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Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)
In Billions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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Dec. 31, 2011
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Feb. 17, 2012
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Jun. 30, 2011
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| Document Information [Line Items] | |||
| Entity Public Float | $ 25.2 | ||
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2011 | ||
| Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2011 | ||
| Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | ||
| Document Type | 10-K | ||
| Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | ||
| Entity Registrant Name | PRICELINE COM INC | ||
| Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | Yes | ||
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001075531 | ||
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | ||
| Amendment Flag | false | ||
| Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 49,798,861 | ||
| Entity Voluntary Filers | No | ||
| Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes |
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- Definition
If the value is true, then the document as an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
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- Definition
End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal period of the document report. For a first quarter 2006 quarterly report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, the first fiscal quarter should be given as the fiscal period focus. Values: FY, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, H1, H2, M9, T1, T2, T3, M8, CY. No definition available.
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- Definition
This is focus fiscal year of the document report in CCYY format. For a 2006 annual report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, fiscal 2006 should be given as the fiscal year focus. Example: 2006. No definition available.
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- Details
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- Definition
The end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements containing historical data, it is the date up through which that historical data is presented. If there is no historical data in the report, use the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition
The type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, N-1A, etc). The document type is limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type, minus any "/A" suffix. The acceptable values are as follows: S-1, S-3, S-4, S-11, F-1, F-3, F-4, F-9, F-10, 6-K, 8-K, 10, 10-K, 10-Q, 20-F, 40-F, N-1A, 485BPOS, 497, NCSR, N-CSR, N-CSRS, N-Q, 10-KT, 10-QT, 20-FT, POS AM and Other. No definition available.
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- Definition
A unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate number of shares outstanding of each of registrant's classes of common stock, as of latest practicable date. Where multiple classes exist define each class by adding class of stock items such as Common Class A [Member], Common Class B [Member] onto the Instrument [Domain] of the Entity Listings, Instrument No definition available.
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" whether registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate whether the registrant is one of the following: (1) Large Accelerated Filer, (2) Accelerated Filer, (3) Non-accelerated Filer, or (4) Smaller Reporting Company. Definitions of these categories are stated in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
State aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to price at which the common equity was last sold, or average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. The public float should be reported on the cover page of the registrants form 10K. No definition available.
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- Definition
The exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Is used on Form Type: 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, 20-F, 6-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q/A, 20-F/A, 6-K/A, N-CSR, N-Q, N-1A. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The equity component of convertible debt that will be settled in cash which has been reclassified to mezzanine (temporary equity) because the debt is redeemable at the reporting date. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The current liability portion of the carrying value of long-term convertible debt that is redeemable at the balance sheet date. The current liability plus mezzanine (temporary equity) represents the aggregate principal amount of convertible debt as of the balance sheet date that will be settled in cash. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The noncurrent liability portion of long-term convertible debt that is not redeemable as of the balance sheet date that will be settled in cash. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This relates to transactions where the entity's customers purchase hotel room reservations or car rental reservations from suppliers at price-disclosed rates. Charges are billed to the customer at the time of booking. Merchant revenue (the difference between the selling price and the cost of the hotel room reservation or car rental reservation) and the accounts payable to the supplier are recognized at the conclusion of the customer's stay at the hotel or when the customer returns the rental car as amounts collected are generally refundable upon cancellation prior to the hotel stay or rental car pick-up. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Amount due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered. Examples include taxes, interest, rent and utilities. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Excess of issue price over par or stated value of the entity's capital stock and amounts received from other transactions involving the entity's stock or stockholders. Includes adjustments to additional paid in capital. Some examples of such adjustments include recording the issuance of debt with a beneficial conversion feature and certain tax consequences of equity instruments awarded to employees. Use this element for the aggregate amount of additional paid-in capital associated with common and preferred stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only common stock, use the element additional paid in capital, common stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only preferred stock, use the element additional paid in capital, preferred stock. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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- Definition
Total of debt securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading which are intended be sold or mature within one year from the balance sheet date or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition
Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet to indicate that the entity has entered into (1) purchase or supply arrangements that will require expending a portion of its resources to meet the terms thereof, and (2) is exposed to potential losses or, less frequently, gains, arising from (a) possible claims against a company's resources due to future performance under contract terms, and (b) possible losses or likely gains from uncertainties that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events that are deemed likely to occur do occur or fail to occur. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable common stock (or common stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable common shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The current portion of the aggregate tax effects as of the balance sheet date of all future tax deductions arising from temporary differences between tax basis and generally accepted accounting principles basis recognition of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when permitted under enacted tax laws; after deducting the allocated valuation allowance, if any, to reduce such amount to net realizable value. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. An unrecognized tax benefit that is directly related to a position taken in a tax year that results in a net operating loss carryforward is presented as a reduction of the related deferred tax asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The noncurrent portion as of the balance sheet date of the aggregate carrying amount of all future tax deductions arising from temporary differences between tax basis and generally accepted accounting principles basis recognition of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when permitted under enacted tax laws; after the valuation allowance, if any, to reduce such amount to net realizable value. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, is classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Represents the noncurrent portion of deferred tax liabilities, which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net taxable temporary differences pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A noncurrent taxable temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of a noncurrent asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In a classified statement of financial position, an enterprise separates deferred tax liabilities and assets into a current amount and a noncurrent amount. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. A deferred tax liability or asset that is not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting, including deferred tax assets related to carryforwards, are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities that are recognized. Liabilities are probable future sacrifices of economic benefits arising from present obligations of an entity to transfer assets or provide services to other entities in the future. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of all Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity items (or Partners' Capital, as applicable), including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The total of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and the aggregate carrying amount of current assets, as of the balance sheet date, not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Tangible assets that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes and that are expected to provide economic benefit for more than one year; net of accumulated depreciation. Examples include land, buildings, machinery and equipment, and other types of furniture and equipment including, but not limited to, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment and software. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The fair value as of the reporting date of noncontrolling interests which are redeemable by the (parent) entity (1) at a fixed or determinable price on a fixed or determinable date, (2) at the option of the holder of the noncontrolling interest, or (3) upon occurrence of an event that is not solely within the control of the (parent) entity. The noncontrolling interest holder's ownership (or holders' ownership) may be in the form of common shares (regardless of class), limited partnership units (regardless of class), non-preferential membership interests, or any other form of common equity regardless of investee entity legal form. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. For a classified balance sheet represents the current portion only (the noncurrent portion has a separate concept); there is a separate and distinct element for unclassified presentations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cumulative amount of the reporting entity's undistributed earnings or deficit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount allocated to treasury stock. Treasury stock is common and preferred shares of an entity that were issued, repurchased by the entity, and are held in its treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified |
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
|---|---|---|
| Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] | ||
| Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts (in dollars) | $ 6,103 | $ 6,353 |
| Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) | $ 0.008 | $ 0.008 |
| Common stock, authorized shares | 1,000,000,000 | 1,000,000,000 |
| Common stock, shares issued | 57,578,431 | 56,567,236 |
| Treasury stock, shares | 7,779,645 | 7,421,128 |
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Face amount or stated value of common stock per share; generally not indicative of the fair market value per share. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Total number of common shares of an entity that have been sold or granted to shareholders (includes common shares that were issued, repurchased and remain in the treasury). These shares represent capital invested by the firm's shareholders and owners, and may be all or only a portion of the number of shares authorized. Shares issued include shares outstanding and shares held in the treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Number of common and preferred shares that were previously issued and that were repurchased by the issuing entity and held in treasury on the financial statement date. This stock has no voting rights and receives no dividends. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Agency revenues are derived from travel related transactions where the entity is not the merchant of record and where the prices of services are determined by third parties. Agency revenues include travel commissions, customer processing fees and GDS reservation booking fees related to certain of the services listed above and are reported at the net amounts received, without any associated cost of revenue. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Includes foreign exchange gains/losses and fees associated with foreign currency transactions and gains/losses on foreign currency derivative contracts. Also includes gains/losses on the early extinguishment of debt and other non-operating income/expense. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Merchant revenues are derived from transactions where the entity is the merchant of record and, among other things, selects suppliers and determines the price accepted from the customer. Merchant revenues include (1) transaction revenues representing the selling price of Name Your Own Price ("NYOP") hotel rooms, rental cars and airline tickets and price-disclosed vacation packages (merchant revenues for NYOP services are booked on a gross basis and recognized when the entity fulfills the customer's non-refundable offer); (2) transaction revenues representing the amount charged to a customer, less the amount charged by suppliers in connection with hotel room reservations and rental car reservations provided through the entity's merchant price-disclosed hotel service (recognized on a net basis at the conclusion of the customer's hotel stay); (3) customer processing fees charged in connection with the sale of airline tickets, hotel rooms and rental cars and merchant price-disclosed hotels; and (4) ancillary fees, including GDS (global distribution system) reservation booking fees related to certain of the services listed above. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Offline advertising expenses primarily consist of the expenses associated with domestic television, print and radio advertising; and the cost for creative talent, production costs and agency fees for television, print and radio advertising for the period, which are expenses incurred with the objective of increasing revenue. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Online advertising expenses primarily consist of the costs of, search engine keyword purchases; affiliate programs; banner and pop-up advertisements; and e-mail campaigns for the period, which are expenses incurred with the objective of increasing revenue. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of expense in the period for communications and data processing expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The aggregate costs related to goods produced and sold and services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. This excludes costs incurred during the reporting period related to financial services rendered and other revenue generating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The current period expense charged against earnings on long-lived, physical assets not used in production, and which are not intended for resale, to allocate or recognize the cost of such assets over their useful lives; or to record the reduction in book value of an intangible asset over the benefit period of such asset; or to reflect consumption during the period of an asset that is not used in production. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The aggregate total of expenses of managing and administering the affairs of an entity, including affiliates of the reporting entity, which are not directly or indirectly associated with the manufacture, sale or creation of a product or product line. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Aggregate revenue less cost of goods and services sold or operating expenses directly attributable to the revenue generation activity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before Income or Loss from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The sum of the current income tax expense or benefit and the deferred income tax expense or benefit pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Income derived from investments in debt securities and on cash and cash equivalents the earnings of which reflect the time value of money or transactions in which the payments are for the use or forbearance of money. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The aggregate amount of expenditures for salaries, wages, profit sharing and incentive compensation, and other employee benefits, including equity-based compensation, and pension and other postretirement benefit expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The portion of net income or loss for the period attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest (if any) deducted in order to derive the portion attributable to the parent. This element should be used for redeemable noncontrolling interests that are classified within temporary equity. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Net income after adjustments for dividends on preferred stock (declared in the period) and/or cumulative preferred stock (accumulated for the period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
The aggregate amount of income or expense from ancillary business-related activities (that is to say, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations except for the portion of these expenses which can be clearly related to production and included in cost of sales or services. Includes selling, general and administrative expense. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Revenues from the sale of other goods or rendering of other services, not elsewhere specified in the taxonomy; net of (reduced by) sales adjustments, returns, allowances, and discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total revenue from sale of goods and services rendered during the reporting period, in the normal course of business, reduced by sales returns and allowances, and sales discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate total amount of expenses directly related to the marketing or selling of products or services. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
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- Definition
Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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|
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Income Statement [Abstract] | |||
| Personnel, stock-based compensation | $ 65,724 | $ 68,200 | $ 40,671 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The adjustment to paid-in capital related to settlement of conversion spread hedges which qualify as an equity transaction (entity's own stock). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This elements represents the adjustments to additional paid-in capital for the conversion of convertible debt, including an offset for par value of common stock issued; gain/loss on the conversion; and, if elected by the entity, the cash paid for the conversion premium in excess of the principal amount of the debt. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reclassification adjustment for convertible debt in mezzanine related to accretion in redemption value of convertible debt and adjustment from equity to mezzanine, if debt is convertible. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Change in redeemable noncontrolling interest during the period as a result of a change in the fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interest. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the effect due to a change in redeemable noncontrolling interest during the period as a result of change in the fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interest. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Adjustment to additional paid in capital resulting from the recognition of convertible debt instruments as two separate components - a debt component and an equity component. This bifurcation may result in a basis difference associated with the liability component that represents a temporary difference for purposes of applying accounting for income taxes. The initial recognition of deferred taxes for the tax effect of that temporary difference is as an adjustment to additional paid in capital. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This element represents the amount of recognized equity-based compensation during the period, that is, the amount recognized as expense in the income statement (or as asset if compensation is capitalized). Alternate captions include the words "stock-based compensation". Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tax benefit associated with any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). The tax benefit results from the deduction by the entity on its tax return for an award of stock that exceeds the cumulative compensation cost for common stock or preferred stock recognized for financial reporting. Includes any resulting tax benefit that exceeds the previously recognized deferred tax asset (excess tax benefits). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total number of shares of common stock held by shareholders. May be all or portion of the number of common shares authorized. These shares represent the ownership interest of the common shareholders. Shares outstanding equals shares issued minus shares held in treasury and other adjustments, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the reporting entity. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, but excludes any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Net income after adjustments for dividends on preferred stock (declared in the period) and/or cumulative preferred stock (accumulated for the period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity for the period being reported, net of tax. If an entity's functional currency is a foreign currency, translation adjustments result from the process of translating that entity's financial statements into the reporting currency. Includes gain (loss) on foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Includes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements. Includes the gain (loss) on a derivative instrument or nonderivative financial instrument that may give rise to a foreign currency transaction gain (loss) and that have been designated and have qualified as hedging instruments for hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Appreciation or loss in value (before reclassification adjustment) of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on, net of tax. Reclassification adjustments include: (1) the unrealized holding gain (loss), net of tax, at the date of the transfer for a debt security from the held-to-maturity category transferred into the available-for-sale category. Also includes the unrealized gain (loss) at the date of transfer for a debt security from the available-for-sale category transferred into the held-to-maturity category; (2) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the sale of securities, after tax; and (3) the unrealized gains (losses) realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares issued during the period as a result of the conversion of convertible securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares related to Restricted Stock Award forfeited during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Gross number of shares (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Shares issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Gross value of stock (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Stock issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Number of shares that have been repurchased during the period and are being held in treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Equity impact of the cost of common and preferred stock that were repurchased during the period. Recorded using the cost method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
Dec. 31, 2010
|
Dec. 31, 2009
|
|
| Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] | |||
| Unrealized gain on marketable securities, tax | $ 96 | $ 175 | $ 0 |
| Currency translation adjustment, tax | $ 21,547 | $ 11,311 | $ 1,209 |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tax effect on the change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into reporting currency of the reporting entity for the period being reported. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Tax effect on gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of interest expense comprised of the periodic charge against earnings over the life of the financing arrangement to which such costs relate and, write-off of unamortized discount related to early debt conversions. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of income tax expense for the period representing the net change in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations, excluding the impact of the reversal of the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets separately reported on the cash flow statement No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow from the repayment of the aggregate principal amount of convertible debt which is converted prior to maturity because it is redeemable at the option of the bond holder. If elected by the entity, it also includes cash paid for the conversion value in excess of the principal amount. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from a financial contract that meets the hedge accounting treatment to be recorded as an equity transaction (entity's own stock). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Combined change in redeemable noncontrolling interest during the period as a result of a change in the fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interest. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration and other stock-based expense. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The component of interest expense representing the noncash expenses charged against earnings in the period to amortize debt discount and premium associated with the related debt instruments. Excludes amortization of financing costs. Alternate caption: Noncash Interest Expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. Includes cash and cash equivalents associated with the entity's continuing operations. Excludes cash and cash equivalents associated with the disposal group (and discontinued operation). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in cash and cash equivalents. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of nonproduction tangible assets over their useful lives. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The effect of exchange rate changes on cash balances held in foreign currencies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Reductions in the entity's income taxes that arise when compensation cost (from non-qualified share-based compensation) recognized on the entity's tax return exceeds compensation cost from equity-based compensation recognized in financial statements. This element represents the cash inflow reported in the enterprise's financing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Aggregate amount of intangible asset amortization recognized as expense during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount represents the difference between the fair value of the payments made and the carrying amount of the debt at the time of its extinguishment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid during the current period to foreign, federal, state, and local authorities as taxes on income, net of any cash received during the current period as refunds for the overpayment of taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in amount due within one year (or one business cycle) from customers for the credit sale of goods and services. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of liabilities that result from activities that generate operating income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other assets used in operating activities less other operating liabilities used in operating activities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. May include changes in other current assets and liabilities, other noncurrent assets and liabilities, or a combination of other current and noncurrent assets and liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the value of prepaid expenses and other assets not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows, for example, deferred expenses, intangible assets,or income taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as funds held in escrow) and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as investing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of cash paid for interest during the period net of cash paid for interest that is capitalized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash from (used in) the entity's financing activities specifically EXCLUDING the cash flows derived by the entity from its discontinued operations, if any. This element is only to be used when the entity reports its cash flows attributable to discontinued operations separately from the cash flow provided by or used in financing activities. Such reporting would necessitate the entity to use the Net Cash provided by or used in Discontinued Operations, Total element provided in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash from (used in) the entity's investing activities specifically EXCLUDING the cash flows derived by the entity from its discontinued operations, if any. This element is only to be used when the entity reports its cash flows attributable to discontinued operations separately from the cash flow provided by or used in investing activities. Such reporting would necessitate the entity to use the Net Cash provided by or used in Discontinued Operations, Total element provided in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The net cash from (used in) the entity's continuing operations. This element specifically EXCLUDES the cash flows derived by the entity from its discontinued operations, if any. This element is only to be used when the entity reports its cash flows attributable to discontinued operations separately from the cash flow provided by or used in operating activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow for a financial contract that meets the hedge criteria as either a cash flow hedge, fair value hedge, or hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow to reacquire common stock during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow during the period for redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interests. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow for loan and debt issuance costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of a controlling interest in another entity or an entity that is related to it but not strictly controlled (for example, an unconsolidated subsidiary, affiliate, joint venture or equity method investment). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the purchase of all investments (debt, security, other) during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of long-lived, physical assets that are used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale; includes cash outflows to pay for construction of self-constructed assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow for a financial contract that meets the hedge criteria as either a cash flow hedge, fair value hedge, or hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow from a debt initially having maturity due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow contributed by noncontrolled interest that purchase additional shares or otherwise increase their ownership stake in a subsidiary of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow associated with the sale or maturity (principal being due) of securities not classified as either held-to-maturity securities or trading securities which are classified as available-for-sale securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow associated with the sale of equity method investments, which are investments in joint ventures and entities in which the entity has an equity ownership interest normally of 20 to 50 percent and exercises significant influence. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The cash inflow associated with the amount received from holders exercising their stock options. This item inherently excludes any excess tax benefit, which the entity may have realized and reported separately. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
Amount of the current period expense charged against operations, the offset which is generally to the allowance for doubtful accounts for the purpose of reducing receivables, including notes receivable, to an amount that approximates their net realizable value (the amount expected to be collected). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The amount of the change in the period in the valuation allowance for a specified deferred tax asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
|
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
| Nature Of Operations [Abstract] | |
| BUSINESS DESCRIPTION | BUSINESS DESCRIPTION Priceline.com Incorporated (the "Priceline Group", or the "Company") is a leading online travel company that offers its customers hotel room reservations at over 210,000 hotels worldwide through the Booking.com, priceline.com and Agoda brands. In the United States, the Company also offers its customers reservations for car rentals, airline tickets, vacation packages, destination services and cruises through the priceline.com brand. The Company offers car rental reservations worldwide through rentalcars.com (formerly known as TravelJigsaw), which we acquired in May 2010. |
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
|
- Definition
The entire disclosure for the nature of an entity's business, the major products or services it sells or provides and its principal markets, including the locations of those markets. If the entity operates in more than one business, the disclosure also indicates the relative importance of its operations in each business and the basis for the determination (for example, assets, revenues, or earnings). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
|
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
|
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2011
|
|
| Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Disclosure [Abstract] | |
| SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of Presentation — The Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, including without limitation, priceline.com International Ltd. ("priceline.com International"), Booking.com B.V., Booking.com Limited, priceline.com Europe Ltd, priceline.com Mauritius Company Limited (formerly known as Agoda Company, Ltd.) ("Agoda"), and its majority-owned interest in TravelJigsaw Holdings Limited (known now as the rentalcars.com business) since its acquisition in May 2010. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Investments in affiliates in which the Company does not have control, but has the ability to exercise significant influence, are accounted for by the equity method. Use of Estimates — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and footnotes thereto. Actual results may differ significantly from those estimates. The significant estimates underlying the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements relate to, among other things, the Company’s deferred tax valuation allowance, the Company’s accounting for state and local hotel occupancy and sales taxes, stock-based compensation, the Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts, the valuation of goodwill and long-lived assets and intangibles and the valuation of redeemable noncontrolling interests. Fair Value of Financial Instruments — The Company’s financial instruments, including cash, restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses and deferred merchant bookings, are carried at cost which approximates their fair value because of the short-term nature of these financial instruments. See Notes 4, 5, 11 and 13 for information on fair value for investments, derivatives, the Company’s outstanding Convertible Senior Notes, and redeemable noncontrolling interests. Cash and Cash Equivalents — Cash and cash equivalents consists primarily of cash and highly liquid investment grade securities with an original maturity of three months or less. Restricted Cash — Restricted cash at December 31, 2011 and 2010 collateralizes office leases and supplier obligations. Investments — The Company has classified its investments as available-for-sale securities. These securities are carried at estimated fair value with the aggregate unrealized gains and losses related to these investments, net of taxes, reflected as a part of "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" within stockholders’ equity. The fair value of the investments is based on the specific quoted market price of the securities or comparable securities at the balance sheet dates. Investments in debt securities are considered to be impaired when a decline in fair value is judged to be other than temporary because the Company either intends to sell or it is more-likely-than not that it will have to sell the impaired security before recovery. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other than temporary, an impairment charge is recorded and a new cost basis in the investment is established. If the Company does not intend to sell the debt security, but it is probable that the Company will not collect all amounts due, then only the impairment due to the credit risk would be recognized in earnings and the remaining amount of the impairment would be recognized in "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" within stockholders’ equity. The marketable securities are presented as current assets on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets, if they are available to meet the short-term working capital needs of the Company. Investments with a maturity date greater than one year from the balance sheet date are classified as long-term investments. See Notes 4 and 5 for further detail of investments. Property and Equipment — Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or, when applicable, the life of the lease, whichever is shorter. Goodwill — The Company accounts for acquired businesses using the purchase method of accounting which requires that the assets acquired and liabilities assumed be recorded at the date of acquisition at their respective fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. The Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements reflect an acquired business starting at the date of the acquisition. Goodwill is not subject to amortization and is reviewed at least annually for impairment, or earlier if an event occurs or circumstances change and there is an indication of impairment. The Company tests goodwill at a reporting unit level. The fair value of the reporting unit is compared to its carrying value, including goodwill. Fair values are determined based on discounted cash flows, market multiples or appraised values and are based on market participant assumptions. An impairment is recorded to the extent that the implied fair value of goodwill is less than the carrying value of goodwill. See Note 9 for further information. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Intangible Assets — The Company reviews long-lived assets and amortizable intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. The assessment of possible impairment is based upon the Company’s ability to recover the carrying value of the assets from the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows, before interest and taxes, of the related operations. The amount of impairment loss, if any, is measured as the excess of the carrying value of the asset over the present value of estimated future cash flows, using a discount rate commensurate with the risks involved and based on assumptions representative of market participants. Software Capitalization — Certain direct development costs associated with internal-use software are capitalized and include external direct costs of services and payroll costs for employees devoting time to the software projects principally related to software coding, designing system interfaces and installation and testing of the software. These costs are recorded as property and equipment and are generally amortized over a period of three to five years beginning when the asset is substantially ready for use. Costs incurred during the preliminary project stage, as well as maintenance and training costs, are expensed as incurred. Merchant Revenues and Cost of Merchant Revenues Name Your Own Price® Services: Merchant revenues for Name Your Own Price® services and related cost of revenues are derived from transactions where the Company is the merchant of record and, among other things, selects suppliers and determines the price it will accept from the customer. The Company recognizes such revenues and costs if and when it fulfills the customer’s non-refundable offer. Merchant revenues and cost of merchant revenues include the selling price and cost, respectively, of the travel services and are reported on a gross basis. In very limited circumstances, the Company makes certain customer accommodations to satisfy disputes and complaints. The Company accrues for such estimated losses and classifies the resulting expense as adjustments to merchant revenue and cost of merchant revenues. Pursuant to the terms of the Company’s hotel service, its hotel suppliers are permitted to bill the Company for the underlying cost of the service during a specified period of time. In the event that the Company is not billed by its hotel supplier within the specified time period, the Company reduces its cost of revenues by the unbilled amounts. Merchant Price-Disclosed Services: Merchant revenues for the Company’s merchant price-disclosed services are derived from transactions where its customers purchase hotel room reservations or rental car reservations from suppliers at disclosed rates which are subject to contractual arrangements. Charges are billed to customers at the time of booking and are included in deferred merchant bookings until the customer completes the hotel stay or returns the rental car. Such amounts are generally refundable upon cancellation, subject to cancellation penalties in certain cases. Merchant revenues and accounts payable to the supplier are recognized at the conclusion of the customer’s stay at the hotel or return of the rental car. The Company records the difference between the customer selling price and the supplier cost of its merchant price-disclosed reservation services on a net basis in merchant revenue. Agency Revenues Agency revenues are derived from travel related transactions where the Company is not the merchant of record and where the prices of the services sold are determined by third parties. Agency revenues include travel commissions, global distribution system ("GDS") reservation booking fees and customer processing fees, and are reported at the net amounts received, without any associated cost of revenue. Such revenues are generally recognized by the Company when the customers complete their travel. Tax Recovery Charge, Occupancy Taxes and State and Local Taxes The Company provides an internet travel service to facilitate online travel purchases between consumers and travel suppliers, including airline ticket, hotel and rental car reservations, and sometimes as part of a vacation package reservation. For merchant model transactions, the Company charges the customer an amount intended to cover the taxes that the Company anticipates the service provider will owe and remit to the local taxing authorities ("tax recovery charge"). Tax rate information for calculating the tax recovery charge is provided to the Company by its suppliers. In a handful of taxing jurisdictions, the Company recently was required by passage of a new statute or by court order to start collecting and remitting certain taxes (local occupancy tax and/or sales tax) imposed upon its margin and/or service fee. In those jurisdictions, the Company is collecting and remitting tax on its margin and/or service fee. Except in those jurisdictions, the Company does not charge the customer or remit occupancy or other taxes based on its margin or service fee, because the Company believes that such taxes are not owed on its compensation for its services (refer to Note 16). The tax recovery charge and occupancy and sales taxes collected from customers and remitted to those jurisdictions are reported on a net basis on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Advertising - Online — Online advertising expenses consist primarily of the costs of (1) search engine keyword purchases; (2) referrals from meta-search sites and travel research websites; (3) affiliate programs; (4) banner and pop-up advertisements; and (5) email campaigns. Online advertising expense is generally recognized as incurred. Included in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are accrued online advertising liabilities of $69.2 million and $64.3 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Advertising - Offline — Offline advertising expenses are comprised primarily of costs of domestic television, print, and radio advertising for priceline.com. The Company expenses the production costs of advertising the first time the advertising takes place. Sales and Marketing — Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of (1) credit card processing fees associated with merchant transactions; (2) fees paid to third-parties that provide call center, website content translations and other services; (3) provisions for credit card chargebacks; and (4) provisions for bad debt, primarily related to agency hotel commission receivables. Personnel — Personnel expenses consist of compensation to the Company’s personnel, including salaries, bonuses, payroll taxes, employee health insurance and other benefits, and stock based compensation. Included in "Accrued expenses and other current liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are accrued compensation liabilities of $65.7 million and $54.6 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Stock-Based Compensation — The cost of stock-based transactions are recognized in the financial statements based upon fair value. The fair value of restricted stock, performance share units and restricted stock units is determined based on the number of units or shares, as applicable, granted and the quoted price of the Company’s common stock as of the grant date. Stock-based compensation related to performance share units reflects the estimated probable outcome at the end of the performance period. The fair value of stock options is determined as of the grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model. Fair value is recognized as expense on a straight line basis, net of estimated forfeitures, over the employee requisite service period. The fair value at grant date for restricted stock units with a market condition is estimated, based on the complexity of the award, using both closed-form models and lattice models. All compensation cost for an award that has a market condition is recognized as stock based compensation cost if the requisite service period is fulfilled, even if the market condition is never satisfied. The benefits of tax deductions in excess of recognized compensation costs are reported as a credit to additional paid-in capital and as financing cash flows, but only when such excess tax benefits are realized by a reduction to current taxes payable. See Note 3 for further information on stock-based awards. Information Technology — Information technology expenses are comprised primarily of outsourced data center costs, system maintenance and software license fees, data communications and other expenses associated with operating the Company’s Internet sites and payments to outside contractors. Such costs are expensed as incurred. Income Taxes — The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. The Company records the estimated future tax effects of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and amounts reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, as well as operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred taxes are classified as current or noncurrent based on the balance sheet classification of the related assets and liabilities. The Company records deferred tax assets to the extent it believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. The Company regularly reviews its deferred tax assets for recoverability considering historical profitability, projected future taxable income, the expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary differences, the carryforward periods available for tax reporting purposes, and tax planning strategies. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets depends on the generation of future taxable income during the period in which related temporary differences become deductible. In determining the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the financial statements or tax returns, significant judgments, estimates, and interpretation of statutes are required. Deferred taxes are measured using the enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date of such change. Income taxes are not accrued for unremitted earnings of international operations that have been or are intended to be reinvested indefinitely. The Company recognizes liabilities when it believes that uncertain positions may not be fully sustained upon review by the tax authorities. Liabilities recognized for uncertain tax positions are based on a two step approach for recognition and measurement. First, the Company evaluates the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit based on its technical merits. Secondly, the Company measures the tax benefit as the largest amount which is more than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Interest and penalties attributable to uncertain tax positions, if any, are recognized as a component of income tax expense. See Note 15 for further details on income taxes. Segment Reporting — The Company operates and manages its business as a single reportable unit. Operating segments that have similar economic characteristics are aggregated. For geographic related information, see Note 18 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements. Foreign Currency Translation — The functional currency of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries is generally their respective local currency. Assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of exchange existing at the balance sheet date. Income statement amounts are translated at average monthly exchange rates applicable for the period. Translation gains and losses are included as a component of "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in "Foreign currency transactions and other" in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. Derivative Financial Instruments — As a result of the Company’s international operations, it is exposed to various market risks that may affect its consolidated results of operations, cash flow and financial position. These market risks include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in currency exchange rates. The Company’s primary foreign currency exposures are in Euros and British Pound Sterling, in which it conducts a significant portion of its business activities. As a result, the Company faces exposure to adverse movements in currency exchange rates as the financial results of its international operations are translated from local currency into U.S. Dollars upon consolidation. Additionally, foreign exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency result in gains and losses that are reflected in income. The Company may enter into derivative instruments to hedge certain net exposures of nonfunctional currency denominated assets and liabilities and the volatility associated with translating foreign earnings into U.S. Dollars, even though it does not elect to apply hedge accounting or hedge accounting does not apply. Gains and losses resulting from a change in fair value for these derivatives are reflected in income in the period in which the change occurs and are recognized on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in "Foreign currency transactions and other." Cash flows related to these contracts are classified within "Net cash provided by operating activities" on the cash flow statement. The Company also utilizes derivative instruments to hedge the impact of changes in currency exchange rates on the net assets of its foreign subsidiaries. These instruments are designated as net investment hedges. Hedge ineffectiveness is assessed and measured based on changes in forward exchange rates. The Company records gains and losses on these derivative instruments as currency translation adjustments, which offset a portion of the translation adjustments related to the foreign subsidiary’s net assets. Gains and losses are recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet in "Accumulated other comprehensive loss" and will be realized upon a partial sale or liquidation of the investment. The Company formally documents all derivatives designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes, both at hedge inception and on an on-going basis. These net investment hedges expose the Company to liquidity risk as the derivatives have an immediate cash flow impact upon maturity, which is not offset by the translation of the underlying hedged equity. The cash flows from these contracts are classified within "Net cash used in investing activities" on the cash flow statement. The Company does not use financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. The Company recognizes all derivative instruments on the balance sheet at fair value and its derivative instruments are generally short-term in duration. The derivative instruments do not contain leverage features. The Company is exposed to the risk that counterparties to derivative contracts may fail to meet their contractual obligations. The Company regularly reviews its credit exposure as well as assessing the creditworthiness of its counterparties. See Note 5 for further detail on derivatives. Recent Accounting Pronouncements In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued guidance for new disclosure requirements regarding a company's rights of offset and related arrangements associated with financial instruments and derivative instruments. The new disclosures are designed to make financial statements that were prepared under U.S. GAAP more comparable to those prepared under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). The new disclosure requirements are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods therein. Retrospective application is required. In September 2011, the FASB issued an accounting update, which amends the guidance on testing goodwill for impairment. Under the revised guidance, entities testing goodwill for impairment have the option of performing a qualitative assessment before calculating the fair value of the reporting unit. If, based on the qualitative factors, it is more-likely-than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then the unchanged two-step approach previously used would be required. The new accounting guidance does not change how goodwill is calculated, how goodwill is assigned to the reporting unit, or the requirements for testing goodwill annually or when events and circumstances warrant testing. The accounting update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2011. Early adoption of the update is permitted. During the three months ended September 30, 2011, the Company performed its annual quantitative goodwill impairment testing, and concluded that the estimated fair value for each reporting unit substantially exceeds its respective carrying value. This new accounting guidance will not have a significant impact on the Company. In June 2010, the FASB issued amended accounting guidance on the presentation of other comprehensive income in financial statements by requiring comprehensive income to be reported in either a single statement or in two consecutive statements reporting net income and other comprehensive income. This accounting update also required reclassification adjustments out of other comprehensive income to be presented in both the income statement and the statement in which other comprehensive income is presented, both in interim and annual periods. In December 2011, the FASB issued another accounting update which indefinitely defers the requirement to separately present reclassification adjustments on the face of the financial statements. During the deferral period, a company that does not display reclassification adjustments on the face of the financial statements must disclose such adjustments in the notes to the financial statements. The accounting guidance did not change the items that constitute net income or other comprehensive income, the timing of when other comprehensive income is reclassified to net income, or the earnings per share computation. The accounting update requires retrospective application. Public entities will be required to adopt the guidance for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. The Company will comply with the change in presentation of other comprehensive income in the financial statements beginning in the first quarter of 2012. In May 2010, the FASB issued amended guidance on fair value to largely achieve common fair value measurement and disclosure requirements between U.S. GAAP and IFRS. The new accounting guidance does not extend the use of fair value but rather provides guidance about how fair value should be determined. For U.S. GAAP, most of the changes are clarifications of existing guidance or wording changes to align with IFRS. Amendments that clarify the Board's intent under existing requirements include: (a) use of the highest and best use and valuation premise concept should be limited to nonfinancial assets; (b) disclosure should include quantitative information about the unobservable inputs used in a fair value measurement that is categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy; and (c) the fair value of an instrument classified in an entity's equity should be valued from the perspective of a market participant that holds that instrument as an asset. The amended guidance changes requirements as follows: (a) disclosures are expanded, particularly those relating to fair value measurements based on unobservable inputs, (b) fair value measurements for financial assets and liabilities based on a net position are permitted if market or credit risks are managed on a net basis and other criteria are met, and (c) premiums and discounts are allowed only if a market participant would also include them in the fair value measurement. This accounting update is effective for public companies for interim or annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. We expect to make the additional disclosures required in 2012. |
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The entire disclosure for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION AND OTHER STOCK-BASED PAYMENTS | STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION AND OTHER STOCK-BASED PAYMENTS The Company has adopted the priceline.com Incorporated 1999 Omnibus Plan, as amended and restated effective June 4, 2008, (the "1999 Plan") as the stock compensation plan from which broad-based employee grants may be made. The 1999 Plan provides for stock-based compensation grants of up to 9,195,833 shares of priceline.com Incorporated common stock as incentives and rewards to encourage employees, officers, consultants and directors to contribute to the long-term success of the Company. As of December 31, 2011, there are 792,227 shares available to be issued under the plan. Stock-based compensation issued under the plans generally consists of restricted stock units, performance share units, restricted stock and non-qualified stock options. Stock options are granted to employees at exercise prices equal to the fair value of the common stock at the date of grant and have a term of 10 years. Generally, stock option grants to employees vest over three years from the grant date. Restricted stock, performance share units and restricted stock units generally vest over periods from 1 to 4 years. The Company issues new shares of common stock upon the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options and the vesting of restricted stock units and performance share units. Stock-based compensation included in personnel expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations was approximately $65.7 million, $68.2 million and $40.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Stock-based compensation for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 includes charges amounting to $10.3 million and $13.4 million, respectively, representing the cumulative impact of adjusting the estimated probable outcome at the end of the performance period for certain outstanding unvested performance share units. Included in the stock-based compensation are approximately $1.7 million, $1.3 million, and $1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, for grants to non-employee directors. The related tax benefit for stock-based compensation is $8.1 million, $7.5 million and $4.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The following table summarizes stock option activity during the year ended December 31, 2011:
No stock options were granted during the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 or 2009. The intrinsic value of stock options exercised was approximately $77.1 million, $74.8 million and $61.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. As of December 31, 2008, all stock options were fully vested and exercisable. The following table summarizes the activity of unvested restricted stock units ("RSUs"), performance share units and restricted stock during the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011:
The Company granted 125,564, 179,101 and 306,746 restricted shares, performance share units and restricted stock units during the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, with an aggregate grant-date fair value of approximately $58.9 million, $42.4 million and $25.8 million, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, 858,019, 367,856 and 578,730 shares of share-based awards vested with total grant date fair values of $97.3 million, $21.1 million and $16.9 million, respectively. Additionally, in March 2009, the Company granted an aggregate of 47,186 restricted stock units to certain executives. The restricted stock units will be forfeited if the Company’s common stock does not achieve and maintain certain stock price thresholds during the six month period preceding the March 2012 vesting date. If during such six month period the Company’s common stock closes at or above the stock price of $97.05, $104.69, or $113.03 for twenty (20) consecutive trading days, 50%, 75% or 100%, respectively, of the RSUs will be earned pursuant to the market price requirement. Subject to certain exceptions related to a change in control and terminations other than for "cause," or on account of death or disability, the executives must also continue their service through March 3, 2012 in order to receive any shares of the Company’s common stock. The RSUs earned, if any, are payable in the Company’s common stock upon vesting. Stock-based compensation expense related to an award with a market condition is recognized over the requisite service period regardless of whether the market condition is satisfied, provided that the requisite service period has been completed. The value of the Company’s stock on the date of grant was $82.65 per share. The Company considered the "path dependent" nature of the RSUs and determined the grant date fair value by replicating the payout structure of the RSUs using a series of call options and cash-or-nothing binary call options. Cash-or-nothing binary call options provide the holder with the right to receive the strike price if the stock price exceeds the strike price as of the expiration date. The fair value calculation included the following assumptions: a 1.36% annualized risk-free interest rate, a calculated three year historical volatility of 55.95%, no dividends, and an expected term equal to the three year vesting period. The award had a total grant date fair value of $2.4 million based on a grant date fair value of $51.11 per share. The fair value of a grant subject to a market condition is generally lower than an award with only a service condition for vesting since the market condition may never be met. As of December 31, 2011, there is $92.1 million of total future compensation cost related to unvested share-based awards to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.9 years. Stock-based compensation for performance share units is recorded based on the estimated probable outcome if the Company, and with respect to certain grants, its subsidiaries, priceline.com International and Agoda, achieve certain financial goals at the end of the performance period. The actual number of shares to be issued will be determined upon completion of the performance period, assuming there is no accelerated vesting for, among other things, a termination of employment under certain circumstances, or a change in control. 2011 Performance Share Units During the year ended December 31, 2011, stock-based awards included grants of 77,144 performance share units with a grant date fair value of $35.9 million, based on a weighted average grant date fair value of $464.79 per share. The actual number of shares will be determined upon completion of the performance period which ends December 31, 2013. At December 31, 2011, there were 76,552 unvested performance share units outstanding, net of actual forfeitures and vesting. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the number of shares estimated as probable to be issued at the end of the performance period increased by 76,817 shares. As of December 31, 2011, the number of shares estimated to be issued at the end of the performance period is a total of 153,369 shares. If the maximum performance thresholds are met at the end of the performance period, a maximum of 163,324 total shares could be issued. 2010 Performance Share Units During the year ended December 31, 2010, stock-based awards included grants of 110,430 performance share units with a grant date fair value of $26.0 million, based on a weighted average grant date fair value of $235.34 per share. The actual number of shares will be determined upon completion of the performance period which ends December 31, 2012. At December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were 93,745 and 108,702 unvested performance share units outstanding, net of actual forfeitures and vesting, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2010, the number of shares estimated as probable to be issued at the end of the performance period increased by 154,177 shares. As of December 31, 2011, the number of shares estimated to be issued at the end of the performance period is a total of 226,505 shares. The maximum number of total shares that could be issued at the end of the performance period is 226,505 shares. Other Stock-based Payments In 2010, the Company granted 5,555 RSUs with a total grant date fair value of $1.6 million to an advertising partner. Expense is amortized over the service period and is charged to offline advertising expense. |
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The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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INVESTMENTS
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| INVESTMENTS | INVESTMENTS The following table summarizes, by major security type, the Company’s short-term investments as of December 31, 2011 (in thousands):
As of December 31, 2011, foreign government securities included investments in debt securities issued by the governments of Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and France. The following table summarizes, by major security type, the Company’s short-term investments as of December 31, 2010 (in thousands):
There were no material realized gains or losses related to investments for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009. |
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- Definition
Tabular disclosure of available-for-sale securities which consist of all investments in certain debt and equity securities neither classified as trading or held-to-maturity securities. A debt security represents a creditor relationship with an enterprise. Debt securities include, among other items, US Treasury securities, US government securities, municipal securities, corporate bonds, convertible debt, commercial paper, and all securitized debt instruments. An equity security represents an ownership interest in an enterprise or the right to acquire or dispose of an ownership interest in an enterprise at fixed or determinable prices. Equity securities include, among other things, common stock, certain preferred stock, warrant rights, call options, and put options, but do not include convertible debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
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Dec. 31, 2011
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| Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS | FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Financial assets carried at fair value as of December 31, 2011 are classified in the table below in the categories described below (in thousands):
Financial assets and liabilities are carried at fair value as of December 31, 2010 are classified in the tables below in the categories described below (in thousands):
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