This Florida Mid-Year Lodging Report seems inconsistent with the outlook from Economy.com Inc. of West Chester, PA, which also follows the Florida hospitality economy.

The state's hospitality industry has seen improvement in occupancy and room rates over the last six months, although not to the extent of the nation, the 15-page Ernst & Young report states.

In addition, the key markets of Miami, Orlando and Tampa are still behind 2001 levels, according to the report. This improvement follows troubles in the industry caused by a combination of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, a drop in the stock market, new supply pressure and extended reductions in corporate and leisure travel.