The Traveling and hotels industry is a vital sector within the wider travel and tourism industry, providing people with access to accommodation when visiting a new destination. Accommodation requirements can vary widely depending on a person’s trip, the purpose of their visit, their budget and the experience they are hoping to gain. Hotels offer a range of accommodation options, from cosy rooms to suites and are often located in central locations with easy access to public transportation. Airbnb, home sharing and other alternative accommodation providers can also provide people with an affordable option when traveling, but lack the oversight and comfort that hotel chains are able to provide.
The travel and hospitality industry has experienced several key trends over the past decade, including increasing globalization, digitalization and sustainability. However, the coronavirus pandemic has impacted both business and leisure travel, and the industry is now working to rebound from these challenges.
Hotel chains are increasingly offering bespoke experiences for their guests, with some hotels even offering themed rooms such as romantic ‘love hotels’ and family friendly ‘nanny suites’. This is in response to a shift in consumer preferences, which have seen them prioritize adventure and cultural immersion over relaxation when traveling.
Some hotels are also expanding into food and beverage with upscale restaurants and bars, with some even opening rooftop gardens. This is due to a rise in demand for sustainable and ethical travel, which is being driven by millennials and Gen Z travelers who prefer unique and authentic experiences over standard chain offerings.
Many hotels are able to offer a variety of flexible rates when booking online, with policies clearly laid out during the booking process. Those looking to save money can often book a prepaid rate, which will knock a chunk off the price of a stay. However, this does come with a trade-off in terms of flexibility should plans change.
Both hotels and Airbnb can offer discounted stays for longer stays, with some hotels having a dedicated extended stay brand to cater to this market. This can be a great option for those wanting to stay in a hotel for weeks or even months at a time, and provides the security and convenience that comes with knowing that a hotel will have more oversight than a residential Airbnb property.
Motels are a distinct type of hotel that differs from traditional hotels in that they are usually found alongside highways or other routes, and provide parking spaces for large vehicles such as trucks and buses. Motels tend to be more basic than hotels and have a limited number of facilities on offer, but they are usually cheaper than hotels and can be a good choice for those on a tight budget.
When planning a holiday, it’s important to look at all the different accommodation options available before making a decision. Hotels can be expensive, but there are ways to get the best deals, such as booking through an online travel agency or taking advantage of bundled packages offered by airlines and other travel operators. Daily deal sites such as Groupon and LivingSocial are also a great way to find cheap hotel deals.