Hotel Industry Information
Establishments vary greatly in size and in the services they provide. Hotels and
motels make up the majority of establishments and tend to provide more services
than do other lodging places. There are five basic types of hotels—commercial,
resort, residential, extended-stay, and casino. Most hotels and motels are commercial
properties that cater mainly to business people, tourists, and other travelers
who need accommodations for a brief stay. Commercial hotels and motels usually
are located in cities or suburban areas and operate year round. Larger properties
offer a variety of services for their guests, including coffee shops, restaurants,
and cocktail lounges with live entertainment. Some even provide gift shops, newsstands,
barber and beauty shops, laundry and valet services, theater and airline counters,
swimming pools, and fitness centers and health spas.