It's a mixed bag. I don't expect the Orbitz $200 thing to return anytime soon...I did very well under some of those past Orbitz deals. AORB40 ($40 off 3 nights) and the Expedia $50 gift card for 3 nights (U.S./Canada only) are the best I can think of now in that vein. I think being in high summer has something to do with that. The Expedia UK refer deal is absolutely tremendous and deserves a place in the all-time hall of fame. The $10 Lastminutetravel one is really quirky but could benefit those near the cities affected (staycations?) or who can go with little notice.

Usually I'd be bidding on Priceline a good bit, but the other deals are such that I haven't needed to lately. Would be curious as to what's going on with 2* places, as ExtendedStay America was a real anchor for that and now ESA is in bankruptcy. Getting an ESA at $25-32 or so used to be a Priceline staple.

Would agree with others that hotels are doing the deals through back channels so as not to drop the rates in general.

ABC News had a story tonight that was pegged to the Southwest fare sale (giving them free publicity) but that also mentioned that rental cars were up substantially this year vs. 2008.