hotel
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /həʊtˈɛl/
US
- /hoʊˈtɛl/
Description
- place to stay
- lodging
- accommodation
A hotel is more than just four walls and a roof; it's a temporary home away from home for travelers. Think of busy lobbies, clean rooms, and comfy beds, all meant to make your trip easier. While motels often serve drivers stopping for the night, hotels usually offer more services, so they are common for vacations and business trips. You might stay at a hotel while exploring a new city, or book a room before you arrive.
Hotels come in all shapes and sizes, from simple budget places to luxury stays. Some are known for their long history, while others stand out for modern features like spas, gyms, and rooftop pools. The word comes from the French word hôtel, which once referred to a large private house or mansion.
A hotel is a business that offers paid rooms for people to stay in, usually for a short time. It is more than just a place to sleep; it is set up to give guests comfort, service, and convenience while they are away from home. While the word "hotel" may bring to mind grand buildings with bellhops and room service, hotels can range from small, family-run places to large international chains.
Historically, hotels evolved from simple roadside taverns offering shelter to travelers. Over time, they became more sophisticated, catering to a growing demand for comfortable and convenient accommodations. Today, hotels play a crucial role in the tourism industry, supporting local economies and facilitating travel around the world.
The term "hotel" is often used broadly, but there are distinctions between different types of lodging. A motel typically caters to motorists with direct access to parking, while a resort offers comprehensive leisure facilities like pools, spas, and entertainment. A bed and breakfast (B&B) usually provides a more intimate experience in a private home.
You might check into a hotel after a long flight, request extra pillows from housekeeping, or leave feedback about your stay online. Hotels are integral to the travel experience, offering a temporary haven for explorers, business travelers, and anyone seeking a comfortable place to rest their head. Think of Agatha Christie's novels—many mysteries unfold within the walls of glamorous hotels, filled with intriguing characters and hidden secrets!
Examples
- 1
Location
We found a small hotel near the train station.
- 2
Overnight stay
Are you staying at the hotel tonight or driving home after the wedding?
- 3
Arrival
I checked into the hotel early and left my bags at the front desk.
Pattern
check into a hotel
arrive and register there
- 4
Room rate
Breakfast is included in the hotel room rate.
- 5
Fully booked
Most of the hotels near the beach were already fully booked.
- 6
Hospitality work
She works in a hotel, so she is used to dealing with tired travelers.
- 7
Departure
We had to check out of the hotel by 11 a.m.
Pattern
check out of a hotel
leave and finish your stay
- 8
Paid stay
The company put us up in a hotel for two nights.
Phrase
put someone up in a hotel
pay for them to stay there
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- hotelnoun
Forms
- hotelspluralnoun