Housing & Accommodations 

Different Types of Lodging

Lodging consists of hotels, motels, B&Bs, hostels, campsites, and similar accommodations. The industry has been experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and demand continues to rise.Apartment residential house building complex with gate sun light

Lodges are a popular accommodation option for travelers because they offer a unique blend of luxury and natural surroundings. They typically feature a cozy atmosphere, rustic design elements, and modern amenities to ensure guests have the perfect vacation experience. Read on Workforce Lodging Solutions for more details.

Traditional lodges are built on water by lakes, in the mountains, or in woodlands. They often have large windows that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. These views are a key factor in creating the perfect lodge environment. This style of lodging is ideal for those who enjoy nature and want to wake up to a beautiful view each day.

Modern lodge homes incorporate a variety of styles and materials to create the perfect mix of contemporary and rustic design. They may use log siding walls, stone accents, and other natural elements to create a stunning, livable space.

If you have a friend or loved one who is a Mason, chances are you have heard them talk about their weekly or biweekly Lodge meetings. However, you may not know what actually happens at these meetings.

What is a B&B?

A B&B is an inn or hotel, usually smaller than a traditional hotel and designed to feel like a home away from home. The price typically includes a room for the night and breakfast in the morning, which is often prepared by the host family themselves. The owners may also serve other meals or snacks during a stay. B&Bs can be found in many different types of buildings, including historic homes and other landmarks, as well as modern structures.

Hosts are frequently familiar with the local area, which they can use to provide recommendations and information about tours, museums, restaurants, and other attractions. They can also provide assistance with booking activities and transport. B&Bs may also offer common areas where guests can relax and socialize.

Licensed B&Bs are typically established businesses that contribute to the local economy and participate in community events. They are often owned by people who live in the area and have a vested interest in providing exceptional service to their guests. In contrast, short-term rental sites, such as AirBNB, are not always established businesses and do not contribute to the local economy. They also tend to encourage excessive parties that can be disruptive to neighbours.

What is a Motel?

Motels are designed to appeal primarily to road trippers and motorists seeking simple, affordable overnight accommodation. They are often located on the outskirts of small towns and roadways and are typically one or two-story buildings with rooms that open directly onto parking lots, making them easy to access from vehicles. Because of their focus on simplicity and affordability, motels have traditionally been associated with roadside convenience and accessibility rather than luxury and comfort.

A hotel is a type of lodging that offers a wide range of amenities and services, such as restaurants, bars, pools, gyms, spas, and more. Unlike motels, hotels are usually larger and more luxurious in size, and they cater to a wide range of travelers, from families and businesspeople to solo adventurers and couples. Hotel accommodations tend to be more expensive than motels, but they also tend to offer a greater level of luxury and service.

Knowing the difference between motels and hotels is important for both guests and hoteliers. Understanding these differences can help you determine which type of lodging is right for your travel needs, and it can also influence how you market your own small business. This knowledge can help you craft better marketing campaigns and attract the guests who are most likely to choose your motel over a nearby hotel.

What is a Hostel?

Hostels offer shared accommodation, typically in dormitory-style rooms. They target budget-conscious, sociable travellers who value cost savings and social interaction over privacy and comfort. Hostels also differ from hotels in their approach to food and dining. While hotels often feature restaurants and room service, hostels rely on communal kitchens and common spaces to encourage interaction among guests.

Hostel security measures differ from those of hotels. While both hostels and hotels are concerned with guest safety, hostels place less emphasis on sophisticated security systems in favour of more personal vigilance. The communal nature of hostels makes them vulnerable to theft if not managed correctly, but this can be overcome by simple precautions like using lockers to store luggage, and not leaving belongings unattended in public areas.

For hoteliers, taking inspiration from hostels can help them create a social experience that’s also comfortable and affordable for the travelling guest. Implementing hostel elements like lounges, shared kitchens, and lower bed counts can encourage human connection and allow your hotel to make more money through direct bookings that sidestep OTA fees.

What is a Campsite?

A campsite is a place where campers can stay overnight. Camping can be a fun and relaxing activity, and it’s a great way to get back to nature. It can also be a great way to spend time with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot in the woods or a place with all of the amenities, there is sure to be a campground that will meet your needs.

Most campgrounds will have a map that shows their campsites. The sites are usually broken down into tent and RV (recreational vehicle) areas, and sometimes further categorized by hookup type. For example, some RV sites will have full hookups while others will only have water or electric. If you have a RV that requires a 50 amp connection, be sure to check that the campground has sites with this capability.

Some campgrounds will also have a category for sites that are accessible to people with disabilities. These sites should be reserved/rented by camping parties that include individuals with disabilities first, and then made available on a first-come, first-serve basis to other campers. The campground should provide information about accessibility in their brochure and/or website.