types of tourist accommodation

The Traveller Guru

8 Accommodation Types for Travel: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey there travel enthusiasts. Are you planning a trip and wondering where to stay, if so, here is my List of 8 accommodation types for travel that may help you out. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right accommodation type.

From hotels to hostels, vacation rentals to camping, there are many factors to consider when selecting your lodging. Here is a list of different accommodation types for travel to help you make an informed decision.

• Hotels and Resorts
• Bed and Breakfasts
• Camping and Glamping
• House Sitting

List of Different Accommodation Types for Travel

When planning a trip, one of the most important things to consider is where you will stay. There are many different types of accommodation available, each with its own pros and cons. Understanding the different types of accommodation can help you make an informed decision about where to stay during your travels.

Let’s check out some of the most common options:

1. Hotels and Resorts

When it comes to travel accommodations, hotels and resorts are among the most popular choices. They offer a range of amenities and services to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Hotels and resorts are often rated using a star rating system , which can help you determine the level of luxury and service you can expect. The star rating system ranges from one to five stars, with five stars being the most luxurious and one star being the most basic.

• One-star hotels: These hotels offer basic amenities and services, such as a bed, bathroom and perhaps a TV. They are often budget-friendly and suitable for travelers who are looking for a no-frills experience.
• Two-star hotels: These hotels offer slightly more amenities and services than one-star hotels, such as a restaurant or pool.
• Three-star hotels: These hotels offer more amenities and services, such as a fitness center or spa. They are suitable for travelers who want a comfortable stay with some extra amenities.
• Four-star hotels: These hotels offer high-end amenities and services, such as gourmet restaurants or concierge services. They are suitable for travelers who want a luxurious stay.
• Five-star hotels: These hotels offer the most luxurious amenities and services, such as private butlers or personal chefs. They are suitable for travelers who want the ultimate luxury experience.

In addition to the star rating system, many hotels and resorts offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks and activities. Some also have bars and restaurants on site, making it easy to enjoy a meal or drink without leaving the property as well.

Pros of Staying in a Hotel:

• Convenience: Hotels are designed to provide convenience to travelers. They offer services like room cleaning, concierge assistance and room service, making your stay more comfortable.
• Amenities: Many hotels offer a wide range of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, spas, restaurants and bars allowing you to relax and enjoy your stay without leaving the premises.
• Security: Hotels typically have security measures in place such as surveillance cameras, key card access and on-site staff, which can help ensure the safety of guests and their belongings.
• Location: Hotels are often strategically located in popular tourist areas, business districts or near transportation hubs, making it easy to explore the surrounding area.
• Variety: There is a wide range of hotel options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury so you can find accommodations that suit your preferences and budget.
• Consistency: Chain hotels often offer a consistent level of service and quality, which can be reassuring for travelers who know what to expect.
• Privacy: Hotels provide a private and personal space for guests to unwind and rest without the intrusion of others.

Cons of Staying in a Hotel:

• Cost: Hotels can be expensive, especially in prime locations or during peak tourist seasons. This cost can add up if you plan to stay for an extended period.
• Limited Space: Hotel rooms are typically smaller than vacation rentals or apartments, which may be less comfortable for longer stays or for travelers with larger groups.
• Less Authentic Experience: Staying in a hotel may not provide as authentic a cultural experience as staying in a local Airbnb or guesthouse.
• Limited Cooking Facilities: Most hotel rooms do not come equipped with kitchen facilities. While some may have a mini-fridge or microwave, you often can’t prepare your own meals, which can add to your expenses if you rely on dining out.
• Impersonal Atmosphere: Hotels can sometimes feel impersonal, with a focus on efficiency rather than a personalized experience. If you prefer a more intimate or homely environment, a hotel might not be your ideal choice.
• Hidden Fees: Some hotels may charge additional fees for amenities like Wi-Fi, parking, resort fees,and room service. It’s important to read the fine print and understand what is included in the room rate.
• Lack of Space for Larger Groups: If you’re traveling with a larger group or family, booking multiple hotel rooms can be costly and may not provide the same communal living space as a vacation rental.
• Limited Flexibility: Hotels often have strict check-in and check-out times, and you may be subject to their policies and rules, which can limit your flexibility compared to other types of accommodations.
• Potential for Crowds: During peak seasons or special events, hotels can become crowded leading to longer wait times for services and reduced availability of amenities.

Check out these: Tips for Booking a Good Hotel

A villa is a type of luxurious and often spacious residential dwelling typically situated in scenic or desirable locations, such as countryside estates, coastal areas or exclusive neighborhoods. Villas are characterized by their architectural elegance, ample living space,and beautiful surroundings. They often feature various amenities,including private gardens, swimming pools and expansive outdoor areas, designed to provide comfort, relaxation and a sense of opulence for residents or guests.

Villas can serve as private residences, vacation homes or rental properties, offering a high level of privacy and tranquility. They are a popular choice for those seeking a more upscale and exclusive accommodation experience, whether for a vacation, special event or long-term living. Villas vary in style, from historical and traditional designs to modern and contemporary architecture, reflecting the unique charm and culture of their location.

Pros of Staying in a Villa:

• Privacy: Villas offer a high level of privacy, often with exclusive access to the entire property, including gardens, swimming pools and outdoor spaces.
• Spacious Accommodations: Villas are generally more spacious than traditional hotel rooms, providing ample living space and bedrooms, making them ideal for families and larger groups.
• Luxurious Amenities: Many villas come with luxurious amenities like private pools, hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, home theaters and game rooms, enhancing the overall experience.
• Personalized Service: Some villas offer personalized concierge services, private chefs, housekeeping and other amenities that cater to your specific needs.
• Beautiful Locations: Villas are often located in picturesque settings, such as beachfront properties, countryside estates, or scenic hillsides, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
• Exclusive Experience: Staying in a villa can provide a sense of exclusivity and prestige, perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
• Flexibility: Villas offer flexibility in terms of meal planning, leisure activities and schedules allowing guests to tailor their stay to their preferences.

Cons of Staying in a Villa:

• Higher Cost: Villas are generally more expensive than traditional hotels, especially for luxury properties, which may not be suitable for travelers on a tight budget.
• Limited Availability: Villas can be limited in availability, particularly during peak travel seasons and may require booking well in advance.
• Maintenance Responsibilities: Guests staying in villas may be responsible for maintaining the property, such as cleaning, gardening and pool maintenance, depending on the rental terms.
• Isolation: While privacy is a pro, villas can sometimes feel isolated, especially if they are located far from local amenities or attractions.
• Transportation: Depending on the villa’s location, transportation to nearby restaurants, shops and attractions may be necessary, which can be less convenient than staying in a central hotel.
• Security Concerns: Some villas may have fewer security features compared to hotels, potentially raising security concerns, especially in remote or less developed areas.
• Lack of On-Site Services: Villas may not offer on-site dining options, spa services or recreational activities commonly found in hotels.

Hostels are a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers that typically offer dorm-style rooms with bunk beds and shared bathrooms – although some do offer private rooms as well. This type of accommodation is particularly popular among youth travelers and backpackers , as they offer a social atmosphere and the opportunity to meet other travelers.

Common areas, including lounges, kitchens and dining areas are shared among guests, fostering a social atmosphere and opportunities for cultural exchange. They often attract a diverse clientele, creating an international and multicultural environment and whilst hostels provide economic advantages and social opportunities, they may lack the privacy and comfort of traditional hotels, and noise levels can vary – like if you choose one in downtown San Francisco on St Patricks day – trust me!

Pros of Staying in a Hostel:

• Affordability: Hostels are generally much more budget-friendly than hotels, making them an excellent choice for travelers on a tight budget.
• Social Opportunities: Hostels encourage social interaction among guests making it easy to meet fellow travelers, share experiences and make new friends.
• Cultural Exchange: Hostels often attract an international and diverse crowd, providing opportunities to learn about different cultures and backgrounds.
• Central Locations: Many hostels are strategically located in the heart of cities or close to popular attractions, making it convenient to explore the area.
• Variety of Types: There are various types of hostels, from traditional ones focused on comfort and tranquility to party hostels for those looking for a lively atmosphere.
• Flexible Booking: Hostels often offer flexible booking options including both private and shared rooms, allowing travelers to choose what suits them best.
• Community Atmosphere: Hostels foster a sense of community, where travelers can share tips, advice and travel stories, creating a unique and enriching experience.
• Kitchen Facilities: Many hostels have communal kitchens where guests can prepare their meals, saving money on dining out.

Cons of Staying in a Hostel:

• Lack of Privacy: Dormitory-style rooms mean limited privacy, as you’ll share sleeping quarters with other guests, often in bunk beds.
• Noise and Disturbances: Hostels can be noisy due to the communal nature and disturbances from other guests are not uncommon, especially in party hostels.
• Shared Facilities: Bathrooms, showers and other facilities are often shared among guests, which can be inconvenient during peak times.
• Security Concerns: While many hostels have lockers for securing valuables, security can be a concern in shared accommodations.
• Varied Quality and Standards: The quality of hostels can vary widely, from well-maintained and clean establishments to those with lower standards.
• Age Restrictions: Some hostels have age restrictions, which may limit options for older travelers or families.
• Limited Amenities: Hostels may not offer the same amenities as hotels, such as room service, fitness centers or on-site restaurants.
• Mixed Gender Dorms: Some hostels have mixed-gender dormitories, which may not be suitable for all travelers, especially those seeking single-gender accommodations.

4. Vacation Rentals – Airbnb

Vacation rentals, such as apartments or homes, are a great option for travelers who want more privacy and space. Vacation rentals are often available through platforms like Airbnb , where owners rent out their properties to travelers and can be a budget-friendly option, especially for families or larger groups.

The most common platform for vacation rentals is Airbnb , an online marketplace and hospitality platform that allows individuals to rent out their homes, apartments, or spare rooms to travelers looking for short-term accommodations.

Hosts list their properties on Airbnb, providing details about the space, amenities, and pricing. Travelers can then browse through these listings, read reviews from previous guests, and make reservations directly through the platform. Airbnb offers a wide range of options, from cozy apartments in bustling cities to secluded cabins in the countryside.

Pros of Staying in an Airbnb:

• Variety of Accommodations: Airbnb offers a diverse range of lodging options from private apartments and houses to unique and unconventional stays like treehouses and houseboats.
• Local Experience: Staying in an Airbnb often provides a more authentic and local experience as you can choose accommodations in residential neighborhoods and interact with hosts who can offer insider tips on the area.
• Privacy: Many Airbnb listings provide guests with the entire property, ensuring a high level of privacy for individuals or groups.
• Cost-Effective: Airbnb can be more cost-effective than traditional hotels, especially for larger groups or longer stays, as you can often find affordable options.
• Kitchen Facilities: Most Airbnb listings include kitchen facilities allowing guests to cook their meals and save on dining expenses.
• Flexibility: Airbnb offers various booking options including short-term and long-term stays, which can suit different travel needs.
• Personalization: You can choose accommodations that match your preferences, such as a specific location, style or amenities thanks to the detailed listings and search filters.
• Local Insights: Hosts can provide valuable local insights and recommendations, enhancing your travel experience.

Cons of Staying in an Airbnb:

• Quality and Consistency: The quality and standards of Airbnb listings can vary widely leading to potential disappointment if the property does not meet your expectations.
• Lack of Services: Airbnb properties may lack the services and amenities that hotels offer such as daily housekeeping, room service or a front desk for assistance.
• Cancellation Policies: Cancellation policies vary by host and some can be strict, potentially causing financial losses if you need to change your plans.
• Security Concerns: While Airbnb has security measures in place, safety can be a concern as properties may not have the same level of security as hotels, and you may not know who else has access to the property.
• Hidden Fees: Some Airbnb listings may have additional fees such as cleaning fees, service fees or extra guest charges, which can add to the overall cost.
• Communication Challenges: Communication with hosts can sometimes be less convenient than dealing with a hotel staff, especially if there are language barriers or time zone differences.
• Limited Availability: In popular tourist destinations, desirable Airbnb listings may book up quickly, so it’s essential to plan and book well in advance.
• Legal and Regulatory Issues: Depending on your location, there may be legal and regulatory concerns surrounding Airbnb rentals, which could impact your stay.

Check out these: Tips for Choosing AirBNB Accommodation

5. Bed and Breakfasts

A bed and breakfast (B&B) is a type of lodging establishment that offers overnight accommodations and breakfast to guests. What sets B&Bs apart from traditional hotels is their intimate and homely atmosphere. Typically, B&Bs are smaller properties, often family-owned, where guests stay in individual bedrooms within a private residence.

These establishments aim to provide a more personalized and cozy experience with hosts often living on-site and personally interacting with guests. In the morning, a complimentary breakfast is usually served, ranging from simple continental offerings to full, homemad, and often locally sourced meals. B&Bs are known for their warm hospitality, attention to detail and the opportunity for guests to connect with their hosts and fellow travelers, creating a sense of community and a home away from home.

Pros of Staying at a Bed and Breakfast:

• Personalized Service: B&Bs offer a more personalized and intimate experience, often with attentive hosts who can provide local insights and recommendations.
• Homely Atmosphere: The cozy and homey ambiance of B&Bs can create a comfortable and relaxing environment for guests.
• Unique Accommodations: Many B&Bs are located in charming historic homes, cottages or distinctive settings, offering unique and memorable stays.
• Local Flavors: Breakfasts at B&Bs are typically homemade and may feature locally sourced ingredients, providing a taste of the region’s cuisine.
• Quiet and Relaxing: B&Bs are often located in peaceful settings, away from the hustle and bustle of urban areas, offering a tranquil retreat.
• Social Interaction: B&Bs encourage social interaction with hosts and other guests, fostering a sense of community and the opportunity to make new friends.
• Special Amenities: Some B&Bs offer special amenities like hot tubs, gardens or themed rooms, enhancing the overall experience.
• Flexible Meal Options: Dietary restrictions and preferences can often be accommodated, as hosts can cater to individual guest needs during breakfast.

Cons of Staying at a Bed and Breakfast:

• Limited Availability: B&Bs tend to have fewer rooms than hotels so booking well in advance, especially during peak seasons, is often necessary.
• Less Privacy: While B&Bs offer a homey atmosphere, the level of privacy may be less compared to a hotel, as you are staying in someone else’s residence.
• Specific Check-In Times: B&Bs may have more restricted check-in times, so it’s essential to coordinate your arrival with the host.
• Variable Quality: The quality of B&Bs can vary widely, from charming and well-maintained properties to those that may not meet your expectations.
• Limited On-Site Amenities: B&Bs may not have the same range of amenities (e.g., fitness centers, restaurants) as larger hotels.
• No 24/7 Reception: B&Bs often do not have a 24/7 front desk, so you may need to communicate your arrival time in advance to ensure a smooth check-in process.
• Possibility of Noise: Due to the intimate setting, noise from other guests or the host’s activities may be more noticeable than in a larger hotel.

Check out these: Tips for Choosing a Good Bed and Breakfast

An RV, short for “recreational vehicle,” is a versatile and self-contained travel vehicle that combines transportation and accommodation into one unit. RVs come in various sizes and types, including motorhomes, campervans, travel trailers and fifth-wheel trailers and are equipped with essential amenities, such as sleeping quarters, kitchen facilities and often a bathroom, allowing travelers to live and travel comfortably while on the road.

RVs are popular among adventurers, road trippers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering the freedom to explore different destinations without the need for hotels or restaurants. They provide a mobile and flexible way to enjoy the great outdoors, visit national parks and experience the open road, making them a symbol of adventure and exploration in many parts of the world.

Pros of Staying in an RV:

• Mobility: RVs provide the flexibility to travel to various destinations without the need for hotel reservations, offering a sense of adventure and spontaneity.
• Cost Savings: RVs can be cost-effective in the long run, as they eliminate the need for hotel accommodations and dining out and they serve as both transportation and lodging.
• Convenience: RVs are equipped with essential amenities like a kitchen, bathroom and sleeping quarters providing the comforts of home on the road.
• Self-Sufficiency: RV travelers have control over their schedules and can cook their meals, making it easier to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions.
• Closeness to Nature: RVing allows you to camp in scenic locations closer to nature, whether it’s in a national park, near a lake or in the wilderness.
• Community: RV parks and campgrounds often foster a sense of community, where travelers can socialize with fellow RVers and share experiences.
• Pet-Friendly: RV travel is often pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.
• Privacy: RVs provide a private and personal space for travelers, offering a degree of solitude even in crowded campgrounds.

Cons of Staying in an RV:

• Initial Cost: RVs can be expensive to rent and maintenance, insurance and fuel costs can add up over time.
• Limited Space: While RVs provide the essentials, they have limited living space, which can be cramped for larger groups or extended stays.
• Maintenance: RVs require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good working condition, which can be time-consuming and costly.
• Fuel Expenses: RVs can be gas-guzzlers, and fuel expenses can be a significant portion of the overall travel budget.
• Dumping and Cleaning: Emptying wastewater tanks and cleaning the RV’s interior can be unpleasant and inconvenient tasks.
• Driving Challenges: Handling a large RV can be challenging, especially for those with little experience, and parking in cities or tight spaces can be stressful.
• Limited Amenities: While RVs offer essential amenities, they may lack some of the comforts and conveniences of a traditional home or hotel.
• Hookup Dependency: Some RVs require hookups for water, electricity and sewage, limiting your ability to camp off-grid.

7. Camping and Glamping

Camping and Glamping offer a unique outdoor experience. Camping involves pitching a tent or parking a caravan at a campsite, while Glamping offers a more luxurious camping experience with amenities like cabins or chalets. Camping and Glamping are great options for travelers who want to disconnect and enjoy nature.

Pros of Camping:

• Connection to Nature: Camping allows you to immerse yourself in the natural environment, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
• Affordability: Camping is generally an affordable way to travel and spend time outdoors, especially if you choose to camp in public campgrounds.
• Outdoor Activities: Camping provides opportunities for various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking and stargazing.
• Social Bonding: Camping can be a social experience, allowing you to bond with friends and family around a campfire or during outdoor adventures.
• Peace and Quiet: Camping often offers peace and solitude, a chance to disconnect from technology and enjoy the serenity of natural surroundings.
• Fresh Air: Being in nature provides access to clean, fresh air, which can be invigorating and beneficial for mental and physical health.
• Self-Sufficiency: Camping encourages self-sufficiency and outdoor skills like setting up a campsite, cooking over a campfire and navigation.
• Unplugging: Camping offers a break from screens and the internet, promoting digital detox and mindfulness.

Cons of Camping:

• Lack of Amenities: Depending on your camping style, you may have limited access to amenities such as showers, toilets and electricity.
• Weather Uncertainty: Weather can be unpredictable, leading to discomfort or safety concerns if you’re not prepared for adverse conditions.
• Physical Discomfort: Camping often involves sleeping on the ground in a tent, which may not be as comfortable as a bed, leading to potential physical discomfort.
• Insects and Wildlife: Insects and wildlife can be a nuisance or pose safety risks in some camping environments.
• Logistical Challenges: Planning a camping trip requires careful preparation including obtaining permits, packing appropriate gear and planning meals.
• Environmental Impact: Improper camping practices can harm the environment, such as leaving trash or disturbing wildlife habitats.
• Health and Safety: Camping carries inherent risks, including injuries, exposure to wildlife, and the need for emergency preparedness.
• Limited Access to Technology: While unplugging can be a pro, it can also be a con if you require technology for safety, communication, or entertainment.

8. House Sitting

House sitting is a mutually beneficial arrangement in which individuals or house sitters temporarily live in someone else’s home while the homeowners are away. During their absence, house sitters take care of various responsibilities, such as looking after pets, maintaining the property, collecting mail and ensuring the home remains secure.

House sitting can range from short-term stays of a few days to more extended periods of several months and offers homeowners peace of mind knowing that their property and pets are well-cared for in their absence, while house sitters often enjoy a cost-effective and unique accommodation option.

House sitting has gained popularity as an alternative way to travel affordably and experience different communities and cultures while providing a valuable service to homeowners.

Pros of House Sitting:

• Free Accommodation: House sitters often stay in the homeowners’ properties for free, saving a significant amount on accommodation costs.
• Unique Travel Experience: House sitting allows you to stay in different locations, experiencing local life like a resident rather than a tourist.
• Pet Companionship: Many house-sitting assignments involve caring for pets, which can be a rewarding experience for animal lovers.
• Cost Savings: House sitters can save money on accommodation, utility bills and sometimes even groceries, depending on the arrangement.
• Privacy and Space: You have access to the entire house, providing more privacy and space than a typical hotel or vacation rental.
• Trust and Responsibility: Homeowners trust house sitters to care for their homes and pets, which can be a fulfilling and responsible role.
• Local Connections: House sitting can help you establish connections with homeowners and neighbors, offering a chance to make friends and network.
• Flexible Schedule: House sitters often have flexibility in their schedules, allowing them to explore the local area or work remotely while house sitting.

Cons of House Sitting:

• Commitment: House sitting assignments can vary in duration, and committing to a specific time frame may limit your travel flexibility.
• Responsibility: Caring for someone else’s property and pets comes with responsibilities that can be demanding, especially if there are specific requirements.
• Competition: Popular house-sitting destinations may have a high demand for sitters, making it competitive to secure assignments.
• Uncertain Availability: Finding suitable house-sitting opportunities in your preferred locations and timeframes may not always be available.
• Travel Costs: House sitters are responsible for their own transportation to and from the assignment location, which can be a significant expense.
• No Payment: While house sitters receive free accommodation, they do not get paid for their services, which may not be suitable for those looking to earn income while traveling.
• Adjustment Period: Adapting to a new environment and adhering to the homeowner’s routines and rules can be challenging initially.
• Security Concerns: House sitters may be responsible for home security, which can be a concern in some areas, depending on the location and property.

Check out my post: What Is Housesitting?: And How It Can Work for You

Considerations for Choosing Accommodation

When choosing accommodation, it’s important to consider your travel style and needs. If you’re on a budget, hostels or vacation rentals may be a good option. If you want a more intimate experience, Bed and Breakfasts or specialty accommodations may be a better fit. Consider the location and activities you want to do, as well as any specific needs you may have, such as accessibility or pet-friendly accommodations.

Overall, alternative accommodations offer a unique and personalized experience that can enhance your travel experience. By considering your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect accommodation for your next trip.

Booking Your Accommodation

When booking alternative accommodations, there are a few things to consider. Budget is an important factor, as alternative accommodations can range from budget-friendly to luxurious. Privacy, safety, and security are also important considerations, especially when booking through platforms like Airbnb.

Amenities like a kitchen, bathroom, pool or wifi access can be important factors to consider as well.

What are the common types of accommodations available for travelers?

Accommodations for travelers can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and resorts. Other common types include vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, and house siting arrangements.

What are some examples of accommodations for students?

Some examples of accommodations for students include dormitories, hostels and shared apartments. These options are usually budget-friendly and cater to the needs of students traveling on a tight budget.

There you have it; my outline of the different types on accommodation you can choose as a traveler. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything you think I need to add.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

My name is Paul and I love traveling with my wife Nic. We have been lucky enough in my life to be able to see a lot of the world. Oh, and not to mention all those tedious business trips that actually got me to places I would never have gone to as well.

But here’s the thing, we have made all of the mistakes that a traveler can make and have learned a lot along the way so we like to think we have a fairly good idea in regards to what it’s all about. So let's dive in.

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Understanding The Different Types Of Accommodation In Tourism

To help you understand the difference between hotel and hostel, cottage and chalet, or yurt and tent, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 52 different types of accommodation in tourism.

How many accommodation types really are? We don’t know exactly, but there’s certainly one to fit every budget and taste out there. They fall into many categories and vary widely in size, style, services, and characteristics, sometimes from one country to another, and sometimes from city to countryside.

Hotel - An establishment that provides travelers with paid accommodation and other guest services. Depending on size, location, and amenities, hotels are generally rated from one-star to five stars, but letter grading (from “A” to “F”) and other rating schemes are also used to categorize hotels across the world.

Hôtel Particulier - Originating in 17th century France, the term hôtel particulier usually refers to a nobleman’s townhouse of great historical and architectural significance. Out of Paris’ 2,000 original hôtels particuliers, only 500 still stand today, and many of them have been converted into museums (Musée Eugene Delacroix, Maison de Victor Hugo), ultra-exclusive retreats (Le Pourtales), or public hotels (Hôtel de Crillon, Hôtel Particulier Montmartre).

Hostel - Ideal for budget travelers and backpackers, a hostel is an inexpensive type of accommodation, usually with shared bedrooms and communal facilities.

Motel - Originally designed for motorists, motels are roadside hotels equipped with minimal amenities and ample parking areas for motor vehicles.

Cottage - In today’s tourism sector, the term cottage is used to describe a small vacation house, typically in a rural area.

Chalet - Chalets are wooden Alpine-style buildings commonly found in and around mountain resorts.

Boutique Hotel - Often furnished in a themed, individual style, boutique hotels are intimate in size and focus on providing guests with high-quality, personalized experiences. (See also What is a Boutique Hotel )

Mansion - Usually built for the wealthy, mansions are large, opulent houses that generally pay homage to a historic architectural style.

Lodge - Although the word ’ lodge ’ has many different meanings, one of them refers to a small rural house used by people on holiday or occupied seasonally by sports enthusiasts (ski lodge, hunting lodge).

Timeshare - Usually located in a sought-after destination, a timeshare is a type of vacation property with shared ownership and use rights. The term first appeared in the United Kingdom during the ‘60s and has multiple variations today, both in style and type of proprietorship. Moreover, choosing a timeshare for rent can be a smart alternative to staying in a hotel room, offering superior amenities and better value.

Riad - A traditional Moroccan house built around a central courtyard, often converted into an intimate hotel or guesthouse.

Resort - Although a resort is primarily known as a destination frequented by vacationers in search of relaxation and entertainment, the term is also used to describe a full service lodging establishment that offers extensive guest services and recreational facilities.

Igloo - A typical Eskimo house, an igloo is a dome-shaped snow structure meant to provide temporary or permanent shelter in cold climates.

Cortijo - Characteristic to Southern Spain (Andalusia, La Mancha y Extremadura), a cortijo is a type of rural property usually consisting of multiple buildings, a large patio, and cultivated lands.

Villa - Originated in Roman times, a villa is often described as a luxurious country residence.

Treehouse - Usually designed for recreational purposes, a treehouse , or tree house, is a structure built or placed among the branches of a tree.

Apartment - Also known as flat (British), an apartment is a self-contained accommodation unit housed in a building containing a number of such units.

Ice Hotel - An ice hotel is a non-permanent hotel constructed from ice and snow in areas with sub-freezing temperatures.

Camp - A collection of tents, huts, or other temporary structures used for travelers to lodge in.

Pop Up Hotel - A new breed of accommodation, pop-up hotels are temporary lodging establishments, usually set up for specific events.

Palazzo - Although often translated to palace, the word palazzo has a broader meaning in Italy. It can be anything from a block of flats to the home of a noble family to a historic hotel. From an architectural point of view, however, palazzo describes a grand, imposing building belonging to the Renaissance style.

Palazzina - The diminutive version of a palazzo, a palazzina represents a multi-story suburban house or apartment building.

Bed and Breakfast - A Bed and Breakfast (B&B) is an intimate, independently run lodging establishment, where breakfast is included in the room rate.

Inn - A small establishment offering overnight accommodation, food, and drink to travelers.

Finca - A Spanish rural property, usually characterized by traditional architecture and an agricultural heritage.

Penthouse - An apartment situated on the highest floor of a building, commonly appointed with luxury amenities.

Chateau - In Bordeaux, the term chateau is synonymous with vineyard estates, but it can also be used to describe a French country house or castle.

Manor - An English manor is a large historic house or mansion with land, formerly owned by nobility.

Pension - A type of guesthouse or B&B, where in addition to lodging and breakfast, guests are also offered lunch and dinner. Pensions are usually family-run and cost less than other accommodation options.

Townhouse - A townhouse is a residential multi-level property that is usually connected to a similar unit by a common sidewall.

Yurt - Popular in Mongolia, Siberia, and Turkey, yurts are circular tents covered with felt or skins, and appointed with conical roofs.

Tent - Used outdoors, a tent is a portable shelter made of fabric and supported by a frame or poles.

Dome - A dome is a roof or building with a hemispherical form. Many of today’s sustainable hotels offer cozy accommodation in eco-friendly domes made of glass, wood, snow, or other materials.

Pod - In terms of lodging, a pod is a prefabricated stand-alone structure that provides basic accommodation.

Masseria - A masseria is a large, fortified farm typical to Southern Italy, mainly the region of Puglia. Set in working farms, most of these country houses have been transformed into rustic Bed & Breakfasts, self-catering vacation rentals, and even luxurious hotels. Due to the large number of masserie, the coastal area between Bari and Brindisi is sometimes referred to as the “Masseria coast”.

Pousada - Pousada is the Portuguese term for guesthouse, inn, or historic independently-owned hotel. They usually have a traditional restaurant and offer guests an authentic local experience.

Relais - A relais is the French version of a roadside lodge or resting place.

RV - Usually used for traveling, an RV is a recreational vehicle outfitted with the amenities found in a home, including bathroom, kitchen, and sleeping facilities. Depending on region, RVs are also called caravans, camper vans, or motorhomes.

Castle - A fortified building or group of buildings built across Europe and the Middle East during the medieval period. Castle hotels offer royal-style accommodation in sumptuous historic surroundings.

Palace - Unlike castles, palaces are not fortified, but they still are royal residences characterized by an exceptional level of grandeur. Some of the most spectacular palaces converted into luxurious hotels can be found throughout Asia and Europe, especially India and Italy.

Tented Safari Camp - A tented safari camp is a permanent campsite of large accommodation units, usually with canvas walls, solid high-quality furnishings, en-suite bathroom facilities, and private decks for observing wildlife. Situated throughout Africa, they range from comfortable to ultra-luxury and offer a wide range of safari based activities.

Yacht - A type of luxury recreational boat offering every modern convenience. They are classified as sailing yachts and motor yachts, and are available in a vast range of sizes, styles, and functions.

Farmhouse - Although their styles vary by region, farmhouses are houses attached to a farm, often characterized by vernacular architecture.

Extended Stay Hotel - Extremely popular throughout the US, extended stay hotels offer the comforts of a traditional home along with discounted rates for guests interested in long-term stays.

Private Island Resort - Ideal for honeymooners and travelers in search of luxury and seclusion, private island resorts are some of the most exclusive accommodation types out there.

Cave Hotel - Cave hotels are exactly what the name implies – hotels built into natural cave formations, commonly with underground rooms. Many cave hotels can be found in Turkey (Cappadocia) and Greece.

Guesthouse - A guest house or guesthouse is a private house offering inexpensive accommodation to tourists.

Poshtel - A new trend in travel, poshtels are a sort of upscale hostels with a focus on chic design, art, and high-tech amenities.

Business Hotel - Catered primarily to business travelers, business hotels are strategically located (downtown, in business districts, or close to major business centers) and come equipped with corporate facilities such as meeting and conference rooms, Internet access, and catering options.

Design Hotel - A design hotel is a stylish and intimate hotel with an emphasis on design, service, and luxury facilities. Their rooms are exquisitely decorated and often packed with the latest technology features.

Hacienda - The term hacienda is used to describe a ranch or a main house in a landed estate in Spanish speaking-countries.

Eco Hotel - An eco hotel is an environmentally friendly accommodation aiming to promote sustainable tourism and green living through the use of renewable energy sources, recycled materials, and organic locally-sourced produce. Their philosophy is to minimize the impact on the environment.

Capsule Hotel - A big hit in Japan, the capsule hotel is a unique type of hotel that usually provides cheap, basic overnight accommodation in a number of teeny-tiny functional rooms called “capsules”.

Aparthotel - A smart choice for long-term accommodation, aparthotels or apartment hotels combine the comfort and independence of a private apartment with the services of a hotel.

Parador - Paradors are Spanish government-operated hotels, frequently located in former castles, monasteries, or other beautiful historic settings.

Masia - A masia is a traditional Catalan country house.

Love Hotel - A category of hotels that offer short stays for couples looking to engage in sexual activities. Love hotels are particularly popular in Japan.

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10 Types of Accommodations For All Kinds of Travelers

When traveling domestically or abroad, it’s important to know all of the types of accommodations you can stay at along your journey. Do you have the budget for a penthouse or hotel? Or, would coliving space be more your vibe?

We examine 10 types of accommodations to help you determine the best place to stay based on your travel style. 

Coliving Spaces

A coliving space involves sharing a home and amenities with other guests while having your own private bedroom (sometimes, also featuring a private bathroom). It’s like renting a house with roommates, but they’re initially strangers to you (which is a-okay! You get to make new friends if you’re up for it!). 

For the most part, everyone who lives in these types of spaces wants to get to know others. People also tend to stay a month or more, since the price is usually the most budget-friendly by the month.

The major downside is that you often don’t get to choose who you live with, which means you might end up with noisy or disrespectful roommates. 

Who coliving spaces are great for : 

• Budgets around $1,000-$2,000 per month.
• Individuals or couples
• Those in their 20s to 30s

Hotels are most travelers’ go-to type of accommodation, especially if you can score a deal. At the same time, many hotels across the globe also offer monthly stays at a cheaper rate, making them ideal for those that stay in places for a month or more. You get all the great aspects of a hotel stay, but for a much more affordable price.

The one major downside of hotels is that often you don’t get a full kitchen. This means that you will be eating out for most of your meals and likely won’t be sticking to the cheaper end of a food budget. For many that are only in town for a few nights, this isn’t an issue. And if you intend on staying longer, this could get problematic.

Who hotels are great for : 

• People staying a month or more.
• People staying only a few nights.
• People that are willing to spend about $100 or more per night.
• Families or couples on vacation

Furnished Apartment

If you want a home away from home, a furnished apartment might be your best bet! With Anyplace , you even get a furnished place with a fully remote work setup. This allows you to have all the wonderful comforts of home in one spot, while you get to explore a new city.

You also get your very own kitchen, bathroom, and the works. Most people who rent furnished apartments stay for a few days, a week, or a few months.

The one downside here is that the decor isn’t up to you. Thus, reading reviews and looking at all the pictures for this kind of rental is always a must!

Who furnished apartments are great for : 

• Digital nomads.
• Families, couples, or solo travelers.
• Work-related travel.

Hostels are the backpacker’s go-to. You can find a bed for as low as $10 a night in some places. However, costs can range all the way up to $100, depending on where and what kind of room you get. 

For the cheapest beds, you’ll likely be packed into a four-person to ten-person dorm with shared bathrooms and showers. For young and curious travelers on a budget, this works well! However, if you want to get some rest or need to get work done, a hostel might not be the best place for you. Peace and quiet aren’t exactly the kinds of environments hostels boast about.

At the same time, these are also called different names in different places. For example, in Morocco, hostels are referred to as ‘Riads.’ In Japan, you might find these referred to as ‘Ryokan.’ Yet, a Ryokan is often quite expensive compared to your average hostel and many travelers choose these accommodations for the experience.

Who hostels are great for : 

• Individuals on a budget.
• Those in their 20s and 30s
• Groups of travelers.
• Party-goers.

A resort is a spot for most vacationers who simply want to relax and have their drinks and meals brought to them. You barely have to lift a finger, which offers up the perfect week off. 

Resorts are comparable to hotels, but they have add-ons, such as private beach space, pools, different bars, different restaurants, events, and more. Most individuals spend a week or two at these resorts, taking in all the amenities and fun.

They can also be great spots for people who work remotely since the internet tends to be reliable in most places and at most resorts. Perhaps the major downside would be the expense, as well as the immense amount of distractions.

Who resorts are great for : 

• People on vacation.
• People who are willing to spend $1,000 or more per week per person.
• Families and couples.

Bed & Breakfast

Bed & Breakfast spots are often family-run and quaint hotel set-ups. Usually, breakfast is included and they are comparable to Ryokans in Japan. They are also often relatively small, such as one house with four to eleven accommodation options.

Typically, couples or individuals will spend a night or weekend at a bed and breakfast. They can offer romantic getaways or a quick and quiet place to stop by for the night.

Who bed & breakfast places are great for :

• Individuals or couples passing through.
• Older individuals or those that seek out more quiet accommodations.

Home Rental

Home rentals are another option for travelers. Depending on where you rent, you may be required to stay for a minimum amount of time, such as two nights or a week.

These accommodations range in price depending on the size of the rental and location. Most people rent these spots out for a week, a month, or more. You can find such a variety with home rentals as well, including cabins, chalets, cottages, and more.

Who home rentals are great for :

• Mid to long-term stays.
• Friend or family groups.
• Vacations or work trips.

Vacation Rental

A vacation rental is a home, apartment, or other space that is professionally managed for tourists. No one lives permanently in these residences, and they are usually run by property managers. 

A vacation rental offers an alternative to a hotel for bigger groups, such as families or friend groups, who want more amenities, such as a kitchen and private lounging area. Usually, they require a minimum number of nights to stay, with some even advertising a weekly stay as the minimum.

The downside to vacation rentals is that they can be located out of the way, such as a drive and a bit from any major cities. At the same time, if you book early, you can find some wonderfully situated ones!

• Families or bigger groups who are splitting their budget.
• Individuals or groups who want to cook at home.
• Vacationers or digital nomad groups.

A homestay truly immerses you in the city or place you are visiting. You get to stay with a local who can show you the ropes (and who might even make you some local eats!). 

Typically, these tend to cost $30 to $60 a day, which is a reasonable rate for many travelers. It also allows you to really experience the area or culture. However, many amenities are shared and privacy is often limited. 

Who homestays are great for : 

• Individuals or couples looking for affordable accommodation.
• Individuals or couples who want to fully immerse themselves in the new city or culture.
• Those that want to meet locals in the area.
• Those traveling for the experience.

Last but not least, campsites make for a great spot to travel and experience mother nature in all her glory. Depending on where you stay, you may need to bring a tent or they may offer tent or semi-permanent structures as your accommodation.

This is likely one of the cheapest options. They don’t cost much and when booked ahead, you can get some really cool spots amongst nature. There’s even a new trend known as “glamping” where you can stay in some pretty neat accommodations while camping.

Usually, people or groups stay for a night or two. Occasionally, if you’re RV-ing, you may end up staying for a week or more, depending on the campsite and what is nearby.

• Those on a budget.
• Individuals, groups, or couples who want to experience the great outdoors.
• Vacations and digital detoxes.

So, which types of accommodations are right for you and your next trip? Weigh the pros and cons. Determine your reason for travel and what you’ll need while you’re there. Then, start your research and begin booking those spots!

Where to next? Find flexible month-to-month rentals across the globe on Anyplace .

Types of Accommodation: Which One Is Right for You?

From hostels flooded with backpackers to high-rise hotels packed with business travelers, there are many types of accommodation. Find the best one for you!

From hostels flooded with backpackers to high-rise luxury hotels packed with business travelers, there are many types of accommodation for the many different types of travelers out there. With the advent of Airbnb, the choices have expanded even more, so it may sometimes be difficult to decide which type of accommodation best suits your needs. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together this useful guide, which we hope will help make booking your accommodations a breeze!

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Catered vs. Uncatered

In the hospitality and tourism industry, there are just two types of accommodation—catered and uncatered. Catered means that the accommodation supplies food (restaurant, breakfast, etc.), while uncatered accommodation types usually do not have any food and beverage facilities located onsite. 

Catered and uncatered accommodation can come in many different forms but it is important to already have an idea of which type of accommodation you want before making your reservations. Depending on where you’re going, there may not be many food options around to choose from and you may find yourself wishing that you had booked a place with an onsite restaurant or basic cooking facilities.

Types of Accommodation for Travelers

Before we go into what is the best type of accommodation for different kinds of travelers, let’s first go through the most popular types of accommodation all around the world.

Bed and Breakfasts and Guesthouses

Bed and breakfast are a type of accommodation where you normally stay in someone’s house or another type of residential property and get served breakfast every morning. The breakfast usually is a full spread with eggs, toast, juice, fruits, and cereals and the pricing is normally around the same as a motel or even a hotel. The decor of the space can differ quite a lot but usually, when people think of bed and breakfasts, they often imagine charming little bedrooms full of hand-picked furniture that often reflect the overall feel of the destination. They are also sometimes referred to as homestays in different parts of the world.

Although you may not save a ton of money by booking a bed and breakfast as opposed to a hotel, the benefit of staying at a bed and breakfast is that you get to have more interaction with the owners and other guests and you’re likely to learn more about the neighborhood and the city than you would just by staying at a hotel. 

Guesthouses are very similar to bed and breakfasts except they do not offer breakfast. While they are not extremely prevalent in the US, they are a very common type of accommodation around the world. In most guest houses, you’ll have your own room and usually your private bathroom. There may be a separate living area where you can mingle with other guests before returning to the privacy of your room. Most guest houses are relatively basic and you won’t find a huge range of amenities or facilities like you’d find in a hotel or a motel but they are often comparably priced to hostels. 

Like most other types of accommodation, hostels can range from bare-bones places, where you can rest your head for a night, to trendy properties with bars, restaurants, and co-working spaces. Once upon a time, these were mostly frequented by students (hence the phrase “youth hostels”), but thanks to the wide range of options available now, you can find an incredible array of travelers there who are all drawn to this type of accommodation for various reasons.

Some of the most important features of hostels are that they tend to be great value for money and, due to the nature of the accommodation, they are generally much more social than a guest house or a hotel. This is particularly great for solo travelers, who often want to meet like-minded people or pick up a new travel buddy. 

Sleeping rooms in hostels usually range from dorm rooms with shared bathrooms to private rooms with private bathrooms. There is often a shared kitchen where you can make your meals (and save a ton of money!), a guest laundry, and communal areas where you can meet other travelers. Most of the staff are usually young so they tend to know the best places to go for a night out when on a budget or good ways to save money on nearby attractions. 

Many people think of hostels as being rooms full of bunk beds, dirty bathrooms, and limited space. While this is true for some hostels, a lot has changed over the past few decades and you can find upscale properties all around the world. The great thing about these is that you can still have the communal vibe of hostels without having to sacrifice cleanliness or comfort. They may be more expensive than normal hostels but they will still be much much cheaper than most hotels. 

Expert Tip: After years of staying in hostels, I have noticed a pattern. Generally, the cheapest hostels tend to be more of the “party hostels”. Think of a spot full of young twenty-something-year-olds ready to explore the world. Now add some alcohol to the mix and you can probably see how the night will turn out. These are great places if you want to meet new friends to go out on the town with but they may not be ideal for someone who is hoping to get a good night’s sleep. 

If you’re not on a super tight budget, it is a good idea to book one of the slightly more expensive hostels as they generally tend to be a bit more low-key than the party hostels. Before booking anything, make sure to read the guest reviews as they can tell you a lot about the atmosphere of the property and give you a good feeling about the overall vibe there. 

Motels are Standalone properties usually located off of major highways, scenic routes, or on the outskirts of town. The quality of the properties ranges wildly from one-star flea pits to charming family-run motels with amenities and services that wouldn’t seem out of place at a five-star property. Some countries, like New Zealand, even have star rating systems for motels which gives you a good idea of what to expect from a property in terms of amenities and facilities. 

Because of their locations right off of major motorways, motels are generally very convenient if you’re doing a road trip and you need easy access to both your room and your car. The parking lot normally surrounds the motel and the rooms have exterior access which opens directly into the car park. 

Expert tip: most motels don’t offer the same level of security that you would find within a hotel so if you’re traveling alone as a woman, it is a wise idea to get guest rooms as close to the reception as possible and to park as close to your room as you can. Make sure to keep an eye out for any suspicious-looking people that may be lingering nearby when you go in and out of your room just as an extra safety precaution. It is better to be safe than sorry!

As opposed to motels, hotels are usually multiple stories and can have hundreds if not thousands of hotel rooms inside. The rooms are normally accessed by a reception area and have doors that open into interior hallways. The facilities and amenities available can vary greatly starting from basic budget hotels with very little besides a bed in the room to luxurious, five-star hotels filled with shops, spas, swimming pools, and more. Hotels are usually found in urban areas or off of major transit links and generally tend to be a bit more upmarket than motels (this is not always the case though!) 

Depending on the location, there is often a multitude of different types of hotels to choose from including boutique hotels, extended-stay properties or aparthotels, limited-service hotels, and more. Most are exactly what they sound like and will offer slightly different amenities based on the type of hotel they are. 

Expert tip: To make it easier to guess the quality of the hotel, most hotels will have a star rating. However, it is important to keep in mind that sometimes the difference between star levels is tiny, especially if you aren’t planning on using the majority of the hotel’s amenities. 

Resorts are generally stand-alone complexes with swimming pools, separate hotel blocks, eateries, saunas, fitness centers, and spas. you’ll most likely find them near natural attractions like beaches, mountain ranges, or forests and in theory, they should make you feel a bit like you’re escaping from the real world. Some resorts in destinations like Mexico and the Dominican Republic offer all-inclusive packages where all food and beverages, including alcoholic ones, are included in one cost. These packages can be surprisingly inexpensive, especially when compared to the normally high costs of hotel restaurants and if you’re traveling as a group of friends or as a family, they can help you save a ton of money for a multi-day stay. 

If you’re staying at a resort in the United States, you should factor in the cost of resort fees to your total bill. These aren’t always easy to find and it may sometimes feel that the service providers, hotel booking websites, and hotels are purposefully keeping you in the dark about them. In places like Las Vegas, resort fees normally start at around $40 per night. This can add a huge chunk to the total cost of your reservation so it is important to be fully aware of any extra charges before you finalize your reservation. 

Expert tip: All-inclusive resorts are the perfect place to let your hair down a bit. However, they don’t always give you a real feel for a country. To really experience a destination, it is a good idea to mix things up a bit and head out to nearby towns every once in a while. It will give you a much better idea of the destination and it helps pump money into the local economy!

Bonus: Airbnbs

When Airbnb first launched, the website boasted about how it was connecting people who wanted to make some extra money renting out their spare rooms with people who were looking for short-term accommodation. The platform has grown substantially since those early days and today, you can find everything from tents to condos listed there. 

Many of the properties and vacation rentals that you find on Airbnb are now being rented out by property management companies rather than directly by the owner which means that the accommodation is less likely to be unique as it is a room in a person’s apartment or house. While Airbnb properties have lost a bit of their quirkiness as a result of this movement, you can still find some truly unforgettable accommodation options on the platform.

Types of Travelers: Which accommodation works best?

Now that it is clear as to the different types of accommodation that there are out there, let’s go through which one is right for you. As you can imagine, there is usually an incredible array of properties, room types, locations, and price points to choose from when you’re booking your next vacation and hopefully, this will help you zero in on the one that will work best for you!

Budget Travelers

If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll likely want to opt for hostels, guest houses, or motels as they are often cheaper than stand-alone limited or full-service hotels. When searching for budget accommodation on a website like Booking.com is to sort by price and then scroll through the listings focusing on the guest review score. This will help you easily weed out some of the seedy places and hone in on the high-quality hostels and guest houses that fit within your budget. 

You can also try searching for rooms or apartments on Airbnb but keep in mind that the price is often much, much higher than what you originally see once the service fees and cleaning fees are added to the total bill. If you’re reliant on wi-fi like so many of us are, you may want to stick with hostels as opposed to Airbnbs or motels. In my experience, the wi-fi in hostels is almost always better than what you would find in other budget-friendly properties and if anything goes wrong, you’re likely to have something on staff throughout most of the day who can help fix it for you. 

Families and Groups

Families and large groups traveling together often have very different needs than a single traveler or couple. From finding a place nearby for dinner to getting everyone out of the hotel lobby in time to get started on the day, the added stress of trying to get everyone at the right place at the right time can end up adding unnecessary stress to traveling. While booking a hotel suite can make this process easier, the added costs of these rooms may not be possible for many travelers. 

Depending on where you’re traveling to and how many people will be traveling together, it could be a better option to book a vacation rental or Airbnb. This will likely give you significantly more space as well as access to a private kitchen which can make dinner time much easier for everyone. Some vacation rentals offer full amenities while others may require that you bring some of your things with you such as bedding, towels, and kitchenware so don’t forget to reconfirm what you need to bring with you before making a reservation. 

Extended-Stay Travelers

When you know that you’re going to be in a destination for a while, it may be a good idea to go for an extended stay hotel where self-catering rooms come with kitchens, workspaces, and separate living spaces. These are great when you want to cook your food or have friends over while still having all of the ease and convenience of a hotel.

You can also consider renting an Airbnb for an extended period of time. Many Airbnb hosts will offer special discounts for anyone spending more than a week or a month at the property. This can help you save a lot of money, in the long run, both on the cleaning costs and the room rate per night. 

Adventurous Travelers and Nature Lovers

If you love nothing more than a bit of adventure when you travel, the world is your oyster when it comes to accommodation types. From boutique hotels made up of treehouses in secluded areas to bed and breakfasts themed around blockbuster movies, there are a ton of great places where you can stay. 

If you’re a nature lover, you can even try searching for tented accommodation. Tented accommodation is different than camping as the tents are usually on a fixed spot and include beds with bed frames, storage, sitting areas, and so on just like a private room in a hostel or hotel. However, rather than having normal walls, you would just have the sides of the tent separating you from nature. This type of accommodation is extremely popular in locations throughout Africa and is often referred to as glamping. 

Luxury Travelers

If you’re traveling for a special occasion such as an anniversary or simply love having a bit of luxury in your life, there are a plethora of great options out there for you! Depending on the type of experience you’re hoping to have, you can either choose to stay in a five-star hotel, an exclusive boutique hotel, or in romantic and luxurious chalets. While all of these different kinds of accommodations can make you feel like royalty from check-in to check out, each type of accommodation can completely change the feel of the entire vacation. It is a very good idea to have at least a rough idea of what you want your vacation to look like before you start shifting through long lists of accommodation providers. 

After you know what kind of vacation you want, you should also spend plenty of time reading guest reviews from people who had similar vacations. For example, it may not be that helpful to know that a hotel was able to host a large birthday party in their restaurant while you’re hoping more for an intimate romantic dinner. Conversely, if you’re looking to stay in the hotel most of your time there and take advantage of the many in-house amenities, you may want to spend more time reading reviews of people who used the spa, pool, restaurant, etc. instead of someone who spent most of their time roaming around town. 

You can find a long list of guides highlighting the best hotels all across the United States on our Let’s Roam travel blog . With listings for cities like New York, San Diego, Boston, New Orleans, and many more, we are sure that you’ll find a guide that will help you plan your next trip!

Business Travelers

Although the thought of getting paid to travel seems super appealing to many people, in reality, business travel can be very exhausting and very monotonous. At the end of a very long day, generally, your biggest desire is to find a comfortable bed to sink into before you start another day hopping from business meeting to business meeting. 

Hotels with four and five stars tend to be your best bet when it finds a place where you’re sure to get a good night’s sleep. Most will offer room service, which can be a major blessing when the only thing you want to do is eat dinner and crash in front of the TV, and good quality toiletries in case you forgot something but don’t have time to run to the store. 

The one thing that you may want to keep in mind when choosing a business hotel is to double-check the speeds of the wifi. Many upscale hotels will offer basic wifi access which only offers speeds that are barely strong enough for a conference call. To get faster wifi, you then have to pay for an upgraded service. It feels a bit dodgy considering how much you’re already paying for the room so make sure to factor this into the total cost of the accommodation if you need to ensure that you have fast wifi speeds. 

Ready to roam?

We hope that this article has helped point you in the right direction when it comes to picking the type of accommodation that’s best for your next trip. Just remember that accommodation varies all over the world and tons of fantastic properties are just waiting for you.

Once you’ve chosen a place, don’t forget to follow it on social media. That can help you keep advised of any cool events happening during your stay You might even be able to score some discounts at some of the onsite restaurants or bars!

If you need more information on travel, whether you’re doing a cross-country road trip or traveling overseas, be sure to check out the Travel section of our Explorer blog! We’ve got info on everything from the best bars to packing essentials.

Each time you find yourself in a new city, don’t forget to take advantage of our scavenger hunts . These app-led tours will lead you to an area’s most popular attractions while giving you opportunities to earn points as you compete to top the leaderboard!

If you’d like to explore more like a local, we’ve got that covered too! Make your way to Let’s Roam Local .

Frequently Asked Questions

Different accommodation types serve different needs. Hostels and motels are budget-friendly but lack the luxury of a resort. Boutique hotels offer unique benefits, while Airbnbs give the comforts of home.

Is your next trip a budget vacation with close friends, a family adventure, or a romantic sojourn? The right type of accommodation for you depends on the type of traveler you are.

Wherever you stay, download the Let’s Roam app and enjoy nearby scavenger hunt tours ! Find landmarks, complete challenges, and compete with others to top the local leaderboard.

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20 Popular Types of Hotels Around The World

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There are many different types of hotels around the world, which make up an important part of the tourism industry .

The type of hotel that a person requires will depend on several different factors. If someone is travelling on business to New York they will have different needs and requirements compared to a family taking a two week summer sun holiday in Spain , for example. Types of hotels also vary depending on budget- some cost considerably more than others!

In this article I am going to tell you a bit more about the different types of hotels that we find in the tourism industry and what to expect…

What is a hotel?

The importance of hotels in the tourism industry, one star hotels, two star hotels, three star hotels, four star hotels, five star hotels, airport hotels, apart-hotels, bed and breakfast, boutique hotels, chain hotels, gastro hotels, golf resorts, independent hotels, microstay hotels, pop-up hotels, resort hotels, ski resorts, the best websites to book a hotel, types of hotels: further reading.

Before looking at types of hotels, it is important to establish exactly what a hotel is.

A hotel is a type of accommodation . It is defined as being an establishment providing accommodation, meals, and other services for travellers and tourists .

Hotels aim to be somewhere where people can stay whilst away from home, whether this is for business or leisure purposes. Hotels are for short-term lets. This can be either just the one night, or a couple of weeks; however, you would be unlikely to stay in a hotel for longer periods of time. Some people have, of course. Coco Chanel famously lived at the Ritz in Paris for 37 years , and Bob Dylan lived in the Hotel Chelsea in New York City !

There are so many different types of hotels. Below you’ll find information about the various hotel types, and their place within the tourism and hospitality industry.

Depending on what type of holiday you’re planning, it is important to know all of the differing hotel types to ensure you get everything you want out of your trip. If you want luxury, then a hostel probably isn’t for you – and if you’re not driving, a motel probably won’t work out for the best…

Before we get started, I think it is important to emphasise how important the hotel industry is too.

Hotels are a core component of tourism . According to the most widely accepted definition of tourism by the UNWTO, in order to qualify as a tourist you must be away from your usual place of residence for at least one night. Therefore, having a place to stay is essential!

Hotels are the most popular type of accommodation within the tourism industry. They come in all shapes and sizes but one thing remains the same- they make an income.

Different hotels operate in different ways. The economic benefits of locally-owned and run hotels that are sustainably managed is usually pretty significant. Whilst multinational chains such as Hilton or Travelodge encourage economic leakage in tourism , meaning that not much of the money stays in the local area.

Nonetheless, the revenue made from hotels makes up a significant proportion of the income raised from tourism. So, hotels are pretty important!

Hotel star rating system

One important factor when determining types of hotels is the hotel star rating system. In order to allow guests to know what they are purchasing, hotels around the world have adopted a universal hotel star rating system. Now, when I say ‘universal’, you should really take that with a pinch of salt. Because, quite frankly, a 5 star hotel in the USA isn’t always the same standards as a 5 star hotel in India ….

Nonetheless, this is how the hotel star rating system is generally applied:

One star hotels offer no frills. These are very basic types of hotels and there often isn’t much offered other than a place to sleep. I have slept in a hammock in a shared room, a shed and many multi-bed dormitories that have all been labelled as one star.

Two star hotels offer basic accommodation and amenities. The price is generally low. These types of hotels are popular with budget travellers.

Three star hotels are middle of the range. They are average priced, meaning that they are not usually cheap, nor are they expensive.

The average person will choose to stay in a three star hotel, making these types of hotels very popular.

Three star hotels may also be former four or five star hotels that have not been well maintained or updated.

Four star hotels offer good levels of hospitality and comfort.

They will often provide a range of facilities and services, such as a spa and room service.

A five star rating is the highest rating, meaning that these are the most luxurious types of hotels. Five star hotels are premium hotels and usually have a premium price tag to go with it.

Five star hotels should offer a flawless level of service and a very high standard of rooms and facilities.

A hotel of this calibre is likely to offer personalised services and premium services, such as fine dining.

Types of hotels around the world

There are a range of different types of hotels found all around the world. Below, I will give you a brief description of the most common types of hotels. But before you read on, take a look at my new YouTube video that really brings this topic to life!

As the name suggests, airport hotels are situated near airports. Many countries have them.

Airport hotels provide accommodation for those taking early flights who don’t wish to travel to the airport in the middle of the night.

Most airport hotels include free airport transfer (usually a shuttle bus) for convenience. Some are located inside the airport too, which is super convenient for transit passengers who don’t want to leave the airport.

Apart-hotels offer the same services as a hotel – a front desk and house keeping as well as often having a bar attached, offering room service and so on.

The only difference is that instead of having hotel rooms, they instead offer apartments. These are bigger and include a kitchen and living area as well as sleeping space and a bathroom.

Apart-hotels are perfect for families because they provide more space than most ordinary hotel rooms. You can put the kids to sleep in one room and relax in another too- meaning that you don’t have to walk around in the dark after 7pm! Oh, and they are great for self-catering.

Typically, a bed and breakfast (also referred to as a B&B) is small. They have an average of six rooms and a very homely vibe – you might experience daily interaction with other guests and the owner, especially a meal times.

B&Bs are popular with domestic tourists in each respective country. They *literally* offer you a bed and your breakfast – as such, they tend to be in locations where there are a lot of things to do because you’re unlikely to spend the whole day at this type of hotel. For example, in Britain you’ll find B&Bs aplenty at seaside locations such as Brighton and Blackpool.

Bed and breakfast accommodations are usually locally-owned and managed. This means that the money generated largely stays within the host community. It also offers great opportunities for cultural tourism .

Boutique hotels tend to be small (100 rooms or less, typically) and most are independently owned. They are personalised, themed or come with a unique design.

The rooms might be based on certain films, or decorated in the style of a particular artist, or themed around a certain band. Many have a local influence too.

Some examples include The Albion Rooms in Margate , themed around indie-rock band The Libertines, and The Dixie Dean Hotel – located in Liverpool and influenced by record-breaking Everton player Dixie Dean.

Chain hotels are, as the name suggests, attached to a chain or brand.

Chain hotels tend to have guidelines in place for design and amenities, and many have accommodations all over the world. The great thing about chain hotels is that you know what you are buying. However, they are also huge contributors to economic leakage in tourism , which isn’t so great.

Some popular hotel chains include Best Western, Premier Inn, Hilton and Mercure. They are much less personal than independent or boutique hotels, but people tend to trust a brand name which is what lends them so much success within the industry.

Eco hotels are a type of hotel that have a focus on being eco-friendly and giving back to the environment.

Eco hotels use solar panels and recycled water , do less laundry and so on.

These hotels are independently owned, but many chain hotels have pledged to make changes in order to improve their environmental impact .

African countries such as The Gambia are full of eco lodges , which allow tourists to stay somewhere off the beaten track, experience the beauty of these places and contribute to the local economy.

SA gastro hotel is a type of hotel that focuses heavily on food.

From on-site vegetable patches to Michelin-star chefs in the restaurants, gastro hotels are firm favourites with foodies.

These tend to be smaller hotels, and run independently.

Golf tourism is big businesses, so big that there are dedicated golf resort hotels!

A golf resort is an area that provides everything that the golf tourist would need- sporting facilities and equipment, entertainment, catering options and accommodation.

Gold resorts tend to be very upmarket. Many of the world’s best golf resorts can be found in Spain, though there are some great ones in the Caribbean and Hawaii too.

When it comes to types of hotels, hostels can’t be overlooked.

Popular mostly with younger travellers, hostels offer budget accommodation to those visiting new places.

Hostels are common in European cities and in places like Australia and Thailand where many go backpacking.

They offer a range of dormitory and private room accommodation, and tend to be much more affordable than booking a typical hotel.

Most people tend to stay only a couple of nights at a hostel.

Hostels can also be found on hiking trails, and many don’t need to be booked in advance.

This is a hotel that is owned by a private company or family.

An independent hotel is stand-alone, rather than being part of a larger chain, and therefore usually more personable. You can find these around the world.

Independent hotels tend to be smaller (having less rooms) than chain hotels.

A relatively new type of hotel, micro stay accommodation has tapped into a gap in the market. It’s a win-win situation. They allow travellers (especially those traveling for business) to get a few hours rest without having to pay for overnight accommodation – and they also allow hotels to increase their revenue as rooms can potentially be sold twice in a 24-hour period.

Other types of hotels offer microstay options, though there are some hotels that exists solely for this type of travel.

Motels are types of hotels that are located near a highway – this is generally an American type of accommodation.

The concept is simple- you can drive right up to your room and park outside.

Many motels are independently owned, but there are some chain motels too.

There are so many different types of hotels, and pop-up hotels are one of the most innovative.

Pop up hotels can be assembled anywhere, and you’re likely to see them at events and festivals such as Glastonbury or at the F1.

Pop-up hotels are made of pre-fabricated materials and can be installed (then uninstalled) quickly. They’re convenient and offer a great alternative to camping!

Often found in sunny holiday locations like the Caribbean or the coast of Egypt , resorts have everything in one place.

As well as accommodation, resort hotels offer pools, restaurants, bars, shops, spas, gyms, entertainment, childcare and more.

Many have their own beach space with sun loungers and umbrellas, too!

Resorts are sometimes part of hotel chains (such as Sandals or TUI), and other times they are independent resorts.

Offering everything you need for the perfect skiing trip, ski resorts have accommodation, restaurants, bars, childcare and of course, ski slopes.

They will have a ski hire and shop on site too.

Most ski resorts also have instructors so you can actually learn to ski whilst on holiday. Austria, France and Switzerland have some of the best ski resorts in Europe, while the US has some great ski resorts in Colorado and Utah.

Once you have decided what type of hotel you want to stay at, it is time to book!

There are various ways to book hotels and it entirely depends on what sort of traveller you are.

You can use a travel agent who will end you a package deal including flights, transfer and accommodation, or an online booking site who do pretty much the same thing such as Love Holidays or Holiday Pirates.

Another option is to book directly with the holiday company themselves, such as TUI or Jet2. Again, this generally means everything is included.

For city breaks and multi-destination trips, it is generally better to book the hotel yourself. I always use booking.com are great for this as they allow you to book well in advance, and often offer free cancellation. They also give you the option to search by location if you don’t have a specific hotel in mind!

You can, of course, book direct too. Many hotels (especially independent ones) will offer a discount if you book directly through their website or by calling. It is also a great idea to email your hotel before your arrival and see if they can upgrade you – if you don’t ask, you don’t get! THIS is a great template for hotel upgrades.

If you’ve made it this far then you are probably interested to learn more about the travel and tourism industry- go you! I’ve written lots of articles that I just know you will LOVE. Here are some of my favourite recommendations:

• Homestay tourism: What is a homestay?
• Types of rail transport | Understanding tourism
• The sex hotel: What, where and why
• The tour operator: What, why and how
• Visiting friends and relatives (VFR): A simple explanation
• The appeal of tourist destinations | What attracts tourists

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Everything You Need to Know About Travel Accommodations and Lodging

• Latest Posts

Travel not to escape life but for life not to escape you, a popular quote. Nowadays, traveling has become more accessible and possible, allowing more people to explore worlds and cities thousands of miles away. As one walks through foreign streets and enjoys a culture different from theirs, another essential aspect is finding that perfect travel accommodation that fully matches your style, goals, and budget.

There are many things to consider in finding the ultimate accommodation for your trip, below is an extensive guide on everything you need to know about travel accommodation as well as some tips and tricks to get the best deals.

What are the types of travel accommodations?

There are several types of travel accommodations and the options, size, and rate varies depending on the season, location, number of guests, and property amenities to name a few. Discover below the most common travel accommodation and lodging types!

Hotels and Resorts

The most popular type of travel accommodation is hotels. They are comfortable, convenient, and highly flexible depending on your preferences. There are hotels from all ranges of the budget, from low-cost ones to high-end luxurious suites and penthouses. A hotel is also a popular choice among families and people on business trips. Hotels also offer the best form of convenience, comfort, and security among all the other types of accommodation. Some hotels can accommodate one to two guests, there are family suites and multiple bedroom units for big groups. Typical inclusions in a hotel stay also include a private bathroom and toilet, a small closet, a small fridge, sometimes a mini kitchen, and a breakfast buffet. Linens, towels, and toiletries are also provided for each of the guests.

• Great for: First-time travelers, family with children, a group of friends, couples, solo traveler, business trips
• How to find the best hostels: Internet, social media, digital and print advertisements, word of mouth
• Website and Apps: booking.com, agoda.com, kayak.com, airbnb.com

Search, Compare and Pick the Best Hostel for You. More than 175 Countries. Secure Booking. Real Guest Reviews. Free Cancellation. 

What makes hostel different from hotels? Well, quite a lot of things. First, hostels don’t have the same level of exclusivity and security. Hostels are for those who either want to cut down some expenses on accommodation as well as experience a more social environment. Hostels also offer everything from private rooms to shared rooms that vary from 3, 4, 6, 8, sometimes even up to 20 people on dorm-type rooms. Some hostels also double as an attraction by itself, with unique features and interiors. These boutique hostels are uniquely designed with detailed interiors and furniture, at times with pockets of garden as well. There are also hostels popular for being “party hostels” with facilities that include an in-house pub or rooftop bar, pools, and beer pong, and billiards tables. In terms of room inclusions, some hostels provide free breakfast, towels, and toiletries, while others don’t. Hostels are especially popular among backpackers due to its cheap fee and its general laidback feel.

• Great for: sociable solo travelers, backpackers, a group of friends
• How to find the best hostels: Internet, social media, travel groups online, digital advertisements, word of mouth
• Website and Apps: booing.com, agoda.com, kayak.com, airbnb.com, hostelworld.com

Somehow a mix between comfort, convenience, and budget, Airbnb accommodations have recently been popular among travelers. Options in Airbnb vary as well from single rooms to shared rooms, and sometimes the entire property. Another great thing about Airbnb is flexibility. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, traveling with kids, or with friends – from 1 guest to 30+, Airbnb has properties to accommodate you. In terms of interiors, some Airbnbs are designed as well to have that unique flair. Some rooms or properties are beach-inspired, while others have that Scandinavian touch, to name a few. Properties in Airbnb also allow guests to utilize the facilities within the rental – such as the kitchen, pool, gym, etc. There are Airbnb properties as well that allow pets and there are some rentals wherein the host or property owner is also staying within the place – for example, a three-bedroom house or condominium, with two bedrooms available for guests, while the main bedroom is reserved for the host. With the many options in Airbnb, it is important to always check the fine print. Airbnb also has added charges such as website service fee and at times cleaning fee, depending on the host.

• Great for: a group of friends, couples, solo traveler
• Website and Apps: airbnb.com

A property commonly found out of town or near beaches, villas allow guest to rent the entire property. This is especially great for families and a large group of friends. When renting villas, the use of the facilities such as kitchen, outdoor BBQ, and swimming pool is often allowed as well. Staying in a private villa during the holiday is one of a kind experience, both for adults and kids.

• Great for: First-time travelers, family with children, a group of friends, couples

Beach Houses

A private rental similar to villas, but smaller in a way, beach houses are the ultimate accommodation for beach lovers, These are fully equipped properties situated in the coastal area, allowing guests to enjoy ocean views and the sea breeze any time of the day. Beach houses are also fully equipped with everything that the guests may need, from a fully-equipped kitchen to fishing rods, and sometimes even kayaks and life jackets.

• Great for: Family with children, a group of friends, couples, solo traveler

A new form of accommodation when traveling, glamping is a combination of glam and camping. The concept is being outdoors but a the same time, retaining that glam, comfort, and style complete with a luxurious interior. There are many ways to do glamping, from tents to treehouses, RVs, cabins, caravans, pods, huts, and A-frame cabins. Glamping accommodations offer five-star amenities at par with hotels and resorts, but at the same time retains that genuine feeling of being one with nature. Depending on the glamping accommodation type, bathrooms and toilets can either be exclusive or shared.

• Great for: First-time travelers, family with children, a group of friends, couples, solo traveler
• Website and Apps: glampinghub.com, booking.com, agoda.com, kayak.com, airbnb.com

Popular in the urban or more isolated areas such as mountains or farms, homestays are accommodations, often rooms or space rented out by locals to guests visiting their area. Homestays are great for experiencing the local culture and getting a real feel of being in your destination, often without costing an arm and a leg. Some homestays allow free accommodation in return paying by providing services to the property. Included in these services are helping tend to the farm and the animals, providing carpentry assistance, or lately, even assisting a business in their digital, marketing, and IT needs, enable one to stay in homestays.

• Great for: A group of friends, couples, solo traveler
• How to find the best hostels: Internet, social media, recommendations from locals, local tourism board, word of mouth
• Website and Apps: limited listings at booking.com, agoda.com, kayak.com, airbnb.com

Sleeping pods, hotel capsules

For travelers who simply want a place to rest for the night and store their valuables, sleeping pods or hotel capsules are recommended. These are also ideal for those with long layovers who want to skip booking a hotel room. Sleeping pods/hotel capsules first became popular in Japan, especially with businessmen frequently flying in and out. The pods just allow space to stretch and sleep comfortably, with its own small lamp, and maybe a small pull-out desk or drawer for storage. Luggage is kept on a separate place within the area and there are shared bathrooms and toilets for the guests.

• Great for: solo travelers, business trips, frequent flyers

Couch surfing

Accessible via an app or its website, CouchSurfing is – as the name suggests – is surfing through couches (but can also be beds). It follows the principle of being in a new town and calling up a friend and wondering if you can stay for the duration of your trip, whether it is in a couch in their living room or a spare bedroom in their place. The hosts and couch surfers interact via a website, wherein both create accounts and submit necessary verification documents for security. The core of CouchSurfing is trust and respect both between the guests and hosts – there are good and bad stories. The views and experiences regarding Couchsurfing vary.

• How to find the best hostels: Internet, social media, word of mouth
• Website and Apps: booking.com, agoda.com, airbnb.com

What are the best types of accommodation?

Choosing the best accommodation for your travel is dependent on your travel style, goals, budget, and location. As long as these align, any travel accommodation would be a good fit. There are also instances though that one aspect may need to be adjusted, in favor of the other factors. An example would be going for a higher priced travel accommodation in a more accessible and safer location, compared to a cheaper one but doesn’t generally feel safe. There can also be compromises in terms of room facilities, such as choosing between an air-conditioned room or a fan room, going for solo room or shared, and so on.

Find cheap hotels, things to do, car rentals, flights and discounts when you book on Hotels.com. Compare hotel deals, offers and read unbiased reviews on hotels.

Accommodation types depending on experience

• Hotels: For comfort, convenience, and peace of mind
• Hostels: For socialization, a different experience when traveling, and for lower costs
• Airbnb: For comfort and convenience similar to a hotel, but at a lower cost, also ideal for travelers looking to rent entire properties
• Glamping: For travelers who want to explore and stay in the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort and style
• Couchsurfing: For adventurous travelers looking for free accommodation

Accommodation types depending on budget

• Low budget: Dorm-type Hostels, AirBnbs, Budget Hotels, Couchsurfing, Homestays
• Middle budget: Budget Hotels, Shared Room in Hostels, Airbnb Properties
• High budget: Luxury hotels, AirBnbs, Private Room in Boutique Hostels, Airbnb Properties

Accommodation types unique to destinations

• City: Hotels, Hostels, Airbnbs
• Beach/Coastal: Beach houses, hotels, resorts, hostels, Airbnb, Glamping
• Nature/Outdoors: Hotels, hostels, Airbnb, glamping, cabins, tents, huts, homestays
• Mountains: Hotels, Airbnb, glamping. cabins, tents, huts, homestays
• Desert: Hotels, Airbnb, glamping
• Snow: Hotels, Airbnb

With destinations, in addition to the accommodation types, the actual place also often determine the price and the experience of the place. Accommodations near Disneyland will surely be different in comparison to a rental property in the countryside of France, the capital of Mexico, along the coastline of Australia, and the heart of Bangkok. Accommodations in the city, especially near airports tend to be more expensive as well.

Furthermore, the cost of living in a destination is also an important thing to consider. Generally, accommodations in Europe in comparison to Southeast Asia will vary greatly – both in cost and experience.

The Major Differences Between Hotel, Hostels, and Airbnb

As Airbnb rises to popularity, more and more people are becoming curious about how it’s different from hotels, as well as the difference between hostels and hotels.

Hotels are operated by actual companies and corporations, often with branches locally and globally. Hostels are operated by companies as well, however on a much smaller scale compared to hotels. They also offer private rooms, as well as shared rooms, and dorm-type rooms. Recently, pods and loft-type shared rooms have also been popular among hostels. Airbnbs are operated by individual property owners or hosts, Airbnb itself is just a website where people can register their properties and lease it for guests/travelers.

In terms of security, guests can get more peace of mind in hotels, in comparison with Airbnb properties with the entire place being managed by a private individual. The shared space on hostels also makes it less secured compared to private rooms.

Comfort and Convenience

Regarding comfort and convenience, there is a possibility of a draw. Most Airbnb properties are designed to be less expensive than hotels but at the same time, retain its feel and style. Hostels, on the other hand, depend on the type of hostel you are looking at. Same with hotels, these properties range from budget to luxury.

Hotels and Airbnb are both strategically located near popular local attractions, on business districts, and airports. However, Airbnb properties are not just limited to these. There are properties even on less touristy areas, perfect for travelers who prefer the off-beaten path.

Facilities and Amenities

Hotels are fully-equipped with everything a guest might need – from the facilities within the room, as well as the building amenities that include swimming pools, gym, playground, parking, game room, and a commercial area of restaurants, bars, convenience stores, banks, and laundry at the lower floor of the building. For Airbnb, since some properties are located within residential buildings/highrises, they also offer the same amenities. Hostels on the other hand vary, but some also allow the use of shared kitchens, a common area for all, and pools. Other features that guests look out for are Wi-Fi connectivity, access to Netflix (for some), bidet, hot shower, air-condition, and heater among others.

Experiences

Catering to the needs of their guests; hotels, hostels, and Airbnb often offer the similar experiences of airport transfers, discounted tickets, rooftop bars, and access to tours offered by their partner companies. One unique thing about hostels is that some offer pub-crawls for guests who want to explore the local nightlife. For Airbnb, some hosts also double as tour guides, sometimes providing tips about the locality or even as far as taking their guests around the place.

• Advantages of Hotels: Comfort, Convenience, Security, Peace of Mind, Hotel Amenities, Good for first-time travelers, guests with children
• Advantages of Airbnb: Comfort, Convenience, Unique and Local Experiences, Flexibility on cost and payment method, Good for solo travelers or groups, some properties are pet-friendly
• Advantages of Hostels: Comfort, Convenience, Socialization, Meet and Make New Friends, Flexibility on cost and payment method, Popular among backpackers, Available in private rooms, shared rooms, or dorm-type rooms
• The Disadvantages of Hotels: Usually the same experience and look/interior every time
• The Disadvantages of Airbnbs: Less secure, managed by individuals, doesn’t always have housekeeping
• The Disadvantages of Hostels: Less secure, not recommended for introverts and those who are not comfortable sharing rooms, even with private rooms, some might feel that the place is crowded

Beach house? Condo? Cabin? Find the perfect vacation rental. With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals,  Vrbo  connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip.

Safety Tips when Choosing Travel accommodation

Research, research, research.

• One of the most important parts of traveling is researching and this applies to travel accommodations as well.
• Search the internet for the best travel accommodation deals
• check for customer reviews (xxx and xx are good sites for these), about the room/property, service, staff, vicinity, environment, accessibility from the airport, access to public transportation, building/property facilities such as kitchen or parking
• check their social media accounts and page reviews, verified accounts are better
• Ask for recommendations from family and friends

Read the fine print before the final booking, some rentals have additional charges that often come as a surprise for guests.

• Services such as airport transfer and massage will have additional fees.
• Consumed food and beverages inside the fridge of hotels will be charged upon checkout.
• Airbnb, for example, has a cleaning fee and a service fee from the website.
• Other usual charges include early check-in or late checkout and requested meals, to name a few.
• There are also non-refundable deposits on some rentals.

Have copies of all your booking reservations, both digital copy (saved in your phone and online) and hardcopy, printed out for added security.

• When traveling to a non-English speaking country, it is also best to have the name and address of your accommodation in the local language. This is especially helpful when trying to communicate with taxi drivers or asking the way back to your place after exploring.

Inspect the property upon arrival.

• Although often, hotel staff and hosts will ensure that the place is in the best condition, it won’t hurt to double-check. Inspect the place, the drawers, linens, pillows, even the bathroom if there are items that should be there but aren’t (or vice versa). When staying in hostels, be wary of bedbugs on shared rooms, especially on dorm-type ones. Check the pillows, lift the mattress. In any type of accommodation, insects and bugs are a no-no. If you find some, immediately call the receptionist and you can either ask for a change of rooms or if possible, get your money back and move to a new place.

Top Recommendations

Top q&as, how to organize travel and accommodation arrangements.

One of the daunting tasks of organizing a trip is arranging the accommodations, especially for large groups. Below is a quick guide on how to organize travel arrangements, whether it’s for a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation

• Note your accommodation requirements
• Research the best places that meet your requirements
• Check the availability of the property
• Note the details of your booked accommodation

How to Find the Best Travel Accommodation Deals

• Use travel accommodation websites such as booking.com, agoda.com, and airbnb.com
• Sign up for memberships to get insider deals
• Subscribe on the mailing list of accommodation booking websites and hotels for regular promos and discounts
• Follow the social media accounts of your favorite hotels or hostels to be updated with good travel accommodation deals
• Note that prices during the peak season and off-peak season vary, as well as weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Prices especially soar during the peak season, as well as weekends, and holidays.

What are the Best Travel Accommodation Websites

• Booking.com: With millions of properties worldwide, booking.com is one of the go-to websites for booking travel accommodations. Users can filter based on their preferences and there are all sorts of accommodation types available on the website. The payment options are flexible as well, including pay via credit card, pay on the property, or partial payment until a few of the actual booking. The site is also popular for low price deals, promos, and frequent traveler points that can be used as discounts for bookings.

Best Price Guaranteed by Agoda.com. Book Now, Pay Later! They have Over 40 Payment Ways for Locking the Lowest Room Rates. No Credit Card Needed! 100% Real Reviews.

• Airbnb.com: One of the big players in booking travel accommodations, Airbnb has multiple properties globally, from business districts to less touristy areas.
• 4. Hostelworld.com: The ultimate website for hostels all over the world, hostelworld.com enables travelers to find hostels that fit their needs. Filtering to find properties that offer private rooms, air conditioning, laundry, and 24 hours reception and security are also possible.
• Kayak.com: A big player in the travel accommodation industry, Kayak.com allows users to search for properties via a map with notes on the top places for sightseeing, restaurants, shopping, nightlife, etc.

Looking for sports, concerts, or music festivals? Find your perfect holiday or city break and save now at Expedia.com

Quick & Easy Way To Book a Hotel. Best Price Guaranteed! Find the Lowest Room Rates with One Easy Search. Book & Save Today.

• Glampinghub.com: For travelers looking for glamping accommodations, glampinghub is the go-to place. There are several properties available here, as well as different types of glamping accommodations – including beaches, snow mountains, lakes, and farms to name a few.
• TripAdvisor: A popular booking accommodation website, with a trusted user review library – TripAdvisor is worth checking out.
• Couchsurfing.org: For free accommodation and meeting new people, couchsurfing.org is the place to go. As mentioned, the experiences vary, but still – it remains an option for those who are interested in trying or those who are having a tight budget.
• BedandBreakfast.com: As its name suggests, this is the website to go for those who are looking for B&B accommodation.

How to Save on Travel Accommodation

• 1. Book on off-peak season or weekdays
• 2. Maximize promos and deals on social media and promos sent via email
• 3. Consider a shared room on hostels, for travelers comfortable with sharing space with other travelers
• 4. Use websites like agoda.com or booking.com
• 5. Check the company website for other offers
• 6. Avoid consuming the food and beverages on the hotel fridge, grab supplies from the convenience store
• 7. Search online for local restaurants or bars near your accommodation, in-house restaurants and bars are often pricier
• 8. Research on getting around your destination to save costs on booking for airport transfers
• 9. Subscribe to the mailing list of the accommodations and on their social media, for regular and seasonal promos and offer
• 10. Sign up on insider accounts on websites such as Agoda.com to get members-only discounts.

What are the Best Travel Accommodation Apps

Most of the top travel accommodation websites offer their apps for the convenience of their users. Be sure to have these travel apps ready for easy organization and arrangements of your travel accommodations.

• Great for: Browsing for accommodations, reservations, and purchasing
• Available on iOS, Android

• Available on: iOS, Android

5. HotelTonight

• Great For: Last-minute deals and instant booking accommodations

6. Couchsurfing

• Great for: Meeting new people, free accommodation

Conclusion: How to Find the Best Travel Accommodation

The requirements for the best travel accommodation are often similar: a comfortable and convenient place for guests to rest after exploring their destination, as well as a safe place for them to store their belongings and valuables. Where it varies, however, is on the budget, style, and experience that the travel is aiming for. Once you get that perfect mix of the standard requirements and the personalized experience that varies per traveler – that is then the best accommodation.

For solo travelers, it depends whether you are on a budget, backpacking around Southeast Asia or having an Eat, Pray, Love experience in xxx, or a dream vacation in Paris. Hotels are great for comfort and if you simply just wanna lay down at the end of the day and not worry about anything. Hotels are also ideal for travelers who are very particular with their privacy, accommodation, meals, and staff service.

On the other hand, solo travelers who want to save money but also want to spend the night making friends and partying can opt for hostels. These are highly social places with different pockets for people to meet and hangout. There are common spaces on hostels, there are rooftop/in-house bars, and swimming pools (on some). Some hostels also offer organized tours and pub-crawls, perfect for solo travelers who want to explore but at the same time be part of a group.

Solo travelers on shared hostel rooms are also able to meet all sorts of people and travelers from all over. There are good and bad experiences, of course. In the mix of these, all are Airbnb properties, with facilities according to your needs. There are private rooms in a three-bedroom unit, a spare room on a local’s place, or sometimes private sleeping capsules or pods.

For couples on a romantic getaway or a bonding trip, hotels and resorts are the best options. These places offer the utmost privacy and comfort for the couple, without sacrificing security and convenience. For couples who are looking to meet more friends, private rooms in Airbnb and hostels are recommended as well.

Family vacation, groups, trips with children: hotels and Airbnb. As mentioned, the accommodation type varies on how you travel and for large groups, especially with children, hotels or Airbnb (entire property rental) are the way to go. Hotels provide the requirements of traveling as a large group as well as the safety, security, and facilities necessary for families with children. There is optimum security, safety features, and kid-friendly areas such as a playground and a kiddie pool. There are also gyms, bars, salons, saunas, and pools for the adults of the family. Facilities such as a fully-equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, laundry machine, or a laundromat are also available on most Airbnb properties.

Pets are family and while some prefer to leave their furbabies at home or on pet hotels, some lucky ones can join the fun. The good news is that there are several pet-friendly travel accommodations globally, especially on Airbnb rentals and private accommodations. Hosts who prefer to lease the entire property, usually a home, a villa, a cabin, or an RV allows a pet in the accommodation as long as the pets are in their best behavior, do not soil or damage the property, and pose no safety risk on other guests.

When choosing a pet-friendly travel accommodation, it is also important to read the fine print. Some properties only allow small dogs and cats, at times only a maximum number of pets are allowed, or sometimes pets are not allowed inside bedrooms or on the furniture. Updated vaccinations of the pet/s might also be requested by the host or the accommodation. Ensure that all the necessary documentation of your pets are ready and at hand. It is important to note as well that for some travel accommodations, there are additional charges when bringing in pets.

For those who love nature but doesn’t want to be comfortable – glamping is a new experience that is surely a must-try. Imagine looking up to the stars on a crystal dome, in the middle of an island surrounded by a lake or in the middle of a meadow in a lovely forest. Glamping by the beach is popular as well, offering great views of the sea and the luxury of lush linens and breathtaking interior decor. It is the usual environment of a camping ground but the comfort and style of hotels.

There are all types of hotel accommodations depending on the traveler. The important part is to make sure your chosen accommodation fits all your travel requirements. Take advantage of the internet, social media, and the personal recommendations of family and friends. The purpose of the trip affects your accommodation as well. Is it a business trip or a Valentine getaway? How long are you staying, do you prefer accommodations with or without Wi-Fi? These and so much more are to be considered when looking for your next travel accommodation.

Traveling is a fun and enriching experience, whether it is alone, with your special someone, with a group of friends, with family or with your pets. Finding that perfect spot to lay down and rest after a long day of exploring foreign cities and experiencing local cultures, is an important part of traveling. After all, how can one make the most of the trip if they are lacking sleep, if their back hurts from an uncomfortable bed, or their mind is always back to worrying about their valuables? What you need, what the place offers, and the budget – all these combined allow you to find that ultimate accommodation perfect for your trip. Happy travels!

Do you have more tips on finding the best accommodations and lodging when traveling? Let us know below!

Further read:

• Everything You Need to Know About How to Travel

• GENERAL TRAVEL

Choosing the Right Travel Accommodations

Eileen Loh is a marketing/PR consultant and freelance writer. She had an incredible experience go...

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Accommodations abroad are more than just places to sleep and store your stuff. Finding a temporary “home” that supports the activities you want to do while traveling abroad —and fits your budget—is a critical element of a successful trip.

Staying in a place that’s too expensive, too cheap, too remote, not remote enough, too rustic, too sophisticated, or lacking amenities that are important to you, can complicate or sour an otherwise great experience abroad. Knowing the types of lodging that are available, in the places you want to travel, is an important step in planning a great trip.

Here’s a rundown of the main types of travel accommodations that can be found abroad, and the pros and cons of staying in each.

Popular types of travel accommodations abroad

Though the amenities vary from place to place, expect a private bedroom and adjacent bathroom, TV, climate control, daily housekeeping, and options such as room service or laundry service. Common features include pools, fitness centers, paid wifi, airport transportation, a 24-hour front desk, and attached bars, restaurants, or shops.  

[ Get accommodation advice from our team of experts ]

PROS: They’re among the more comfortable and convenient types of lodging available worldwide. Many hotels and motels are chains that have the same level of amenities and quality control throughout the world. Good for travelers who don’t mind paying more for upscale niceties, business accommodations, comfort, convenience, and predictability.   

CONS: Among the more expensive types of lodging. They’re often impersonal. Not for those who want full cultural immersion. Program: Czech Republic - Prague Hostel Internship. Explore the majestical city of Prague while volunteering in a newly renovated hostel. You will gain hands-on experience while interacting with guests from all over the world. Check it out .

The lodging of choice for young, budget-conscious travelers, the hostel conjures up visions of dormitory rooms with bunk beds, shared restrooms, backpack lockers, and common areas like TV rooms, kitchens, and patios. Most hostels do offer all that, but also offer private rooms with bathrooms. “En suite” rooms in hostels are priced around the rate of a budget hotel room, are sometimes nicer, and offer the social and convenience perks of a hostel, but with more privacy. Hostels are usually full of young travelers, so expect loud music, conversation, and frequent partying in the common areas and the shared dorms.

[ Student Apartment or Homestay Family? 5 Tips for Housing ]

PROS: Affordable. Social hubs. Most feature travel conveniences such as laundry facilities, wifi, and rental computers. They’re great places to meet other international travelers while abroad.

CONS: Dormitory or semi-private hostel bedrooms are common places for theft. Keeping possessions locked up is critical. Housekeeping services not guaranteed. Not for people who want peace and quiet, or who want full cultural immersion.

Guest Houses/Bed & Breakfast

This is often a historic building or large home that has been converted; usually the proprietors live in or near the facility, and are often on site. Some bedrooms come with a private bathroom and others share a bathroom; you’ll see the difference in the room rate. There are usually few guest rooms on premises, so not many other visitors. Breakfast is provided as part of the room rate, usually in a common dining area. These provide more of a “homey” atmosphere than other accommodations.

PROS: They are often unique buildings that reflect local culture and history, and provide a greater chance for cultural immersion. Housekeeping provided. Owners/proprietors are great sources of local information. They’re good for travelers who want a quieter, authentic, more low-tech experience.

CONS: Because guest houses/ B&Bs are generally very unique, differences in quality and in cost vary widely depending on the proprietor. Not for those looking for a party scene.

[ Dorm/Homestay/Flat? Figure Out Your International Student Housing Abroad ]

Private rentals.

These are apartments , flats, or condos leased for short-term rentals. They’re usually furnished with basic kitchen supplies, appliances, bedding, towels, furniture, and some electronics. Can be rented individually, or as a room in a home shared with roommates. Airbnb's also fall under this category. Pro tip: Sometimes you can find some decent long-term rental situations if you negotiate directly with your Host after arranging your short-term stay through the app.

Private rentals are popular travel accommodations.

PROS: Provide a sense of home, privacy, and stability. Good for groups. Kitchen and laundry facilities cut down on the costs of washing clothes and eating out. They’re usually cheaper for long-term visitors than a hotel or a private room in a guest house, hostel, or B&B.

CONS: Expensive for short visits. Conditions vary widely. Living with roommates requires the basic security precautions one would take in any other shared lodging. Renters are usually expected to take care of their own housekeeping.

[ Use MyGoAbroad to find & compare programs ]

Situated in or near natural settings, lodges offer modern comforts and convenience to the great outdoors. Prices and conditions vary, but expect to pay a bit more for your stay the farther you get away from civilization. Housekeeping is usually included.

PROS: Comfortable, sometimes luxurious accommodations in remote areas, close to outdoor adventures and exotic wildlife. Most lodges will arrange guides and transportation for tours, safaris, etc.

CONS: Higher rates than the average lodging, especially to compensate for out-of-the-way locations and eco-friendly products, services, and practices.

The most basic lodging option, campsites can accommodate people in cabins, huts, tents, and even alternative shelters like yurts and tentalapas. Restrooms, showers and other facilities are usually shared and central, if they exist at all. Some campsites rent out tents or other shelters, while others are strictly bring-your-own.

PROS: One of the least expensive lodging options. Good for those who want to live as simply, or as much in the great outdoors, as possible on their trip.

CONS: Few to no modern comforts. Bad weather can impact this type of lodging more than others. Many campsites, especially those in national parks, have strict rules that must be followed. Camping requires extra vigilance to keep unwanted guests (whether human or animal) from invading your shelter.

[ 7 Benefits of Homestay Programs ]

These involve living with a family as a guest in their home. Accommodations vary, but most homestays provide a private bedroom and home-cooked meals. Homestay visitors are often regarded as special guests, with the host family exposing them to the local culture, traditions, language, cuisine, holidays, and other aspects of daily life in that area. Guests are expected to teach their culture and language to the host family as well. “Couch surfing” is a less formal homestay arrangement, often lacking a private room, but with a host who is willing to share local knowledge with foreign visitors.  

PROS: The best type of accommodation for full cultural immersion, cultural exchange, and/or language learning. Good for those who want a sense of home and family while abroad. Though fees vary, staying with a host family is often less expensive than traditional accommodations, especially after meals are factored in. The best way to find out “how the locals live.”

Get ready for all sorts of new family members in your homestay!

CONS: Guests are expected to follow the house rules, to keep their rooms and shared spaces tidy, and respect the beliefs and practices of the host family. Behaviors such as having overnight guests, drinking or smoking, or staying out late are usually frowned upon or prohibited. Not for those looking for a party scene or who would have a hard time abiding by family rules. My host family was better than I imagined them to be. They made sure that I got to see the tourist spots, but also invited me to see the lesser known traditions/areas of Mexico. It was something that I'll never forget and forever love! — Reviewer

Things to consider for specific types of travel

Study abroad & internships abroad.

Oftentimes, your study abroad housing will be coordinated on your behalf through your program provider (be it your university, a third-party provider like API Abroad, or an international university), but there are rare instances where you have to coordinate your student housing abroad independently. The most popular types of study abroad housing are homestays, apartments or flats, or university dormitories. If you are one of the few that need to arrange travel accommodations independently, check out resources like Homestay.com , Uniplaces , and UniversityRooms . 

Find study abroad programs & student accommodations now

Volunteer abroad .

If you are volunteering abroad and in search of travel accommodations, direct your questions to your program advisor. Oftentimes, projects will have specific types of housing available for short and long term volunteers. Homestays are the most common living arrangement, although it isn't uncommon to find shared volunteer housing. Most volunteer accommodations abroad are bare-bones and functional but amenities aren't excessive. 

Find volunteer abroad programs & accommodations now

Teach & work abroad.

Depending your teach abroad contract, you may be personally responsible for coordinating your own housing or your accommodations may be provided as part of your teaching stipend. If you are to arrange your own ESL teacher housing, we recommend finding places within your budget, your minimum comfort level, and within a short commute of your actual school/place of work. If your apartment is furnished and provided, ask for photos of the accommodations in advance and make sure your preferences are known (i.e. if you want to have a roommate or not). Be sure to ask past teachers for any given organization about their experiences living in provided housing, too!

Find teach abroad programs & accommodations now

You're ready to find travel accommodations.

Your life abroad will be a dream <3

Now that you know the travel accommodations that are out there, you are well-poised to make a living situation choice that is right for you. Don't hesitate to be picky and ask questions, but also keep in mind that sometimes, international housing options are quite a bit different than what you'd find back home. The showers might be electric, the heating through the floors, no air conditioning, no running water. Who knows? It's all part of the adventure, and a chance for you to push yourself to learn more and to grow in your adaptability. 

Find out what kind of accommodation suits you best while traveling abroad now!

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A Guide to 21 of the Most Popular Types of Hotels

From cozy roadside inns with basic cable and morning coffee to massive all-inclusive vacation resorts in the world’s most luxurious destinations , there are dozens upon dozens of different types of hotels located throughout the world.

While some of these properties have many similarities — for example, an all-inclusive resort may also be classified as an extended stay property — there are also some that couldn't be more different (i.e. casino hotels vs. hostels).

Confused? Don't be. In this post, we break down 21 of the most popular types of hotels and explore the similarities and differences of each. Whether you’re a traveler looking for a low-priced economy room or an aspiring hotelier looking to take a deeper dive into your options, the wide world of hotels has something for everyone.

21 of the most popular types of hotels

1. chain hotels.

The most common hotel type on this list,  chain hotels make up  tens of thousands of properties located throughout the world. Chain hotels typically fall under a group of hotels operated by a company or owner. Hilton, for example, has a portfolio made up of over a dozen "separate" brands , including DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Hampton, Homewood Suites, and Home2 Suites. Another example is Marriott , which boasts brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton, Westin, Gaylord, Courtyard, and SpringHill Suites. 

Franchise ownership is common at these properties, which are also known for their frequent renovations and even "secret menus" at some hotel restaurants and bars.

Hoteliers at these properties should know travelers are on the lookout for hidden fees like resort fees and explore the perks of hotel loyalty programs. For example, Marriott International offers a VIP program called Marriott Bonvoy that includes various tiers with rewards like free nights, room upgrades, and even airline partnerships. Some chain hotels offer unadvertised discounts to specific groups when booking directly with the hotel or have fewer fees than third-party booking sites.

The term “motel” evolved in the 1920s , long after the term hotel, and is a blend of the words “motor” and “hotel.” Motels started cropping up to cater to travelers as an affordable, accessible place to stop overnight during long trips. They're typically located along highways and other major roadways, and offer minimal amenities, if any.

Motels usually have a different layout than standard hotels as well, with rooms being accessible from the exterior. Additionally, motels are typically one to two stories high, while hotels can be much larger. Motel 6, Super 8, and Econo Lodge are some of the most well-known motel chains, though motels can be independently operated also.

For hoteliers considering the motel business, understanding the preferences and expectations of road-trip travelers is essential. Offering personalized service such as valet, historical tours for older properties, and even complimentary fluff and fold can set motels apart in this niche market. 

A resort is usually a destination that attempts to provide travelers with everything they need in one location: Accommodations, dining, drinks, shopping, and entertainment. Often located in popular vacation destinations, some resorts are all-inclusive , allowing travelers to pay one price for unlimited service. The Hyatt Ziva Cancun , for example, is an all-inclusive resort catering to Cancun vacationers, providing them with lavish services and an uninterrupted view of the Caribbean.

While some resorts are budget-friendly, there are also luxury options available. Luxury resorts are the epitome of grandeur and indulgence. These establishments offer guests lavish accommodations, world-class amenities, and exceptional service. Often located in exotic destinations, luxury resorts provide a complete escape from the ordinary. Expect stunning oceanfront villas, private butlers, gourmet dining, and top-tier spas. These resorts are perfect for honeymooners, celebrities, and anyone seeking an unforgettable, pampering experience.

An inn is usually much smaller than a standard or chain hotel. Often individually or family-owned, inns tend to offer a cozy, homey feel for their guests. Typically offering fewer in-room amenities than a larger hotel chain, you may find in-room coffee, Wi-Fi, or small breakfast options available at an inn.

Many inns offer unique styles or decorations from room to room, providing guests with a unique experience. Some inns, like the Ponte Winery and Vineyard Inn in Temecula, California, have a vineyard on-property and specialize in wedding services as well. 

For innkeepers, it's important to understand that maintaining the historical or unique character of the property while providing modern comforts is both a challenge and a major selling point. To stand out, inns can create a strong sense of community by hosting local events, art displays, or culinary experiences, attracting both guests and locals.

5. All-suites

Hotels in which all of the guest rooms are suites are commonly referred to as all-suite hotels . These hotels typically have “suites” in the name, making them easier for travelers to identify.

All-suite properties usually offer each guest a bedroom, separate living area, and a kitchen area or cooking accessories. Many large hotel companies have an all-suites brand or two under their umbrella, such as Comfort Suites by Choice Hotels, Embassy Suites by Hilton, or Staybridge Suites by IHG.

For hoteliers, it's essential to recognize that all-suites hotels often cater to guests who desire more space, convenience, or a longer stay. This makes it crucial to focus on room layout, functionality, and maintenance. Plus, all-suites properties can attract business travelers seeking a home-like environment for work trips. Interior design that brings in elements of both luxury and coziness are essential for this audience. 

6. Conference/convention center hotels

Conference or convention center hotels  are characterized by their combination of guest rooms and meeting space. These properties are designed to host large events and provide a wide variety of event options to accommodate different setups, entertainment opportunities, A/V equipment, and breakout needs.

These types of hotels specialize in accommodating everything needed at a conference: The event location, overnight rooms, food and beverage services, and transportation. They typically hold thousands of feet of flexible event space and are frequently found in larger cities or popular business destinations.

7. Extended stay hotels

While many lodging options cater to overnight or short-term stays, some properties specialize in accommodating travelers looking for an extended stay. This type of hotel is called an  extended stay hotel , and it's popular among  business travelers and other individuals staying in one location for multiple days, weeks, or longer.

Most extended stay properties provide guests additional amenities to make it feel more like home, such as a fully-equipped kitchen.  Extended Stay America offers studio rooms at many locations, as well as daily, weekly, and nightly rates to accommodate a variety of budgets.

Many extended stay hotels have partnerships with local restaurants, gyms, and businesses, offering discounts and deals to guests for even more savings. However, they may lack the daily housekeeping services found in traditional hotels, which can be a consideration for those who prefer daily cleaning.

8. Boutique hotels

Boutique hotels  are typically much smaller than the average chain hotel. Usually made up of 100 guest rooms or fewer, you can expect to find boutique hotels in exciting locations or near popular destinations, such as an urban city center or hip shopping district. Boutique hotels can be independently operated, or part of a chain , but they tend to cater to a specific audience, offer a unique style, and provide thoughtful services.

“There are an infinite number of recipes, but the key ingredients I see in a boutique hotel are individuality and a great emotional impact," Shlomo Gabbai — the director of the annual Boutique Hotel Awards, which recognize the best-of-the-best in boutique hotels — told Business Insider .

9. Bunkhouses

Basic accommodations sporting bunk beds, or a barracks-like building style, are commonly referred to as bunkhouses . Originally, bunkhouses were used to house field-hands , ranchers, working cowboys, and other migratory workers. However, bunkhouses have evolved over the years, and now, many hotels offer modern versions used to accommodate large groups. The Atticus Hotel in Mcminnville, Oregon, for example, boasts a luxury bunkhouse that travelers can enjoy while soaking in all Oregon has to offer.

"With a wall of luxury bunks, cubbies for six and a bathroom artfully designed for a crowd, our Luxury Bunkhouse is equipped for late nights of laughter with good friends," reads the hotel's website .

Hoteliers take note: bunkhouses are often located near outdoor recreational areas. So offering camping or outdoor sport equipment rentals or even guided nature tours such as snowshoeing or stargazing can attract more visitors. 

10. Bed and breakfasts

Typically smaller, privately-owned properties, the bed and breakfast is a favorite accommodation among travelers looking to experience the intricacies of a destination. Known for providing a bed, as well as food services (most commonly breakfast), many “BnBs” are operated by live-in innkeepers. The owners often live somewhere on-property or nearby, operate the property themselves, and may even prepare meals for travelers.

Highlighting the unique character of the property—whether it's historical, architectural, or themed—can help differentiate the B&B from competitors. Also, participating in B&B associations and online directories can boost visibility and credibility. It's crucial for hoteliers to manage their time effectively, as running a B&B can be demanding due to the hands-on nature of the business.

11. Eco hotels

An eco hotel — also commonly referred to as a green hotel  or sustainable hotel — is a type of hotel that puts a lot of focus on operating in an environmentally-friendly and sustainable manner. Eco-friendly hotels promote green initiatives, such as utilizing solar power and reducing waste, and make it a priority to reduce their environmental impact.

For hoteliers interested in operating eco hotels, it's essential to understand that sustainability can be both a selling point and a cost-saving measure. While eco-friendly technologies may have an upfront cost, they can lead to long-term savings in energy and water expenses. Adding local and seasonal meal options, as well as vegetarian and vegan ones, can be an easy-to-implement sustainable measure. Collaboration with local communities and support for environmental and wildlife conservation projects can also create a positive impact beyond the hotel's operations.

12. Casino hotels

Casino hotels are located in — you guessed it — casinos! They typically offer overnight guest rooms, access to an in-house casino, and often include a variety of restaurants, bars, activities, and shopping options for guests. 

13. Pop-up hotels

Stylish and trendy, pop-up hotels are temporary lodging options that “pop up” for a short period of time. Pop-up hotels are appealing to travelers seeking new experiences, or those who want to enjoy “untouched” locations.

The exclusivity of these types of hotels makes them appealing to many trend-setters and social media influencers. Just take  Taco Bell’s wildly successful pop-up hotel  as an example.

14. Pet-friendly hotels

Pet-friendly properties allow guests to bring their pets with them when they travel. Some of these properties charge a pet fee, while others allow complimentary pet stays. Weight limits, breed restrictions, or the number of animals a traveler may check-in with can vary from property to property. Websites like petswelcome.com  allow travelers to search for pet-friendly properties.

15. Roadhouses

Roadhouse  is a term that was commonly used to refer to motels or small lodging options along the highway. It was also a popular term in Britain used to describe roadside pubs that included lodging options . While the term can still be found on advertising at some hotels and venues, it’s more commonly associated with restaurants now.

16. Gastro hotels

Perfect for foodies, gastro hotels are focused on providing travelers overnight accomodations coupled with fantastic food. Gastro hotels are usually on the smaller side with fewer than 50 rooms . For example, The Cookbook Gastro Boutique Hotel & Spa has only 17 rooms and takes special care creating culinary delights for guests who choose to book with them.

17. Micro hotels

Micro hotels are exactly what they sound like: Small hotels. Designed for people who need a place to sleep and not much else, the presence of micro hotels is growing . Hilton recently entered the micro hotel space with the creation of its Motto brand , which features city-centric properties that supply "travel-sized rooms for all-sized trips." 

18. Transit hotels

Transit hotels , also called airport hotels, appeal to travelers with a flight to catch. Transit hotels are  located inside of an airport , typically close to a terminal and within a security checkpoint. Passengers facing long flights, or international flights, are able to check in and get some rest at transit hotels in between trips or during lengthy layovers.

Some transit hotels offer short and flexible check-in/check-out times which means guests can stay for as little as a few hours to fit in a quick nap before a connecting flight. Additionally, these hotels are often equipped with soundproofing to reduce noise from nearby transportation terminals, ensuring a peaceful rest. Amenities like luggage storage and proximity to transportation terminals are also key selling points for transit hotels.

19. Heritage hotels

Travelers looking to soak up local culture or explore the history of an area may choose to stay at a heritage hotel . These types of hotels are typically located in historically-significant areas or have a direct connection to major events that shaped the local culture. Due to the age of many of the original structures, some heritage hotels are remodeled versions of old castles or temples.

20. Hostels

A term you may associate with backpacking across Europe, or similar travel styles, hostels are lodging options that appeal to travelers on a budget. Most hostels provide dorm-style sleeping arrangements and target a specific type of traveler, such as students and short-term younger travelers.

Many organize events, tours, and group activities to help guests connect and make new friends during their travels. This can be an ideal situation for solo travelers or remote workers interested in moving to a new area. 

21. Unique concept hotels 

An exciting, fun, and unique type of hotel, concept hotels allow travelers to fully immerse themselves in one-of-a-kind experiences. Concept hotels include ice hotels , underwater hotels , and just about any other unique property you can think of.

FAQs about the different types of hotels

How many different types of hotels are there.

There isn't definitive number of hotel types to choose from. As the industry evolves to meet the needs of modern travelers, new hotel styles are popping up all the time. We’ve outlined 21 of the most common in this post, but there are still more varieties out there, especially in niche markets of the hospitality industry .

What do stars mean for different types of hotels?

The five-star rating system is commonly used by independent organizations to determine the quality of a hotel . The rating system measures different criteria including the condition and quality of the hotel and its guest facilities.

To put it simply, a one-star hotel is typically an economy-priced hotel with no extravagant amenities or additional frills. A luxury hotel, however, may be rated five stars if the property is flawless, provides premium dining services, and offers personalized services to guests. Some hotels these days are even receiving seven stars!

How are hotels categorized?

Hotels can be categorized in a variety of ways, such as by size, location, services, star rating, and amenities. Hotels are most commonly categorized by the level of service (full or limited) and property type (full-service resort, limited-service hotel, and so on).

What do different types of hotels cost?

The price of a night’s stay at a hotel can range widely based on various factors such as included services, the location of the property, the time of year, and any discounts you may qualify for. For example, while a motel stay may run you less than $100 a night , a luxury five-star hotel stay can cost an average of over $850 per night .

Why are there different types of hotels?

Different hotel types exist to accommodate the varying needs and preferences of travelers. A motel is designed to appeal to travelers on the highway in need of an affordable place to sleep for the night, while an all-inclusive resort appeals to vacationers in a specific destination.

There are so many different types of hotels to choose from!

Up next: Have you ever wondered why — and how — hotels smell so good? Our hotel scent guide covers everything you need to know. 

Kim Campbell

Kim is a full-time copy and content writer with many years of experience in the hospitality industry. She entered the hotel world in 2013 as a housekeeping team member and worked her way through various departments before being appointed to Director of Sales. Kim has championed numerous successful sales efforts, revenue strategies, and marketing campaigns — all of which landed her a spot on Hotel Management Magazine’s “Thirty Under 30” list.

Don’t be fooled though; she’s not all business! An avid forest forager, post-apocalyptic fiction fan, and free-sample-fiend, Kim prides herself on being well-rounded.

Maria Waida

Maria Waida is a freelance B2B SaaS Copywriter specializing in blog articles about events and hospitality. She's also a big Dungeons & Dragons nerd. Connect with her on LinkedIn!

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6 Types of Accommodation for Different Travel Styles

Guest Contributor

September 7, 2020

The  coronavirus pandemic  has forced most of us to stay locked inside our homes, leaving us to daydream about exotic destinations and unique travel experiences. However, what we rarely think about when planning our next holiday are the types of accommodation that best suit our needs and our distinct travel style; we stick to what we know and play it safe. But there’s a whole world of opportunity awaiting for us, offering new insights and unique experiences that might just be a better option for our type of tourism. Once the situation dies down, and we are finally able to explore the planet once again, here are six types of accommodation worth considering for your next trip:

Hotels – Best for short-term and luxury stays

Although hotels are one of the most common accommodation options that are favored around the world, they also tend to be among the most expensive. However, hotels usually come with incredible comfort and security, especially when it comes to famous high-end chains. These types of accommodation can also provide luxurious services and amenities, including minibars, room service, and swimming pools, among others. For these reasons, hotels come at a higher cost, and are more suitable for weekend stays or bigger spenders aiming for luxury and comfort. Of course, a two or three-star hotel might be a more affordable option, but these accommodations often offer a subpar experience, which is why other forms of accommodation might suit budget travelers better.

Hostels – Best for budget and solo travelers

Hostels still remain the most popular accommodation among solo travelers and  backpackers , particularly when it comes to European countries. As they often focus on room sharing (sometimes with up to 20 people), hostels are a great option for anyone on a tight budget. However, there are a number of more high-end hostels now available where you can rent a private room, offering a more boutique experience for mid-range travelers. With equipped kitchens, shared living rooms and other communal areas, hostels can offer everything a tourist might need to take care of their basic needs, while still providing an opportunity to socialize with likeminded travelers and make meaningful human connections.

Serviced apartments – A great option all around

Apartments used to be reserved for families with children and larger friend groups that aimed for more affordable accommodation, while still getting a cozy and homey experience. But as the travel industry changed, so have tourist demands, especially when it comes to large and crowded Asian cities. For instance, finding  convenient apartments for rent in Hong Kong  has become the norm in this urban hub, both for short and long-term stays.

This type of accommodation offers comfortable and quiet private sleeping areas, along with shared communal spaces, such as the kitchen, living room, laundry room, and even a charming relaxation zone. As these apartments provide the opportunity for making friendships and experiencing different cultures, while still allowing for privacy, it’s the ideal option for anything from business trips to Millennial solo travels.

Guesthouses – Good for unique travel experiences

Another form of accommodation that can most commonly be found around Asia, guesthouses are usually quite small and budget-friendly. They can be anything from a hut or bungalow located right on the beach to a small hotel in the city, or even a rented room in someone’s house, resembling a bed and breakfast.

The best thing about guesthouses is that you can often negotiate the price with the owner, which can turn out to be quite affordable, or at least barter a deal that offers accommodation with breakfast included. Regardless of the situation, guesthouses can provide some of the most unique and authentic experiences, allowing you to live just like the locals, at least for a while.

House sitting – Suitable for flexible long-term travel

When a homeowner is going away for a longer period of time, they need someone to take care of their house and all the responsibilities that come with it. This is where house sitting comes in. The homeowner will allow a traveler to stay in their property rent-free, but this deal will usually involve housework, pet sitting, or other forms of home maintenance. This situation can be quite beneficial for both parties, as the homeowner can have some peace of mind knowing that their home is safe and taken care of, while the traveler gets comfortable, homey and free accommodation.

Travelers looking for this option will need to have some experience and good references beforehand and might need to spend a bit more time searching through websites and social media platforms in order to find a great house sitting opportunity. Alternatively, CouchSurfing works in a similar manner, only the host is usually at home, and can be a great local guide for the most authentic travel experience.

Work exchange – Best for young, adaptable travelers

Another way to travel the world and get free accommodation is to pay for it with your time, energy and knowledge. From hostels and local farms to NGOs and small local businesses, there are many organizations around the world that offer accommodation in exchange for work or volunteering. The work usually involves more basic tasks, such as cleaning, maintenance or welcoming guests, making it undemanding, while still providing a wonderful opportunity to get in touch with the local culture and expand your horizons.

As there is a large number of work or volunteer exchange options available, you can find both short and long-term deals that best suit your travel needs. However, this form of accommodation might be more suitable for flexible and adaptable people who aren’t bound by a tight schedule or a set travel routine, like  traveling nomads  who want to work while exploring the world.

From traditional to newer and more unique solutions, there are many different forms of accommodation you can come across while traveling; you just need to find an option that suits your travel needs the best.

12 International Hotels To Visit With Your Kids

The north-eastern tyrol: best hiking trails for kids in austria, 1 thought on “6 types of accommodation for different travel styles”.

Great run down – I’ve never thought about house sitting before – great idea!!

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6 Types of Accommodation You Can Use When Traveling

Are you planning on traveling around the world? It can be challenging to determine what accommodation to use, especially if you’re on a budget. But fear not! In this article, we’ll take a look at six different types of accommodation so that you can travel more relaxed. Sound interesting? Then keep on reading!

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Table of Contents

1. Hotels/Resorts

The most popular and well-known type of accommodation for travelers is a hotel or resort. For a nightly price, you get access to a room/apartment and all of the facilities that they provide, such as a gym, pool or restaurant, etc. While these types of accommodation tend to be the most expensive, it’s perfect for those that are wanting a super relaxing holiday, with all of the luxuries included.

2. Short-term rentals

If you’re looking at staying in the one location for a few months to explore everything it has to offer, then a short-term rental is definitely the way to go. These apartments are usually fully-furnished and come with all the basic necessities included. They are cheaper than hotels and can be located in town close to all of the best hot spots. Planning on visiting Canada? Check out these short term rentals North York .

For those who don’t mind getting up close and personal with all nature has to offer, why not give camping a go? While it might not be the most comfortable form of accommodation, it’s certainly cheap, and you can pull up a tent almost anywhere. You can also stay at powered sites in caravan parks and use the facilities that they provide, such as BBQs, pools, and shared bathrooms.

Hostels are certainly of the cheapest types of accommodation out there, and aren’t as scary as they appear in the movies! Since you share lodging with other travelers, you have the opportunity to make new friendships and get to know other like-minded individuals. Amenities are often shared, and the rooms can be either mixed or single-sex.

5. Housesitting

When a landlord leaves their home for a reason, such as a vacation or overseas trip, they often hire someone to take care of their house. This is called housesitting , and some travelers will do it so they can live in the accommodation free of charge. In return, you’ll have to take care of any plants and animals, bring in the mail, and ensure that it remains clean and tidy.

6. Workaways

A workaway , is known as a place that offers you accommodation in exchange for work. They are usually farms, and some even provide you with meals as well. If you’re thinking of getting involved on a workaway while you’re traveling, make sure you have the right work visa. Without it, you could face a hefty fine and be deported to your home country.

And that’s it! Now you can get prepared and book the perfect accommodation for your dream vacation. Just remember the more you look around, the better deal you will get! Good luck, and most importantly, have fun!

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Accommodation: Tourism

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In tourism, accommodation is regarded as “home away from home,” typically for overnight stays. The public thinks of accommodation in terms of hotels, inns, or lodges, though these interpretations continue to evolve and change. Accommodations represent a significant part of the economy worldwide. For example, there were 5.3 million properties in the United States in 2019 that added US$660 billion to the country’s GDP and created more than 8.3 million jobs (American Hotel and Lodging Association 2020 ).

Historically, accommodations can be traced back to the Greeks and Romans and their thermal baths, places for caravan travelers on the Silk Road, or for crusaders going from Europe to Jerusalem. As the industrial revolution began, hotels emerged (often built in city centers as focal points). Famous hotels, such as Ritz Carltons, Le Grand Hotel Paris, Palmer House in Chicago, Waldorf Astoria in New York City, Savoy in London, and Negresco in Nice, have all become part of a global culture. In...

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American Hotel and Lodging Association. 2020. The lodging industry by the numbers. https://www.ahla.com/our-industry . Accessed 15 June.

Birinci, H., K. Berezina, and C. Cobanoglu. 2018. Comparing customer perceptions of hotel and peer-to-peer accommodation advantages and disadvantages. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management 30 (2): 1190–1210.

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O’Halloran, R.M. (2023). Accommodation: Tourism. In: Jafari, J., Xiao, H. (eds) Encyclopedia of Tourism. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01669-6_2-2

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Chapter 3. Accommodation

Rebecca Wilson-Mah

Learning Objectives

• Explain the contribution the accommodations sector makes to Canada’s economy
• Identify how a hotel category is determined, and describe different hotel categories in Canada
• Explain the meaning and structure of independent ownership, franchise agreements, and management contracts
• Summarize current accommodation trends
• Discuss the structure of hotel operations

In essence, hospitality is made up of two services: the provision of overnight accommodation for people travelling away from home, and options for people dining outside their home. We refer to the accommodation and food and beverage services sectors together as the hospitality industry. This chapter explores the accommodation sector, and the Chapter 4 details the food and beverage sector.

In Canada, approximately 25% to 35% of visitor spending is attributed to accommodation, making it a substantial portion of travel expenditures.

There were 8,090 hotel properties with a total of 440,123 rooms in Canada in 2014. Direct spending on overnight stays was $16.7 billion, and the year’s average occupancy rate was forecast at 64%. Across the country the sector employed 287,000 people (Hotel Association of Canada, 2014). According to go2HR, “with a projected rate of annual employment growth of 1.5 per cent, there will be 18,920 job openings between 2011 and 2020” (2015a).

In order to understand this large and significant sector, we will explore the history and importance of hotels in Canada, and review the hotel types along with various ownership structures and operational considerations. To complete the chapter, we will identify accommodation alternatives and specific trends that are affecting the accommodation sector today.

Spotlight On: The Hotel Association of Canada

The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) is the national trade organization advocating on behalf of over 8,500 hotels. Founded over 100 years ago, the association also provides professional development resources, discounts with vendors, and industry research including statistics monitoring and an extensive member database. For more information, visit the Hotel Association of Canada website : www.hotelassociation.ca

The History of Hotels in Canada

As we learned in Chapter 2, travel in Europe, North America, and Australia developed with the establishment of railway networks and train travel in the mid-1800s. The history of Canada’s grand hotels is also the story of Canada’s ocean liners and railways. Until the use of personal cars became widespread in the 1920s and 1930s, and taxpayer-funded all-weather highways were created, railways were the only long-distance land transportation available in Canada.

Both of Canada’s railway companies established hotel divisions: Canadian Pacific Hotels and Canadian National Hotels (Canada History, 2013). The first hotels were small and included Glacier House in Glacier National Park, BC, and Mount Stephen House in Field, BC. The hotel business was firmly established when both companies recognized the business opportunity in the growth of tourism, and they soon became rivals, building grand hotels in select locations close to railway stops.

Spotlight On: Canadian Pacific Hotels

Under the guidance of Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) chief engineer and visionary William Cornelius Van Horne, a hotel empire was born (Canada History, 2013). Van Horne was a pioneer of tourism, and like Thomas Cook in the UK, he saw the potential for tourism that was made possible by the railway. Van Horne was famously quoted in 1886, “If we can’t export the scenery, we’ll import the tourists.” In 1999, many historic CPR properties joined the Fairmont brand. For more information, visit  the Fairmont website : www.fairmont.com/about-us/ourhistory/

Banff Springs Hotel opened in 1888, and other hotels soon followed, including the Château Frontenac in Quebec City (1893), the Royal York in Toronto (1929), and the Hotel Vancouver (1939). These hotels remain in operation today and are landmarks in their destinations, functioning as accommodations and as local attractions due to their historic significance and outstanding architecture.

Through the 1950s and 1960s, an increase in motor traffic saw the rise of the motel. The word motel, used less commonly today, comes from the term “motorist’s hotel,” used to denote a hotel that provides ample parking and rooms that are easily accessible from the parking lot. Traditionally, these structures were designed with all the rooms facing the parking lot, and relied heavily on motor traffic from nearby highways (Diffen, 2015).

Today, there are a number of hotel types, which can be classified in multiple ways. Let’s explore these classifications in more detail.

Hotel Types

Hotels are typically referred to by hotel type or category. The type of hotel is determined primarily by the size and location of the building structure, and then by the function, target market, service level, other amenities, and industry standards.

Take a Closer Look: Hotelier

The magazine Hotelier , available online and in eight annual print editions, is a resource relied on by many industry professionals across Canada. Featuring profiles of successful hoteliers, information about specific brands and properties, and hosting events including a speaker series, Hotelier is a good resource for students wanting more information about the sector in a dynamic format. Read press releases, find out about upcoming events, and subscribe at the Hotelier Magazine website : www.hoteliermagazine.com

Classifications

Competitive set is a marketing term used to identify a group of hotels that include the competitors that a hotel guest is likely to consider as an alternative. These can be grouped by any of the classifications listed in Table 3.1, such as size, location, or amenities offered. There must be a minimum of three hotels to qualify as a competitive set.

Business hotels, airport hotels, budget hotels, boutique hotels, convention hotels, and casino hotels are some examples of differentiated hotel concepts and services designed to meet a specific market segment. As companies continue to innovate and compete to capture defined niche markets within each set, we can expect to see the continued expansion of specific concepts. For example, hotels found close to, or even within, convention facilities are a great match for meetings and events, as well as the SMERF  market (social, military, educational, religious, and fraternal segment of the group travel market).

Spotlight On: BC Hotel Association

The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) represents over 600 members and 200 associate members — accounting for 80,000 rooms and more than 60,000 employees. The association produces an annual industry trade show and seminar series, and publishes InnFocus magazine for professionals in the trade. For more information, visit the BC Hotel Association website : www.bchotelassociation.com

Table 3.2 outlines the characteristics of specific hotel types that have evolved to match the needs of a particular traveller segment. As you can see, hotels adapt and diversify depending on the markets they want and need to attract to stay in business.

Let’s now take a closer look at three types of hotel that have emerged to meet specific market needs: budget hotels, boutique hotels, and resorts.

Budget Hotels

The term budget hotel is challenging to define, however most budget properties typically have a standardized appearance and offer basic services with limited food and beverage facilities. Budget hotels were first developed in the United States and built along the interstate highway system. The first Holiday Inn opened in the United States in 1952; the first Quality Motel followed in 1963.

In Europe, Accor operates the predominant European-branded budget rooms. Accor has four hotel brands that were recently redesigned: hotelF1, ibis budget, ibis Styles, and ibis. These budget brands offer comfort, modern design, and breakfast on site; ibis Styles is all inclusive, with one price for room night, breakfast, and internet access (Accor, 2015).

The budget brands owned by Accor are an example of a shift toward the budget boutique hotel style. A relatively new category of hotel, budget boutique is a no-frills boutique experience that still provides style, comfort, and a unique atmosphere. Starwood has entered this category with a scaled down version of W with the new Aloft brand that debuted in Montreal in 2008 (Starwood Hotels, 2011).

Boutique Hotels

Canada currently has no industry standards to define boutique hotels, but these hotels generally share some common features. These include having less than 100 rooms and featuring a distinctive design style and on-site food and beverage options (Boutique Hotel Association, n.d.). As a reflection of the size of the hotel, a boutique hotel is typically intimate and has an easily identifiable atmosphere, such as classic, luxurious, quirky, or funky.

According to Bill Lewis, general manager for the Magnolia Hotel and Spa in Victoria, “guests seek out boutique hotels for their small size, individual design style, … and personalized service.”  He feels that “maintaining this service level in a small hotel allows for a very personalized and intimate experience that cannot be matched in large branded hotels” (personal communication, 2014).

A resort is a full-service hotel that provides access to or offers a range of recreation facilities and amenities. A resort is typically the primary provider of the guest experience and will generally have one signature amenity or attraction (Brey, 2009).

Examples of signature amenities include skiing and mountains, golf, beach and ocean, lakeside, casino and gaming, all inclusiveness, spa and wellness, marina, tennis, and waterpark. In addition, resorts also offer secondary experiences and a leisure or retreat-style environment.

Take a Closer Look: Condé Nast Best Hotels and Resorts in Canada 2014

Condé Nast Traveler and the CN publishing family have many well-regarded “best of” lists, one of which is the Best Hotels and Resorts in Canada. In 2014, three of the top 10 were in BC, with the Wickaninnish Inn and Black Rock Oceanfront Resort earning first and second place. You can read the rest of the list at,  “The Best Hotels and Resorts in Canada: 2014” : www.cntraveler.com/gold-list/2014/americas/canada

Now that we understand the classifications of hotel types, let’s gain a deeper understanding of the various ownership structures in the industry.

Ownership Structures

There are several ownership models employed in the sector today, including independent, management contract, chains and franchise agreements, fractional ownership, and full ownership strata units. This section explains each of these in more detail and provides examples of each.

Independent

An independent hotel is financed by one individual or a small group and is directly managed by its owners or third-party operators. The term independent refers to a management system that is free from outside control.

There are a number of very well-established independently branded hotels. These hotel companies have developed their own standards, support systems, policies and procedures, and best practices in all areas of the business. Independent hotels have the flexibility to customize or adjust their systems to position their property for success, and the location, product, service, experience, sales and marketing, and brand are all necessary for that success (Cabañas, 2014). An example of an independent hotel is the Wedgewood Hotel and Spa in Vancouver, founded by Eleni Skalbania, and currently co-owned by her daughter Elpie (Wedgewood, 2015).

Management Contract

Another business model is a management contract. This is a service offered by a management company to manage a hotel or resort for its owners. Owners have two main options for the structure of a management contract. One is to enter into a separate franchise agreement to secure a brand and then engage an independent third-party hotel management company to manage the hotel. SilverBirch Hotels is an example of a hotel management company that manages independent hotels and hotels operating under different major franchise brands, such as Marriott, Hilton, and Radisson (SilverBirch Hotels, 2015).

A slightly different option is for owners to select a single company to provide the brand and the expertise to manage the property. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Fairmont Hotels and Resorts are companies that provide this option to owners. In 2014, the iconic Fairmont Empress hotel was purchased by Vancouver developer Nat Bosa and his wife Flora, who continued to retain Fairmont as the management company after the purchase (Meiszner, 2014).

Selecting a brand affiliation is one of the most significant decisions hotel owners must make (Crandell, Dickinson, & Kante, 2004). The brand affiliation selected will largely determine the cost of hotel development or conversion of an existing property to meet new brand standards. The affiliation will also determine a number of things about the ongoing operation including the level of services and amenities offered, cost of operation, marketing opportunities or restrictions, and the competitive position in the marketplace. For these reasons, owners typically consider several branding options before choosing to operate independently or selecting a brand affiliation.

Chains and Franchise Agreements

Another managerial and ownership structure is franchising. A hotel franchise enables individuals or investment companies (the franchisee ) to build or purchase a hotel and then buy or lease a brand name to operate a business and become part of a chain of hotels using the franchisor ’s hotel brand, image, goodwill, procedures, controls, marketing, and reservations systems (Rushmore, 2005).

A well-known franchise in BC is Coast Hotels. A franchisee with Coast Hotels becomes part of a network of properties that use a central reservations system with access to electronic distribution channels, regional and national marketing programs, central purchasing, and brand operating standards (Coast Hotels, 2015). A franchisee also receives training, support, and advice from the franchisor and must adhere to regular inspections, audits, and reporting requirements.

Selecting a franchise structure may reduce investment risk by enabling the franchisee to associate with an established hotel company. Franchise fees can be substantial and a franchisee must be willing to adhere to the contractual obligations with the franchisor (Migdal, n.d.; and Rushmore, 2005).  Franchise fees typically include an initial fee paid with the franchise application, and then continuing fees paid during the term of the agreement. These fees are sometimes a percentage of revenue but can be set at a fixed fee. Franchise fees generally range from 4% to 7% of gross rooms revenue (Crandell et al., 2004).

Fractional Ownership

In a fractional ownership model, developers finance hotel builds by selling units in one-eighth to one-quarter shares. This financing model was very popular in BC from the late 1990s to 2008 (Western Investor, 2012). Examples of fractional ownership include the Sun Peaks Ski Resort in Kamloops and the Penticton Lakeside Resort.

In this model, owners can place their unit in a rental pool. The investment return for owners is based on the term

s of the contract they have for their unit, the strata fees, and the hotel’s occupancy. Managing fractional ownership can be very time consuming for hotel owners or management companies as each hotel unit can have up to eight owners. If occupancy rates are too low, an owner may not be able to cover the monthly strata fees. For the hotel management company, attaining occupancy rate targets is necessary to ensure that the balance of revenue is sufficient to cover the hotel’s operating expenses.

Developers now anticipate that fractional ownership will not be used to finance new hotel builds in the future due to poor performance. There have been some high-profile collapses for hotel developers in BC, and between 2002 and 2012 fractional hotel owners experienced asset depreciation (Western Investor, 2012). It is uncertain how the market will perform in the next several years.

Full Ownership Strata Units

In this financing model, hotel developers finance a new hotel build with the sale of full ownership strata units. The sale of the condominium units finances the hotel development. Examples include the Fairmont Pacific Rim and the Rosewood Hotel Georgia.

Spotlight On: The BC Hospitality Foundation

The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) was created to help support hospitality (accommodation and food and beverage) professionals in their time of need. It has expanded to become a provider of scholarships for students in hospitality management and culinary programs. To raise funds for these initiatives, the foundation hosts annual events including Dish and Dazzle and a golf tournament. For more information, visit the BC Hospitality Foundation website : bchospitalityfoundation.com

No matter what the ownership model, it’s critical for properties to offer a return on investment for owners. The next section looks at ways of measuring financial performance in the sector.

Financial Performance

According to hotel consultant Betsy McDonald from HVS International Hotel Consultancy, the “industry rule of thumb is that a hotel room must make $1 per night for every $1,000 it takes to build or buy. If the hotel costs $125,000 per [room], the room has to rent for $125 per night on average and you need 60% to 70% occupancy to break even” (McDonald, 2011).

Several terms and formulas are used to evaluate revenue management strategies and operational efficiency:

Occupancy is a term that refers to the  percentage of all guest rooms in the hotel that are occupied at a given time. 

Average daily rate (ADR) is a calculation that states the average guest room income per occupied room in a given time period. It is determined by dividing the total room revenue by the number of rooms sold.

Revenue per available room (RevPAR ) is   a calculation that combines both occupancy and ADR in one metric. It is calculated by multiplying a hotel’s ADR by its occupancy rate. It may also be calculated by dividing a hotel’s total room revenue by the total number of available rooms and the number of days in the period being measured.

Costs per occupied room (COPR) is a figure that states all the costs associated with making a room ready for a guest (linens, cleaning costs, guest amenities).

These terms and measurements allow hotel staff and management to track the success of the operation and to compare against competitors and regional averages.

Table 3.3 indicates the top five hotel companies in Canada based on revenue (Hotel Association of Canada, 2014). Note that the top two listings include units and revenues earned outside of Canada as these are international companies.

Across all ownership models, most properties have operational aspects in common. But before we take a closer look at the roles within a typical hotel, let’s review an important part of the accommodations sector in Canada and BC: camping and recreational vehicle (RV) stays.

Camping and RV Accommodation

A significant portion of travel accommodation is also provided in campgrounds and recreational vehicles (RVs). As the Canadian and BC tourism brands are closely tied to the outdoors, and these are two options that immerse travellers in the outdoor experience, it is no surprise that these two types of accommodation are popular options.

In 2011, 14% of Canadian households owned an RV, with over 1 million RVs on the road in the country that year. Economic activity associated with RVing generated approximately $14.5 billion. Across the country 3,000 independently owned and operated campgrounds welcomed guests for camping in RVs and in tents that year (CNW, 2014).

Spotlight On: Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition

The Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition (CRVBCC) represents campground managers and brings together additional stakeholders including the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of BC and the Freshwater Fisheries Society. Their aim is to increase the profile of camping and RV experiences throughout BC, achieving this through a website, a blog, and media outreach. For more information, visit the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition website : www.campingrvbc.com

According to the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition (CRVBCC, 2014), BC is home to 340 vehicle accessible campgrounds managed by the BC Society of Park Facility Operators, and Destination British Columbia inspects and approves over 500 campgrounds across the province. Seven national parks within the province contain an additional 14 campgrounds, and the BC Recreation Sites and Trails Branch manages more than 1,200 backcountry sites including campgrounds and other facilities. Another 300 private RV parks and campgrounds play host to a mixture of longer-stay residents and overnight guests.

Spotlight On: the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association

The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) was founded in 1944 to represent the interests of independently owned campgrounds and lodges. It provides advocacy and collaborative marketing, and promotes best practice among members. For more information, visit the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association website : www.travel-british-columbia.com

In 2014, national industry associations began to call on the government for taxation relief and marketing help to ensure this segment of the sector could continue to thrive. They also highlighted the need to increase the operating hours and seasons of publicly funded campgrounds to match the private sector and to ensure continuity of service for guests (CNW, 2014). Closer to home, the BCLCA (see Spotlight On above) continues to advocate for equitable property tax arrangements, support with employment issues, and other policies relating to land and water use for their members.

Chapter 5 provides more in-depth information about the importance of the recreation sector to BC. For now, let’s move our discussion forward by taking a closer look at the common organizational structure of many accommodation businesses.

The organizational structures of operations and the number of roles and levels of responsibility vary depending on the type and size of accommodation. They are also determined by ownership and the standards and procedures of the management company. In this section, we explore the organizational structure and roles that are typically in place in a full-service hotel with under 500 rooms. These can also apply to smaller properties and businesses such as campgrounds — although in these cases several roles might be fulfilled by the same person.

Guest Services

Before we turn to examples of specific operational roles, let’s take a brief look at the importance of guest services, which will be covered in full in Chapter 9.

The accommodation sector provides much more than tangible products such as guest rooms, beds and meals; service is also crucial. Regardless of their role in the operation, all employees must do their part to ensure that each guest’s needs, preferences, and expectations are met and satisfied.

In some cases, such as in a luxury hotel, resort hotel, or an all-inclusive property, the guest services may represent a person’s entire vacation experience. In other cases, the service might be less significant, for example, in a budget airport hotel where location is the key driver, or a campground where guests primarily expect to take care of themselves.

In all cases, operators and employees must recognize and understand guest expectations and also what drives their satisfaction and loyalty. When the key drivers of guest satisfaction are understood, the hotel can ensure that service standards and business practices and policies support employees to deliver on these needs and that guest expectations are satisfied or exceeded.

Spotlight On: 4Hoteliers

4Hoteliers compiles world news for hotel, travel, and hospitality professionals. It features recent news releases and articles and a free e-newsletter distributed three times per week. For more information, or to subscribe, visit the 4Hoteliers website : www.4hoteliers.com

General Manager and Director of Operations

In most properties, the general manager or hotel manager serves as the head executive. Division heads oversee various departments including managers, administrative staff, and line-level supervisors. The general manager’s role is to provide strategic leadership and planning to all departments so revenue is maximized, employee relations are strong, and guests are satisfied.

The director of operations is responsible for overseeing the food and beverage and rooms division. This role is also responsible for providing guidance to department heads to achieve their targets and for directing the day-to-day operations of their respective departments. The director of operations also assumes the responsibilities of the general manager when he or she is absent from the property.

The controller is responsible for overall accounting and finance-related activities including accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, credit, systems management, cash management, food and beverage cost control, receiving, purchasing, food stores, yield management, capital planning, and budgeting.

Engineering and Maintenance

The chief engineer is the lead for the effective operation and maintenance of the property on a day-to-day basis, typically including general maintenance, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, kitchen maintenance, carpentry, and electrical and plumbing (Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, 2015). The chief engineer is also responsible for preventive maintenance and resource management programs.

Food and Beverage Division

The food and beverage director is responsible for catering and events, in-room dining, and stand-alone restaurants and bars. The executive chef, the director of banquets, and the assistant managers responsible for each restaurant report to the director of food and beverage. The director assists with promotions and sales, the annual food and beverage budget, and all other aspects of food and beverage operations to continually improve service and maximize profitability.

Human Resources

The human resources department provides guidance and advice on a wide range of management-related practices including recruitment and selection, training and development, employee relations, rewards and recognition, performance management, and health and safety.

Rooms Division

Front office.

Reporting to the director of rooms, the front office manager, sometimes called the reception manager, controls the availability of rooms and the day-to-day functions of the front office. The front desk agent reports to the front office manager and works in the lobby or reception area to welcome the guests to the property, process arrivals and departures, coordinate room assignments and pre-arrivals, and respond to guest requests.

Housekeeping

Reporting to the director of rooms, the executive housekeeper manages and oversees housekeeping operations and staff including the housekeeping manager, supervisor, house persons, and room attendants. An executive housekeeper is responsible for implementing the operating procedures and standards. He or she also plans, coordinates, and schedules the housekeeping staff. Room audits and inspections are completed regularly to ensure standards are met (go2HR, 2015b).

Reporting to the housekeeping supervisor, room attendants complete the day-to-day task of cleaning rooms based on standard operating procedures and respond to guest requests. Reporting to the housekeeping supervisor, house persons clean public areas including hallways, the lobby, and public restrooms, and deliver laundry and linens to guest rooms.

Reservations

Large full-service hotels typically have a reservations department, and the reservations manager reports directly to the front office manager. The guest’s experience starts with the first interaction a guest has with a property, often during the reservation process. Reservations agents convert calls to sales by offering the guest the opportunity to not only make a room reservation but also book other amenities and activities.

Today, with online and website reservations available to guests, there is still a role for the reservations agent, as some guests prefer the one-to-one connection with another person. The extent to which the reservations agent position is resourced will vary depending on the hotel’s target market and business strategy.

Sales and Marketing

The sales and marketing director is responsible for establishing sales and marketing activities that maximize the hotel’s revenues. This is typically accomplished by increasing occupancy and revenue opportunities for the hotel’s accommodation, conference and catering space, leisure facilities, and food and beverage outlets. The sales and marketing manager is responsible for coordinating marketing and promotional activities and works closely with other hotel departments to ensure customers are satisfied with all aspects of their experience (go2HR, 2015c).

Catering and Conference Services

In larger full-service hotels with conference space, a hotel will have a dedicated catering and conference services department. The director of this department typically reports to the director of sales and marketing. The catering and conference services department coordinates all events held in the hotel or catered off-site. Catering and conference events and services range from small business meetings to high-profile conferences and weddings.

Now that we have a sense of the building blocks of a typical hotel operation, let’s look at some trends affecting the sector.

Trends and Issues

The accommodation sector is sensitive to shifting local, regional, and global economic, social, and political conditions. Businesses must be flexible to meet the needs of their different markets and evolving trends. These trends affect all hotel types, regions, and destinations differently. However, overall, hoteliers must respond to these trends in a business landscape that is increasingly competitive, particularly in markets where the supply base is growing faster than demand ( Hotelier , 2014).

The Sharing Economy: Airbnb

The  sharing economy is a relatively new economic model in which people rent beds, cars, boats, and other underutilized assets directly from each other, all coordinated via the internet ( The Economist , 2013). Airbnb is the most prominent example of this model. It provides a platform for travellers and manages all aspects of the relationship without requiring any paperwork.

At Airbnb, the host who rents out the space controls the price, the description of the space, and the guest experience. The host also makes the house rules and has full control over who books the space. As well, both hosts and guests can rate each other and write reviews on the website (Cole, 2014).

Airbnb began in 2008 when the founders rented their air mattresses to three visitors in San Francisco (Fast Company, 2012). In fact, the name Airbnb is derived from “air mattress bed and breakfast.” However, Airbnb is not only for couch surfers or budget-conscious travellers; it includes a wide range of spaces in locations all over the world. When users create an account, they set the price and write the descriptions to advertise the space to guests (Airbnb, 2015). Since 2008, the Airbnb online marketplace has grown rapidly, with more than 1 million properties worldwide and 30 million guests who used the service by the end of 2014 (Melloy, 2015).

This and other innovations have changed the accommodation landscape as never before. Ten to 15 years ago online travel agents were a major innovation that changed the distribution and sale of rooms. But they still had to work with existing hotels, whereas Airbnb has enabled new entrants into the industry and thus increased supply.

On the supply side, Airbnb enables individuals to share their spare space for rent; on the demand side, consumers using Airbnb benefit from increased competition and more choice. An unanswered question is to what extent Airbnb has impacted the hospitality industry at large and how it will impact it in the future. A study completed in 2014 in Austin, Texas, indicates that lower-end hotels, and hotels not catering to business travellers, are more vulnerable to increased competition from rentals enabled by firms like Airbnb than are hotels without these characteristics (Zervas, Preserpio, & Byers, 2015).

Distribution and Online Travel Agents

Online travel agents (OTAs) are a valuable marketing and third-party distribution resource for hotels and play a significant role in online distribution (Inversini & Masiero, 2014). In the first quarter of 2014, 13.2% of hotel bookings for individual leisure and business travellers (TravelClick, 2014) were made through OTAs (for example, Expedia, Hotels.com, Kayak.com).

OTAs offer global distribution so that each hotel and chain can be available to anyone at the click of a button (Then Hospitality, 2014). Smaller independent hotels that do not have the global marketing and sales resources of a larger chain are able to gain exposure, sell rooms, and build their reputation through online guest ratings and reviews. OTAs also help hotels offer combined value and packaging options that are attractive to many consumers (for example, booking and search options for hotels, car rentals, air fare, attractions, and travel packages). Customized searches, travel guidance, and rewards points are also available when booking through an OTA. If a hotel or chain has an exceptional product and service, OTAs share guest ratings, which can increase the number of reservations and referrals.

Chris Anderson at the Center for Hospitality Research at Cornell University analyzed 1,720 reservations made on the websites of six InterContinental Hotels brands (2012). Anderson found that every booking made on Expedia attracted three to nine reservations to the hotel’s site, suggesting the commission a hotel pays an OTA is a cost-effective expense, as it generates additional revenues.

The general industry guidance for hotels using OTAs is to ensure that this distribution channel is part of a broader sales strategy, coupled with sound customer relationship management practices.

Table 3.4 provides an overview of some of the distribution channels that are available to hoteliers.

For more on marketing in the services sector, see Chapter 8.

Online Bookings and Mobile Devices

In 2014, 27% of online bookings in leading regions in the United States were made by consumers using their mobile devices and tablets (Travel Click, 2014). As the trend continues, hoteliers are adapting their e-commerce strategy to respond appropriately and to understand what consumers in their hotel segment need, want, and expect from the mobile booking experience. According to Travel Click (2014), same-day reservations are also on the rise. Bookings made with mobile devices can be incentivized by offers for deals such as mobile-specific rate plans or discounts to directly target last-minute shoppers.

Table 3.5 was generated by a review of press releases (Hotel Analyst, 2014), and it provides some examples of mobile technologies and customized apps used by hotel companies.

The accommodation sector, and the hotel sector in particular, encompasses multiple business models and employs hundreds of thousands of Canadians. A smaller, but important segment in BC is that of camping and RV accommodators.

As broader societal trends continue and morph, they will continue to impact the accommodations marketplace and consumer. Owners and operators must stay abreast of these trends, continually altering their business models and services to remain relevant and competitive.

Now that we have a better sense of the accommodation sector, let’s visit the other half of the hospitality industry: food and beverage services. Chapter 4 explores this in more detail.

• Average daily rate (ADR): average guest room income per occupied room in a given time period
• BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF): created to help support hospitality professionals in their time of need; now also a provider of scholarships for students in hospitality management and culinary programs
• BC Hotel Association (BCHA): the trade association for BC’s hotel industry, which hosts an annual industry trade show and seminar series, and publishes InnFocus magazine for professionals
• BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA): represents the interests of independently owned campgrounds and lodges in BC
• Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition (CRVBCC): represents campground managers and brings together additional stakeholders including the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of BC and the Freshwater Fisheries Society
• Competitive set: a marketing term used to identify a group of hotels that include all competitors that a hotel’s guests are likely to consider as an alternative (minimum of three)
• Costs per occupied room (CPOR): all the costs associated with making a room ready for a guest (linens, cleaning costs, guest amenities)
• Fractional ownership: a financing model that developers use to finance hotel builds by selling units in one-eighth to one-quarter shares
• Franchise:  enables individuals or investment companies to build or purchase a hotel and then buy or lease a brand name under which to operate; also can include reservation systems and marketing tools
• Franchisee: an individual or company buying or leasing a franchise
• Franchisor: a company that sells franchises
• Hotel Association of Canada (HAC): the national trade organization advocating on behalf of over 8,500 hotels
• Hotel type: a classification determined primarily by the size and location of the building structure, and then by the function, target markets, service level, other amenities, and industry standards
• Motel: a term popular in the last century, combining the words “motor hotel”; typically designed to provide ample parking and easy access to rooms from the parking lot
• Occupancy: the percentage of all guest rooms in the hotel that are occupied at a given time
• Revenue per available room (RevPAR): a calculation that combines both occupancy and ADR in one metric
• Sharing economy: an internet-based economic system in which consumers share their resources, typically with people they don’t know, and typically in exchange for money
• SMERF: an acronym for the social, military, educational, religious, and fraternal segment of the group travel market
• On a piece of paper, list as many types of accommodation classifications (e.g., by size) as you can think of. Name at least five. Provide examples of each.
• When researching a franchisor, the cost of the franchise must be carefully considered. What other factors would you consider to determine the value of a franchise fee?
• How should lower-end hotels and hotels that do not cater to business travellers respond to increased competition from rentals enabled by firms like Airbnb?
• A hotel earns $3,000 on 112 rooms. What is its ADR?
• That same hotel has an occupancy of 75%. What is its RevPAR?
• How many independent campgrounds are there across Canada?
• How many vehicle-accessible campsites are there in BC?
• Airbnb enables hosts to rate their guests after a stay. Consider some other types of accommodation and list the pros and cons of rating guests.
• Draw an organizational chart for a 60-room boutique hotel, listing all the staff required to run the operation. Put the most influential people (e.g., the general manager) at the top and work your way down. How would you structure this differently from a larger full-service hotel? What would you keep the same?
• Read the Condé Nast list for Best Hotels and Resorts in Canada for 2014 (in the Take a Closer Look feature). Now find two other “best of” lists for BC, Canada, or global accommodations. What do the winners have in common? List at least three things. Now try to find at least two differences.

Case Study: Hotel for Dogs – Philanthropy and Media Coverage

In 2014, the media was taken by storm with a story about a hotel in North Carolina that combined philanthropy with their business model. The property expanded on the trend of allowing dogs in hotels by fostering rescues from a nearby shelter and allowing guests to adopt them. Guests appreciated the warm interactions with the animals and several dogs were adopted as a result (Manning, 2014).Not only did the property provide a valuable service and enhance the guest experience, but the story was repeated across multiple media outlets, creating publicity for the hotel.

This is an example of a current trend: allowing pets in hotels. Now choose from one of the following trends, and research it to answer the questions that follow:

• Carbon offset programs
• Customization
• Reputation management
• Digital concierge
• Themed sleep
• Lifestyle food choices
• Educational experiences
• Millennial traveller
• Sharing economy
• Green certified
• Extreme experiences
• Why do you think this trend has emerged? What market is it helping to serve?
• Find an example of a hotel that has responded to your chosen trend and explain how the trend has informed or changed the hotel’s business strategy or practice.
• Are there any trends that are not listed above that you think should be added? Try to name at least two. Why are these important accommodation trends today?

Accor. (2015). Brand portfolio, economy brands . Retrieved from www.accor.com/en/brands/brand-portfolio.html

Airbnb. (2015). How to host . Retrieved from www.airbnb.ca/help/getting-started/how-to-host

Anderson, C. (2012, November). The impact of social media on lodging performance . Retrieved from www.hotelschool.cornell.edu/research/chr/pubs/reports/abstract-16421.html

Boutique Hotel Association. (n.d.) Terminology and definitions for boutique and lifestyle hotels and properties. Retrieved from www.blla.org/lifestyle-hotels.htm

Brey, E. (2009). Resort definitions and classifications: A summary report to research participants. [PDF]  University of Memphis: Center for Resort and Hospitality Business. Retrieved from http://caribbeanhotelassociation.com/source/Members/DataCenter/Research-UofMemphis.pdf

Cabañas, A. (2014). “Chain” versus “independent” – A view from an operator of independent hotels. hospitalitynet . Retrieved from www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4064293.html

Canada History. (2013). The railroad. Retrieved from www.canadahistory.com/sections/eras/nation%20building/Railroad.html

CNW. (2014, May 1). Canadian RV and camping industry urges government to address critical infrastructure needs.  Retrieved from www.newswire.ca/en/story/1347701/canadian-rv-and-camping-industry-urges-government-to-address-critical-infrastructure-needs

Coast Hotels and Resorts. (2015) Management and franchises . Retrieved from www.maclabhotels.com/about_coast/management

Cole, S. (2014).  Fast company how a startup grows up: Lessons from AirBnB’s open air summit . Retrieved from www.fastcompany.com/3029758/how-a-startup-grows-up-lessons-from-airbnbs-openair-summit

Crandell, C., Dickinson, K., & Kanter, G. I. (2004). Negotiating the hotel management contract. In Hotel Asset Management: Principles & Practices. East Lansing, MI: University of Denver and American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.

CRVBCC. (2014). About us: The Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition . Retrieved from www.campingrvbc.com/about/

Diffen. (2015). Hotel vs motel. Retrieved from www.diffen.com/difference/Hotel_vs_Motel

Economist, The. (2013). Silverstein, B. The rise of the sharing economy. Retrieved from www.economist.com/news/leaders/21573104-internet-everything-hire-rise-sharing-economy

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. (2015). Chief engineer job description . Retrieved from www.linkedin.com/company/fairmont-hotels-and-resorts?trk=job_view_topcard_company_name

Fast Company. (2012). Airbnb – Most innovative companies 2012 . Retrieved from www.fastcompany.com/3017358/most-innovative-companies-2012/19airbnb

go2HR. (2015a). Accommodations . Retrieved from www.go2hr.ca/bc-tourism-industry/what-tourism/accommodation

go2HR. (2015b). Executive housekeeper profile . Retrieved from www.go2hr.ca/career-profiles/executive-housekeeper

go2HR. (2015c). Director of sales and marketing in hotel profile . Retrieved from www.go2hr.ca/career-profiles/director-sales-and-marketing-hotel

Hotel Analyst. (2014). The intelligence source for the hotel investment community . Retrieved from http://hotelanalyst.co.uk

Hotel Association of Canada. (2014). Hotel industry fact sheet . [PDF] Retrieved from www.hotelassociation.ca/forms/Hotel%20Industry%20Facts%20Sheet.pdf

Hotelier. (2014, September 12). The 2014 hospitality market Report. Retrieved from  www.hoteliermagazine.com/the-2014-hospitality-market-report/

Inversini, A., Masiero, L. (2014). Selling rooms online: the use of social media and online travel agents.  International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, 26 (2), 272-292

McDonald, B. (2011). Canadian Monthly Lodging Outlook . Retrieved from www.hvs.com/Library/Articles/

Manning, S. (2014, December 31). This hotel is saving lives by matching guests with rescue pups.   Huffington Post . Retrieved from www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/12/31/hotel-rescue-dogs_n_6401418.html

Meiszner, P. (2014, June 27.) Fairmont Empress hotel in Victoria purchased by Vancouver developer. Global News. Retrieved from http://globalnews.ca/news/1421407/fairmont-empress-hotel-in-victoria-purchased-by-vancouver-developer/

Melloy, J. (2015, February 2). Airbnb guests triple hurting Priceline, HomeAway. CNBC. Retrieved from www.cnbc.com/id/102389442

Migdal, N. (n.d.) Franchise agreements vs. management agreements: Which one do I choose? Hotel Business Review . Retrieved from hotelexecutive.com/business_review/2101/test-franchise-agreements-vs-management-agreements-which-one-do-i-choose

Rushmore, S. (2005).  What does a hotel franchise cost? Canadian Lodging Outlook . Retrieved from www.hotel-online.com/News/PR2005_4th/Oct05_FranchiseCost.html

SilverBirch Hotels. (2015). About us . Retrieved from www.silverbirchhotels.com/about/

Starwood Hotels. (2011, April 12). Starwood to reach 60th hotel milestone in Canada . Retrieved from www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/about/news/news_release_detail.html?Id=2011-04-12-SI&language=en_US

Then Hospitality. (2014, April 15). The benefits of using online travel agencies (OTAs) . Retrieved from www.thenhospitality.com/blog/the-benefits-of-using-online-travel-agencies-otas

Travel Click. (2014). Business and leisure travelers continue to book more hotel reservations online . Retrieved from www.travelclick.com/en/news-events/press-releases/business-and-leisure-travelers-continue-book-more-hotel-reservations-online

Wedgewood Hotel & Spa. (2014). Luxury boutique Vancouver Hotel – Wedgewood Hotel & Spa . Retrieved from www.wedgewoodhotel.com

Western Investor. (2012). Investors burnt in hotel condos, fractionals . Retrieved from westerninvestor.com/index.php/news/ab/692-investors-burnt-in-hotel-condos-fractionals

Zervas, G., Preserpio, D., & Byers, J.W., (2015). The rise of the sharing economy: Estimating the impact of Airbnb on the hotel industry . Boston U. School of Management Research Paper No. 2013-16. Available at SSRN: ssrn.com/abstract=2366898 or dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2366898

Attributions

Figure 3.1   Shot from balconey  by Alan Wolf  is used under a CC BY-NC 2.0 license.

Figure 3.2   Banff Springs Hotel  by Evan Leeson  is used under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license.

Figure 3.3 JONETSUpanpac07  by Jonetsu.ca is used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Figure 3.4 The Magnolia Hotel (Victoria) 2013  by Raul Pacheco-Vega is used under a CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 license.

Figure 3.5   Wedgewood Hotel  by Stewart Marshall  is used under a CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 license.

Figure 3.6  The Empress by   3dpete  is used under a CC BY ND 2.0 license.

Figure 3.7   Coast Bastion Hotel (Nanaimo)  by  Raul Pacheco-Vega  is used under a CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 license.

Figure 3.8  Delta Sun Peaks Hotel  by jhopkins  is used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Figure 3.9   Hotel Georgia, Rosewood Hotel Vancouver  by Rishad Daroowala is used under a CC BY-ND 2.0  license.

Figure 3.10   Night Neighbours  by James Wheeler is used under a CC BY-NC-SA 2.0  license.

Figure 3.11   Vicky Lee at Delta Burnaby Hotel  by LinkBC  is used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Figure 3.12   Scott and Tina Visit the Pan Pacific Vancouver  by Pan Pacific Hotel  is used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Figure 3.13   Cafe Pacifica Restaurant 2013 Winter Menus  by Pan Pacific  is used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Figure 3.14   Airbnb  by Gustavo da Cunha Pimenta  is used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Figure 3.15   Waiting at baggage claim  by hjl  is used under a CC BY-NC 2.0 license.

Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality in BC Copyright © 2015 by Rebecca Wilson-Mah is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Tom's Blogs > Category: The B&B Experience > Different Types Of Tourist Accommodation

DIFFERENT TYPES OF TOURIST ACCOMMODATION

When it comes to planning a trip, whether it's a few miles from home or abroad, accommodation quickly becomes the main concern. With so many different types of tourist accommodations available, it is easy to get lost. We have therefore identified the most common types of tourist accommodation and offer you a definition that will hopefully guide you in your choices.

Hotel Establishment

Hotel establishments include of course hotels, but also motels and inns.

Hotel : This type of tourist accommodation offers a variety of furnished rooms, ranging from a single room with en-suite bathroom to a suite with several rooms, some equipped with a kitchenette. Hotels offer a variety of services such as restaurant, pool and spa, exercise room, business center, concierge, maintenance, room service, etc.

Although there are independent hotels, the majority are part of large chains established in several countries around the world. Each hotel chain caters to a specific clientele, depending on their needs, tastes and means.

One chooses a hotel, especially one that is part of a well-known chain, when they are looking for a certain standard and the convenience of numerous services.

Hotels offer a variety of services such as restaurant, pool and spa, exercise room, business center, concierge, maintenance, room service, etc.

Motel : Like hotels, this type of tourist accommodation offers furnished rooms with en-suite bathrooms. However, the services are often limited to a reception and, for some, a restaurant or an outdoor pool. The big difference between the motel and the hotel is that the motel rooms are accessible from outside the building and have a parking lot facing the room door. 

This type of accommodation is convenient for people on the move who spend most of their day in the car and only need a bed for the night, or for those who like easy access to their room from their car.

One chooses a motel to spend the night before taking the road again the following day.

Inn : Inns have existed since the dawn of time. Today, they are mostly located in ancestral and picturesque houses in villages nearby main roads. This type of tourist accommodation offers furnished rooms, rarely more than twenty, and some with shared bathroom.

Although the services are more limited compared to hotels, the restaurant often offers a high quality cuisine, often based on local products.

One chooses an inn to immerse themselves in a particular decor, often from another era, and to discover the local products during a visit to a village or small town.

Inns are mostly located in ancestral and picturesque houses in villages nearby main roads.

Bed and Breakfast (B&B)

The bed and breakfast was born in England a few centuries ago. These are furnished rooms, some with shared bathrooms, offered with breakfast in a package. In Quebec, many bed and breakfasts are known for their gourmet breakfasts made with local products.

This type of tourist accommodation is unique in that it is actually operated by the owner of a property who lives on the premises. If, in England, the bed and breakfast can offer up to eleven rooms, in Quebec, this number is limited to five. In France, the bed and breakfast is known as "chambre d'hôte" and is mostly found in the countryside, most often on a farm.

The B&B comes in various forms and each one is unique in its kind, as much by the decoration of the premises as by the hospitality of the host. As B&Bs have evolved over time, it is not uncommon to find today luxury establishments offering a level of service similar to that of hotels, or even "niche" establishments that offer their clients an original or special experience.

One chooses a bed and breakfast when they want to immerse themselves in the local culture or when they want to live a personalized accommodation experience.

In Quebec, many bed and breakfasts are known for their gourmet breakfasts made with local products.

Tourist Home

The tourist home is a whole house, an apartment or a cottage offered for rent for short periods (less than 30 days). This type of tourist accommodation includes one or more bedrooms, a kitchen and often a laundry room. Contrary to the bed and breakfast, the owners of tourist residences do not live on the premises, either permanently or during the rental period.

Generally, the tourist residence does not include any of the services normally offered in hotels and B&Bs. Post-stay housekeeping is a service for which the client must often pay, even if he has already left the premises.

Booking a tourist home is mainly done on a web platform, the best known of which is certainly Airbnb . People often confuse Airbnb with B&B because of the similarity in sound of the two words. Although it is possible to find bed and breakfasts on the Airbnb platform, it mainly offers tourist homes of all kinds.

One chooses a tourist residence to reduce costs, especially when there are several people traveling together, or to be able to cook their own meals on the premises.

The tourist home is a whole house, an apartment or a cottage offered for rent for short periods.

Youth Hostel

The youth hostel is an establishment offering accommodation in rooms or dorms, as well as communal rooms. Some hostels also include facilities where you can cook your meals on your own or with a group.

This type of tourist accommodation is designed to offer very inexpensive lodging to young people who are willing to share the space, including the bathroom, with other travelers for a short stay, or even a stopover of a few nights at most. Most major cities have at least one youth hostel.

One chooses the youth hostel if travelling cheaply and meeting other people is more important than comfort.

Little known in Europe, the outfitter is a business that offers services and infrastructures related to hunting and fishing on top of providing one of the above-mentioned types of accommodations.

One chooses to visit an outfitter primarily to practice hunting or fishing on a territory dedicated to these activities.

Classification and Permits

The classification of hotels, tourist homes and youth hostels is based on a scale of 1 to 5 stars and is awarded according to the level of services, facilities and amenities offered in the establishment. That said, this scale is not uniform in all countries and what may be considered a 4 star in one country may be only a 3 star in another.

In Quebec, classification of hotels, tourist homes and youth hostels is based on a scale of 1 to 5 suns and is awarded according to the level of services, facilities and amenities offered in the establishment. In the rest of the world, the scale is from 1 to 5 stars.

In Quebec, as in many countries, all types of tourist accommodations must be subject to government regulations and display a valid operating permit.

Tips and Tricks

Operating Permits

Regardless of the type of tourist accommodation you choose, it is best to ensure that the establishment has a valid business permit . Why should you do this? Because in order to obtain this permit, the establishment will have been subject to safety and sanitation inspections and will have to comply with certain basic standards.

The business license also guarantees a certain professionalism of the operators and the commitment to provide you with the services you are paying for. This recommendation is more important when you decide to use platforms like Airbnb and Homeaway , to name a few, because although more and more municipalities require a permit, many of the accommodations offered do not have one.

Direct Bookings

Online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Booking , Hotels and Expedia can be useful when looking for accommodation in an unfamiliar city, but remember that they are intermediaries who stand between you, the customer, and your host. These OTAs made life easier for travelers in the early days of the Internet, but with Google and Google Map , it's now super easy to search for accommodations in the desired area and get the necessary information before making a choice.

We strongly recommend that you book directly with the chosen accommodation establishment, in order to establish a direct and personalized relationship with your host right from the start. The latter will not have to pay a commission to the OTA and will be more inclined to give you benefits that you would not otherwise have by going through an intermediary.

This topic of direct bookings is the subject of my next blog .

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The 21 Different Types of Tourists

There are different types of tourists around the world. These tourists typically specialize in a single type of tourism such as cultural holidays so they can be easily categorized.

While many tourists are generally interested in multiple aspects of holidaying, some simply prefer to stay in line with very specific interests as follows.

Table of Contents

1. Adventure tourists

Adventure tourists are considered the most daring out there. These people are very active and they breathe experiences. Adventure tourists can be locked in a resort for a couple of weeks as this would simply ruin their vacation. They need action, change of scenery, meeting new people, and experiencing new things.

But what is adventure tourism? This style of tourism often involves outdoor adventures such as safari escapes, or desert dirt bike rides. It can involve any activity that is considered adventurous.

Adventure tourists are known for their high interest in getting into new experiences. If many tourists aren’t willing to travel far for their passions, this can be different for adventure tourists.

For example, some of the most unique swimming with the sharks’ experiences are very remote. Yet, adventure tourists always travel to these locations for the experience.

The most important word to describe these tourists is ‘experience’. All adventure seekers are normally interested in the experience more than being interested in simple everyday activities that are repetitive and monotone.

Adventure tourists aren’t afraid of looking beyond comfort as well. These holidaymakers aren’t always seeking to sleep in the most luxurious hotels. They might even sacrifice personal comfort for the awaiting experience.

2. Backpack tourists

Backpack tourists are typically frugal and interested in multiple aspects of tourism. As their category name suggests, these tourists are normally only traveling with a backpack. This is where they keep clothes, shoes, sunglasses, charges, and even food. Traveling with a backpack isn’t easy. You have to carry it around with you all day.

So why do backpack tourist numbers increase year by year if it’s so difficult to carry a backpack all day? The first reason has to do with economics. It’s simply more affordable to stay in backpack hostels and bed and breakfasts than to stay in typical hotels. It’s also less worrying as these tourists have all their belongings with them at all times.

Most importantly, backpack tourism is fun. Those into this type of holidaymaking aren’t afraid to put on sports shoes and comfortable clothing and get moving. They can see and experience multiple other aspects of their traveling location compared to other tourists.

Backpack tourists also differentiate themselves from adventure tourists as they can be into different aspects such as seeing cultural landmarks and even traveling for good restaurants. They can combine all aspects of tourism with an adventure into a unique budget-friendly type of holidaymaking.

Shortly called ‘backpackers’ these tourists are seen everywhere from busy city streets to remote mountain paths. They are generally highly self-driven and they require minimum guidance to get around as they like to plan.

3. Business tourists

Business tourists are a bit more difficult to stop compared to backpackers. Normally traveling for work purposes, business tourists are mostly interested in their work duties. Of course, things change during the day when these work duties are over.

Known for their tight schedule, business tourists are typically interested to discover the area where they need to work for a while. This means they can jump into the typical tourist attractions, check out local museums, restaurants, and parks.

Business tourists are normally blessed when it comes to expenses. Most business tourists have their transport and accommodation costs covered. This then means they might have money to get into shopping or to other activities that aren’t specifically free.

Those who travel for business are rarely called tourists, however. It’s only the group that has the time to become part-time tourists that are lucky enough to discover new places. There are plenty of professionals traveling for business with no time for holidaying.

New York is the number one business tourist destination. Known for its high number of business and economic development, the city also offers plenty of world-class landmarks to visit, making it the perfect stop for business tourists.

4. Cruise tourists

A special type of tourist is only interested in going on a cruise. Many cruise tourists are seniors and seeing the world from a cruise ship is often a yearly holiday for them. Carnival Cruises and other similar companies offer complete tourist packages for these seniors. Almost all of them have the freedom to choose which countries they want to visit as cruises take tourists on different types of tours.

Some cruises are only bound to the Gulf of Mexico. Others travel around Central and South America. There are also very popular Mediterranean cruises for those who want to travel along Southern Europe’s coast from Portugal to Greece with stops in Spain, France, and Italy.

The main benefit of these cruises is they allow their customers to see different countries as special port stops are planned along the route.

Cruise tourists have also been known to be among those who love long holidays the most. There are plenty of cruses that last more than a month and this type of adventure can certainly count as the summer holiday.

Cruise tourists generally travel in couples or small groups. It’s rare to find solo cruise tourists. Most cabins available on cruise ships are for couples. This is why they can be the ideal type of escape for tourists and couples who want to relax for a few weeks.

Most cruise tourists appreciate good food, drinks, and the ability to socialize on the ship. This is why all cruise ships offer one or multiple restaurants, a common socializing area, a sunbathing deck, music nights, and even casino nights. This is why some tourists even prefer not to step off the ship even when docked as all amenities are covered for them.

5. Cultural tourists

Culture is a sub-niche of traveling. Culture travelers differentiate themselves considerably from others as they choose different destinations to the typical beach resort escape. They might even travel to the same places as others but they visit different attractions.

As their name suggests, cultural tourists are into the culture. This vast area of interest typically covers, history with its museums, education with learning opportunities, ethnographies with its traditions, etc. Being a cultural tourist means you check out all of the cultural attractions of your destinations such as theatres, cinemas, and old cathedrals.

A cultural tourist is typically traveling at a slow pace so there’s sufficient time to admire and participate in different cultural events. Most cultural tourists can be seen in museums. Offering a glimpse into the history of an area, museums are ideal for cultural tourists as they often meet other tourists from around the world also interested in culture.

Cultural tourism flourishes in historically-rich cities and countries. Italy, France, and England are some of the most visited cultural hubs around the world. Italy’s renascence period with its painters, sculptors, and architects still attracts millions of tourists from around the world. These tourists are there to see these aspects that are unique to Italy as they can’t be reproduced anywhere else.

Being a cultural tourist also has its downsides. As every place is unique, cultural tourists typically want to visit more places that require a considerable budget. Visiting London is an experience that is certainly enriched by visiting other British cultural hubs such as Durham or Oxford. All of these cities can offer a combined cultural vacation of at least a week.

6. Domestic tourists

One of the main categories of holidaymakers is represented by domestic tourists. These travelers are typically interested in what their native countries have to offer. Domestic tourism means discovering locals places within the country.

Domestic tourists travel by airplane, car, bicycle, or they even hitchhike. This is one of the most important aspects when it comes to discovering and rediscovering your own country.

All domestic tourism is typically based on the same rules and international tourism, with a busy season where an influx of travelers is expected. For most tourists, it is also a good opportunity to look at what makes their country great.

Domestic tourism incorporates all other types of tourism. Its sub-niches include cultural domestic tourism, culinary domestic tourism, adventure domestic tourism, leisure domestic tourism, etc.

Domestic tourists are also typically interested in multiple aspects of their travels. Visiting a city or a region is typically accompanied by discovering its main touristic attractions and things to do.

7. Eco-tourists

Eco tourists are a growing niche of travelers highly preoccupied with sustainability, ecology, and general nature care. This type of tourism is growing fast around the world and it has a minimalistic approach with a reduced impact on the environment.

Riding dirt bikes through green fields is not ecotourism. But cycling through rural areas is considered eco-tourism, with its care for nature.

Most eco-tourists travel by car or plane to a certain destination. But they can also travel by bike or even walk multiple days to reach a destination or to experience all that it has to offer.

Rural Italy offers great world-class eco-tourism destinations. Small family farms here show tourists how to live like a local, cook like a local, and even how to care for animals.

There’s a modern side to eco-tourism as well. All types of reduced environmental impact technologies such as e-bikes are included in guided eco-tourism tours.

Most eco-tourists appreciate a way of life that cares for nature and what it has to offer. This is why excessive waste isn’t characteristic to these types of tourists which tend to be the best when it comes to not leaving traces of their visit even when out in nature.

Eco tourists are also smart when it comes to limiting the resources they need on holiday. This is why this type of tourism is often characterized as affordable. But it can still be expensive with the exception that these types of eco-tourists know how to make the most from very few resources.

8. Food tourists

Food tourists are a special type of gourmand holidaymakers. Food tourist travels their country and other countries to eat diverse foods. This type of tourism is flourishing in the conditions in which foods become more standardized in developed nations and since certain meals can only be experienced among the locals who make them often.

Among food tourists, there are plenty of sub-divisions such as vegan food tourists or Asian food tourists. All of them are interested in very specific aspects of food. But most food tourists have an open mind to all types of foods and countries.

Cultures influence food considerably. This is why learning about culture often means tasting the food it makes and seeing what characterizes its delicious taste.

Food tours are now offered constantly by travel agents. Some of the best food travel destinations are those in South East Asia. Thailand is one of the specific destinations for good affordable food. Italy is also known for its rich culinary history and people from all over the world make it here to eat unique pizza and pasta.

But food tourists can also travel by themselves. To be considered a food tourist, travelers have to specifically set out to a certain destination for its food. But food tourists can also be found inside the country. Seattle and New York are cities with a rich culinary history.

Texas is known as the state to be in when it comes to stakes. People travel to these locations to eat the best foods as made by those with cooking experience.

Food tourists are also responsible for making various restaurants famous. For example, some of the best Michelin-star restaurants in Spain and the world are located in often isolated locations in small towns and even in villages.

Food tourists travel long distances to reach these restaurants. Once there, they get to eat the food made by famous chefs and they often taste delicious meals made with entirely local ingredients. These tourists are generally known for a culinary passion.

9. Generalists

Generalist tourists are a combination of all types of tourists. These travelers set out to a certain destination with an open mind to experience as much as it has to offer. A generalist tourist can look at a certain style of architecture one day and be interested in the food of a city the next day.

All generalist tourists are typically looking into a holiday experience. This means accommodation and even traveling to multiple places within the region is of interest.

Most holidaymakers are generalists. They travel to different locations with a plan to see its tourist attractions, check out its museums, and even get immersed in unique experiences.

Generalist tourism isn’t characterized by traveling to certain destinations or in a given timeframe. It is characterized by the general will to travel. This is why it can look very different from one tourist to another.

Those who like to travel often describe themselves as tourists, but this generally involves being a generalist tourist.

10. Holiday tourists

Holiday tourists are those travelers that mainly go on holidays when traveling. A holiday is typically a period of at least a few days to relax away from home. Holiday tourists are the most popular type of travelers, especially among families.

Holidays are planned once or multiple times per year and this means taking time away from work and typical chores to travel.

You can see holiday tourists especially around resorts, beaches, camps, and all other locations typically associated as touristy. Florida is a good example of a holiday tourist state. It attracts people from all around the world who say the visit to the sunny state is a ‘holiday’.

The English expression ‘I holiday in’ refers to taking a yearly vacation in a certain location. This is why holiday tourists are those travelers who are typically on a longer vacation, typically the summer vacation which is the longest for most.

Holiday tourists can travel both by themselves and in groups. A holiday can be taken as a way to relax for health purposes. A doctor can recommend going on a holiday for patients under constant stress. Going on holiday is seen as taking a few days up to a few weeks off to relax completely and to have the occasion to reduce stress by worrying less.

Those on holiday are typically using the term in different situations. But their expressions can sometimes be confusing. ‘Holiday food’ is the food made at home, typically during religious celebrations such as Christmas or Easter. Holiday food is rarely used to refer to the meals consumed while away on a summer holiday.

11. International tourists

Most tourists are willing to travel to almost any location. But among general travelers, there’s a distinct category only willing to travel abroad. Many reasons make international tourists only consider holidaying abroad.

Among them is the experience of visiting most tourist attractions in their own countries. Another reason can be the appeal of a certain destination, particularly for its popularity.

International travel is at an all-time high in recent years. With the advent of low-cost air travel companies, the opportunities and the cost of international travel are in the favor of travelers. A large percentage of international tourists are planning their holidays accordingly as this is the type of travel that mostly rewards those who plan.

The perks of proper planning for international tourists include finding the lowest airplane ticket fares and the best accommodation prices. International travel can also be subject to extensive paperwork such as visa applications, proof of income, proof of residency, etc. While highly rewarding, international tourism can also require a bit more preparation than domestic tourism.

International tourists are also some of the most open when it comes to travel destinations. From the classic locations such as France and Spain to the most remote international travel locations such as Iceland, these travelers are typically willing to make an effort to reach the destination.

One of the perks of international travel is getting immersed in different cultures. This can be a bit more difficult to achieve with domestic travel. Major travel channels now recommend remote international travel due to the current pandemic. This is why Antarctica is one of the most remote international travel locations that gets recommended today.

12. Leisure tourists

Leisure tourists are a type of generalist travelers. These tourists are interested in taking a break from reality, seeing new places, eating new foods, experiencing new adventures, but without sacrificing rest and comfort.

Unlike backpackers or adventure tourists, leisure tourists also feel the need to relax while traveling. This is what makes them even more interested in locations with good accommodation options.

Leisure tourists are generally characterized by a slower pace of travel compared to adventure tourists. They like visiting the most popular touristic areas in their destination. Cultural experiences can’t be overlooked by these tourists as well.

Apart from visiting landmarks, leisure tourists also appreciate good diverse food options. All in all, these types of tourists are among the most proficient when it comes to making the most of a trip and coming back come reinvigorated.

13. Medical tourists

Medical tourists are known as patients who travel for healthcare purposes. Both incoming and outgoing patients have been increasing in the US. There are a few factors that influence these two trends.

Incoming patients to the US are typically those coming for a very specific medical intervention. The high number of specialized doctors in the US makes it an attractive country for those coming from smaller countries where there isn’t a great selection of doctors or where there are no proven interventions for a certain condition.

Outgoing US patients are leaving for other smaller countries to get cheaper and often free medical healthcare. Medical insurance costs are constantly rising in the US and this makes it the country almost impossible to get medical treatment for those with a certain condition that isn’t covered by insurance.

US citizens prefer to travel as little as possible to get medical healthcare. Most don’t head to Europe but rather to Central and South America. Costa Rica is the main destination for US medical tourists. Patients head to the country for a few weeks and even for a few months. They might be recommended a rest period under supervision for a certain medical intervention.

The number one reason for US medical tourists outside of the country is dentistry work. All dentistry interventions in the US are considered among the most expensive in the world. It’s a routine to see US citizens traveling abroad only for a few days to get work done on teeth and for other oral care interventions.

Mexico is another popular destination for US citizens seeking to travel to get better healthcare. The proximity of the country, its low prices, and high numbers of doctors and clinics make it a viable option for medical tourists.

While further away from the US, India is also a top destination for medical tourists. Doctors here are some of the best-trained in the world. Since most also speak English, their medical services become tempting to US citizens. Singapore also gets a high influx of US medical tourists. Some of the world’s largest hospitals and some of the top-level doctors here make the small country highly attractive for patients who need complex medical treatment from around the world.

14. Reflective tourists

Reflective tourists are characterized by the wish to travel and learn. It can be said learning has multiple faces in the case of these travelers. Tourists can travel to learn more about a place but they mostly travel to learn more about their heritage, where they come from, and the culture of their genealogy.

Europe is the main destination for reflective tourism. The continent has been known for waves of mass-level migration, especially to North and South America. This is why a rising number of reflective tourists make their way to Europe each year.

But what do these tourists do that others don’t? Reflective tourists are normally interested in culture hotspots. They visit museums, churches, theatres, exhibitions, stadiums, etc. These are all part of a wider spectrum of cultural attractions.

But reflective tourists can also dig a bit deeper into their family’s history. They might even visit local administration to get a trace of their lost relatives and get in contact to learn more about their family’s genealogy.

Reflective tourists are increasing in places such as Spain and Italy. Largely impacted by mass migration over a century ago and even today, these countries have been the main attraction for reflective tourists from the US, Canada, and Argentina.

Many of these countries even have tourism agencies specialized in offering services for reflective tourists on discovery or rediscovery trips.

15. Religious tourists

Religious tourists are one of the largest groups of travelers. These types of tourists are normally interested in heritage historic places of worship tied to their religion. Religious tourism is growing year by year but it isn’t new. Old pilgrimages were made thousands of years ago such as the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Religious tourists can be split according to specific religions and branches within a religion. Jews are normally interested in traveling to Israel. Even Jews who aren’t into tourism are typically interested in visiting Israel at least once.

Jews also travel to other Jewish communities around the world frequently. They can even pitch in to build new Synagogues around the world or to restore historic places of worship.

Christians travel to Israel as well. They visit Jerusalem and Bethlehem mostly, without any particular interest in larger cities such as Tel Aviv. Christians also visit cathedrals, churches, and monasteries around the world.

Christian tour operators organized different circuit visits to specific countries where tourists get to see some of the most important Christian landmarks of the area.

Furthermore, Christians also organized mass pilgrimage events around the world. Other popular Christian destinations include The Vatican, especially for Catholic Christians.

Millions of Muslims visit Mecca each year. The celebrations here are normally held throughout the year. Located in Saudi Arabia, Mecca is a place of worship with strict rules. Pilgrims here aren’t allowed to drink alcohol, according to Muslim tradition.

16. Rural tourists

Rural tourists are normally interested in traditional villages. These types of tourists exist around the world. Rural tourism is completely dead in some areas around the world but it is also very popular in other areas.

Locronan in the Frances Britany region is the country’s main rural hotspot. It enjoys easy access from mainland Europe. Broad Campden in England’s Gloucestershire region is one of the most visited classic villages in the country and the world.

Its small streets, traditional homes, and relaxed way of life make it a high attraction for many of those interested in traveling away from large cities.

The perks of rural tourism include a slower way of traveling. It also allows tourists to meet the locals and improve socializing opportunities. Staying in rural areas also means enjoying different hotels. Far away from cities, the rural hotel often offers more wide-open spaces which encourage walks and time spent outdoors.

Rural tourists also have a few drawbacks to face. For example, there are not many great public transport links to some small villages around the world. This is why renting a car is often a must when it comes to making it to some of these remote towns and villages.

Rural tourism depends on your means of transport but this is what also protects it from becoming overly popular to a dangerous extent.

17. Romantic tourists

Romantic tourists are some of the most relaxed when it comes to traveling. It’s often as much about the journey as it is about the destination with these tourists. Most couples into romantic tourism love gateways.

This is why those into this type of travel typically love to get out more, to explore, and not to be rushed as being away on holiday is all that matters.

Paris is the capital of romantic tourism. Walking the streets of this city is almost an experience worth the trip on its own. With plenty of romantic sights and great street-side cafes, couples can get to spend more time together in a relaxed atmosphere here.

Venice is another popular hotspot for couples. This is where tourists come to experience romantic gondola rides. Almost all of the couples here come to see the canals of the city. But there are plenty of other attractions for these tourists here.

Romantic tourists typically holiday through the year. According to tradition, the honeymoon is the most sought after the period for romantic gateways. Newlywed couples typically go away for a few weeks on the honeymoon, typically to one or multiple romantic destinations.

The specifics of this type of tourism are tied to accommodation requirements, good food, possible shopping opportunities, and the ability to go on long walks. Since romantic tourists like long walks, the most important aspect when choosing a destination is safety, especially for evening time walks.

18. Senior tourists

Seniors love to travel. Since they’ve reached an age when they don’t have to take care of the children or when they don’t have to go to work, seniors can often go on longer holidays further away from home.

Tourism for seniors is increasing in popularity. Two separate types of tourists can be found among them. Couples and group senior tourists are the two main types of travelers seen among the elderly.

Senior couples prefer romantic relaxing locations. Being out in nature or even visiting some of the most important tourist cities around the world are attractive proposals to senior tourists.

Group senior tourists are also popular. Seen in every large city around the world, these groups travel together, they eat in the same places, and they visit the same attractions.

The benefits of traveling in groups as seniors include better safety, the opportunity to socialize, a pre-planned trip, and plenty of opportunities to have fun.

19. Slow-paced tourists

Slow-paced tourists are travelers who like to stay more in a certain location. Instead of spending two days in a city or village, these tourists can spend up to a week in a location. Slow-paced tourism can expand to holidays that take up to a month or even two months.

The benefits of slow-paced tourism are that it allows further discovery opportunities and more socializing opportunities. Slow-paced tourism is ideal for those interested in a cultural or discovery type of experience.

Villages in Germany are known for slow-paced tourism. People come here to see various traditions. They see livestock and farming that typically requires a slower pace of travel.

The benefits of slow travel are that it allows a deeper understanding of a certain culture. But even these types of travelers can be split into multiple sub-categories.

For example, slow-paced tourists can be interested in only visiting a country in appreciation for a certain personality. Slow-paced tourism developed the sub-niche of Shakespeare fans tourism in England.

20. Special interest tourists

Special interest tourists generally visit a location for one thing only. This can be anything from a sports adventure opportunity or to visit a famous landmark. Examples of special interest tourists are seen all across the world.

Most special interests are tied to a historic location, a sports occasion, an individual, or a religious significance place. For example, tourists only go to Santiago de Compostela to visit the city’s cathedral. The same one-attraction or one-activity type of tourism is seen all around the world.

21. Sports tourists

Sports tourism is at an all-time high. This type of tourism isn’t new, but the rise of sports and sports personalities makes people travel. Sports tourists often travel with their teams. Baseball fans and football fans often travel to support their teams.

But these tourists can also travel without a specific sporting event in mind. They can travel to see stadiums or they can travel to see important places in sports.

One of the most visited stadiums in the world is Camp Nou in Barcelona. This is the home of the most popular sports team in the world, FC Barcelona. The stadium sees millions of tourists per year. A large number of them only come here to see the stadium and the place where their favorite football players play.

Sports tourism has plenty to offer all around the world. The second most popular football team in the world is FC Liverpool. Its stadium is normally visited by thousands of tourists and football fans from around the world even when it’s not a match day. Groups are split into hourly visits and they get to visit the stadium in a 1-hour tour.

But the most important type of sports tourists is the traveler going to a certain event. In the US, sports tourists are best represented by Superbowl fans. This is where travelers from all around the country try to reach the finals, an event which is often quite expensive and difficult to get into.

A similar event is seen in Europe with the final Champions League game where sports fans from around the continent fight to get tickets to the event and to fly to the destination stadium for the big game.

The drawbacks of sports tourism are the lack of diversity outside stadiums, sports museums, and sporting events. Most of the tourists interested in a particular part of sports are normally reserved when it comes to traveling for other sports attractions such as small private sports memorabilia collections.

Unlike other tourists, sports tourists are known to spend a lot on events. Most sports events worth traveling for are known for their high ticket prices.

This is why sports fans typically have to start saving sooner compared to other tourists, especially since accommodation prices are higher in the period of a large nearby sporting event.

Saving up is mandatory for these tourists who need to spend more than others to reach a destination.

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Want Affordable Accommodation for Travelers? Here's What You Need To Know About Backpacker Hostels

Backpacking hostels have been a highlight for most travellers for the past few years and there’s not just one reason why backpacking hostels are a better accommodation for travellers than the other..

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As travelers, everywhere we travel to or go, we look for budget friendly spaces to stay. Comfortable places where we can find like minded people who can potentially be friends and places where we can also get a better understanding of the place we travel to.

The concept of a hostel has evolved through time, and now hostels welcome visitors of all ages, offering inexpensive but pleasant lodging and a distinct ambiance not available in typical hotels or vacation accommodations. While the term “backpacker” refers to someone who travels with a backpack.

Backpacking hostels have been a highlight for most travellers for the past few years and there’s not just one reason why backpacking hostels are a better accommodation for travellers than the other. Backpacking hostels offer different things to different people according to their needs and requirements. Another reason for hostels’ growing appeal among tourists, particularly backpackers, is the flexibility and convenience they provide.

For one person that’s on a really tight budget, the price may be the main draw. For another that doesn’t care too much about their budget but is travelling solo, then they might be more interested in the social aspect of the hostel. It’s really down to each individual, but let’s have a further look at all the reasons why hostels are so popular.

What is a backpacker hostel?

 A backpacker’s hostel offers travellers accommodation for a modest rate, frequently in a dormitory arrangement. They are far less expensive than hotels, motels, or other forms of vacation lodgings, and they may be found in a variety of locations across the world.Backpackers on a budget will frequently find them to be the greatest option for conserving money and being safe. A backpackers’ hostel will typically provide guests with a variety of lodging options, the most popular of which is a dorm-style room with six or eight bunk beds. A person will only hire a bunk. Young people, particularly students, are among the most typical visitors to hostels, however older tourists may also stay there. However,  In a backpacker hostel, communal areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, as well as a café, are shared by all of the passengers.

Some of the more costly hostels might even have private rooms available, which are ideal for couples travelling together. However, many couples will be happy sleeping in bunk beds for the night; it also allows hostels to optimise space and fit as many people as possible, therefore bunk bed style rooms are the most prevalent. Even though private rooms may be rented, a backpackers’ hostel will almost usually require visitors to use a public toilet, as private facilities are scarce.

And this is the most fundamental distinction between hotels and backpackers’ hostels, since hotels provide private rooms with private toilets as well as other amenities such as a restaurant and room service. Hostels are, in most situations, far less expensive than individual hotel rooms. They’re also socially active places with frequent events where you may meet and make new friends.

Various sorts of hostels may be more suited to different types of tourists. It may be a good idea to search for a backpackers’ hostel without one if you want a calmer experience. Most hostels accept both reservations and walk-ins. 

A backpackers’ hostel may even provide additional services to visitors, either for free or for a cost. These can include secure, lockable luggage storage, for example, if someone desires to travel without bringing anything with them. The majority of hostels will also include Wi-Fi or at the very least a computer with Internet connection. A hostel’s employees will frequently be pleased to provide recommendations for sightseeing or other pleasant things to do in the neighbourhood.

Also read: All the Things You Need To Remember for Your Next Solo Trip

How long can you stay at a backpackers hostel?

You may stay in a hostel for as long as you like, but remember why you came to this magnificent plane in the first place: to explore! Allowing oneself to become too comfortable by watching Netflix in bed every night and going to the same places is a bad idea.

Because the premise of hosteling is that people move around a nation and don’t remain in the same spot all the time, some hostels may have maximum stay limitations and won’t let you stay for more than a couple of weeks. Many others, on the other hand, will not object if you remain longer: after all, you are still their customer! Because some hostels do not accept residents or locals, you will be needed to provide identification or an international passport to establish that you are an international tourist.

How much does it cost to stay in a backpackers hostel?

Because the cost of everything changes as you travel, this is a challenging number to compute. Some nations are inexpensive to visit, while others are not. A reasonable thumb rule is that a night in a nice hostel dorm room will cost half of what a night in a decent hotel room would cost. Some hostels are unquestionably less costly, while others are unquestionably more expensive, but it is generally true that living in hostels allows you to decrease your lodging expenditures in half. This is without a doubt the most compelling reason to stay in a hostel!

In Western Europe or Australia during peak season, a bed in a dorm may cost up to $50, while a nice private room can cost up to $80. However, in Southeast Asia, you may get a dorm bed for as low as 50 cents per night and a private room for as little as $3. Eastern Europe and South America are in the centre of the price range, with dorms costing $10 and individual rooms costing $30. On average, a dorm room will cost between $10 and $30 per night, while a private room would cost nearly twice as much.

While if i’m to be specific, In India, the average cost of a hostel stay ranges from INR 450 to INR 850 per person. These fees may also vary depending on factors such as location, time, season, and the facilities available at the hostel.

What are the different types of backpacker hostels?  

You might be surprised to hear that there are several types of backpacker hostels, each with its own personality and set of requirements. and, obviously, this is a large subject that, in all honesty, needs its own blog. However, now that I’ve brought it up, I suppose I should elaborate on some of the important ones. Hostels of various varieties each have their own particular moods and goals that appeal to different types of travellers.

Party hostels: 

A party hostel is similar to any other hostel in that it offers dorm rooms, is inexpensive, and caters to a younger demographic of travellers. Party hostels, on the other hand, cater to travellers who want to experience a city’s nightlife as well as its cultural and historical monuments. 

It is where the true madness takes place; newcomers are sometimes greeted with a drink and urged to party. Parties are constant, may get outrageously chaotic – and anything can happen. In general, party hostels target younger, first-time visitors, but don’t be shocked if you meet older, more experienced tourists who like partying there as well.

Chill hostels: 

Chill hostels are significantly more laid-back and cater to travellers looking for a good homey ambiance as well as a comfortable and quiet place to sleep. These are more ‘living hostels’ aimed towards long-term travellers. They’re generally tastefully furnished, with extremely cosy sensations, and will request that everyone turn off the lights and stay quiet after a certain hour. They also, coincidentally, attract more smokers than party hostels.

Nature hostels:

Some hostels have a more retreat-like atmosphere. These sorts of hostels are frequently situated in the middle of nowhere, allowing you to disconnect for a while and reconnect with Mother Earth. These are fairly widespread in warmer areas across the world. Many of these eco hostels were built using sustainable materials, and others care for the environment by implementing green activities such as composting, water conservation, installing energy-saving equipment, and providing organic vegetables in their meals.

Also read: Travelling Alone? Explore The Challenges Of Solo Travels

Are hostels safe? Is Staying in a hostel safer than hotels?

You may have heard that hostels are where machete-wielding maniacs slaughter young travellers or sell them into slavery by East European mafia syndicates. However, the reality of hostel living is significantly less exciting. The reality is that hostels are incredibly secure places to stay. 

Hostels are without a doubt one of the safest ways to travel. Most hostels include lockers where you may store your belongings, and many have late-night security as well. Hostels are safer because of their communal nature: they tend to have positive feelings. It’s quite simple to make new acquaintances and travel companions when living in hostels, and because of their social character, you’re always surrounded by other people. The more people there are, the more individuals will be aware of their surroundings, and the less probable unpleasant things will occur.

Furthermore, because of their nature, hostels are by far the most convenient method to meet other wonderful travellers! It’s hardly even a contest. Hostels should be your first, second, third, and fourth choice if you want to meet other people while travelling, even in the nicest destinations to travel alone.

Want Affordable Accommodation for Travelers? Here’s What You Need To Know About Backpacker Hostels

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Types of Accommodation

What is accommodation.

Accommodation generally refers to providing lodging or living space for someone. It can range from temporary arrangements like hotels or vacation rentals to more permanent situations like renting an apartment or owning a house. In a broader sense, accommodation can also refer to adapting or adjusting to meet someone’s needs or preferences, such as making changes to a building to make it accessible for people with disabilities or modifying work schedules to accommodate personal commitments.

Key Takeaways: Accommodation primarily involves providing lodging or living space for individuals or groups Accommodation also involves adapting or adjusting to meet specific needs or preferences. Successful accommodation often requires flexibility and consideration from all parties involved.

Table of Content

Bed and Breakfast (B&B)

Vacation rental, boutique hotel, safari lodge.

Hotels are establishments that provide lodging, usually on a short-term basis. They offer a range of amenities and services such as room service, housekeeping, concierge assistance, and often include on-site dining options, fitness centers, and business facilities. Hotels vary in size, style, and price range, catering to different types of travelers and preferences.

Motels, short for “motor hotels,” are designed for motorists, offering convenient access to rooms directly from the parking lot. They typically provide basic amenities such as a bed, bathroom, and sometimes simple dining options. Motels are often more affordable than hotels and are commonly found along highways and in suburban areas.

Bed and Breakfast accommodations offer a more intimate and personalized lodging experience. Guests stay in private bedrooms within a residential property, and breakfast is typically included in the room rate. B&Bs are often operated by local hosts who provide hospitality and recommendations for local attractions and activities.

Hostels are budget-friendly accommodations popular among backpackers and budget travelers. They offer dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and shared facilities such as bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas. Hostels prioritize affordability and social interaction, making them ideal for solo travelers and groups looking to meet fellow travelers.

Resorts are luxury accommodations offering a wide range of amenities and recreational facilities. They are often located in scenic destinations such as beaches, mountains, or islands and provide services, such as pools, spas, restaurants, golf courses, and organized activities. Resorts cater to guests seeking relaxation, leisure, and entertainment in a luxurious setting.

Vacation rentals are private properties rented out to travelers for short-term stays. They can include apartments, houses, villas, cottages, and even unique accommodations, like yurts or houseboats. Vacation rentals offer more space, privacy, and flexibility compared to traditional accommodations, making them popular for family vacations, group getaways, and longer stays.

Guesthouses are similar to B&Bs but often less formal and more casual in atmosphere. They are typically smaller lodging establishments, often family-run, offering private bedrooms and shared common areas. Guesthouses provide a home-like environment where guests can interact with the hosts and other travelers, often receiving personalized attention and local insights.

Inns are cozy accommodations often found in rural or historic settings. They offer lodging, meals, and sometimes a pub or tavern on-site. Inns are known for their charm, character, and warm hospitality, providing guests with a comfortable and welcoming retreat, especially in quaint countryside or village locations.

Cabins are rustic accommodations typically found in wooded or mountainous areas. They range from simple log cabins to luxurious chalets and offer a secluded and cozy retreat surrounded by nature. Cabins are popular for outdoor enthusiasts, romantic getaways, and family vacations, providing a peaceful escape from urban life.

Hostelries are historic accommodations with a focus on lodging, dining, and sometimes entertainment. They are often located along old trade routes or in historic towns and villages, offering guests a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage and traditions. Hostelries may include features like period furnishings, traditional cuisine, and live music or performances.

ApartHotels combine the features of an apartment and a hotel, offering serviced apartments with hotel-like amenities. Guests enjoy the privacy and convenience of a self-contained unit with a kitchen, living area, and bedroom, along with services such as housekeeping, reception, and concierge assistance. ApartHotels are ideal for extended stays, business travelers, and families seeking the comforts of home away from home.

Eco-Lodges are environmentally conscious accommodations designed to minimize their impact on the environment. They are often located in natural settings such as rainforests, deserts, or remote islands and incorporate sustainable practices in their construction, operations, and activities. Eco-Lodges offer guests an opportunity to connect with nature while supporting conservation efforts and responsible tourism.

Farm Stays offer accommodations on working farms or rural properties, allowing guests to experience farm life and activities firsthand. Guests may participate in farm chores, harvest produce, or interact with animals while enjoying comfortable lodging and homemade meals prepared with fresh ingredients. Farm Stays provide a unique opportunity for relaxation, education, and cultural exchange in a bucolic setting.

Treehouses are unique accommodations built in trees, offering a memorable and often adventurous lodging experience. They range from simple platforms nestled among branches to elaborate structures with multiple levels and amenities. Treehouses provide a sense of immersion in nature, allowing guests to reconnect with their inner child and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from lofty heights.

Boat and Ship accommodations offer lodging on watercraft such as boats, yachts, or cruise ships. They provide a floating hotel experience with cabins, dining options, entertainment, and recreational facilities while sailing on rivers, lakes, or oceans. Boat accommodations range from cozy cabins on river barges to luxurious suites on ocean liners, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Campgrounds provide outdoor accommodations for tents, RVs, or cabins, typically located in natural settings like national parks, forests, or lakesides. They offer campsites with varying levels of amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and access to water and restroom facilities. Campgrounds are popular for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and stargazing, offering a back-to-nature experience for campers of all ages.

Glamping, short for “glamorous camping,” offers luxury camping accommodations with resort-style amenities and comforts. It combines the adventure of camping with the indulgence of upscale lodging, featuring accommodations such as safari tents, yurts, or geodesic domes equipped with plush bedding, private bathrooms, and even hot tubs or private chefs. Glamping caters to travelers seeking adventure and relaxation without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Castle accommodations allow guests to stay in historic castles or castle-like buildings, offering a glimpse into the past and a taste of regal living. Castles may feature medieval architecture, grand interiors, and expansive grounds, providing a truly immersive and enchanting experience. Castle accommodations often include luxurious suites, fine dining, and exclusive amenities, making them ideal for romantic getaways, special occasions, and cultural exploration.

Boutique Hotels are small, stylish accommodations known for their unique design, personalized service, and intimate atmosphere. They are often located in trendy or culturally rich neighborhoods, offering distinctive decor, locally inspired amenities, and curated experiences tailored to individual preferences. Boutique Hotels cater to discerning travelers seeking a more authentic and immersive stay, away from the cookie-cutter experience of larger chain hotels.

Safari Lodges are accommodations located in or near wildlife reserves, national parks, or game reserves, offering guided safari experiences and wildlife viewing opportunities. They range from luxury tented camps to elegant lodges, providing a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding wilderness and observing native wildlife in their natural habitat. Safari Lodges offer a unique blend of adventure, luxury, and conservation, allowing guests to connect with nature while supporting wildlife conservation efforts.

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25 Hotel Industry Statistics [2023]: Hotel Rate Trends And Market Data

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Research Summary. The hotel industry not only reaches across the globe but also spans a wide cross-section of options ranging from budget motels to luxury resorts, making it an interesting field to study. Here are the key statistics on the hotel industry:

There are at least 187,000 hotels in the world as of 2023.

There are an estimated 17.5 million guestrooms in the world.

The global hospitality industry is worth over $4.548 trillion as of 2022.

There are about 1.6 million people employed by the U.S.’s accommodation industry.

The global travel and tourism industry was worth $4.671 trillion in 2020 , down from its $9.17 trillion value in 2019.

The average U.S. hotel occupancy rate is 64.2% as of February 2023.

Hotel Industry Statistics by Consumer Preferences

78% of millennials would rather spend their money on experiences than on things.

Hotels with a significant number of high-quality photos on their websites see a 15% increase in conversion rates.

This is compared to hotels that use few and/or low-quality photos. Including good photos of hotel rooms and amenities helps travelers know what they’re getting into and better imagine themselves there.

TripAdvisor shared that the number of photos a hotel has on its TripAdvisor profile has the most impact on traveler engagement with the listing.

More specifically, properties with at least one photo see a 138% increase in engagement and are 225% more likely to receive a booking inquiry, and those with over 100 photos see a 151% increase in engagement and are 283% more likely to receive a booking inquiry.

Europe has the highest hotel occupancy rate of any region in the world.

As of 2019, European hotels have an occupancy rate of 72.2%, meaning an average of 72.2% of all hotel rooms are occupied.

US Hotel Industry Statistics

There are 90,562 hotel and motel businesses in the U.S.

This number is a 0.4% increase from 2021, which is on trend with the average annual growth rate of 0.4% that this industry has seen from 2017 to 2022.

There are approximately 5.29 million hotel rooms in the U.S.

The U.S. hotel and motel industry is worth $177.6 billion.

This industry is predicted to grow by 33.6% throughout 2022 as it continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, although it’s seen an average annual decline of 2.4% from 2017 to 2022.

The U.S. tourism industry was valued at $545.11 billion in 2020.

In 2020, U.S. hotels had an average occupancy rate of 44%.

Hotel Industry Statistics by Employment

The U.S.’s accommodation industry employs about 1.6 million people.

In Q1 2019, there were 1.352 million gross job gains in the U.S. leisure and hospitality sector.

Here are data points for each quarter from Q1 2019 through Q2 2021.

In Q1 of 2019, there were 1.22 million gross job losses in the U.S. leisure and hospitality industry.

Here are the numbers for each quarter following that through Q2 2021:

The average employee of the U.S. leisure and hospitality industry makes $19.44 an hour.

32% of U.S. leisure and hospitality industry employees have access to employer-sponsored health care.

43% get paid vacation from their employers, and 50% receive paid sick leave .

Hotel Industry Trends and Projections

In 2019, the global hotels and resorts market was worth over $1.5 trillion.

This was just before the COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread lockdowns in 2020, and it was the pinnacle of seven years of nearly continuous growth.

From 2021 to 2025, the global hotel and travel accommodation industry is projected to have a CAGR of 7%.

This will result in a market value of $1.05 trillion in 2025. In 2020, the global hotel and travel accommodation market was worth $673.02 billion, and it grew to $801.9 billion in 2021, which is a CAGR of 19.1%.

In 2020, travel and tourism contributed $4.671 trillion to the global GDP.

While this is a significant amount of money, it is also a significant decrease from the $9.17 trillion it contributed in 2019. This is a result of the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns that significantly reduced the amount of travel in the world.

From 2008 to 2018, the number of hotels around the world has increased by nearly 14,300.

Hotel Industry Statistics FAQ

What is the growth rate of the hotel industry?

The growth rate of the hotel industry is 19.1%. This was the CAGR from 2020 to 2021 as the global hotel industry reopened after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns began to lift.

What are the four segments of the hospitality industry?

The four segments of the hospitality industry are Food and Beverage, Accommodation (also referred to as Lodging), Travel and Tourism, and Entertainment and Recreation.

You don’t necessarily have to be traveling to enjoy the hospitality industry’s offerings. The Food and Beverage sector, for example, includes restaurants , bowling alley food, and concessions stands, not just hotel restaurants. As a result, this is the largest sector of the hospitality industry.

The Accommodation or Lodging sector includes hotels, campgrounds, rental homes, and any other facility that gives people a place to sleep. This includes resorts, motels, and hostels all alike.

The Travel and Tourism sector covers the actual act of traveling via airlines, cruise ships, trains, taxis, and more. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, chances are you’ll utilize at least one of travel and tourism’s offerings on a trip.

The last sector of the hospitality industry is Entertainment and Recreation. This sector is made up of all the activities that people do just for the enjoyment of it. These include:

Swimming pools

Spectator sports

Movie theaters

Participatory sports (e.g., scuba diving, golf, tennis)

Amusement parks

How many American hospitality workers were fired or laid off in 2020?

10.65 million American hospitality workers were fired or laid off in 2020. While About 1.2 to 1.4 million people in this industry lost their jobs each quarter throughout 2019, 1.695 found themselves unemployed in Q1 2020, and a whopping 6.331 million were suddenly unemployed in Q2 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.

Is the hotel industry recovering?

Yes, the hotel industry is recovering. The global hotel and travel accommodation industry is expected to have a CAGR of 7% from 2021 to 2025.

What are the latest trends in the hotel industry?

The latest trends in the hotel industry are high-tech, green facilities, alternative accommodation options, and incorporating experiences into hotel stays.

Hotels are beginning to implement more and more smart technology, whether it’s a keyless entry or turning on the AC with an app. In addition, many hotels are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint by conserving water, reducing single-use plastics, and earning their LEED certifications.

Another hotel industry trend is that travelers (especially millennials) are looking more toward alternative accommodation options, whether that’s a rental house or villa, a mobile home, or hotels with a personality that reflect the local culture rather than standardized branding.

Hotels are responding to this by focusing on opening boutique hotels and facilities that bring unique elements to their decor, amenities, and even floor plans.

The hotel industry is a major player in the global and U.S. economies. In 2022, the global hotel industry was worth more than $4.548 trillion and is projected to see a CAGR of 7% from 2021 to 2025. In the U.S. alone, the hotel and motel industry is worth $177.6 billion, and the tourism industry is worth $545.11 billion.

Lockdowns in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 significantly impacted this industry. The worldwide travel and tourism industry contributed $4.671 trillion to the global GDP in 2020, which is just over half the amount it contributed in 2019 ($9.17 trillion).

In the U.S., over seven million leisure and hospitality industry employees lost their jobs during the first six months of 2020, compared to the just over five million that found themselves unemployed throughout all of 2019. Hotel occupancy rates also dropped by 33.3% from 2019 to 2020.

Eventbrite. “ Millennials: Fueling the Experience Economy. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Medium . “ The Importance of Imagery on Hotel Websites. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Frederic Gonzalo. “ Photos Impact Bookings More Than Reviews. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Statista. “ Occupancy Rate of the Hotel Industry Worldwide From 2008 to 2019, by Region. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

IBISWorld. “ Hotels & Motels in the U.S. – Number of Businesses 2005-2027. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Statista. “ Number of Hotel Rooms in the United States From 2017 to 2020, by Chain Scale Segment. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

IBISWorld. “ Hotels & Motels in the U.S. – Market Size 2005-2027. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Statista. “ Market Size of the Tourism Sector in the United States From 2011 to 2020, with a Forecast for 2021. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Statista. “ Occupancy Rate of Hotel Industry in the United States From 2001 to 2020. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Accommodation: NAICS 721. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Economic News Release: Employment Situation Summary. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Databases, Tables & Calculators by Subject: Gross Job Gains for the Leisure and Hospitality Sector in the U.S. (Rounded to the Nearest Thousands.) ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Databases, Tables & Calculators by Subject: Gross Job Losses for the Leisure and Hospitality Sector in the U.S. (Rounded to the Nearest Thousands). ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Leisure and Hospitality. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

IBISWorld. “ Global Hotels & Resorts – Market Size 2005-2027. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Globe Newswire. “ Global Hotel and Other Travel Accommodation Market Report 2021: Market is Expected to Grow From $673.02 Billion in 2020 to $801.9 Billion in 2021 – Long-term Forecast to 2025 & 2030. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Statista. “ Total Contribution of Travel and Tourism to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Worldwide From 2006 to 2020. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Statista. “ Total Number of Hotels Worldwide From 2008 to 2018. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Hospitality Net. “ What Are the 4 Segments of the Hospitality Industry. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

Hotel Tech Report. “ 100 Hotel Trends You Need To Watch in 2022 & Beyond. ” Accessed on February 16, 2022.

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Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.

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