Traveling and hotels are a big part of the travel industry, which encompasses a wide range of services and businesses related to the act of moving from one place to another. The term travel industry is often synonymous with tourism, though the latter has a more narrow definition that encompasses activities and events that convince people to visit specific destinations.
Hotels can range from small mom-and-pop joints with just a few rooms to large resorts with plenty of amenities and staff to cater to guests. They’re also typically more expensive than motels, but the extra money gets you access to things like private meeting spaces and gyms that you wouldn’t find at a typical motel.
Campsites are a popular form of outdoor lodging for travelers who want to experience nature and the great outdoors. These can be privately owned sites that require a fee for use or public conservation areas that are free to enter. Unlike hotels, campsites typically don’t offer amenities like showers or electricity.
Bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) are a type of hotel that provides guestrooms, meals and other services on a more intimate basis than larger hotels. Many B&Bs are converted family homes and feature a personal touch that makes them appealing to some travelers.
Hostels are a good option for budget-minded travelers looking to socialize with other travelers. They can vary widely in atmosphere, from quiet places that are geared toward digital nomads to loud, rowdy hostels that host pub-crawls and other organized tours. They can also be more affordable than hotels, although they usually lack the added value that some hotel loyalty programs provide.