of great things to do here in Erie."

Because of this high demand, consumers should expect local hotel prices to stay high. Woolslayer explained that although inflation has risen their operational costs, hotel prices are driven by supply and demand.