Is it permissible to suffice with announcing the marriage and holding the wedding feast, then taking the bride from her father's house to a hotel in another city, without first establishing her in the marital home?

What you have been told about the necessity of the groom consummating the marriage at his home before traveling is incorrect. Rather, as soon as the valid marriage contract is concluded, the wife becomes lawful for her husband, and he is permitted to enjoy her anywhere. It is permissible for him to travel with her and consummate the marriage with her in a hotel in another city, provided that no forbidden matters are present, such as drinking alcohol or dancing.