Since a hotel and a motel have some differences between them when it comes to their characteristic features and purpose, it is very useful to know the difference between hotel and motel. A motel is a U-shaped or a square shaped construction that is endowed with an inner courtyard meant for parking vehicles. A hotel has a different design altogether in the sense that its rooms face inward. Motel is a blend of the words motor and hotel. Hotel was originated in the mid 18th century from the French word hôtel.
What is a Hotel?
According to the Oxford dictionary a hotel is an establishment providing accommodation, meals, and other services for travelers and tourists, by the night. From the definition itself, we can deduce that hotels are meant for travelers as well as tourist, and as such, they have facilities for long stay whereas motels are meant for, usually, a night’s stay. Some hotels also have suites to provide short term accommodation. A guest may stay in a hotel for a week or even longer in case he is on a business trip. Also, he may stay in a hotel room when he is on a week-end getaway with his family.
Hotels offer various kinds of luxuries such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, gyms, spas, and other facilities. Hotels have different rating depending on the facilities and luxuries they offer to their customers. These ratings vary from one star to seven stars, or more in future.
What is a Motel?
According to the Oxford dictionary, a motel is a roadside hotel designed primarily for motorists, typically having the rooms arranged in low blocks with parking directly outside. Motels do not offer too many luxuries as hotels do. They may offer the luxuries that are necessary for a short stay. Motels are meant for relaxation and refreshing during long journeys.
A special feature of a motel is that it holds a parking lot well within its premises, usually in the inner courtyard. This is different from the hotels, where parking lots are, usually, a walk from the hotel. Motels offer affordable rates and easy access to the people. While on the travel, a motel is a better place to stay for the night than a hotel, since there are many motels situated on the less travelled roads before you reach your destination.
What is the difference between Hotel and Motel?
One of the key differences between a hotel and motel is that hotels are meant for both travelers and tourist, whereas motels are designed primarily for motorists. Therefore, the facilities too differ accordingly. Another main difference between a hotel and a motel is that a hotel is situated normally well within the town or the city. A motel, on the contrary, is situated outside the town or a city, usually on the less travelled roads. A motel can be found along streets too.
Hotels are fit for long stay whereas motels are not fit for long stay. Motels provide an awesome experience for families to stay especially when they are on long journeys.
Summary:
Hotel vs Motel
The difference between a hotel and a motel are:
• A hotel is designed for travelers as well as tourists whereas motels are meant for motorists on long trip to refresh and relax.
• A hotel is fit for long stay due to the luxuries provided. A motel is fit for a short stay since it is not provided with great luxuries.
• A hotel is found well within the city or a town, whereas a motel is found outside the city or the town. It is found well along the streets too.
• A hotel would have its parking lot separate from the hotel area. A motel would have its parking lot in the courtyard.
• Hotel-stay is a bit expensive whereas motels allow easy access and are less expensive.
Further Reading:
- Difference Between Resort and Hotel
- Difference Between Hotel and Restaurant
- Difference Between Hotel and Inn
- Difference Between Lodge and Hotel