Cruise and Tour Sales Remain Strong in February, According to AAA Chicago's Latest Travel Gauge

AURORA, Ill., March 20 -- The threat of war with Iraq has not deterred travelers from booking cruises and tours in the month of February, according to the AAA Chicago Travel Agency.

According to AAA Chicago's latest travel gauge report cruise sales increased by more than 8 percent in February 2003 versus February 2002.

Domestic and international tours also remained strong with sales increases of .25 percent and 1.29 percent respectively in the month of February 2003 versus February 2002.

Hotel Reservations and motorcoach bookings remained flat for the month of February 2003 over the same period last year; however, car rentals decreased by 7.2 percent in February.

"Continued discounting in the cruise and tour industry has kept travelers interested in booking that much needed spring break in the month of February," said Alexandra Petropoulos, AAA Chicago's Director of Travel. "The club also hasn't seen many travelers canceling their vacations as a result of the recent developments in Iraq; however, we have had many inquiries regarding cancellation policies. Many travel vendors have altered their cancellation or fees for changing your itinerary. AAA Chicago encourages travelers to check with their agent for the latest information."

About Travel Gauge -- The club established its travel gauge report in January 2003. The report shows the latest trends in the cruise, tour, motorcoach, car rental and hotel industries by using month versus month sales statistics from the Auto Club Group travel agencies.

About AAA Chicago -- AAA Chicago offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the largest affiliation of AAA clubs in the Midwest, with 4.1 million members in eight states. ACG clubs belong to the national AAA federation, a not-for-profit organization, with more than 45 million members in the United States and Canada.