Traveling and hotels are closely linked because the vast majority of people who travel will need somewhere to sleep overnight. People’s requirements for accommodation tend to vary significantly, depending on their destination, the purpose of their trip, their budget and the kind of experience they are after.
There are a number of different types of hotel, each catering to a particular segment of the travel industry. For example, motels are primarily designed to cater to motorists, typically located along major routes and offering on-site parking. Hotels, on the other hand, offer individual rooms for their guests and have a wide range of facilities.
Another important factor in determining hotel prices is seasonality. Most destinations have a peak season when their hotels are more popular, and rates will be higher during this time. This is often due to weather conditions (for beach resorts, it may be the months with good sunshine), or it could be a result of school holidays, festivals and events.
Some hotel websites will include all fees and taxes in the advertised price, while others will only list the room rate. It is best to check the total cost of your stay before booking.
If you are flexible with your dates and willing to sacrifice some luxury, you can find some excellent hotel deals. Hostels are also an option. While they are usually geared toward young travelers and have age restrictions, I’ve seen families and tour groups staying at hostels around the world.