Hotels

A hotel is a commercial lodging establishment that provides paid temporary accommodation, typically for short stays. Guest rooms with en-suite bathrooms and basic furnishings are complemented by services such as front-desk reception, housekeeping, and security. On-site facilities often include restaurants or bars, meeting spaces, fitness centers, and sometimes swimming pools. The business model centers on selling rooms and allied services to travelers, with rates influenced by location, season, and demand.

Hotels are classified by price, location, size, and ownership. Common categories include budget, midrange, upscale, luxury, boutique, and resort hotels. Some are part of hotel chains; others are independent. Location types range from urban business districts to airports and resort areas. Classification systems vary by country and may use stars, diamonds, or other ratings, with standards and expectations differing accordingly.

Operational metrics include occupancy rate, average daily rate (ADR), and revenue per available room (RevPAR). Revenue comes from rooms plus food and beverage, events, and ancillary services like spa or transportation. The industry increasingly relies on online booking platforms, dynamic pricing, and guest experience initiatives, including sustainability and accessibility.

Trading and travel have shaped the modern hotel sector since the 19th century, with growth tied to rail and air travel. Regulations cover health, safety, licensing, and consumer protection. Hotels affect local economies through jobs and tourism, while addressing concerns about housing markets, labor practices, and resilience to disruptions such as pandemics.