Sep 16, 2002/FW/ --- When planning a vacation, many of us hit the Internet before we hit the road. There are web sites that help scout out destinations or let you book the perfect room and personalized activities. Roberta Facinelli has more.

With the help of the Internet, many Americans are becoming savvy travelers. It's estimated that about 32 percent of people will book their hotel accommodations online this year, with 69 percent booking directly on hotel sites.

To accommodate this rising demand, Hyatt recently re-designed its web site to be more comprehensive and traveler friendly. One travel planning resource now featured on hyatt.com is Frommer's travel guides. Here's Mike Spring, publisher of Frommer's Travel Guides, with more information.

"The combination of Frommer's and hyatt.com makes a powerful tool for the traveler." [said Mike Spring] "With personalized options, including a preferences page, the virtual concierge provides users with listings to local dining, shopping, attractions and nightlife, so visitors to hyatt.com can experience travel destinations the way locals do."

The web site also gives access to property lists, interactive maps and special rates, which make it easy for would-be vacationers to investigate the perfect place for the perfect price. I'm Roberta Facinelli reporting.

To find more information about planning a trip, log onto newly re-designed www.hyatt.com.