Traveling and hotels are one of the many fields inside the hospitality industry, an expansive group that includes event planning, restaurant chains, transportation, theme parks and cruise lines. The hospitality industry is a multibillion-dollar field that relies on consumers who have disposable income to take vacations and enjoy leisure time.
When people are traveling, they generally want to stay in a hotel or other type of lodging that provides amenities and conveniences for the travelers. This is why the hospitality industry is so important, as it provides jobs and income for millions of people.
While some travelers prefer the luxury of staying in a 5-star hotel, others may favor the economy and simplicity of motels or hostels. Some travelers like to spend their money at hotels that provide a variety of recreational activities, such as swimming pools and health clubs. Others enjoy the peace and quiet of a remote location, often away from major cities or airports.
Aside from cost and location, other factors that influence the choice of accommodations include security, accessibility, wireless internet connection, cleanliness and perks like free breakfast. Choosing the right hotel can make or break a vacation, so it is worth spending a little time to shop around and compare prices. If you are a frequent traveler, it might be worthwhile to sign up for a hotel loyalty program. This can help you earn and redeem points, and may give you elite status perks at participating hotels.
Another thing to consider is whether or not a hotel has an extra charge for using the Internet. Some hotel chains have a flat fee for Internet access, while others require a per-minute charge or have other policies. If you are concerned about being charged for using the Internet in a hotel, you can always check with the hotel directly before booking to see what their policy is.
Regardless of the type of hotel you choose, you should look into local taxes before booking. These may include a hotel occupancy or tourist tax, and other fees that vary by destination. If you are uncertain about what to expect, try looking up the destination on Google Maps to get a sense of local fees and taxes.
Finally, both Airbnb and hotels offer a good amount of flexibility in their reservation cancellation policies. Some hotels have a flexible cancelation option, while others may only require a 24-hour notice to reschedule. If you are worried about the reliability of a hotel’s Internet network, it is worth checking with the hotel directly before booking to learn more about what kind of Internet service they offer. You can also ask the concierge for tips on where to find an alternative Internet provider in the area, or look into hotels that have dedicated WiFi hotspots.