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tourist hotel vs hotel

Resorts vs. Hotels: What’s The Difference & Which Is Best For Families?

posted by James Brockbank on August 31, 2021 // last updated on August 31, 2021

One of the critical things that you will have to plan on your next family vacation is where to stay. Often the question comes down to budget and location, but there is another critical decision that you should keep in mind: whether to stay at a resort or a hotel.

When comparing resorts vs. hotels, both have their upsides and downfalls, and it’s essential to understand the big picture before making a decision. This guide gives you a solid overview of both options so you can plan lodging for your next family vacation to a tee. 

All-Inclusive Resorts

What you can expect from a hotel, how much do you and your family plan on exploring, do you want on-site entertainment, how much do you want to be covered, themed resorts, authentic dining, key takeaways , what you can expect from a resort.

Resorts are generally luxurious places where you’re totally pampered from beginning to end. Expect amenities, activities, food and drinks, and plenty of entertainment options. Unlike hotels, resorts are true destinations. The draw of a resort is more than room and board; it’s all the fun stuff that you get to do when you’re there!

Many resorts have on-site spa facilities and shopping. There are both daytime and nighttime activities, too. As such, you rarely have to leave to make the most out of your vacation. 

Since resorts have everything that you could want right on-site, they tend to be located in more rural or off-the-beaten-path areas. Therefore, unless you have private transportation, it could be challenging to explore the surrounding area.  

tourist hotel vs hotel

All-inclusive resorts include meals, drinks, tips, activities, and any additional services right in your initial bill. They are a good option for families because you won’t have to worry about going over budget. 

Like traditional resorts, all-inclusive resorts have a dazzling array of activities right on-site. The only difference is that with an all-inclusive option, these activities are totally free. Some all-inclusive resorts even have small water parks or theme rides on resort premises.

All-inclusive resorts free you from the hassle of having to carry cash around with you. There are no unforeseen bills or any chance that you’ll lose your wallet. You can have an excellent time worry-free! 

Hotels offer less in terms of amenities than resorts but generally have more ideal locations. Most resorts are in remote areas, whereas hotels will put you right in the middle of the action. Hotels are great options for people who want a nice place to sleep and recharge but plan on spending most of their time exploring the city.

Many hotels have some amenities , like gyms, spas, or even free meals, although this varies from hotel to hotel. Some cater to families, and others to solo or business travelers. Before selecting your hotel of choice, do your research. Make sure that it’s conducive to your needs.

Hotels also are a little less private, and you’re more likely to hear your neighbors. This factor might be another concern if you’re traveling with small children. 

tourist hotel vs hotel

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right One for You

Ultimately, whether you go with resorts vs. hotels comes down to personal preference. Think about the things that are important to you and your family before making your decision. These factors will help you determine whether a resort or hotel will work for your next family vacation.

Are you going to a new place to explore, or are you looking for white-glove luxury treatment? If you and your family plan to spend a lot of time outside of your accommodation, hotels are the way to go. Although many hotels offer on-site amenities like gyms and complimentary breakfast, there’s no full-on entertainment like you get at a resort.

Most hotels even have pamphlets right in their lobbies advertising what you can do around the area. So the expectation is certainly that you will venture out. On the other hand, some families love resorts because they don’t want to explore the city.

Some resorts offer excursion packages, especially if you’re in a tropical location. You might be able to leave the resort to go snorkeling or zip-lining under the care of your guide, but for the most part, you’ll be fully entertained right at the resort.

Ultimately, resorts are the destination, whereas hotels are a good place to lay your head before embarking on a full day of fun the following morning.

Resorts tend to have first-class entertainment. From cocktail parties to talent shows, you’ll find anything and everything that you’re looking for at a resort. Make sure that the one you choose is family-friendly. Some resorts are adult-only or have very few activities for the kids. If you do your research in advance, you can find one that caters to all of your family members’ needs.

Hotels have very little, or any, on-site entertainment. You might have access to movies in your room, and there may be a game room for the kids, but there probably won’t be much beyond that. You’ll have to go outside of the hotel to find entertainment. Hotel staff will usually be able to let you know where good options are and provide you with a map to find them.

The other thing to keep in mind is that there will likely be a charge if you use hotel entertainment amenities. Most movies are tacked onto your bill, and hotel game rooms require tokens or coins. At resorts, the entertainment is part of the package deal.

Both high-end hotels and resorts generally have pools, so if your idea of a good time is lounging poolside with the family, both options are ideal. 

At hotels, your toiletries, internet, and generally breakfast are all covered. Some higher-end hotels may also cover airport shuttles and give discounts on tickets. Depending on the type of resort you opt for, everything is covered. Some resorts cover meals and require that you pay for snacks and drinks, whereas others cover absolutely everything.

With all-inclusive resorts, you will pay more upfront, but you won’t have any surprise charges later on. You also don’t need to carry your wallet around; a huge perk for a lot of people. All-inclusive resorts also sometimes include excursions or other activities.

Some families with small children like all-inclusive resorts because they know that no matter what happens, their vacation is only going to be a set amount. If you have older, more independent children, you might want to opt for a hotel.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Is Your Accommodation Your Destination?

This is the ultimate question for anyone trying to choose between a resort and a hotel. If your accommodation is your destination, choose a resort. You will have everything that you need right there. If you want a nice place to sleep, and that’s it, you’ll want to go with a hotel.

Most resorts have themes and a particular demographic that they cater to. People book resorts specifically to enjoy what they have to offer. Waterparks, teen hangout areas, and specialty-themed breakfasts are not uncommon at many resorts. There are even premiere resorts with pirate or adventure themes. 

Whatever you’re looking for, you’re bound to find some kind of resort that caters to your exact needs. You won’t get that kind of unique experience from a hotel.

While most resorts have fantastic dining options right on-site, if you’re looking to experience the true food culture of a specific location you should opt for a hotel. Most hotels can tell you where to go to find authentic, local food at good prices.

Most resorts offer everything from five-star dining to buffets, but some people feel like they’re not getting the authentic flavor of the place when they’re dining at the resort. If you’re a true foodie, your better bet is a hotel. 

Also, many hotels have dining options on-site, so you always have a comfortable and convenient place to go if you need to. The only difference is that it’s not the only place.

Resorts tend to be more expensive than hotels, especially if you’re going for the all-inclusive experience. You can usually find hotels in all different price points, depending on the location or amenities, making them more ideal for budget travellers .

The only caveat is that you will pay more for meals and entertainment at hotels, so expenses might creep up on you. If you’re careful with your expenses, you can certainly shave off a few hundred dollars at least by going the hotel route.

Ultimately, when comparing resorts vs. hotels, both have a lot of great things to offer families. There are certainly pros and cons to each one, and it all comes down to your personal taste and what you want from your vacation experience. 

Identify what’s important to you and your family and whether or not you want to explore the area that you’re heading to, or if your accommodation is your destination. Think about factors like cost and what sort of experience you want to have before making your decision.

More about our TFVG Author

tourist hotel vs hotel

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

tourist hotel vs hotel

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Hostel vs. Hotel: What’s the Difference, and Which is Right for You?

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As you plan your next trip, one of the biggest — and often most costly — decisions is where to stay. Several lodging options for travelers are available, from home rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo to more classic options like bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, hotels and hostels.

But what’s the difference between a hostel and a hotel, besides that extra 's?' We’ll break it down so you can decide which type of accommodations are right for your next vacation.

The difference between hostel and hotel

The only thing hotels and hostels tend to have in common is that they offer a place to rest your head for the night. Otherwise, they’re generally quite different. Here are some main differences between the two.

Private rooms.

A private bathroom, typically located in your room (en suite).

Daily housekeeping.

Security. Hotels make it generally easy to leave luggage and valuables in your room with some sense of security.

Often offers more luxury experiences.

More expensive (especially for solo travelers).

» Learn more: Best value hotel rewards programs this year

Most hostel sleeping areas are shared rooms and feature multiple single beds or bunk beds (though some hostels do offer private rooms for an upcharge). These sleeping areas are often referred to as 'dorms.'

Bathrooms are often shared by multiple residents.

Facilities (whether sleeping areas or bathrooms) are typically coed, though female-only options are growing in popularity.

Lockers are often available to store valuables.

More budget-friendly.

Plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers.

Often younger clientele.

» Learn more: What is a hostel?

When to choose a hotel

Here’s why you might want to choose a hotel over a hostel depending on your style of travel.

If you’re traveling with a partner or family

A hotel's lack of communal living means it’s easier to enjoy time with your traveling companions without lots of other people swarming nearby. If you just want to enjoy time with a friend, family member or loved one, a hotel is likely the accommodation for you.

If you desire quiet and privacy

If you’re traveling on business, celebrating a special occasion, can only get a good night’s sleep when it’s dead quiet or simply value your privacy, a hotel is almost certainly the right choice. While hostels can and do offer private rooms, sometimes even with private bathrooms, you’re less likely to enjoy complete peace and quiet.

If you want a more upscale experience

While hostels and hotels vary when it comes to amenities and luxury experiences, hotels tend to offer more high-end options. These extend beyond the hotel room itself too, as some properties offer spas, room service, upscale restaurants and picturesque pools.

You’re more likely to be able to kick back and relax in style, eat well and get pampered at a hotel.

» Learn more: The best hotel credit cards right now

If you value security

While you should always take measures to protect your valuables when traveling, generally speaking, hotels tend to offer better security for your belongings. Not only are you the only one occupying your room, but there are often safes that are typically free to use during your stay.

Hostels usually offer locker-style storage, and you frequently have to bring your own lock.

» Learn more: Are hostels safe? 5 tips to make it more so

When to stay in a hostel

For as many reasons that exist to stay in a hotel, there are just as many to book a hostel. Here’s who might want to consider these often lively accommodations.

If you want to meet people

While you don’t have to be traveling solo to want to make friends when you travel, hostels are a great place to connect with fellow travelers for tips and companionship for navigating your shared destination. Hostels often organize events, schedule mixers, plan theme nights and generally offer a more collective living space due to their shared sleeping areas, common areas, bathrooms, kitchens and more.

» Learn more: As Airbnb falters, hostels seek to compete

If you are on a budget

Often, hostels are less expensive than hotels, especially if you’re OK with sleeping in a large, shared room. But prices are per person at hostels, not per room as at hotels.

» Learn more: Key hostel safety tips to keep handy

If you like to cook your own meals and do your own laundry

While you can book hotels with kitchenettes, most hotel rooms have microwaves and mini fridges at the most, so if you like to cook for yourself when you travel — for budget reasons or because of dietary restrictions — consider a hostel.

Hostels generally offer full kitchens with not only pots and pans, but sometimes essentials like salt and oil. Additionally, many hostels also have laundry rooms.

Hostels vs. hotels: The bottom line

Hotels tend to offer more privacy, security and amenities, and can range in style from budget to deluxe. Hostels, meanwhile, cater to travelers who are interested in more communal experiences, typically offering residence hall-like rooms, group activities and shared bathrooms and kitchens. Both hotels and hostels range in cost, but hostels are generally more affordable.

The right lodging option for your next trip depends on your travel style, budget and goals. Choose wisely and you’re bound to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

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tourist hotel vs hotel

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tourist hotel vs hotel

Hotels vs Motels, Inns, & Other Lodging: The Definitive Guide

If you’re like me you may have wondered what the difference is between a hotel and other types of lodging like motels, inns, lodges, resorts, hostels, and BnBs. Are there real differences between places like inns and motels or is it all just about marketing? 

In this article, I’m going to highlight many of the key differences between these different types of lodging options by contrasting each type of lodging to a hotel and diving a little bit into the history of some of these establishments. By the end of the article, you should have a pretty good idea of the key differences between these places.

Table of Contents

Summary of differences between hotels and other lodging options

Hotels vs motels, motel definition :.

a hotel providing travelers with lodging and free parking facilities, typically a roadside hotel having rooms adjacent to an outside parking area or an urban hotel offering parking within the building.

When it comes to hotels vs motels, there’s a lot of differences between the two. Motels (also known as “motor hotels”) are known for catering to motorists and may be located along the side of roadways versus hotels that cater to all sorts of travelers and are often found within cities (though they can justify existing in a location off-the-beaten-path).

Motels began in the 1920s as campgrounds for automobile tourists who couldn’t afford to stay in a hotel. These “auto camps” provided provided running water, picnic grounds, and restroom facilities and eventually evolved into more permanent structures.

The term “motel” originated with the Motel Inn of San Luis Obispo, originally called the Milestone Mo-Tel, which was constructed in 1925 by Arthur Heineman. Heineman abbreviated motor hotel to mo-tel since he could not fit the words “Milestone Motor Hotel” on his rooftop. As the auto industry took off in the mid-20th century, more and more motels popped up around the country and motels were in their heyday.

Generally speaking, motels will be no higher than two to three stories tall and usually won’t have elevators. The rooms are usually accessible via walkways and balconies that are adjacent to the parking lot, so when you exit your room, you’re outside in the elements and mere steps away from your car.

Speaking of the rooms, you probably won’t have very many different types of rooms to choose from at a motel (even if the motel does advertise “suites”). Compare that to a hotel that might have over a dozen of different type of rooms to choose from (deluxe rooms, junior suites , suites, deluxe suites, presidential suites , etc.).

The rooms in a hotel will usually be much more equipped with things like better TVs, higher quality linens, and perhaps more aesthetic design.

Hotels can range dramatically in size but they will usually be larger than motels and sometimes can be significantly bigger. When is the last time you came across a 20 story motel? Probably never. Themed architectural and design elements are usually more commonly found in hotels while many motels have a let’s just say… “less inspired” design and look.

Hotels normally have interior corridors so that when you exit your room you’re not immediately outside. Also, most hotels utilize lobbies with spacious indoor areas and have a check-in area with multiple check-in stations. Many motels by contrast simply have a small check-in area or room or a very small lobby (if any lobby at all). 

Hotels usually come with many more amenities. It’s not uncommon for a hotel to have a pool, gym, spa, business center, lounge, restaurants on-site, cafe, gift shop, and possibly shops like souvenir shops or jewelry stores.

Motels are going to be much more basic. Some may have pools but if they do, they are usually very small and basic or could resemble a science experiment gone wrong. It’s pretty rare to see other amenities like (nice) restaurants or shops at motels though I’ve seen some (especially in remote tourist areas).

For these reasons, motels usually cater to short-term stays of one or two nights, though it’s not uncommon for people relocating to make use of a hotel while they search for alternative housing.

At hotels, there’s usually a full staff to assist you including: receptionists, bellhops, concierge, housekeeping, valet drivers, managers, etc. That’s not the case at many motels where there will often be a small team and sometimes just one or two people running the entire building.

The service is another difference, too. You’re probably not going to get much in terms of service at motels and room service doesn’t exist at most.

Overall, hotels are just generally higher quality than motels.

tourist hotel vs hotel

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Hotels vs Inns

Inn definition :.

 1.a commercial establishment that provides lodging, food, etc., for the public, especially travelers; small hotel. 2. a tavern.

Inns are interesting because they come in so many different forms and have history dating back to the Romans. During Medieval times, inns were essentially large taverns located near the city gates where tired travelers could also seek lodging, engage in trading, as well as food and drink (and could find a place for their horse as well).

This is why there are taverns and pubs out there that still offer lodging  and why some Inns still retain a heavy tavern-esque vibe that you can find in places like the UK . This history makes a lot of inns unique from hotels and is why they can be fun to explore and stay in.

tavern style restaurant

But now many “Inns” are actually motels or even hotels in some cases. For example, Holiday Inns can actually be quite nice and would definitely fall under the hotel category in many cases. Meanwhile, a Knight’s Inn or the hundreds of “Random X Inns” would be considered motels.

In my experience, modern “inns” are basically just disguised motels, and I would generally go in expecting a motel-like experience. (Let’s be real, many motels now refer to themselves as “inns” simply because people hear motel and often think “no thanks.”)

So the key with inns is to look past the name because you could be staying at something that varies dramatically in what it offers.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Hotels vs Lodges

Lodge definition.

A small, makeshift or crude shelter or habitation, as of boughs, poles, skins, earth, or rough boards; cabin or hut.a house used as a temporary residence, as in the hunting season.

A lodge is usually a type of hotel with all the rustic appeal you could ask for. Lodges often have a rustic appearance and design so that they give off a warm, cozy vibe (think fireplaces, wood frame, stone facades) versus a modern or commercial vibe you might get a hotel (think glitzy lobbies, sterile hallways, etc.).

Lodges generally don’t have as many floors as hotels and if they are larger, they might have several different buildings on the premises. They may or may not have elevators.

It’s not uncommon to find lodges in absolutely stunning rural areas such as in national parks, state parks, or around lakes, rivers, forests, and especially in mountainous areas (ski areas, etc.). You might also find them at other locations like golf courses.

Lodges don’t have to be basic — there is definitely such a thing as a luxury lodge. Some may offer some very nice amenities such as spas and or fantastic restaurants offering local cuisine. Luxury lodges can get very expensive, especially in peak season. 

But there are also lodges that are more like cabins with very basic amenities. You may not have air conditioning though you should have electricity and running water. Wifi at lodges can be spotty sometimes due to the their remote location, though things have probably gotten better in the past few years.

Typically, the location where the lodge is located is the big draw versus the lodge itself. You’ll likely be heading to that place for the outdoor activities and scenery.

For that reason, lodges often have some type of connection with the local area/nature and are often found right in the heart of an attraction like the  Chisos Mountains Lodge , located in Big Bend National Park, El Tovar Hotel found in the Grand Canyon, and Glacier Bay Lodge found in Glacier Bay National Park.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Hotels vs Resorts

Resort definition.

A place to which people frequently or generally go for relaxation or pleasure, especially one providingrest and recreation facilities for vacationers:

Resorts are basically mini hotel towns with an array of special vacation/get-a-way oriented amenities and features. Their footprint is usually much larger than your standard hotel and they sort of have their own ecosystem since there’s so much to do on the premises.

You won’t always find business-oriented facilities such as executive lounges at resorts since they cater so heavily to leisure travelers.

Resorts are usually either resort-destinations or found in popular vacation hot-spots (or a combination of both). A ski resort located outside of a major city/town is a perfect example of a resort destination.

Other resorts will be found in tourist hot-spots like Cancun, Mexico. Even at hot spots like this, there is usually enough to do at these resorts to keep you from having to leave the resort if you didn’t want to (though you definitely should try to get out).

These prime locations can mean much higher prices and resorts see higher fluctuations in prices due to peak seasons. In some cases, the price could easily triple or even quadruple for peak season and you might have to book very far out like one year in advance.

Many resorts also contain casinos. The casinos might be located with in the hotel but also could be outside and perhaps even shared with another property. These are often open to the public and many casino resorts can be quite striking with beautiful bars and unique amenities like the Marina Bay Sands . You can find casino resorts in places like Las Vegas, Reno, Monte Carlo, Macau, and Singapore.

Pools are the pulse of resorts in many locations. This is especially true at all-inclusive resorts that have huge pool areas surrounded by hundreds of chairs and day beds and that are equipped with swim-up bars. Compared to hotels, these pool areas are usually larger, nicer, and a place where daily scheduled activities take place.

Most nice resorts have a spa where you can relax and get massages. Some of these spas are the best in the area and might even open their doors to the public.

Service at resorts can often be better than normal hotels but that’s not always the case. A luxury hotel that caters to business travelers could definitely offer service on-par or better than a resort. It’s just that many resorts seem to do a little bit extra when taking care of you versus a standard hotel. There also is a much larger and diverse staff at a resort versus a standard hotel and some resorts might even offer butler service.

Restaurants

Resorts often have a decent selection of different restaurants to choose from. You might find more upscale options at some resorts like the underwater restaurant at the Conrad Maldives . Prices at resort restaurants can be very high as well.

Resorts like to get there guests to shop so it’s not uncommon to see larger souvenir shops and jewelry shops and other interesting venues like cigar shops, chocolate stores, etc.. (I try my best to avoid these shops due to their high prices.)

There’s also a focus on tourist activities so you can usually find stations where you can purchase tours and activities. Resorts like to keep you entertained as well so you’ll find more shows and things to do on the premises at a resort than you would with an ordinary hotel.

Some luxury hotels fit the description of all the factors above but when a hotel markets itself as a resort, it’s usually loaded with more amenities suited for leisure/vacation.

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tourist hotel vs hotel

Hotels vs Hostels

Hostel definition.

Also called youthhostel. an inexpensive, supervised lodging place for young people on bicycle trips, hikes, etc.

Hostels are low-budget lodging options ideal for social travelers such as backpackers.

These are places where you can really stretch your cash when it comes to your lodging expenses and meet new people. Some make short stays at hostels but it’s not uncommon for people to stay at hostels for several weeks or even months (I once stayed in one for two months ).

Hostel lodging can also come in many different forms. Some hostels are glorified barracks where you’ll be sharing a room with a dozen other people in double or triple bunk beds. The rooms may even be co-ed.

Others are closer to a dorm style set up where you may only have a roommate or two or you can find a room to yourself. You may be sharing a bathroom and shower with others or you may have your own bathroom — it all just depends.

A lot of hostels have common areas for socializing (drinking) and even kitchens so you can do some cooking there if you’d like. You can also take care of your laundry at many hostels, too. They might be lacking other amenities like gyms, pools, etc., though.

Some hostels can be party central and a place where people are looking for hook-ups (the building might even be attached to a club or bar). For these reasons, hostels are usually ideal for younger travelers in their early to mid 20s and may not be ideal for families in some cases.

Related: Should You Tip Hotel Housekeeping?

hostel bunks

Hotels vs Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotel definition.

  • a small stylish hotel, typically one situated in a fashionable urban location.

Boutique hotels are small hotels with a lot local character. What a good boutique hotel lacks in size, it makes up for with its charm, uniqueness, and personalized service. Many boutique hotels are housed in historic buildings and in historic areas like the Palazzo Manfredi found  right next door to the Colosseum  in Rome . 

You may only be able to choose from a couple of room types at some but you can often expect a warm and inviting atmosphere at a boutique hotel. At a good boutique hotel, you will feel appreciated and rewarded for taking a chance on it.

Some boutique hotels boast something memorable like a Michelin-starred restaurant or unbelievable views (or both). Much of the food and drink at a boutique hotel may be locally inspired.

The drawback to boutique hotels is that they don’t always have the facilities like gyms, pools, lounges, etc. Therefore, they are not always ideal for long stays. Boutique hotels don’t always have loyalty programs but some do belong to networks the like the  Relais & Châteaux that comes with the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Hotel with Colosseum in background

Hotels vs BnBs

Bnb definition.

Sleeping accommodations for a night and a morning meal, provided in guest houses and small hotels.a guest house or small hotel offering sleeping accommodations and a morning meal.

You also might be wondering about hotels vs B&Bs. Like inns, B&Bs have a very long history dating back several hundred/thousand years. In the US, it wasn’t uncommon for people to open up their dwellings to travelers such as pioneers to give them a place to rest.

Over time, B&Bs (or as they were called “tourist homes”) served a similar purpose as motels, providing lodging to those traveling along the roadways. They also allowed people to make a little extra on the side during the Great Depression but they sort of fell out of style as the economy got better and motels became more popular.

However, over the past couple of decades B&Bs have become more popular in the US and now many of them are quite luxurious .

A traditional bed and breakfast is going to be smaller than a typical hotel and might be located in a more quaint dwelling (a guest house or residence). These will usually only have a hand full of rooms but as you can tell from the name, they will supply you with breakfast.

BnBs offer a more intimate experience than a hotel since you can connect with a host do things like share your breakfast experience with other guests. And as mentioned, many BnBs can be very luxurious and they can be found in both cities and rural areas.

The drawback to BnBs is the same as boutique hotels expect it will be even less common for you to find certain facilities at your house.

bnb living room

There are a lot of different types of lodging available to choose from. Sometimes the difference between lodging types is only in the name but other times there are very real and noticeable differences between options like hotels and motels. Hopefully, this article helped you to better understand some of the differences between the lodging types.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

One comment

I found it beneficial when you said that bed and breakfasts were called tourist homes back in the day. My girlfriend and I want to do a weekend vacation soon and we’re thinking of staying at a bed and breakfast. We’ll have to find a place that is cozy and relaxing for the weekend.

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Lotte Hotel Moscow - The Leading Hotels of the World

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Swissotel Krasnye Holmy Moscow

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InterContinental Moscow - Tverskaya, an IHG Hotel

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Hotel Savoy Moscow

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Four Seasons Hotel Moscow

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Mamaison All-Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka

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Radisson Blu Olympiyskiy Hotel

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StandArt Design Hotel

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Ararat Park Hotel Moscow

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Petroff Palace Boutique Hotel

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Chekhoff Hotel Moscow Curio Collection by Hilton

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Mövenpick Moscow Taganskaya

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Travel Guide

Moscow's opulence and high culture is a sight to be seen. Forget what you learned about Russia in grade school. This lavish capital of a formerly communist nation has fully embraced the luxuries, excesses and decadence of Western capitalism. Like many former Soviet countries, Mother Russia struggles to successfully confront issues of widespread poverty, alcoholism, failing healthcare, and environmental protection. But Moscow has burgeoned into one of the most expensive, exclusive and largest travel destinations in the world. It comes complete with world-class museums, magnificent palaces, $1,000-a-night hotels, "face-control" nightclubs and internationally-renowned restaurants. Don't think you can afford Moscow? Don't be afraid. You can still find affordable deals if you are vigilant. This metropolis has a big and bold character and grandiose setting that's definitely worth getting to know.

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tourist hotel vs hotel

What's the Difference Between a Hotel and an Inn?

inn on the water

You’ve probably scrolled through local hotels and seen a variety of properties, some called both hotels and inns. Figuring out the difference between a hotel and an inn can be tricky, especially when they seemingly offer the same perks and are used interchangeably. In this guide, we’ll explain the history of inns, how they led to the creation of modern hotels, and what really sets them apart. Keep reading to make the best possible lodging decision for your next getaway.

Is an inn the same thing as a hotel?

By definition, an inn is a building that people can find along a highway or countryside that provides lodging and food. Although that sounds a lot like a hotel, inns are actually different from hotels. To make matters even more complicated, inns have been said to be the original  hotels. In fact, inns have formed the basis of many different types of lodging we know and use today.

The concept of a place where travelers could go to rest, eat, and play is centuries old. These first ever inns trace back all the way to the Greeks and Romans. They were created after new roads took trade routes farther than they had been before. The increased accessibility of travel by stagecoach and horse also made these roads ideal for the roots of tourism and leisure travel that we would recognize today.

Back then, inns would serve both their lodgers and their horses, often providing stables, food, and water for their animals. For their human guests, inns provide hot meals and communal dining rooms that are similar to today’s bed and breakfasts or hostels. Although it doesn’t sound like much by modern standards, having the ability to safely and comfortably travel over long distances with guaranteed stops that were not only good for survival but also entertainment was quite a novelty.

At the original inns, staff and services were limited to what the innkeeper and their family could provide. But there are many accounts of trades, friendships, romances, job hires, and brawls on the premises which kept people occupied while they were there. Popular movies, musicals, and television shows have fictionalized the somewhat raucous atmosphere these unique locations must have provided.

Modern inns are considerably more tame and less glamorized by Hollywood, though they still have a lot to offer. Today, the term inn and hotel are often used interchangeably, but they are different enough that we still make the distinction. In fact, many modern hotel operators try to distance themselves from their competitors by styling themselves as inns.

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Take Hilton for example. The Hilton hotel brand has both the Hilton Garden Inn and the Embassy Suites by Hilton in their portfolio. Both offer lodging and food, but Hilton has gone to great lengths to differentiate the two. According to USA Today , “Hilton Garden Inns aim for a high service standard, but are more relaxed than Hilton hotel and resorts.” Travelers who stay at a Hilton Garden Inn are typically looking for a peaceful, quiet, and laidback atmosphere.

The word “garden” in the name also references the property’s status as an inn. Inns are typically found in the country surrounded by nature, bringing the outdoors to the city, where most of Hilton’s Inns are located. There are five in Los Angeles county alone, one of which is by the airport. Sometimes all that differentiates a modern inn from a hotel is branding .

To further prove the point, Hilton Garden Inn uses the word “road” in much of their ad copy. This emphasizes their mission to help travelers while they are “on the road”, even though most Hilton Garden Inns are centrally located metropolitan properties.

What is the difference between a hotel and an inn?

So now we know that inns were the original hotels, and modern inns are sometimes also hotels. But what about the stereotypical inns along the countryside? Let’s take a closer look at how these two types of lodging really differ.

1. Building size

Hotels tend to be larger than inns and have both more rooms for rent and amenities. However, some inns also offer camp-like properties, with plenty of places to picnic, have a bonfire, and hike. They may also have a separate check-in lodge. If the inn is on the smaller side, it may be a single building on a plot of land. Hotels are also likely to have multiple floors while inns may only have one or two levels and no elevators.

2. Room size

Room sizes at hotels depend on bed types. Inns use this system too, but there are a wide variety of room types depending on the brand. Some offer a room within a single lodge structure while others offer individual family cabins. Since inns are typically located in areas where there is plenty of breathing room, their rooms are likely to be larger, especially when compared with hotel rooms in big cities where real estate is scarce. Both hotels and inns should have ADA accessible suites, though you should verify this with the property before arriving. The ADA does not require buildings constructed before it went into effect in 1991 to be updated to meet its criteria.

3. Property amenities

Hotels provide a number of recreational facilities and amenities, including gyms, swimming pools, and spa areas. Inns do not usually have these facilities . They do, however, usually have a small area for meals. Traditional inns may also have an onsite restaurant. On the higher end, some inns also have places to camp, outdoor activities, gardens, and even pools.

4. Room amenities

Rooms at an inn are perhaps a bit spacious but are often basic. Common hotel room amenities, like televisions, seating areas, and WiFi, can also be found at inns. Hotels tend to be more technology forward, sometimes with in-room tools such as voice search assistants, while inns like to keep it fairly low tech.

5. Dining options

Modern hotels and inns both tend to have restaurants onsite. Restaurants at an inn will likely have outdoor seating and/or picnic areas with relaxed first come, first serve policies. Hotel restaurants tend to be busier, especially around holidays, so reservations are recommended. High end hotels are also likely to have a dress code, while high end inns may not. Bars and vending machines are also more common at hotels.

6. Shared spaces

Inns may offer small business centers or provide document printing for guests at the front desk as needed. Inns do have the advantage of outdoor areas, so there might be unique experiences like fairy gardens, sunset viewing points, and even barns, all of which are uncommon for hotels. Hotels are less likely to have those one-of-a-kind spaces, but they are more likely to have a variety of amenities—think a full business center, gym, pool, laundry, breakfast area and restaurant, lobby, and more.

In general, inns offer cheaper rates and more discounts than most hotels. However, hotels may have member rewards that result in a similar price. Hotels tend to display prices right on their website, but inns may require you to call and find out. Also, bear in mind that the price a hotel lists on its website may not be the final cost .

8. Types of guests

Guests at inns are almost always leisure travelers. Whether they are on road trips or not, they’ve come to enjoy the area. Business meetings and conferences are unlikely at this lodging type, especially compared to standard hotels.

Hotels have many different types of staff and a larger team than inns. An inn is likely to only have one office on the property and a team of maybe only a few people. Hotels may offer 24/7 non-emergency staff services, while inns are likely to have set hours with an after-hours phone number for true emergencies.

Staffing shortages don't have to keep your inn down

10. Services

Hotels typically offer things like valet, dry cleaning, and concierge services, while inns don’t. But what inns lack in service types, they make up for with personal attention. For example, the Big Sur River Inn & Restaurant advertises a local gas station deal right on their homepage. They write, the station “will continue to offer locals 27% discount off gas and propane, making gas comparable to town prices without the drive.” Something like this would be extremely unlikely to appear on a traditional hotel website.

11. Location

Hotels are typically found in high-travel areas, while inns serve a more leisurely crowd, and are often found off of highways. Some inns are more immersed in nature than hotels, and even motels. Those are found surrounded by hiking trails, lakes, mountains, rivers, and national forests.

Hotels and inns FAQs

Now that we’ve distinguished between hotels and inns, you may still have a few questions about which one is right for you. Here are the top things to consider before booking either.

What are the pros and cons of booking a hotel versus an inn?

When it comes to traditional hotels and inns, we’re really talking about the city versus country debate. Both have their charms, but serve different purposes for travelers.

Hotels have many pros, like: ● More options for rooms, amenities, and services ● Guests can use rewards systems for discounts ● Service is available in a large capacity at almost any hour of the day

Hotels also come with their own cons. Think: ● Most hotel chains won’t invest in more isolated areas ● Hotels are almost always owned by corporations ● Hotels are mostly found in urban areas

Similarly, inns have a variety of pros of their own, such as: ● The opportunity to offer unique rooms, amenities, and services ● They are often owned by individuals, families, or small business groups ● Service comes with a personal touch ● Often surrounded by nature

Inn do come with some cons, like: ● Less variety and options overall ● Service hours are limited ● May be off the beaten path

Want to know what hotels can expect in 2023?

What is the purpose of an inn?

Inns are great for unwinding and connecting to nature. With less emphasis on technology and more on grounding oneself, they are ideal for those who like to travel to more remote regions or simply need some time away from the stresses of modern life.

How do I choose between a hotel and an inn?

If you’re really torn, consider what you’d like to do during your stay and how the weather could affect that. For example, an inn in the high desert sounds like a great idea for your July trip exploring a national park, but if it doesn’t offer central air conditioning, a hotel that blasts cold air into every entry and room might be the way to go.

Service and nature set inns apart from hotels

If you like the idea of smaller buildings with more personal service farther off the beaten path but don’t want to stray too far from the main roads, an inn might be the place for you. And if you decide you want to stay in a hotel, here’s our list of the best in the world .

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THE 10 BEST Hotels in Moscow 2024

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Moscow Hotels

Property types, distance from, neighborhoods, traveler rating, hotel class, popular hotels in moscow right now.

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  • Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
  • Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
  • Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

Lobby

1. Lotte Hotel Moscow

TRAVELAB

2. Page 20 Aparthotel

ranko t

3. Palmira Business Club

Yuri L

4. Ararat Park Hotel Moscow

Said Al-Sowaidi

5. Brick Design Hotel

1land2ps

6. Hotel Metropol Moscow

marcusstolz71

7. Park Inn by Radisson Izmailovo Moscow

Steven T

8. Mercure Arbat Moscow

Bayarmaa D

9. Swissotel Krasnye Holmy Moscow

Anna G

10. Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow

Kristina K

11. Hotel De Paris

Alex S

12. President Hotel

Ksenia Z

13. AZIMUT City Hotel Smolenskaya Moscow

Prlja

14. Mercure Moscow Paveletskaya

Mark McFetridge

15. Four Seasons Hotel Moscow

Matthys

16. AZIMUT City Hotel Tulskaya Moscow

AleksandraY

17. D'Hotel

jesusmari0c

18. Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya

Ivan T.

19. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Moscow - Marina

Escape158633

20. Pokrovka 6 Hotel

Edwin

21. Boutique Hotel Brighton

Robert G

22. Radisson Blu Olympiyskiy Hotel, Moscow

Hamad Alshehhi

23. InterContinental Moscow - Tverskaya, an IHG Hotel

May S

24. Crowne Plaza Moscow - Tretyakovskaya, an IHG hotel

Zalisha79

25. Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow

Gilberto B

26. StandArt Design Hotel

Almoon

27. Hotel Moscow Krasnoselskaya

Kriemhild

28. AZIMUT City Hotel Olympic Moscow

ggkjr

29. 1 Art Hotel

InnaAverchenko

30. Mamaison All Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka

bishanbhojwani

Moscow Hotels Information

Hotels near the sights.

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The Best Hotels in Paris of 2024

Plan your trip with these editor-loved and T+L award-winning hotels.

Amy Louise Bailey is a freelance content creator and media specialist. Her work has been published in Vogue , Harper’s Bazaar , Elle , Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Pursuits , and Robb Report .

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Peninsula Paris

Paris is a city of dreams, and as highlighted in Assouline’s book, “Paris Chic,” it’s a place that “has inspired the entire world.” Parisians “have that extra touch of style, refinement, [and] mystery,” explains the book’s author, Alexandra Senes. And after many trips to the French capital, I can personally attest that its hotels are similarly enchanting, exuding that unique je ne sais quoi that is so universally revered – an authentic elegance.

There are historic Grande Dames with Palace distinction, Michelin-starred restaurants, and cinematic views of the Eiffel Tower. Wander around the Left Bank and you’ll find a new wave of boutique hotels with quaint bistros and boulangeries. And amid the ongoing tourism boom leading into the 2024 Olympics, a variety of modern hotels have opened in lesser-known arrondissements, providing affordable alternatives to the more storied establishments.

With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down where to stay in the City of Light. Luckily, we’ve rounded up this list of the best hotels to book in Paris based on a combination of editor-loved properties, T+L World’s Best Awards , and It List winners with exceptional service, notable amenities, excellent dining options, and more to make choosing the right one a little easier. Whether you’re looking for dazzling opulence or a hip hangout to experience life as a local, this city has something for everyone.

Also available to book at Hotels.com

Oetker Collection hotels are renowned for their impeccable standards and Le Bristol lives up to the legend, with opulent décor, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a beautiful courtyard filled with roses.

It has an air of old-world formality that may not appeal to those looking for something more casual.

Located on the prestigious Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore, Le Bristol has been a haven of French luxury since it opened in 1925. It underwent a full renovation in 2018, but the authentic style remains: classic with original art, antiques, and Louis XVI-style furnishings so grand they could live in Versailles. There are 190 spacious rooms and suites, many of which have private balconies or terraces, and each with sprawling marble bathrooms and Hermes amenities.

Well-heeled guests enjoy croque monsieurs and espressos in the garden courtyard, framed with rose vines and orange trees. And the lavish La Prairie Spa, complete with a rooftop pool, provides a tranquil place to rejuvenate. Foodies will appreciate the indulgent culinary offerings on site, which range from the hotel’s own chocolate factory to the Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants, Epicure and 114 Faubourg. Le Bristol was included in our World’s Best Awards in 2021, 2022, and 2023, and, unsurprisingly, it was the first hotel in Paris to be designated a “Palace” (a step above the usual five-star standard).

The Details:

  • Arrondissement: Eighth
  • Distance From Airport: 17 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Palais Garnier, Place de la Concorde, Élysée Palace, Champs-Élysées
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair access and facilities are available
  • Rates: Starting at $2,142 per night

Hotel Dame Des Arts

Also available to book at Booking.com

The stylish rooftop bar, which has 360-degree views of the city.

Given that the rooms are small, it is best suited for couples and solo travelers.

If you’re into modern hotels with sleek interiors, Hotel Dame des Arts (featured on our It List for 2023) is an excellent option. It could be compared to the likes of Soho House or Edition Hotels – there’s always a fun vibe and it’s a popular hangout for international crowds and hip locals who flock to the rooftop bar for the panoramic views. Located in the artsy Latin Quarter on the Left Bank, many attractions are within walking distance, such as the Notre-Dame, Jardin du Luxembourg, and the Pont Neuf bridge crossing the river Seine. It’s also close to the iconic Café de Flore – a lovely lunch spot to visit after wandering around Saint Germain’s gorgeous old bookstores and boutiques.

In contrast to the classic French bistros that prevail in the neighborhood, the restaurant on site is Mexican with pan-Asian influences – a point of difference that’s also been popular with locals. Another highlight that discerning travelers will appreciate are the Diptyque bath products in each of the rooms and the calming color palettes – not a single old-world floral fabric in sight.

  • Arrondissement: Sixth
  • Distance From Airport: 21 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Notre-Dame, Jardin du Luxembourg, Pont Neuf bridge, the Seine
  • Rates: Starting at $337 per night

 “To say a hotel has one of the best locations in Paris usually implies it’s in the first arrondissement, a few steps from the Louvre, in a corner of the City of Light where English prevails. Conversely, when I say the brand-new Hotel Dame des Arts just opened in Paris’s most desirable location, I mean it’s in the sixth arrondissement on the Left Bank, across the Seine from the Louvre and Arc de Triomphe, in the city’s Latin Quarter.” 

—Maya Kachroo-Levine, Senior Editor

Shangri-La, Paris

It is one of the few five-star hotels with close-up views of the Eiffel Tower.

In true Shangri-La style, it has an East-meets-West vibe, with Asian restaurants, spa treatments, and oriental design features – a consideration if you’re looking for the full Francophile experience.

Located in the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, the Shangri-La is indeed fit for royalty, with front row views of the Eiffel Tower you won’t find anywhere else. The prime location is one of the reasons it earned a spot on our World’s Best Awards for 2023 and the It List awards in 2022.

But beyond the spectacular views, there are many stand-out features that make it worthwhile, namely, the dining options, including Shang Palace – the first Chinese restaurant in France to receive a Michelin star – and La Bauhinia, which serves elevated pan-Asian dishes and French classics. There’s also Le Bar Botaniste, where you can order tapas, dim-sum, and caviar with expertly crafted cocktails. But the best place to imbibe is on the terrace, where you can marvel at the Iron Lady sparkling in the moonlight; order a glass of French Champagne and park up for a bucket-list moment.

Almost half of the rooms have private balconies with views of the hotel’s gardens and the Eiffel Tower, and all feature large marble bathrooms with heated flooring and televisions built into the mirrors – lovely for an evening of relaxation. And if you really want to rejuvenate, head to Chi Spa, where you can enjoy an extensive menu of eastern treatments. Beyond the proximity to the city’s star attraction, the Shangri-La is close to major museums and monuments, including the Palais de Tokyo, the National Museum of Modern Art, and the Trocadero Gardens.

  • Arrondissement: 16th
  • Distance From Airport: 20.5 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Palais de Tokyo, National Museum of Modern Art, Trocadero Gardens
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities available
  • Rates: Starting at $1,800 per night

“I highly recommend popping into the Shangri-La for afternoon tea or a drink at the bar; it's an impressively grand setting, with very warm service.”

– Skye Senterfeit, Deputy Photo Editor

Cheval Blanc Paris

This LVMH-owned hotel is a prime example of modern luxury, and in keeping with the group’s caliber, it features an elegant spa by Dior, and it is home to the longest pool in Paris.

With only 72 rooms, this is a smaller property than others on our list, which is a consideration for those hoping for something larger with a more anonymous feel.

Certain hotel groups are in another class altogether – think Aman, Belmond, and, more recently, Cheval Blanc, which opened in Paris’s first arrondissement in 2021. Every feature is meticulously considered, from the elegant Dior spa to the state-of-the-art rooms complete with fridges reserved for cosmetics. But although it’s the epitome of sophistication, nothing seems stuffy or contrived – it has a cool, contemporary atmosphere that blends the crème de la crème of fashion, beauty, food, and design.

Guests with the intention of shopping will appreciate the convenience of being located within La Samaritaine – one of the city’s most iconic department stores where many LVMH brands have storefronts. And fine dining enthusiasts will be thrilled with the hotel’s restaurant, Plenitude, helmed by chef Arnaud Donckele – a culinary tour de force that received three Michelin stars within a year of opening. But, perhaps most importantly, the rooms are supremely luxurious, designed by Peter Marino (the go-to designer for Chanel’s boutiques), with calming décor that feels luxurious and considered, like the private apartment of someone with exceptional taste. Most of the rooms have views of the Seine river and the sprawling marble bathrooms feature showers that double as hammams.

  • Arrondissement: First
  • Distance From Airport: 20 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: The Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, La Samaritaine, Le Centre Pompidou
  • Rates: Starting at $2,368 per night

Booking Tip

Some people find the sixth floor to be quite loud given it’s right below the restaurant – if you’re sensitive to noise, it may be best to request a room on level five or below.

Esprit Saint Germain

Also available to book at Expedia.com

Any drinks at the bar are complimentary for guests from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. and the in-room minibars are also free of charge.

While breakfast is served in the library lounge each morning, there is no actual restaurant on site for lunch or dinner.

Seeking accommodation that feels more like a pied-à-terre rather than a hotel with 100 other guests? Featured in our World’s Best Awards in 2021, this intimate 28-room boutique hotel is perfect for travelers who prefer an authentic, low-key vibe, but don’t want to compromise on luxury (or roll the dice with Airbnb or Vrbo). Located in the heart of Saint Germain, the design honors the neighborhood with lithographs, antiques, and art sourced from local stores. There are plush jewel-hued furnishings, cozy fireplaces, and elegant ornaments lining the bookcases – it all looks very lived-in but modern.

While there is no actual restaurant on site, guests are well-catered-to with breakfast buffets supplied in the library each morning, plus complimentary minibars and drinks between certain hours. Those inclined to incorporate workouts into their schedule can use the fitness room with TechnoGym equipment, a sauna, and a steam room (though we would advise sightseeing as your primary source of cardio). And if you’re interested in an extended stay, or living more like a local where you can cook at home, Esprit offers two apartments with fully equipped kitchens.

  • Nearby Attractions: Notre-Dame, the Seine, Jardin du Luxembourg, Pantheon
  • Rates: Starting at $532 per night

Four Seasons Hotel George V

Four Seasons Resorts

Also available to book at TripAdvisor.com

There are many things to love about this landmark hotel, but the biggest highlight is the friendly and attentive staff, whose joie de vivre creates an even more magical atmosphere.

The maximum stay is nine nights – a consideration if you’re planning an extended trip for the Olympics or another longer-term event.

In the land of Palace hotels, standing out is no easy feat, but the Four Seasons remains a step ahead whether it’s at the French Riviera’s Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat or the iconic Hotel George V (featured in our World’s Best Awards for 2023, 2022, and 2021). The distinction lies in the exceptional service – even the youngest guests are made to feel like VIPs. I visited with my family last summer, and after a transatlantic red-eye flight, we were able to check into our suite at 6:00am. Much to my toddlers’ delight, a mini breakfast buffet had been arranged with fresh fruit, croissants, and macarons, along with toys and children’s bath products. Courtesies like these set a positive tone for your trip from the outset, and throughout the stay, the staff were dedicated to making the experience just as magical for the children as for the adults.

But beyond the unparalleled hospitality, there are various highlights that guarantee a memorable stay, beginning the moment you step into the gallery-style entrance, adorned with spectacularly photogenic floral installations. There are Michelin-starred restaurants that are brilliant but unstuffy; a tranquil subterranean spa, which has masterful therapists and a large heated pool; and luxurious rooms – which are spacious by Parisian standards – with gorgeous balconies overlooking the Art Deco architecture.

  • Nearby Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Champs- Elysées, the Seine, Musée Yves Saint Laurent, Palais Galliera
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair access and facilities available
  • Rates: Starting at $2,100 per night

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel

Adrian Houston

This iconic hotel blends old-world glamor with modern sophistication. Plus, all the rooms have butler service.

This hotel is certainly a place to see and be seen – a consideration if you're looking for a more low-key stay.

Rosewood has mastered the art of taking one-of-a-kind properties and catapulting them to superstar status, which is exactly what it did with Hotel de Crillon. The original building was commissioned by King Louis XVI in 1754, and after a mega renovation, it reopened in 2017 to much fanfare (subsequently earning a spot on our It List in 2018 and the World’s Best Awards 2022 and 2023).

While some of the stately 18th-century features were preserved, it exudes a glossy grandeur that is tailored to the jet-set of today, with stylish suites designed by the late Karl Lagerfeld, a holistic wellness center with a supremely photogenic pool area, and multiple dining options that utilize seasonal, local produce. Models, designers, and celebrities can almost always be found here during Paris Fashion Week, and in any season, well-heeled denizens occupy the elegant Les Ambassadeurs lounge, which has over 100 champagnes on offer.

  • Distance From Airport: 19 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Place de la Concorde, Champs-Élysées, Petit Palais, Jardin des Tuileries
  • Rates: Starting from $2,131 per night

The hotel’s gastronomic Michelin-starred restaurant, L’Ecrin only has 22 seats, so you’ll need to book in advance if you intend on dining there.

Hotel Lutetia

Also available to book at Kayak.com

Hotel Lutetia is a favorite for stylish jetsetters and is the only five-star hotel on the Left Bank with Palace distinction.

This hotel is constantly filled with famous faces and immaculately dressed denizens – you may feel uneasy emerging in athleisure or anything too casual.

You might recognize Hotel Lutetia from Instagram, geotagged in some of the most beautifully curated posts from Paris. It’s not surprising that so many content creators gravitate toward the photogenic Art Nouveau landmark, with a whimsical façade that looks like it’s straight out of a Wes Anderson film. After a long renovation led by renowned architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte, Hotel Lutetia reopened in 2018, unveiling the meticulous restoration of notable original features, including Romanesque frescoes, mosaics, sculptures, and painterly stained-glass elements.

The hotel has 184 rooms in total, including 49 suites, with chic minimalist décor and intuitive touch screens that make everything easy to navigate, from the lighting to the curtains. Dining is a buzzy affair, whether you’re ordering caviar-topped oysters at Bar Josephine or a decadent vanilla millefeuille at Brasserie Lutetia. And in keeping with the hotel’s focus on appealing to modern travelers, it has a holistic wellness center with a Jacuzzi and a 55-foot pool. Hotel Lutetia was featured on our World’s Best Awards in 2022 and 2021, and the It List in 2019.

  • Nearby Attractions: The Louvre, Notre-Dame, Musee d’Orsay, Le Bon Marche, Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Rates: Starting at $1,900 per night

Hotel Madame Reve

It’s a trendy establishment with a 10,000-square foot rooftop terrace featuring an excellent Franco-Japanese restaurant, La Plume.

The rooms have a vastly different style to most Parisian hotels with a lot of wood and a retro 1970s-style aesthetic that feels like it’s been cast in a sepia filter. While we love it, it may not be to everyone’s tastes.

Hotel Madame Reve is the sort of place you would expect to find up-and-coming musicians, photographers, and creative crowds in search of a lively scene – a contrast to the well-coiffed regulars who frequent the Palace hotels on the Right Bank.

Located in a former post office, Madame Reve opened as an 82-room hotel in 2022 (making it onto the It List that year and the World’s Best Awards in 2023), and it features a wellness area, a rooftop terrace with 180-degree views, and two different restaurants, one offering contemporary French, and one with Japanese. The rooms are sleek with midcentury furniture and a distinctly vintage theme with warm woody tones. Step out into the neighborhood – referred to as the “new Golden Triangle” – and you’ll find key attractions within walking distance, including the Louvre, the Jardin du Palais-Royal, and the Palace des Victoires.

  • Nearby Attractions: Louvre, Jardin de Palais Royal, Le Centre Pompidou
  • Rates: Starting at $450 per night

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Remember the supremely opulent hotel where the Sex and the City finale was filmed? It was at Plaza Athénée, which remains one of the most exquisite hotels in Paris 20 years on.

As you might expect, it is very expensive.

No place embodies the spirit of haute couture quite like the Plaza Athénée. It remains one of the most culturally relevant hotels in the world 110 years after opening, making appearances in "The Devil Wears Prada" and Sex and the City . It famously inspired a Christian Dior collection, and more recently, became the first hotel to have a dedicated coffee table book as part of Assouline’s travel series.

The Dorchester Collection landmark is simply that fabulous, with unabashed grandeur flowing through every polished corner, from its opulently decorated suites to its fine dining restaurants and the indulgent wellness sanctuary, comprising Europe’s first Dior spa. If you’re looking to experience the absolute pinnacle of luxury, Plaza Athénée takes it to another level. It’s no wonder it featured on our World’s Best Awards for 2023, 2022, and 2021.

  • Distance From Airport: 19.5 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Musée Yves Saint Laurent, Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, Palais de Tokyo, Petit Palais, the Seine
  • Rates: Starting at $2,260 per night

Hôtel Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hôtel Prince de Galles

It’s located in the Golden Triangle, right next to the Four Seasons, and is a great base for exploring key Parisian landmarks.

With 116 rooms and 43 suites, it's a larger hotel, which may not appeal to those looking for something more intimate.

This Luxury Collection Hotel takes its design inspiration from the 1920s, with Art Deco mosaics, jewel-hued furnishings, and vintage Vogue photography. It has 159 rooms and suites, some with Eiffel Tower views on the higher levels, but its crown jewel is the two-level Suite Lalique designed by Patrick Hellman. The extravagant suite was unveiled in 2019 to mark the hotel’s 90th anniversary, and it resembles a private residence, with an office, a dining room, a sprawling marble bathroom, a spacious bedroom, and a 1,076-square foot terrace overlooking the sights of Paris. Another stand-out feature at Hôtel Prince de Galles is the modern Japanese restaurant by Michelin-star chef, Akira Back. It was featured in our World’s Best Awards in 2021.

  • Nearby Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, the Seine, Musée Yves Saint Laurent, Palais Galliera
  • Rates: Starting from $1,160 per night

La Réserve Paris – Hotel & Spa

La Reserve Paris 

It is supremely sophisticated and has thoughtful details that create a memorable stay, including linens monogrammed with guests’ initials and wine cellars in each room.

It has the vibe of a private mansion and communal spaces that encourage socializing with other guests, which may not be desirable for those who prefer to keep to themselves.

La Reserve feels like the home of someone who is immersed in Parisian society, with fastidious taste and extensive knowledge of the best wine, books, art, and décor. It’s all on display throughout the elegant, dimly lit space designed by Jacques Garcia. The intimate hotel has only 25 suites and 15 rooms, each featuring Carrara marble bathrooms with double basins, plush furnishings, and functional iPads allowing for effortless navigation.

Like La Reserve’s sister properties in Ramatuelle and Geneva, it boasts the features that its clientele have come to expect: Michelin-star dining, 24-hour access to the sleek indoor pool, hammam, and gym, and unique features like a 3,000-book library and a selection of 400 cigars. It featured on our World’s Best Awards for 2023 and 2022 and continues to be a coveted address for refined global travelers.

  • Distance From Airport: 18 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: The Grand Palais, The Louvre, Avenue Montaigne, The Alexandre III Bridge
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities. The concierge also has wheelchairs available for guests.
  • Rates: Starting at $1,022 per night

It has Palace distinction and stunning views of the Tuileries Gardens.

The device-charging facilities in the rooms could do with an upgrade.

With a grand Haussmann façade overlooking the Tuileries Gardens, Le Meurice has been a bastion of luxury since it opened in 1835. The Palace hotel has undergone various incarnations over the centuries, but today it is part of Dorchester Collection’s haute hotel portfolio, and the group’s high standards are evident in everything from the ornately decorated rooms to the decadent restaurants helmed by Jean Imbert (attributes that earned it a spot in our World’s Best Awards in 2022).

There are 121 rooms and 39 suites, some of which were redecorated in 2019 with beautiful hand-drawn de Gournay wallpaper and luxurious silk drapery. But the hotel’s crowning jewel is the four-bedroom Belle Etoile Penthouse suite, featuring a sprawling rooftop terrace that has 360-degree views of Paris.

  • Distance From Airport: 18.7 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Tuileries Gardens, Place de la Concorde, Palais Garnier
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities
  • Rates: Starting at $1,910 per night

Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme

Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme

There is nothing “sceney” about this five-star hotel, making it an ideal option for business travelers and guests who prefer discretion.

For a hotel at this price, it doesn’t have many distinctive “wow” factors to set it apart.

It’s easy to see why corporate travelers choose the Park Hyatt: it has reliable service, up-to-date technology and conference facilities, and you won’t be hustling for a table with crowds wanting to see and be seen. It’s also a solid option if you’re traveling for leisure, due to its convenient location and its clean, minimalist rooms providing all the necessary comforts you could need.

While it’s currently under renovation, the hotel’s Michelin-star restaurant, Pur’ is a lovely place for dinner, serving elegant renditions of French cuisine (the menu features caviar Oscietra, Brittany langoustines, and Pyrenees lamb with poivrade artichokes). Breakfast is served at the smart casual Café Jeanne, as well as lunch, dinner, and cocktails. Other features at this 156-room hotel include an on-site hair salon, fitness center, spa, hammam, and 24-hour in-room dining, which is certainly useful if you’re arriving late or departing early.

  • Arrondissement: Second
  • Rates: Starting at $1,614 per night

Relais Christine

It has the charm of a true boutique hotel, with friendly staff and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.

There is no restaurant on site.

Nestled in a quiet street in Saint Germain, Relais Christine is a low-key yet luxurious hotel. It has only 48 rooms and suites, a Guerlain Spa, and a fitness center with a sauna and a whirlpool. What it doesn’t have is a proper restaurant on site; however, breakfast is provided from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. each morning, and menus from local restaurants are available and able to be served in the lounges, the courtyard, or in-room.

Bicycles are complimentary and a convertible Fiat 500 can be rented from the hotel for guests who want to get out and explore the city in true Parisian style. There are certainly some boutique hotels that can be hit or miss, but Relais Christine is a lovely option, and given it’s part of the Relais & Chateaux network, you can rest assured that the quality control is up to snuff. Plus, it was named in our World’s Best Awards in 2023 and 2021.

  • Nearby Attractions: Notre-Dame, the Seine, Sainte-Chapelle
  • Rates: Starting at $565 per night

It’s one of the most iconic hotels in the world and is a place for travelers seeking not just a destination, but an experience.

Coffee machines aren’t included in the rooms but are available on request.

Coco Chanel lived here for 30 years; Ernest Hemingway famously equated it to heaven; and a swirl of luminary guests from the 20th century graced its gilded hallways. Today, the Ritz remains one of the most revered hotels in Paris, and its heritage has only been enriched over time. It reopened in 2016 following a four-year renovation, revealing a version with all the five-star comforts required by modern travelers, refreshed amenities, and carefully concealed technological advances.

But the haute décor remains; there are dazzling chandeliers, tapestries, and Louis XVI-style furnishings featured throughout, proving that certain styles will never date. Rooms are designed in an opulent fashion (there’s even a suite with a rendition of Marie Antoinette’s boudoir), and the dining scene is a lively affair, from the breakfast served in Bar Vendome’s courtyard to elegant dinners at Espadon in the evening. French savoir-faire is alive and well at The Ritz, with service as impeccable as its surroundings, and it was featured in our World’s Best Awards 2023, 2022, and 2021.

  • Nearby Attractions: Tuileries Gardens, Palais Garnier, Colonne Vendome
  • Rates: Starting at $2,367 per night

The aviation-themed, two Michelin-star rooftop restaurant, L’Oiseau Blanc, has lovely views of the Eiffel Tower and is not to be missed.

There are 200 rooms, which is on the larger side by Parisian standards.

My husband and I had lunch at L’Oiseau Blanc the day we got engaged 10 years ago, so it’s a destination that holds a special place in my heart. But personal affiliations aside, I would recommend The Peninsula to anyone visiting Paris, whether it’s your first or fifth trip.

Centrally located right by the Arc de Triomphe, the hotel is ultra-luxurious and is free of any stuffiness that can run rife at establishments of this caliber. Everything is designed to sparkle, from the show-stopping crystal sculpture in the entrance to the state-of-the-art rooms with mini-bars stocked according to guest preferences, and convenient amenities like nail dryers in the dressing rooms. It was featured on our World’s Best Awards in 2022.

  • Distance From Airport: 19.4 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Palais Galliera, Palais de Tokyo
  • Rates: Starting at $1,450 per night

Saint James Paris

The Saint James is Paris’s only chateau hotel, with a private club where sophisticated locals take meetings and go to socialize.

It is tucked away in a quieter part of the 16th arrondissement surrounded by 50,000-square feet of gardens, so it’s not a place where you can roll out onto the street and be right in the action.

Unlike many Parisian hotels that are flanked by designer boutiques and top-hatted doormen, arriving at the Saint James feels like you’re entering “Saltburn” or some extravagant estate. Grand gates lead down a pebble pathway past statues and a water fountain to the historic main building that was redesigned and unveiled in the spring of 2022 (where it swiftly gained a spot on our World’s Best Awards that year and subsequently, the It List for 2023).

Since then, the reasons to visit have multiplied: the hotel’s main restaurant, Bellefeuille, was awarded a Michelin star, it unveiled a new villa that is perfect for families and larger groups, and a new terrace restaurant that is lovely for al fresco dining in the summer. The 50-room hotel and private club also has an exceptional subterranean Guerlain Spa, and a 50-foot indoor pool.

The Details: 

  • Nearby Attractions: Arc de Triomphe, Avenue Foch, Park du Bois
  • Rates: Starting at $757 per night

Mandarin Oriental

Mandarin Oriental Paris

It is one of the city’s more contemporary Palace hotels, with state-of-the art technology and thoughtful features including a robust pillow menu.

It doesn’t have a distinctly Parisian atmosphere – you could easily imagine that you’re in Dubai or Tokyo.

Housed in an Art Deco building, the Mandarin Oriental is an antidote to the majority of Paris’s hotels, where history reigns supreme. Here you’ll find bold pops of magenta, outer space-inspired silver ornaments, and Asian design influences that echo the hotel group’s Hong Kong origins. There are 135 spacious rooms, a lush indoor garden with a sleek black marble fountain, and an award-winning spa with a 46-foot lap pool.

Renowned chef, Thierry Marx, oversees the three restaurants, including the all-day French bistro Camelia, the Michelin-star Sur Mesure par Thierry Marx, and Bar 8, which offers beautifully crafted cocktails, tapas, and a selection of crowd-pleasing classics (Caesar salad, croque monsieurs, and panko-crusted tiger prawns to have with your lime pisco sour). Another culinary highlight is the decadent Cake Shop, offering an assortment of lacquered pastries and other sweet delicacies. The Mandarin Oriental featured on our World’s Best Awards in 2023, 2022, and 2021.

  • Distance From Airport: 18.5 miles from Charles de Gaulle Airport
  • Nearby Attractions: Place de la Concorde, Tuileries Gardens, Musée de l’Orangerie, Palais Garnier
  • Rates: Starting at $1,883 per night

“I’ve stayed at the Mandarin Oriental several times. It’s great if you're in town for business; the staff is polished, the rooms are big and plush, and the location is great (just around the corner from Place Vendôme).”

– Denny Lee, Articles Editor

Know Before You Go

Learn a bit of french.

Despite the impression you may have from Emily in Paris , the French appreciate travelers attempting to speak their language, and even just learning a few words will go a long way and show locals that you have a genuine interest in their culture.

Understand the different arrondissements

Paris is split up into 20 arrondissements , or districts, each with their own distinct vibe and attractions. For example, the Eiffel Tower is located in the seventh arrondissement, while the Louvre is located in the first. Choose a hotel in the arrondissement that suits your travel plans and interests and is best positioned for what you plan to do and the experience you hope to have. However, it’s easy to walk, taxi, or take the metro between the different arrondissements as well.

Book tickets in advance

It’s recommended to book tickets for popular tourist attractions like the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, the Palace of Versailles, and the Eiffel Tower in advance, especially during high season (June to August and late December), as things tend to sell out quickly. Additionally, purchasing your tickets in advance can also help you skip the line for major attractions – and who wants to spend all day waiting in line in a city as magical as Paris?

Wear comfortable shoes

Paris is an extremely walkable city (though the metro is also an easy and inexpensive method for getting around), so you’ll likely be spending significant amounts of time on your feet. Be sure to add a great pair of walking shoes to your Paris packing list , preferably a pair that’s as stylish as it is comfortable – your feet will thank you.

How We Chose These Hotels

Amy Louise Bailey has traveled to Paris multiple times for both leisure and business travel, and has extensive knowledge of the city and its luxury hospitality scene. And while there is a vast array of hotels to choose from in The City of Light, many of the properties on our list were also featured on our coveted World’s Best Awards list and It Lists , in which Travel + Leisure readers vote on their favorite hotels and T+L editors select the best new hotels in the world. Furthermore, the key attributes we consider when recommending hotels are aligned with our core values, which can be viewed here .

tourist hotel vs hotel

The best Washington, DC, hotels to stay in when visiting the US capital

Kyle Olsen

From the quaint, historic cobblestone streets of Georgetown to the vibrant, prideful pop art murals in Adams Morgan, our nation's capital is home to some of the country's most intriguing, diverse neighborhoods. As you'd expect, those neighborhoods also house a full assortment of hotels fit for all kinds of travelers on various budgets.

History buffs will especially love Washington, D.C. 's array of accommodations, as many serve as living monuments that continue to greet presidents, foreign officials and the district's movers and shakers. The Line DC, which occupies an early 20th-century church, beckons to artsy types who crave a dose of history. Meanwhile, the InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C. attracts guests with an interest in American politics, as it was here that former President Ulysses S. Grant reportedly coined the term "lobbyist" after some pesky political advocates spent hours in the hotel's lobby seeking to gain a few seconds of face time with the president during stays.

But not all of D.C.'s hotels require a passion for history to appreciate. Whether you're looking for over-the-top grandeur, a more subtle take on luxury or a budget-friendly (yet stylish) place to retreat to after a busy day of sightseeing, there are plenty of excellent hotels to choose from in the district. Here are 16 of Washington, D.C.'s best hotels.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Long regarded as one of D.C.'s premier hotels thanks to its mix of art deco flair and palpable history, the conveniently located Hay-Adams is ideal for visitors seeking elegant accommodations with a view.

Overlooking the White House, the nearly 100-year-old Leading Hotels of the World property blends sophisticated decor with modern conveniences. Expect draperies and bed linens with traditional prints, photographs of the city's famous landmarks, Etro toiletries, a Bluetooth speaker and a Google Chromecast-equipped flat-screen TV inside each of the 145 guest rooms and suites.

The public spaces are just as glorious. After passing through the towering columns by the entrance, you'll discover a series of grandiose chandeliers illuminating the ornate lobby, which has Old World details like rich wood paneling and vaulted archways. Other areas accessible to guests range from a small but well-equipped fitness center to the moody Off the Record bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and light bites amid caricatures of politicians.

For something more substantial, sit for a meal at The Lafayette. The menu showcases a number of contemporary American dishes, such as Atlantic halibut with potatoes, spinach and littleneck clams, and locally sourced filet mignon with asparagus, wild mushrooms and shaved black truffle. Should you rather dine off-site, ask the historic hotel's team of Les Clefs d'Or concierges to snag you a last-minute reservation at one of the city's hottest restaurants.

Rates at The Hay-Adams start at $399 per night.

Related: Racing to the capital: What's the fastest way to get from New York to Washington, DC?

tourist hotel vs hotel

At the entrance to quaint Georgetown sits the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, a luxurious spot within steps of some of the district's best restaurants and shops.

The 222 handsomely decorated rooms feature a calm color scheme (think: white, taupe and soft pearl) with occasional pops of color on accent pillows, chairs and wall art. Beds are dressed in crisp white down duvets and pillows, while the limestone bathrooms offer separate showers and bathtubs, terry bathrobes and Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries.

Weekend guests can enjoy two culinary delights: afternoon tea with an array of homemade pastries, and a mouthwatering brunch offering all kinds of Mediterranean-influenced highlights, including a falafel bar, an omelet station and a raw bar. Both take place in the airy Seasons restaurant, which welcomes patrons every morning with an array of healthy international dishes.

For a bite to eat at night, be sure to visit Bourbon Steak, the Four Seasons' modern American steakhouse. At the restaurant, diners can choose from a delectable selection of steak and seafood dishes, plus an extensive wine list.

To work off all the tasty food you'll consume during your stay, head to the 12,000-square-foot fitness center, which is open 24 hours a day, or swim laps in the two-lane pool. Then, unwind with a treatment at the award-winning spa. Standout services include the chardonnay body scrub and wine facial, which incorporate antioxidants from grapeseed extract to help nourish your skin.

Rates at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC start at $677 per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Whether you're a Marriott loyalist or a fan of luxury, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, DC will appeal to you. With only 86 rooms and suites, this eye-catching hotel, which occupies a brick building previously used as an incinerator, offers a boutique experience in one of D.C.'s most beloved neighborhoods.

A block off the corner of M Street Northwest and Wisconsin Avenue, this Ritz-Carlton outpost places you a stone's throw away from Georgetown's cute shops and eateries. Plus, you'll have easy access to the running paths along the tree-lined Chesapeake & Ohio Canal.

If you'd rather linger on-site, you're in luck, as many of the hotel's accommodations have fireplaces and river views to ensure you have a relaxing stay. For an extra dose of pampering, reserve one of the hotel's wellness rooms, which are located on the spa level and feature extra amenities like air purifiers, yoga mats, aromatherapy bath salts and sound machines.

Should you wish to break a sweat, visit the recently renovated fitness center, which offers a mix of cardio and weight-training equipment, including two Peloton bikes. Then, relax while watching a flick at the movie theater within the hotel complex.

To satisfy your appetite, head to Degrees Bistro, the on-site restaurant. Menu favorites include the flambe fromage toast with brie cheese and fig jam, the lemongrass teriyaki quinoa bowl and the smoked Nantucket scallops.

Rates at The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, DC start at $575 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related: The best times to visit Washington, DC

tourist hotel vs hotel

Another Georgetown favorite on the banks of the C&O Canal, the Rosewood woos visitors with its understated elegance.

Guests have 55 sleek accommodations to choose from, ranging from standard rooms to suites with separate bedrooms to brick-clad townhouses that blend in with the property's historic surroundings. Room amenities include hardwood floors, rainfall showers, stocked minibars and Nespresso machines.

Season permitting, you can enjoy a dip in the rooftop's indoor-outdoor pool, which has a built-in fireplace and views of the Potomac River, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the Washington Monument. The rooftop is also home to a fitness center with a Peloton bike, a Concept2 rower, a selection of free weights and an outdoor stretching area, among other amenities.

As far as dining goes, you won't want to miss Cut D.C., the property's only restaurant. The Wolfgang Puck-linked establishment serves some of D.C.'s most creative dishes, such as fried rice with Maine lobster, local blue crab and smoked Virginia country ham, and ceviche made with Virginia rockfish, coconut, Thai basil and lime leaf. Check out the restaurant's rooftop lounge for phenomenal city panoramas.

Rates at the Rosewood Washington, DC start at $548 per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Despite its dark pallete and somewhat brutalist avant-garde design, the beautifully renovated Watergate Hotel offers guests a dose of luxury on the banks of the Potomac River.

The site of the infamous 1972 break-in, the 336-room property gives history-loving visitors an incredible peek at the incident that led to former President Richard Nixon's impeachment in its one-of-a-kind Scandal Room. Inside this room, which was used to orchestrate the break-in, you'll find many items inspired by the period, such as a manual typewriter and a reel-to-reel tape recorder. There are even walls of break-in artifacts, including newspaper clippings, official White House photos and letters signed by Nixon.

If you don't have the budget to stay in the Scandal Room, opt for a more affordable superior or deluxe room. Measuring at least 275 square feet, these spaces are more compact but come packed with everything you could need during your stay, including plush bathrobes, minibars, flat-screen TVs and beds with goose-down comforters. The decor is not quite as bold as what you'll see in the Scandal Room but is still in line with the midcentury modern vibe throughout the hotel thanks to earthy hues and wooden accents.

Outside the rooms, guests can unwind at the Argentta Spa, where luxe treatments (including fully customizable facials and massages) are available. The spa also has a fully equipped gym and one of the district's best indoor pools, so be sure to save time for a dip after your workout.

When your stomach starts to grumble, head to Kingbird for contemporary American fare made with locally sourced ingredients. For a nightcap, visit the lobby's Next Whisky Bar or the seasonal Top of the Gate lounge on the rooftop.

Rates at The Watergate Hotel start at $203 per night.

Related: I slept in the hotel room tied to the Watergate break-in — here's what it's like 50 years later

tourist hotel vs hotel

As one of Washington's newest luxury hotels, it's easy to mistake downtown's Conrad Washington, DC for an upscale modern art museum. Looking up from the third-floor lobby, you'll see a towering starfish-shaped web that spans multiple floors of the atrium.

Unsurprisingly, you'll find a chic, contemporary vibe inside the 360 accommodations, too. Each guest room offers tons of natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, plus a spacious layout in neutral hues that includes a marble bathroom with a rainfall shower and double sinks.

If having club access is important to you — especially as a Hilton Honors Diamond member who is used to receiving it — consider upgrading to a Sakura Club room or suite. These accommodations offer a similar design as standard rooms but sit on the 10th floor and provide access to the Sakura Club, a beautiful lounge with complimentary breakfast, lighter fare at dinner, a selection of alcoholic beverages and concierge service, as well as views of the Capitol and the Washington Monument.

While the hotel lacks facilities like a pool and a spa, guests do have access to a fitness center with up-to-date equipment like treadmills and spin bikes. Visitors can also enjoy a seasonal rooftop bar and Estuary, the on-site restaurant. The latter serves a selection of dishes made with local ingredients from the Chesapeake Bay region.

Rates at the Conrad Washington, DC start at $361 or 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Occupying D.C.'s beautiful historic Old Post Office, the grand Waldorf Astoria is an ideal spot for luxury-seeking sightseers, as it sits just a block north of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and within walking distance of other attractions on the National Mall.

Although much of the hotel still reflects its past as a Trump Hotels property — you won't be hard-pressed to find gold-plated and velvet decor throughout — its rebranding as a Hilton means some of the over-the-top extravagances that once existed have since been toned down. For example, the 263 rooms and suites have crystal chandeliers and rich wood furnishings but are otherwise bright and airy with white, beige and navy blue color schemes. Standard amenities include glass-enclosed showers, Nespresso machines and drapes and sheers controlled electronically.

Should you need to rest your feet after a busy day out and about in D.C., book a treatment at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. There are six rooms available for an array of treatments, plus a therapy room with Himalayan salt, which can help clear and soothe lungs when breathed in.

For a bite to eat, check out The Bazaar by José Andrés. Recently opened in the lobby atrium, the restaurant draws on Americana flair with a nod to U.S. history. You'll find tapas-style dishes like an Eisenhower stew made with braised beef cheeks and a crab Louie cone with Marie Rose sauce and fresh avocado.

Additional food and beverage options include Peacock Alley, the hotel's bar known for its see-and-be-seen vibe, and Sushi Nakazawa, a Japanese-inspired establishment with a seafood-focused omakase menu.

Rates at the Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC start at $566 or 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

If you ask a Washingtonian which hotel in D.C. is the most historic, odds are they'll mention The Willard.

Referred to by some as "the residence of presidents," The Willard's storied history dates back to 1818 when it started hosting American icons like Abraham Lincoln. The hotel quickly became a popular place for notable visitors to stay, as it's just a stone's throw away from the White House.

Prepare to be wowed the second you walk into this InterContinental outpost. Marble floors, kentia palms and fresh flowers immediately catch your eye as you step foot in the lobby, though you'll quickly find yourself looking up to take in the Parisan-style gilded ceilings.

While the 335 rooms and suites are nowhere near as grand as the lobby, they also offer some historical charm. Expect shades of navy and ivory, traditional dark wood furnishings and monogrammed headboards, as well as contemporary touches like USB charging outlets and Nespresso machines with complimentary tea and coffee. Splurge on a suite named after a former U.S. president for additional space and the property's best views.

As for dining, you'll find a few venues on-site. Cafe du Parc offers brasserie-style French staples, including escargot, beef bourguignon and bouillabaisse, while the Round Robin Bar is the place to people-watch, as its circular bar welcomes all kinds of politicians who come to eat small plates, drink tasty cocktails and catch up on important business. For lighter bites on the go, visit the property's coffee shop, Le Cafe.

Rates at the InterContinental The Willard Washington, DC start at $370 or 45,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Although it may not be as showy as some of D.C.'s other hotels, the Park Hyatt is still a favorite among locals and visitors. Paying homage to Washington's famous cherry blossoms with its beautiful glass mural in the lobby, the property provides a relaxed yet refined atmosphere that'll help you feel like you're escaping the hustle and bustle of the city without sacrificing proximity to everything to see and do in Georgetown and the downtown area.

As you might expect, the 220 rooms and suites here are modern without being cold, thanks to tasteful touches of wood and American folk art throughout. Amenities available in all accommodations include 42-inch TVs, minifridges, Nespresso coffee makers and Le Labo bath products.

After a restful night's sleep, head to the saltwater pool for a peaceful soak amid a Zen-inspired space with teak loungers and Japanese wall art. Or, if you're more concerned about maintaining your fitness regimen during your stay, visit the 24-hour fitness center.

When hunger strikes, sit for a meal at the Blue Duck Tavern, which serves delicious farm-to-table food from local farms. Popular menu items include pan-seared scallops and pasture-raised chicken.

If you're traveling during the cooler months, save time for a cup of tea in the glass-enclosed Tea Cellar. The venue offers an impressive selection of more than 30 teas from around the world, some of which are so rare that they cost as much as $300 per pot.

Rates at the Park Hyatt Washington, DC start at $426 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Overlooking the Tidal Basin just north of the district's waterfront Wharf neighborhood, the former Mandarin Oriental hotel offers comfortable accommodations close to some of D.C.'s most popular tourist attractions.

Now named Salamander Washington, DC, this Preferred Hotels-affiliated property houses 373 elegant accommodations. Inside every room and suite, you'll find a mix of aqua, gray and beige hues, plus dark wood furniture and spa-inspired bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers. Depending on which space you choose, you'll enjoy views of the waterfront or the city.

While the rooms are gorgeous, the main reason to book a stay here is the expansive spa complex. In addition to offering a number of spa services, including facials, body scrubs, massages and even a seasonal cherry blossom treatment, the facility has a 50-foot vitality pool, a plunge pool, a steam room and a sauna. You can also sign up for private yoga and meditation classes (for a fee) in the 24-hour fitness center.

For a bite to eat after your spa day, head to the Salamander's lounge-style restaurant. While its menu is a bit limited, you'll find a selection of bar bites, flatbreads, entrees and desserts to choose from. Opt for a midafternoon visit on Friday, Saturday or Sunday for traditional afternoon tea.

Rates at the Salamander Washington, DC start at $467 per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Drawing inspiration from its location in D.C.'s Navy Yard neighborhood, the Thompson Washington, DC showcases a mix of industrial and nautical details in its design. As you approach this member of the Hyatt portfolio, you'll notice an eye-catching brick building accented by weathered wood and glass. The look continues inside, where navy blue, gray and cream furnishings combine with black metal light fixtures and modern sculptural accents to create a cool scene with plenty of visual interest.

The Thompson's 208 rooms and suites are just as stunning. Dark wood furniture features marble countertops for contrast, and floor-to-ceiling windows have black metal framing for a touch of industrial character. The tiled bathrooms continue the nautical color scheme and offer walk-in rain showers, plus D.S. & Durga bath products.

Although on-site amenities and facilities are limited, there are a few food and beverage outlets available for guests. Surveyor, the signature restaurant, serves American classics like deviled eggs and crabcakes alongside inventive cocktails named after nautical knots. Additionally, guests can visit the lobby bar or rooftop bar for small plates and drinks. Prioritize the latter during the warmer months for phenomenal views of the city and the Anacostia River.

Rates at the Thompson Washington, DC start at $250 or 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Located two blocks north of the White House, The St. Regis Washington, DC woos travelers seeking Old World elegance. When you walk into the lobby, your eye will immediately be drawn to the bouquet of roses, which sits beneath stunning two-tiered crystal chandeliers that hang from an ornate hand-stenciled Florentine gold ceiling. Floor-to-ceiling Palladian windows let in lots of natural light, and rich red velvet furnishings create a moody, regal setting.

The 172 guest rooms and suites offer a similar nod to the past in their design, featuring traditional matching decor in yellow, orange, blue, purple, green or cream hues. Despite the somewhat dated look, each space comes equipped with all the essentials, including comfortable Frette linens, 42-inch TVs, minibars and bathrobes.

Health-conscious travelers will appreciate the property's St. Regis Athletic Club. The facility, which is open 24 hours a day, offers everything you could need, from treadmills to stationary bikes to free weights.

Head to The St. Regis Bar for seasonal craft cocktails, then make your way to Alhambra, the hotel's Mediterranean restaurant, for upscale items like butterflied branzino and lamb kofta with saffron shallots. Don't miss the brand's famous Champagne sabering, which takes place in the lobby every night at 6 p.m.

Rates at The St. Regis Washington, DC start at $387 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Named after former President Thomas Jefferson, downtown's The Jefferson, Washington, DC embodies the politician in its decor and atmosphere. Sky-high, curved ceilings greet guests the moment they walk into the marble-clad lobby, and the aptly named Book Room showcases reproductions of Jefferson's personal library. The latter even hosts fireplace chats with Susan Sullivan Lagon, the property's resident historian, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

All 99 rooms and suites at this boutique hotel are equally fit for Washington's elite. Designed to provide a contemporary take on classic luxury, The Jefferson's accommodations feature white walls with picture frame molding, tray ceilings and dark wood furnishings. Amenities range from king-size beds and flat-screen TVs to marble bathrooms with walk-in showers.

Outside the rooms, you'll find a fitness center with two Peloton bikes and a TRX Training Center, among other equipment offerings, as well as two on-site eateries. The Greenhouse dishes up an array of steak and seafood dishes in an airy, art deco-style atrium, while Quill offers modern versions of comfort classics, plus various cocktails with clever names, such as the Your Uncle In Bel-Air, a whiskey-based concoction with apple spiced tea, apple butter, allspice dram and lemon.

Rates at The Jefferson, Washington, DC start at $462 per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

As its name suggests, Riggs Washington, DC occupies the former Riggs National Bank building, so you can expect plenty of nods to its past throughout the Penn Quarter property. Walking into the grand marble lobby, you'll notice towering marble columns and an intricate geometric pattern on the curved ceiling. To the right sits a bank teller-style check-in desk just in front of a massive vault that once stored valuables.

The bank-inspired touches continue in each of this Preferred hotel's 181 rooms and suites, which are outfitted with minibars designed to look like safes. Other standout details include Carrara marble showers, colorful velvet drapes and beds with custom Voutsa headboards designed to complement the bespoke wallpaper.

Standard rooms are small at 250 to 292 square feet, so consider upgrading to one of four First Lady Suites. Measuring more than 500 square feet, each of these spacious suites pays homage to a former first lady. If you love music, choose the yellow Louisa Adams suite for its baby grand piano and string instrument wall art. If antiques are more your passion, reserve the blue Caroline Harrison suite, which has an impressive display of porcelain items in honor of Harrison's part in starting the White House's extensive collection.

When you're in need of some sustenance, venture back down to the first floor to dine at Cafe Riggs, the signature restaurant and lobby bar that occupies much of the lobby. The eatery partners with a number of local producers to ensure the freshest, most sustainably sourced ingredients are used in its European brasserie-style dishes.

No stay would be complete without visiting Silver Lyan, the speak-easy hidden within the hotel's former vault on the lower level. The eclectic drink menu, which was dreamed up by world-renowned bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, celebrates America's diverse culture with cocktails like the Jurassic Fizz (made with vodka, saffron cream and apricot caviar, among other ingredients) and the Project Manhattan (a whiskey-based drink with blackcurrant).

Rates at Riggs Washington, DC start at $305 per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

The Line DC is far from your typical hotel, making it the place to stay if you crave a one-of-a-kind experience. Occupying a 110-year-old Christian Science Church in the nightlife-centric Adams Morgan neighborhood, the property prides itself on doing D.C. differently by blending vintage and contemporary designs and focusing on local art and culture. In fact, the hotel participates in a rotating art and photography installation, so odds are you'll notice something new each time you visit.

As you enter the lobby, expect a mix of vintage and midcentury modern furniture. The arched ceilings and second-floor terraces are evocative of the building's former life as a church, creating a memorable space that serves as the perfect backdrop for the radio broadcasts that take place here weekly.

Dining options are limited to room service and No Goodbyes, the only on-site restaurant, but the venue's all-day menu of locally sourced ingredients means you'll likely find something to satisfy your cravings. Grab a caffeinated beverage from the eatery's coffee shop or a breakfast sandwich to start the day, then return later for reimagined American classics like a duck breast pastrami Reuben sandwich and baked pimento cheese.

Like the public spaces, the 220 rooms and suites also offer a quirky twist. Bright yellow throws add a fun pop of color to the crisp white beds, which have a curved brass design reminiscent of traditional metal bed frames. Minibars stocked with local and international snacks and beverages come standard, as do old-school radios.

Rates at The Line DC start at $204 per night.

tourist hotel vs hotel

Dupont Circle is one of the district's preeminent neighborhoods thanks to its seemingly endless supply of bars, restaurants, art galleries and nightlife venues. While the neighborhood is home to several hotels, the Preferred-affiliated Dupont Circle Hotel stands out for its sleek, contemporary design.

Each of the 327 guest rooms and suites, which feature a cream and charcoal color scheme, is stocked with all the must-haves for a comfortable stay. You'll find 300-thread-count imported linens, a marble bath with heated floors and Malin + Goetz toiletries, a Nespresso machine and a Samsung smart TV, among other amenities.

Both dining venues impress as well. Doyle serves all kinds of cocktails inspired by the 1950s and '60s, plus a selection of small plates. Meanwhile, The Pembroke, the hotel's beautiful main restaurant, offers a variety of contemporary American dishes, including bucatini with Maine lobster, blackened salmon with lemon caper butter and a pork chop with sunchokes, spinach and roasted corn.

If you decide to bring your dog along, which adds an extra $100 to your stay, be ready for your pup to get the royal treatment. In addition to offering large, fluffy pet beds and ceramic food and water bowls, the property will jot down the name of your four-legged companion so the staff can properly greet your pooch by name throughout your stay.

Rates at The Dupont Circle Hotel start at $314 per night.

Where The Road Forks

Hostel Vs Hotel: Differences and Pros and Cons

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: February 13, 2024

Categories Travel , Travel Tips

Home » Travel » Hostel Vs Hotel: Differences and Pros and Cons

When planning a trip, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is where you’re going to stay. Two of the most popular options are hostels and hotels. The best accommodation for your trip depends on a number of factors including your budget, your destination, why you’re traveling, who you’re traveling with, and your personal preference. To help you decide, this guide explains the differences and lists the pros and cons of staying in a hostel Vs hotel. We’ll cover amenities, costs, comfort, security, privacy, cleanliness, and much more.

I have been solo traveling for the past 12 years. During that time, I have stayed in well over 100 hostels. I’ve also stayed in dozens and dozens of hotels. In this guide, I’ll share my experience with these two accommodation options.

A typical hostel dorm room

Key Takeaways

– Hostels offer dorm rooms while hotels offer private rooms. Hostels are cheaper but offer fewer amenities than hotels. – Hostels are the better choice for budget travelers, those who are looking to meet other travelers, solo travelers, young travelers, those who don’t mind sharing spaces, and party lovers. – Hotels are the better choice for families, couples, older travelers, those who work while they travel, light sleepers, luxury travelers, and those who value privacy.

Hostel Pros

  • Hostels are cheaper- A dorm bed costs $10-$30 per night.
  • Hostels are more social- It’s easy to meet other travelers at hostels.
  • There are events and activities- There are parties, tours, pub crawls, communal dinners, movie nights, etc.
  • Atmosphere- Hostels are youthful, active, and welcoming.
  • Fewer hidden fees- All taxes and fees are usually included. You don’t tip.

Hostel Cons

  • No privacy- All areas are common. You share all of the facilities.
  • Fewer amenities- There is no pool or gym. The amenities are all shared.
  • Noise- You’ll hear people snoring, packing and unpacking, and moving around in the night.
  • Less secure- Other guests can enter the room. Most hostels do offer lockers for valuables.
  • Less comfortable- The bed is small. The dorm is noisy. Other guests will wake you.
  • Less safe- You stay in the dorm with strangers.
  • Not as clean- Some hostels are dirty. There is no dedicated cleaning staff.
  • Staff- Hostel staff can be unprofessional. Many hostels hire backpackers to work reception.
  • Odor- Some hostel dorms smell like body odor.
  • Crowded- Shared bathrooms and kitchens can get crowded during peak periods.
  • Annoying guests- You may not get along with everyone you meet.
  • Not family friendly- Most hostels do not allow minors to stay.
  • Privacy- You have the room to yourself. There is a private bathroom.
  • More amenities- Hotels offer a TV, pool, gym, toiletries, etc.
  • Better security- You can lock all of your stuff in the room. Most hotel rooms have a safe.
  • More comfortable- The room is quiet and dark. You’ll sleep well.
  • Safer- There are locks on the room and security cameras on the property.
  • Atmosphere- Hotels offer a luxurious atmosphere. They can be family-friendly or romantic.
  • Cleaner- There is a dedicated cleaning staff. Rooms are cleaned daily.
  • Staff- Hotel staff are professional and trained in hospitality.
  • Quiet- You don’t have to listen to anyone snore.
  • Family-friendly- Most hotels welcome kids and families.
  • Hotels are more expensive- A basic hotel room costs $50-$150+ per night.
  • Not social- It is difficult to meet other travelers when staying at a hotel.
  • No events or activities- Hotels are only for accommodation.
  • Hidden fees- There are often taxes and surcharges. You’ll also have to tip the bellboy, valet, room service, etc.

A hostel dorm room

What is a Hostel?

A hostel is a type of shared accommodation that is designed for budget travelers. At a hostel, guests sleep on bunk beds in dorm rooms. Hostel bathrooms are shared. Many hostels also offer private rooms as well these days.

Hostel dorms come in a range of sizes. A typical hostel dorm has 4-12 beds (2-6 bunk beds). Hostels usually offer both mixed and female-only dorms. Most hostels offer lockers in the dorms where you can store your valuables. There are also outlets for charging your devices.  

In addition to dorms, hostels also have common areas. Oftentimes, there is a separate dining area. Many hostels also offer a shared kitchen. Some hostels have a bar and restaurant.

There are also different types of hostels to suit different types of travelers. There are party hostels, co-working hostels, boutique hostels, and more. Some hostels have a party every night. Some hostels are chill and laid back.  

Hostels cater to younger travelers but anyone is welcome. Some hostels do have a maximum age. This is usually around 35. Age limits are rare. Most hostels do have a minimum age of 18.

A bed in a hotel room

What is the Difference Between a Hotel and a Hostel?

The main difference between a hotel and a hostel is that when you stay in a hostel, you sleep in a dorm room with other people. You also share a bathroom.

Hotels, on the other hand, only offer private rooms with private bathrooms.

Another difference is the amenities and services offered. Hotels offer more amenities including a pool, gym, bar and restaurant, event centers, etc. Hostels usually don’t offer any luxury amenities.

Hostels are also social places. They encourage travelers to interact with one another. Many hostels host parties, tours, and other events. Hotels are not social.

Hostels are also cheaper than hotels.

Hostel Vs Hotel

A man opening the door to a hotel room

Hostels are almost always cheaper than hotels. Prices vary widely from country to country. A private hotel room in a cheap country could cost as much as a bed in a hostel dorm in a more expensive country.

On average, a dorm bed in a hostel costs around $15-$20 per night. In cheaper countries, a dorm bed costs less than $10 per night. In more expensive countries, a dorm bed might cost $30-$50 per night. 

To compare, an average hotel room costs around $100-$200 per night in developed countries. In cheaper countries, a hotel room might cost $25-$50 per night. In expensive countries, a hotel room might start at $150 per night and go up from there. 

Hostels can offer lower nightly rates for a number of reasons. First, the labor cost is lower at hostels. Most hostel employees do multiple jobs. A single employee might clean in the morning, work reception throughout the day, and bartend at night. An average hostel might only have 3-4 employees in total plus a couple of volunteers. 

Hotels require many more employees to keep everything running smoothly. They need cleaners, reception staff, bellboys, doormen, valets, managers, bartenders, maintenance people, security, etc. This is necessary because hotels are usually much larger operations than hostels. A midsized hotel might employ 30-50 people. The cost of labor is high. 

Hostels also use free labor to save money. Many hostels hire backpackers to work 4-5 hours per day in exchange for room and board. This is essentially free labor. It saves the hostel from having to hire an additional employee. This cuts costs significantly. 

Hostels can also fit far more people per room. This allows hostels to charge much less per bed. For example, maybe a hotel room costs $100 per night. At a hostel, the same amount of space might be able to sleep 4 people on 2 bunk beds. They could charge $25 per night per person and bring in the same amount of revenue per room. Hostel owners tend to cram as many bunk beds as they can into every room. In many cases, a hostel can bring in more revenue per square foot than a hotel, even though the nightly charge is far lower. 

Hostels also offer fewer amenities. Instead of having a TV in every room, they may have one in the common area. Instead of having an iron and hairdryer in every room, they may have one that every guest can use. Most hostels also don’t have a pool, gym, conference room, etc. This all cuts costs. Hostels have to deal with the cost of maintaining all of these amenities. 

A basic hostel dorm room

Having said all of this, it is a good idea to check the price of hotels as well as alternative accommodation options like Airbnb before booking a hostel. Sometimes the price difference isn’t always that great. In some cases, a budget hotel room costs less than a bed in a hostel dorm.

For example, as I write this, I’m sitting in an Airbnb in Buenos Aires that costs $19 per night. It’s a private studio apartment a bit outside of the city center. A bed in a hostel dorm costs around $15-$17 per night here. I don’t know about you but I’d rather spend a few extra dollars per night to enjoy a larger bed and a private bathroom and kitchen. Oftentimes, budget hotel rooms cost about the same as a bed in a boutique hostel. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner, it can be cheaper to share a hotel room than to pay for multiple beds in a dorm. It pays to price out different accommodation options. 

It’s also important to note that you can negotiate the rate at many hotels and hostels. If you’re staying a week or longer, you can often work out a lower nightly rate. Properties like long-term guests because they don’t have to clean the room as often and they know the room won’t sit empty. If you’re traveling during the off-season, you can usually negotiate a lower rate because the property will probably have lots of vacancies. They need all of the customers they can get. Of course, not all properties are willing to negotiate. You probably won’t get very far negotiating with a big hotel chain. 

Winner: Hostels are cheaper than hotels. On average, a bed in a hostel dorm costs 40-50% less than a hotel room. 

Hotels offer more privacy than hostels. When you stay in a hotel, you have the room all to yourself. This allows you to have complete privacy when you want it. For example, you can change your clothes in private. You can pack and unpack in private. You can sleep in private. In addition, you get to go to the bathroom and bathe in private. Most hotel rooms include a private bathroom. If you want to get away from other people after a long day of sightseeing, you can. You can also eat in your room in private if you choose. While traveling, it’s a luxury to be able to get away from people for a while. Privacy is particularly important for introverts. 

Chances are, you won’t interact with the other guests at all when you stay in a hotel. The only people you may see more than once while staying in a hotel is the reception staff. This allows you anonymity. You’ll only see other guests while staying in a hotel when you walk through the lobby on your way to your room. 

A mid-range hotel room

In a hostel, there is no privacy. You share the room with other travelers. In a dorm with 6 or more beds, there is almost always somebody in the dorm with you. Very rarely do you get the dorm to yourself. When you put something in or take something out of your locker, other travelers can see what you’re doing. You have to be careful with your valuables. People can also watch you changing your clothing, unless you go to the bathroom to change. People can also watch you sleeping.

You also share the bathrooms when you stay in a hostel. Many hostels have large bathrooms with shower and toilet stalls. There is very little privacy here. You can hear what everyone else is doing. You’ll brush your teeth alongside other travelers. There are always separate shower stalls. You don’t have to bathe with other travelers.

Even when you stay in a private room at a hostel, there is less privacy than you’d get in a hotel room. There are a couple of reasons for this. Other travelers will see you entering and exiting your room because you usually have to pass through a common area to access your room. You’ll walk by people lounging in the common area. If you accidentally said something embarrassing or offensive to another guest, chances are you’ll see them somewhere around the hostel at some point. Hostels are usually small. It’s hard to be anonymous when staying in a hostel. Also, most private hostel rooms have shared bathrooms. You’ll also have to share the kitchen. You will still interact with other guests. This reduces privacy. 

Winner: Hotels offer much more privacy than hostels because the rooms and many amenities are not shared. 

Hotels offer more amenities than hostels. A typical mid-range hotel will have a TV with cable, a coffee maker, an iron, and a hair dryer in every room. Slightly higher-end hotel rooms come with a microwave and mini-fridge. Hotel rooms also come with toiletries including soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion as well as towels. Luxury hostels may offer razors, shaving cream, bathrobes, and slippers. Most larger hotels have a swimming pool, hot tub, and gym. Higher-end hotels might offer a sauna and spa. Some top-of-the-line hotels even have their own golf course. Hotels usually offer free parking for those arriving by car. Sometimes there is a valet service. Many hotels have a restaurant and bar and offer room service. Sometimes there is a continental breakfast.

A beautiful hotel pool

Hostels offer some amenities as well but not as many as hotels. Most hostels have one TV in the common area. Some offer free tea and coffee. Many hostels include breakfast. This is usually something simple like toast and jam or some pastries. Better hostels offer eggs or pancakes. Some hostels offer a laundry service. In the past, many hostels offered shared computers but this is less common now that everyone travels with a smartphone and laptop. 

Some amenities are lacking at hostels. For example, you usually have to bring your own toiletries including body soap and shampoo when you stay in a hostel. You also have to bring your own towel to many hostels. Many hostels also don’t offer parking. There is usually no pool or gym at hostels. Hostels also don’t have a full staff. There are exceptions. Some higher-end boutique hostels offer soap and shampoo, towels, parking, a pool, etc. 

Winner: Hotels offer more amenities than hostels. 

Most of us travel with thousands of dollars worth of electronics these days. For example, in your luggage, you may have a laptop, camera, phone, and tablet. Chances are, you also have at least a few hundred dollars in cash on you. Of course, you also have important documents such as your passport, visas, credit and debit cards, driver’s license, etc. You might also have important data including your photos and videos on memory cards and hard drives. It’s important to keep your valuables safe. 

Hotels usually offer better security than hostels. Most hotel rooms have a built-in safe that is bolted to the wall. This is a secure place to store your important documents and valuable electronics while you’re out and about. 

When you stay in a hotel, other guests do not have access to your room. Only hotel employees can access your room. You don’t have to worry about another guest stealing from you.   

If something goes missing from your hotel room, chances are a hotel employee took it. This is rare but it has been known to happen. Particularly at lower-end hotels. Most staff members are honest. Once in a while, a dishonest housekeeper may steal from a guest. Break-ins at hotels are possible but unlikely. 

Hostels are a bit less secure. In many cases, dorm rooms don’t lock. Anyone staying in the hostel can freely enter the room. If you leave something valuable sitting out, someone could take it. Some hostels do have locks on every dorm room door. This way, only people staying in the same dorm have access to your stuff. This greatly increases security. 

Most hostels also offer lockers. The locker is often large enough for all of your luggage. Sometimes it’s only large enough for your valuables. In this case, you’ll have to leave some of your belongings sitting out in the open. If someone wanted to, they could go through your belongings. Theft is unlikely but possible. 

Usually, you have to bring your own lock to use hostel lockers. I bring two locks when I travel. I pack one large combination lock and one smaller luggage lock. If the large combo lock doesn’t fit on the locker, I use the less secure smaller lock. Sometimes the locker has a built-in lock and the hostel provides you with a key. 

Lockers are not as secure as safes. If someone really wanted to get into a hostel locker, they could in most cases. Most hostel lockers are made from wood or thin sheet metal. If someone really wanted to get in, they could pry the door open or kick the lock off. This is extremely rare but I have heard of it happening on one occasion. 

Hostel lockers

Some hostels have a safe at reception where they will store your passport for you if you like. I don’t use this service because I feel more comfortable holding onto my own passport. 

Security also depends on the individual property. Most hotels and hostels have security cameras set up throughout the property. Some hostels and hotels offer better security than others. For example, a luxury hotel probably has better security than a guesthouse. Of course, the location you’re traveling is important as well. Some cities and countries have higher crime rates than others. It’s worth taking this into consideration as well. 

Winner: Hotels are more secure than hostels.

Comfort and Quality of Sleep

Hotels are more comfortable than hostels. There is no question about it. You will get a better night’s sleep when staying in a hotel. There are a number of reasons for this. 

First, hotels usually offer larger beds. Most hotel rooms come with full-size or larger beds. The pillows and linens are usually of decent quality.

Hotel rooms are also quieter than hostel dorms. You can’t hear other guests. Most hotel rooms also feature blackout curtains to keep the room dark. You can often control the temperature as well. Most hotel rooms have heating and air conditioning. All of this helps you get a better night of sleep. 

A hotel room with a balcony

Hostels are less comfortable. The beds are smaller. At most hostels, you’ll sleep on a twin-sized mattress on a bunk bed. Sometimes the mattress is old and worn out. Sometimes it’s just a thin and uncomfortable piece of foam. When your bunkmate gets in or out of bed or when they turn in their sleep, you’ll feel the bunk bed move. Sometimes you can hear old bunk beds squeak when you move.

It’s harder to get a good night of sleep at a hostel. You’ll hear the other people in your dorm breathing and snoring in the night. This can keep you up. Oftentimes people will come into the dorm late at night after drinking. You’ll hear them unzipping and zipping their backpack and rummaging around through their things. Some inconsiderate travelers may come in during the night and turn the lights on while others are trying to sleep. You will be woken up by other guests at some point. 

This is a major annoyance of staying in hostels. If you’re a light sleeper, you will never get a decent night of sleep. If you need quality sleep, you’re better off staying in a hotel. 

Getting poor-quality sleep can have a major effect on your trip. You won’t enjoy sightseeing when you’re tired. You won’t have the energy to go out and experience the place you’re visiting. In addition, you’re also more likely to fall victim to travel scams and crime when you’re tired. Your mind isn’t as sharp when you’re sleepy. When you wake up well-rested, you’re ready for the day. You’ll get more out of your trip when you sleep well.

Winner: Hotels are more comfortable than hostels. You’ll sleep better in a hotel room. 

Hotels and hostels are both generally safe accommodation options. At hostels, only guests are allowed inside in most cases. Locals and random people can’t come in. This improves safety. At hotels, non-guests are often not allowed past the lobby. If you want to bring a guest to your room, you’ll have to register them at reception. This also improves safety.

Most hotels have at least two locks on the door to the room. There is a primary lock and a door chain or swing bar lock. Many hotels also have a deadbolt. If the hotel is located in a dangerous neighborhood, the windows may have bars. If you lock yourself in the room, nobody can come in. 

Hostels often have a locking front door. You must use your key or enter a code to unlock the door. Oftentimes, the dorm room door doesn’t lock. This can make some travelers feel uncomfortable. Any guest could walk into any room. Some dorms have a locking door. Only people staying in that dorm can enter. This increases safety. 

Both hotels and hostels usually have security cameras set up throughout the property. The staff can monitor the property. If a crime or suspicious activity occurs, the staff can notify the police.  

Some larger hotels have security staff. If someone starts acting up, security can remove them from the property. Hostels don’t have security. 

I have never seen or heard of anyone getting attacked at a hotel or hostel. I have never witnessed a fight or assault at a hotel or hostel. They’re pretty safe places, in my experience. 

Winner: Hotels may be safer than hostels. Both are safe. 

Socializing and Meeting Other Travelers

Hostels are much more social than hotels. The social aspect is one of the main reasons people choose to stay in hostels. It’s easy to meet other travelers. You’ll meet people in the dorm, common room, and kitchen. When you check-in, you can immediately make friends. Many hostels even host events and parties to help travelers meet one another. Hostels are extremely social.

This makes hostels ideal for solo travelers . It’s easy to strike up a conversation and meet people to go out with, travel with, or just have a conversation with. Other travelers can give you recommendations and share their travel experiences. You never have to be alone if you don’t want to. You can easily make friends in a hostel even if you’re an introvert. People will strike up a conversation with you.

I have made some great friends while staying in hostels over the years. On a couple of occasions, I have met people who I traveled with for weeks or months at a time. I still keep in touch with some people I met at hostels years ago. 

A group of travelers

Of course, not all hostels are social. I have stayed at plenty of hostels where I didn’t meet any other travelers. Sometimes the other guests prefer to keep to themselves. You won’t meet people everywhere you go. 

Staying in a hotel is not a social experience. Guests pretty much keep to themselves. The staff does not encourage interaction between guests. You may exchange small talk with another guest but that’s about it. Your best chance of meeting someone at a hotel is at the hotel bar if there is one. There, you may meet another traveler who’s willing to chat for a bit. Otherwise, you’re on your own. 

Of course, there are still plenty of ways to meet people when you stay in a hotel. You can still go on tours, go out to local bars, take classes, go online dating, etc. Check out my guide to meeting people while traveling for more ideas.

Winner: Hostels are more social than hotels. If you want to meet other travelers, stay in a hostel. 

Events and Activities

Many hostels encourage guests to interact by hosting parties, communal dinners, outings, movie nights, pub crawls, drinking games, city walking tours, dance classes, and other events and activities. Everyone is welcome to join in. This is a great way to meet people and get to know the place you’re visiting. Some hostels have a travel agency where you can book local tours.

Some hostels specialize in a particular activity. For example, there are surf hostels, hiking hostels, diving hostels, yoga hostels, and ski hostels. Everyone staying at these hostels comes to participate in one activity or take lessons. When you stay at one of these hostels, you automatically have something in common with the other guests.

I learned to scuba dive at a diving hostel in Koh Tao, Thailand. Everyone was learning to dive. We took classes together during the day, studied together, and went diving together. It was a blast.

Hotels don’t really offer any activities for their guests. Higher-end hotels have a concierge who can book tours and excursions for you.

Winner: Hostels offer more events and activities than hotels

Hostels and hotels both have completely different atmospheres. Neither is really better. Atmosphere is pretty subjective.

Hostels feel more active than hotels. There are always people sitting around the common areas chatting, eating, drinking, partying, playing games, watching a movie, etc. This makes the place feel alive. You’re never alone. You’ll meet interesting people from all over the world. People staying in hostels also tend to be younger. This makes the atmosphere more youthful.

Hostel staff also add to the atmosphere. People working in hostels are usually travelers, just like you. They share a common interest. The staff will treat you like a friend rather than a client.

Hostels usually feel homey and informal. Many hostels are decorated in the local style. On the walls, you might see interesting artwork, murals, maps of the area, and notes from other travelers. Some hostels are just a house that has been converted. When you check-in, you become part of the family.

A hotel lobby

Hotels can have a great atmosphere as well. Many hotels are run by people who have been formally educated in hospitality. They know how to treat their guests. They are professionals. The atmosphere of hotels is also very welcoming and professional. 

Higher-end hotels can offer a luxurious atmosphere. There may be high-quality fixtures and linens in the rooms There are staff members to wait on you hand and foot. You can’t get a luxury experience at a hostel. 

Some hotels offer a romantic atmosphere. These properties are great for couples’ getaways. Some hotels cater to families. These properties are ideal for those who are traveling with kids.

Of course, there also smaller local hotels and B&Bs. These places usually offer a homey atmosphere. They may be run by a family. They may be decorated in the local style.

Large chain hotels can lack atmosphere. They feel corporate and bland. When staying in a chain hotel, you won’t be able to tell whether you’re in Mexico City, Tokyo, or Paris. They all look and feel the same. For some, this is comforting. You know exactly what to expect. Others prefer a more local experience. 

The atmosphere also comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the lively and youthful atmosphere of a hostel. Some people prefer a luxury hotel. Others prefer a corporate chain hotel. 

Winner: Hotels and hostels both offer plenty of atmosphere.

Cleanliness

Hotels are generally cleaner than hostels. The reason is that there is a dedicated cleaning staff that is professionally trained. Their only job is to keep the hotel clean. Housekeeping thoroughly cleans the rooms between guests. Every day, you’ll have fresh sheets to sleep on. All facilities are tidied up every day.

Of course, not all hotels are clean. I’ve stayed in some pretty filthy hotels in my travels. These tend to be budget hotels, motels, and guest houses. I’ve never had an issue with cleanliness when staying in a chain hotel or a 3 star or higher hotel. 

Cleanliness in hostels is hit or miss. Some are spotless. Others are filthy and disgusting. In smaller hostels, cleaning is usually done by whoever happens to be working. During the day, you might see the person who checked you in tidying up around the hostel. Hostel dorm rooms and kitchens rarely get a deep cleaning. Before booking a hostel, it’s a good idea to read the reviews to see if anyone mentions issues with cleanliness. 

There are exceptions. Some hostels do have a dedicated cleaning staff, just like hotels. I have stayed in hostels that are spotlessly clean. These are usually smaller boutique hostels that cater to travelers who have a higher budget and demand a higher level of service. Large hostels are often cleaner as well.

Another issue with hostels is that you’re more exposed to sickness. When staying in a hostel, you’re always in close contact with lots of people. If one person in your dorm is coughing and sneezing, you have a good chance of catching whatever they have. It’s hard to get away from it. You’re sleeping in the same room with them every night. You’re also sharing the facilities with other guests. Everyone is touching everything. Germs can spread easily this way. For example, if someone doesn’t wash their dishes properly, your food could get contaminated.

I have gotten sick at hostels many times. In fact, every time I travel, I end up catching a cold at one point or another. It’s difficult to avoid.

Another consideration is bed bugs. These don’t really have anything to do with cleanliness. Any property can get infested. Bed bugs are a problem at both hotels and hostels. When you get to your room, you should always do a quick inspection for bed bugs. Look under the mattress for evidence (dark spots of excrement, eggs, dead bed bugs, etc.) If you spot any, leave and find another place to stay. It’s not worth risking infesting your home. Bed bugs are incredibly difficult to get rid of. For more in-depth info, check out my guide to avoiding bed bugs while traveling.  

Winner: Hotels are cleaner than hostels, in general.

Hostels and hostels both have friendly and hospitable staff. This point depends on the property you’re staying at and your preference. Neither is really better.

Hostel staff is less formal than hotel staff. While staying at a hostel, you might see the staff chatting with guests, joking around, drinking alcohol, cooking, and eating all while on the job. Usually, they don’t wear a uniform or nametag. When staying in a hostel, you sometimes can’t tell who works there and who is just a guest. 

Sometimes long-term guests start helping out around the hostel. Sometimes hostels offer work-to-stay opportunities. They trade a bed for labor. The majority of the staff might be travelers just like you.

The problem is that hostel staff usually aren’t trained in hospitality. They don’t know how to run a hospitality business. They also don’t know the city any better than an average traveler. Usually, hostel staff members are cool. Sometimes they can be unprofessional. Sometimes they’re just useless.

Hostel staff are almost always friendly and welcoming. They are often well-traveled. Many people who open hostels were travelers for many years before. They settle down in one of their favorite destinations. they know what travelers want. Some hostels hire locals who know the area well.

Hotel staff is a bit more formal and professional. They are usually dressed in uniform. You can clearly tell who works at the hotel and who doesn’t. They usually don’t interact with the guests other than check in/check out, giving directions, offering recommendations, answering questions about the city, etc. They are happy to help you out but they don’t get overly friendly. 

Receptionists at a hotel

The staff at chain hotels and higher-end hotels can be a bit rigid. They are friendly and hospitable but they may be more formal. Hotel staff are trained to follow the rules of the corporation they work for. They need to interact with the guests in a particular way to keep their jobs. 

One benefit of hotel staff is that many of them are trained in hospitality, either in school or by the company they work for. They know how to treat their guests and how to run a business.

The staff and guest relations really come down to personal preference. Some travelers like it when the staff act like friends. Others prefer a more formal interaction. 

Personally, I don’t like when the hostel staff is too informal. I like being able to distinguish between staff and guests. That way, if I have a question or an issue, I know who to ask. I also don’t like it when the staff drinks or parties with guests. It can be fun if you’re partying with them but it comes off as unprofessional much of the time. 

Winner: This one depends on personal preference. Hostel staff are often friendlier. Hotel staff are often more professional and offer better hospitality. 

Value for Your Money

It’s hard to say which type of accommodation offers the better value. The value you get for your money depends on a number of factors including your destination, the amenities offered, the individual property, and your personal values. Sometimes hotels offer better value. Sometimes hostels offer better value. 

If all you care about is having a place to lay your head at night, I would say hostels offer a better value. You can get a night of sleep for far less money. If you factor in amenities, comfort, and privacy, hotels often offer better value. You get more for your money. 

When considering value, it’s important to factor in your destination. Some destinations offer a better value than others. The cost of accommodation can vary greatly by country and even by city. 

For example, one of my favorite places to travel is East Africa. Unfortunately, the region offers a terrible value for accommodation. A budget hotel room with a shared bathroom may cost $40-$50 per night in much of the region. In another one of my favorite regions, southeast Asia, that same $40-$50 could buy you a night in a decent mid-range hotel. To compare, in Scandinavia and Western Europe, you may pay $40-$50 per night for a bed in a basic hostel dorm. In Eastern Europe, you might pay $15-$20 per night to stay in a hostel of the exact same quality. The point is, value varies greatly by region. 

The amenities offered also vary. Some properties give you more for your money than others. For example, many hotels and hostels include breakfast. This saves you at least a few dollars per day because you don’t have to buy or make your own. Many hotels offer a gym. If you like to work out every day, this offers value. You won’t have to find a gym and pay for a pass in the city you’re visiting. 

When deciding between a hostel and a hotel, it’s also important to consider what you personally value. If you value privacy, a hostel dorm offers a poor value. You’ll get very little privacy for your money. If a hotel has a pool but you don’t plan to use it, you’re not getting any value out of it. You’re paying for an amenity that you’re not using. If you value a good night of sleep, you might pay extra to stay in a property that offers premium mattresses and bedding.

Winner: If all you’re looking for is a place to sleep, hostels offer the better value. If you’re looking for particular amenities, hotels offer better value. Value also varies by destination and by individual property. 

Hotels are located all over. You’ll find hotels in the city center, in hotel zones, by the airport, in the mountains, by the beach, near every major tourist attraction, and even in the middle of nowhere. Wherever you want to stay, you can almost always find a hotel there. You can find a hotel in even the smallest village in the most remote corners of the planet. Every town has a hotel. Hotels are everywhere.

Hostels tend to be conveniently located in the city center and near major tourist attractions. They also tend to be located near public transportation stops. This is because most people staying in hostels don’t travel with their own vehicle. Most guests are budget backpackers who travel around by public transport. 

Hostels are less common than hotels. This means you won’t have as many options to choose from in terms of location when you stay in a hostel. A small city may have a dozen hotels but only one or two hostels. Some towns have multiple hotels but no hostels.

Hostels are common in some regions but rare in others. You’ll find a greater concentration of hostels in regions that attract budget travelers and young travelers, such as Europe and Southeast Asia. There isn’t a big hosteling culture in the United States. You’ll only find hostels in larger cities. Smaller cities only have hotels and motels. You won’t have as many options if you choose to stay in a hostel. 

When choosing a hotel or hostel, think about the places you plan to visit and their locations. If one hostel or hotel costs $5 less per night but is located on the edge of town, far away from restaurants, bars, entertainment, and attractions, you’ll have to travel into town every time you want to do anything. This takes time. It might take you 30-60 minutes to drive or take public transit into town. It also costs money. You might spend $5 in bus or train tickets to get into town and back.

In the end, you spend more money and time than if you had stayed in a more expensive property with a better location. You’re more likely to go out and about and explore if you can easily visit different parts of the city. Sometimes it’s worth it to spend a bit more to stay in a more convenient location.

A street in Amsterdam

Also, in some cities, it’s important to consider the neighborhood you’re staying in. Try to avoid staying in dangerous neighborhoods. Some neighborhoods are perfectly safe during the day but become a bit sketchy at night. If you stay in one of these neighborhoods, you’ll have to take a taxi or Uber to and from your accommodation every time you go out at night. You may be more likely to go out and about when you stay in a safe area. Sometimes it’s worth it to spend a bit more to stay in a safer location.

Winner: Hotels offer more locations. Hostels are well located within cities. 

Annoyances: Noise, Light, Odor, Filth, and Crowds

You will have to deal with more annoyances while staying in hostels. In this section, I’ll outline a few of the most common issues you’re likely to encounter.  

Probably the biggest annoyance you’ll have to deal with while staying in a hostel is noise. Chances are, at least one of your dorm mates will be a snorer. This is extremely common and there is nothing you or your dorm mate can do to stop it. The only way to deal with a snorer is to wear earplugs while sleeping. It’s a good idea to pack a couple of pairs of earplugs if you plan to stay in hostels. Some hostels sell earplugs at reception or even offer them for free if you ask. 

You’ll also have to deal with the sound of your dorm mates moving around. Every time someone climbs in or out of bed or turns in their sleep, the bed may squeak. This is common in lower-end hostels that have cheap old bunk beds. 

When your dorm mates pack and unpack, they also make noise. One of the more annoying noises is plastic bags rustling around. A plastic bag is surprisingly loud in an otherwise silent room. The sound of backpack and suitcase zippers can be pretty annoying too. You just have to deal with these sounds. Nobody can move, pack, or unpack silently. The most considerate dorm mates will pack the night before they have to leave for an early flight. Considerate travelers avoid plastic bags because they’re so noisy. 

You’ll also be woken up by other travelers’ alarm clocks. People have to catch early flights, busses, and trains when they’re leaving the city. Some get up early to go sightseeing at sunrise when crowds are thin. A traveler may need to get up early to meet for a tour. Some travelers need to set an alarm and wake up every day or they sleep in too late. In a large dorm, you may hear multiple alarms go off at different times every morning. This gets annoying. Inconsiderate dorm mates may use the sleep timer a couple of times. This can be infuriating if you’re trying to sleep.  

Of course, you’ll also have to deal with the sound of your dorm mates talking. It’s normal for people to sit in the dorm chatting. Personally, I don’t like when there are people in the dorm talking in a language I don’t understand. They aren’t doing anything wrong. I just get self-conscious. Are they talking about me? 

Sometimes a group of people will come into the dorm drunk in the middle of the night after a night out. They may be talking loudly and joking around. This wakes everyone up. It’s annoying but it’s part of hostel life. I’ve been the drunken annoying one at times too. I can’t blame them but they are irritating. 

Some party hostels have an attached bar or club. These places often have loud music playing for most of the night. You may be able to hear the music throughout the whole hostel. If you’re trying to go to sleep early, this can be extremely annoying. You can avoid this by not staying in party hostels. Most hostels have quiet hours after around 10 pm. 

Hotel rooms are reasonably quiet. Most properties have some soundproofing. You won’t be able to hear other guests packing, talking, or moving around in the rooms next door or above you. If you’re staying in a budget hotel, you may hear other guests through the walls. If you’re staying in the center of a large city, you might hear some road noise such as car horns and sirens. This isn’t the hotel’s fault. Generally, hotel rooms stay quiet. 

Winner: Hotels are quieter than hostels. 

Light is another problem you’re likely to encounter when staying in hostels. Oftentimes a drunk or inconsiderate person will enter the room while you’re sleeping and turn the light on. This can happen at night while you’re trying to go to sleep and early in the morning when you’re trying to sleep in. 

Personally, I find this to be the most irritating thing people do in hostels. Every time someone comes into a dark dorm room in the middle of the night and turns the light on when people are clearly trying to sleep, I want to scream in their face. I never do. It’s just part of hostel life. Of course, you can’t expect the room to stay dark during the middle of the day.

When you stay in a hotel, you can keep the room as dark as you want. Most hotels have blackout curtains. You can close them and sleep whenever you want. If you arrive in the middle of the night and you want to sleep all day, you can. The room will stay dark.

Winner: Hotel rooms stay darker, allowing you to get a better night of sleep. 

Odor is another annoyance you’ll have to deal with while staying in hostels. It’s hard to keep the room smelling pretty when 6-10+ people are crammed together in a single bedroom. Some people have bad body odor. Some people have smelly feet. Oftentimes backpackers don’t wash their clothes as often as they should. Many travelers wash their clothes in the sink and don’t do a good enough job. If you’re traveling in a tropical region and the dorm doesn’t have AC, everyone is sweating. Some people eat in the dorm, even though it’s usually against the rules.

All of these odors mix together and create a foul smell. Ventilation may also be poor. I’ve stayed in dorms that don’t even have a window. Sometimes you’ll walk into a dorm and the smell will hit you right in the face. There is nothing you can really do about it but endure it.

Hotel rooms smell clean when you arrive. Housekeeping comes in and cleans every day or two. If you put in some effort to keep yourself and your clothing smelling clean, the room will continue smelling clean throughout the duration of your stay. You won’t have to deal with other people’s stink when you stay in a hotel.  

Winner: Hotel rooms stay smelling nicer. Hostel dorms can get stinky from the body odor of multiple people. 

 Filth

While staying in hostels, you will have to deal with some filth. Remember, hostels usually don’t have dedicated cleaning staff. Sometimes, the kitchen will be coated in grease. The furniture might feel sticky because it hasn’t been cleaned in years. If you look under the bed, you might see some dust bunnies. I have stayed in some hostels that are pretty disgusting. 

This is something that you’ll just have to deal with at some hostels. If you stay in enough hostels, you will encounter some filth. Of course, there are exceptions. Some hostels are extremely clean. 

Hotels are generally cleaner than hostels. There are fewer people using the amenities and facilities so things don’t get quite as dirty. Hotels also have a dedicated cleaning staff that cleans each room thoroughly between guests. There is an entire cleaning staff whose only job is to keep the place clean.

Of course, some hotels are cleaner than others. I’ve stayed in some absolutely filthy budget hotels in some parts of the world. 

Winner: Hotel rooms are generally cleaner than hostel dorms. 

tourist hotel vs hotel

Hostels can get crowded when fully booked. Some hostels don’t have enough bathrooms or showers. If you’re staying in an 8 bed dorm with a single bathroom, you’ll have to wait your turn sometimes. Sometimes a hostel only has 3 shower stalls for all of the guests. In this case, you may have to wait your turn during the morning when everyone wants to shower. This gets annoying. Particularly if you really have to use the bathroom. 

During dinner time, the hostel kitchen can also get crowded. There aren’t enough burners on the stove for everyone to cook at once. You’ll have to wait your turn. Sometimes there aren’t enough pots and pans and other cooking utensils. You’ll have to wait until someone is finished before you can cook your meal. Your food can also go missing. 

Dorm rooms can also get crowded. Many hostels cram as many bunk beds as possible into every dorm to maximize the number of guests they can fit in each room. I stayed in a hostel in Guatemala City that had about a foot of space between each bunk bed in a 20 bed dorm. Luckily, the place wasn’t full. If it was, it would have been miserable. Some travelers also scatter their belongings all over the floor near their bed. If a couple of people do this, the room feels crowded. You can trip over other travelers’ belongings while you’re trying to walk through the room in the dark.

At some hostels, the common area can get overly crowded. Some hostels use every room for dorms and only have a small common area with a couple of couches. During the evening, it can be hard to find a place to sit and get comfortable. This depends on the hostel. Most hostels offer plenty of seating in the common area. 

When you stay in a hotel, you won’t have to deal with crowds. Most hotel rooms have a private bathroom. If your room has a kitchen, you’ll be the only one using it. You have the whole room to yourself. You can spread out as much as you want. Hotel lobbies rarely get crowded. 

You will have to deal with crowds while using shared facilities in a hotel. In my experience, common areas in hotels stay relatively empty most of the time. Usually, there are only a few other guests in the hotel pool or gym at the same time. There is usually plenty of space. Hotels can get crowded during holidays, peak seasons, and special events.

Winner: You won’t have to deal with crowds if you’re staying in a private hotel room with a private bathroom. 

Annoying Guests

When you stay in a hostel, sometimes there will be a particular guest that is annoying. Maybe they’re a loud talker. Maybe they drink too much. They could be messy. They could have poor personal hygiene. Maybe they snore or turn the lights on at night. Maybe they don’t wash their dishes. They could say something rude or offensive. 

Sometimes you’ll encounter a guest who is simply eccentric. For example, at a hostel in Nairobi, there was a tall German girl who would wash her feet in the bathroom sink. It seemed like every time I walked into the bathroom, there was this girl washing her feet. It didn’t really annoy me. I just found it kind of strange that she was always there.

Sometimes another guest might get a bit clingy. If you chat with them once, they might try to start a conversation or invite themselves out with you every time they see you around the hostel. They might even try to travel with you. If you get too friendly with the wrong person, you may regret it. You will meet some weirdos at hostels. 

There are an endless number of ways that a person could annoy you. When you stay in hostels, you just have to deal with these annoying guests. You can’t really avoid them. Of course, these annoying people are pretty rare. Most people you meet will be cool.

If a guest in your dorm is really annoying you, you could ask to switch dorms. Most hostels won’t allow this unless you have a good reason. The only other option is to switch to a different hostel. I have never had to do this but if a guest really got on my nerves, I probably would. 

At hotels, you’re far less likely to encounter an annoying guest. This is because you’ll simply interact with fewer guests. The most common annoyance you’re likely to face is a loud guest. Maybe you can hear the person in the room next to you or above you. 

Winner: You’ll encounter fewer annoying guests while staying at hotels.

Payment Options

A hotel receptionist charging a credit card

Hotels usually offer more payment options. You can almost always pay with cash or a credit or debit card. International hotels often accept some foreign currencies as well. You can usually pay in US dollars, Euros, or the local currency. Budget hotels and smaller hotels are cash-only in some parts of the world. 

Many hostels are cash-only businesses. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, it can be difficult for small businesses to set up credit card processing and business bank accounts in some parts of the world. Second, going cash only allows them to pay lower taxes. Hostel owners often underreport their income and pocket most of the cash to reduce their tax burden. 

Many hostels around the world will allow you to pay in US dollars, Euros, or British pounds as well. If you pay in a foreign currency, you often get a poor exchange rate. It’s best to pay in the local currency if you can.

When you stay in a hotel, you can usually pay either upfront or when you check out. At budget hotels and hostels, you usually must pay upfront. If you book three nights, you pay for three nights when you check in. Some hostels allow you to pay when you check out. It really depends on the property. If the property has your card on file, they usually don’t care when you pay.

Winner: Hotels offer more payment options. They accept cash and cards. Many hostels are cash only. There are exceptions. 

Hidden Fees

Hostels and hotels can both charge hidden fees. Sometimes there are government taxes that aren’t included. Some properties tack on additional service fees. There can be cleaning fees. These fees can increase the price by 10-15% in some cases. 

Some properties include these taxes and fees in the listed price on the booking sites. Others don’t. Instead, they add the fees on at the end when you pay at the property. This is an unpleasant surprise.

When comparing prices, it’s important to take into account all additional fees you’ll have to pay so you can make an accurate comparison. Sometimes staying at a property with a higher listed price ends up being cheaper if fees are included in the price. It’s important to thoroughly read the listing before booking a hostel or hotel to see if there are any hidden fees you’ll have to pay. 

For example, maybe you’re comparing two hotels online. One hotel charges $100 per night including a 20% government tax. The other hostel charges $90 per night excluding the 20% government tax. The second hostel is actually $108 per night when you add on the tax. You’ll spend $8 more per night even though the listed price of the second hotel is lower. 

At some hotels, tipping is also expected. You’re expected to tip house cleaning. You’re expected to tip the bellboy. If you order room service, you’re expected to tip your server. If you use the valet service, you’re expected to tip the valet. Tipping can greatly increase the cost of your stay. 

At hostels, you never have to tip anyone. The only exception is if there is a hostel restaurant or bar. You may choose to tip your server depending on the country you’re traveling in. 

Some hostels do charge additional fees for certain services. For example, at a hostel in Copenhagen, I was informed that I had to pay extra for bedding upon check-in. Sheets weren’t included. This extra fee wasn’t noted anywhere on their online listing. I told them no thanks; I’ll just use my sleeping bag. They told me that I had to use their bedding. After I complained, they gave it to me for free. In the past, some hostels charged for wifi. Some business hotels still charge extra for wifi. 

Winner: Hostels have fewer hidden fees than hotels, generally. You also don’t have to tip at hostels. 

Hostel Vs Hotel for Families

Families are better off staying in hotels. When you stay in a hotel, you can all share a private room. If you have a large family, you can rent adjoining rooms. You and your partner can stay in one room and the kids or your relatives can stay in the adjoining room. There are also large hotel rooms available with multiple bedrooms. Almost all hotels are family-friendly.

Most hostels don’t accept guests that are under 18. Kids aren’t welcome, even if they’re traveling with their parents. Most hostels aren’t family-friendly. There are often drunk people partying. Backpackers often talk loudly and use language that you might not want your kids to hear. 

There are exceptions. Some hostels do allow kids to stay but only in private rooms. I have never seen anyone under 18 staying in a dorm room. There are some hostels that are laid back and family-friendly but they are rare. There are also some resort-style hotels that only welcome adults. These are rare but they exist. 

Winner: Hotels are the better choice for families.

Hostel Vs Hotel for Older Travelers

Most older travelers prefer the comfort and privacy of staying in a hotel room. Hotels welcome people of all ages. There is no discrimination.

Some hostels have a maximum age of 35. They do not welcome older travelers. It is pretty rare for a hostel to have a maximum age limit these days, but these properties do exist. You should check for an age limit before booking if you’re an older traveler.

Unfortunately, there can also be a bit of a stigma to older travelers staying in hostels. Some guests find it creepy. Some guests don’t feel comfortable interacting with older people. You might have a harder time making friends in a hostel if you’re an older traveler. Personally, I think it’s great when older people stay in hostels. Some of the most interesting and well-traveled people I have met were older.

For more info, check out my guide: Am I Too Old for Hostels?

Winner: Hotels are more welcoming of older travelers.

Hostel Vs Hotel for Couples

Couples are better off staying in hotels. When you stay in a hotel, you’ll have the whole room to yourself. Privacy isn’t an issue. You can spend some alone time together whenever you like.

Hostels aren’t ideal for couples. There is no privacy. If you want to spend some alone time with your partner, this can be an issue. It is frowned upon for two people to share a bed in a hostel, even though it happens.

Winner: Hotels are the better choice for couples.

A backpacker sitting on a bunk bed reading a guidebook in a hostel

My Experience

I stay in a mix of hostels, hotels, and Airbnbs while traveling. Before booking accommodation, I usually check Booking.com, Hostelworld, and Airbnb to see what’s available at my destination. I sort properties by price and by rating to help me determine what offers the best value for my money.

Between the ages of 18-24, I almost exclusively stayed in hostels. I was on a tight budget during those years. I needed to keep my accommodation cost as low as possible. Staying in hostels saved me money, allowing me to travel further and longer. In those days, I often tried to stay in the cheapest dorm room I could find. 

In recent years, I have been choosing to stay in hotels and Airbnbs more frequently. The main reason is that I need a quiet place where I can work on my laptop. Hostels are often a bit too noisy and distracting to get any serious work done. 

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve also grown to value comfort a bit more. It’s nice to sleep on a bigger bed and have a private bathroom. I like being able to unpack and make myself at home. I also enjoy having a place to go where I can get away from people for a while. I’m pretty introverted so this is important to me. 

I do really enjoy the social aspect of staying in hostels. It’s the reason I still stay in hostels today. I almost always travel solo. Sometimes it gets lonely. It can be difficult to meet people while staying in hotels. It’s always nice to interact with like-minded travelers at hostels. I’ve met some unforgettable people in hostel dorms. Some of whom I am still friends with to this day. While traveling, I always stay in hostels occasionally to meet people and have a fun night out. 

Over the past 10 years, I’ve stayed in hundreds of hostels and hotels. Both accommodation options have their own benefits and drawbacks. In the future, I plan to continue staying in hostels. I will probably continue staying in hotels more frequently.

A couple of backpackers

Final Thoughts

The choice between a hostel and hotel comes down to a number of factors including your budget, where you’re traveling, the purpose of your trip, personal preference, and more. 

Hostels certainly aren’t for everyone. They can get noisy and smelly. They also lack privacy. At the same time, hostels offer a social environment and a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. They are friendly and welcoming of all kinds of people as well. Best of all, they are affordable. If you’re on an extremely tight budget, staying in hostels may be your only choice. 

Hotels are a great choice for all types of travelers. They are basically the default. Hotels offer privacy, comfort, and security. Higher-end hotels offer a wide range of amenities. This comes at a cost. Hotels are more expensive. They also lack the social aspect of hostels.

When deciding between a hotel and a hostel, consider what you want out of the experience. Do you want a social experience or do you want privacy? Are you looking for the cheapest accommodation or do you want a bit of luxury? 

To make the decision even more complicated, you might consider staying in an Airbnb. Check out my Airbnb Vs Hotel guide for more info.

Whichever accommodation option you choose, I hope this guide has helped you in making your decision. If you decide to stay in a hostel dorm, check out my guide to choosing the best hostel!

Do you prefer staying in a hostel or hotel when you travel? Share your experience in the comments below!

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tourist hotel vs hotel

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Zachary Friedman

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Hotel vs. Resort

What's the difference.

Hotels and resorts are both types of accommodations that offer lodging for travelers, but they differ in terms of amenities and overall experience. Hotels are typically located in urban areas and cater to a wide range of guests, including business travelers and tourists. They often provide basic amenities such as comfortable rooms, restaurants, and meeting facilities. On the other hand, resorts are usually situated in more scenic and leisure-oriented locations, such as beaches or mountains. They offer a variety of recreational activities and facilities, such as swimming pools, spas, golf courses, and water sports. Resorts aim to provide a comprehensive vacation experience, with a focus on relaxation and entertainment.

Further Detail

Introduction.

When planning a vacation or a business trip, one of the most important decisions to make is choosing the right accommodation. Two popular options that often come to mind are hotels and resorts. While both offer a place to stay away from home, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the key differences between hotels and resorts, helping you make an informed decision for your next trip.

Location and Setting

Hotels are typically found in urban areas, close to business districts, tourist attractions, or transportation hubs. They are designed to provide convenient access to city amenities and services. On the other hand, resorts are usually located in more secluded areas, such as beaches, mountains, or natural landscapes. Resorts aim to offer a tranquil and scenic environment, allowing guests to relax and enjoy nature.

Hotels often have a vertical structure, with multiple floors and elevators, while resorts tend to have a horizontal layout, with low-rise buildings or bungalows spread across a larger area. Resorts often take advantage of their natural surroundings, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational activities.

Facilities and Amenities

Hotels typically focus on providing essential amenities for guests, such as comfortable rooms, restaurants, and meeting spaces. They may also offer additional services like room service, laundry facilities, and fitness centers. Hotels often cater to business travelers, providing business centers and conference rooms to meet their needs.

On the other hand, resorts are known for their extensive facilities and recreational activities. They often feature swimming pools, spas, golf courses, tennis courts, and other sports facilities. Resorts aim to provide a wide range of entertainment options, ensuring guests have a memorable and enjoyable stay. Additionally, resorts may offer organized tours, water sports, and kids' clubs to cater to different interests and age groups.

Atmosphere and Experience

Hotels generally have a more formal and professional atmosphere. They are designed to accommodate a large number of guests efficiently, focusing on comfort and convenience. Hotels often have a standardized approach to service, ensuring consistency across their chain of properties.

Resorts, on the other hand, aim to create a more relaxed and leisurely atmosphere. They strive to provide a unique and immersive experience for guests, often reflecting the local culture or theme. Resorts focus on personalized service, aiming to make each guest feel special and pampered during their stay.

Dining Options

Hotels typically have one or more restaurants on-site, offering a variety of cuisines to cater to different tastes. They may also provide room service for guests who prefer to dine in the comfort of their rooms. Hotels often have a more formal dining setting, with options for fine dining or casual meals.

Resorts, on the other hand, often offer a wider range of dining options. In addition to restaurants, they may have beachside bars, poolside cafes, or themed dining experiences. Resorts often focus on providing a diverse culinary experience, allowing guests to savor local flavors and international cuisines in unique settings.

Price Range

Hotels come in various price ranges, from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments. The cost of a hotel stay is often influenced by factors such as location, amenities, and brand reputation. Business hotels in city centers tend to be more expensive, while budget hotels on the outskirts offer more affordable rates.

Resorts, on the other hand, are often associated with a higher price range. The luxurious facilities, scenic locations, and extensive amenities contribute to the overall cost. However, there are also mid-range resorts available that offer a balance between affordability and a pleasant experience.

Hotels and resorts both offer accommodation options for travelers, but they differ significantly in terms of location, facilities, atmosphere, dining, and pricing. Hotels are typically found in urban areas, focusing on convenience and essential amenities, while resorts are located in scenic locations, offering extensive recreational activities and a more relaxed atmosphere. The choice between a hotel and a resort ultimately depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you seek. Consider these attributes carefully when planning your next trip to ensure a memorable and enjoyable stay.

Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.

Hostel vs. Hotel: Which One Is Right For You?

tourist hotel vs hotel

What Is a Hostel?

Good reasons to stay in a hostel, potential downsides of staying in a hostel.

What is the difference between a hostel and a hotel? At a traditional hostel, you will share a room and bathroom with multiple people for lower prices. This differs from a traditional stay at a hotel, where you will have your own room, bathroom, and more amenities.

But messy dorm rooms crammed with bunk beds and 20-somethings queuing for the shared bathroom isn't always the case at hostels. Many of the hostels found in popular tourist areas also offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Even with the additional fee you will pay to not share a room or bathroom, your total price will still be lower than a hotel stay, and you'll be able to enjoy privacy along with the benefits of staying in a hostel. Boutique hostels offer most of the usual comforts of a hotel, the ones you actually use, anyway, along with some bonuses that many hotels lack: character, personality, and a social environment.

Opting to stay in a nice hostel rather than a hotel many change your entire trip experience. Travelers in hostels are frequently more interested in meeting other travelers. Hostel common areas encourage more lingering and socializing than hotel lobbies tend to do. And don't worry: bed bugs are actually a bigger problem in many luxurious hotels!

Many people aren't sure of the difference between a hostel and a hotel. Even worse, "hostel" and "brothel" sometimes get used interchangeably in ignorance!

Although hostels are finally catching on in the United States , they still tend to target a young, outdoors crowd rather than all travelers. Many hostels are situated at points along the Appalachian Trail and outside of national parks .

European travelers tend to be much more familiar with the concept of hosteling. With very cheap beds, hostels once primarily only attracted students on break and long-term travelers on very strict budgets. The standard style of accommodation consisted of bunk beds in a shared room with little or no privacy. Yes, you could hear your neighbors snoring, and yes, people walked around in their underwear.

With an increasing number of "flashpackers," couples, and more sophisticated travelers who prefer privacy, many hostels offer private rooms for people squeamish about sharing sleeping space with strangers. Although you get your own room, you may find fewer amenities than found in hotels, so what.

If you can live without premium movie channels and a fitness room, you'll pay less than hotel prices and get to enjoy meeting new people.

Not all hostels are created equal! The cheapest options actually are hot, noisy, crashpads for party-oriented backpackers. Do a little research and read reviews for boutique hostels before booking.

  • They’re Cheaper: To cut costs, hostels forgo many of the usual room amenities that nonbusiness travelers rarely use anyway. You probably won’t find luxuries such as telephones, irons, coffee makers, or hairdryers. You will, however, find a TV and some of those other items in the common area of the hostel to be shared by all. The savings for unnecessary luxuries are passed on to guests.
  • You’ll Meet People: On top of being cheaper, hostels are great places to meet other travelers! Hostels are often far more social than their hotel counterparts. The common area serves as a catalyst for meeting other travelers, perfect for getting good recommendations for the area, or future areas you plan to visit.
  • You Don’t Always Have to Share: Many hostels in Asia offer private rooms with options for either private or shared bathrooms. How much you interact with other guests will be entirely up to you. Spend time in the common area then retire to your private room when you like.
  • The Basic Services Prevail: Like hotels, all good hostels offer advice and ticketing services at the desk. You’ll be able to book your tours in Asia and find out about transportation options at the hostel desk. Many hostels in Asia offer laundry services, food, full bar, movie nights, and other services that make travelers happy.
  • Hostels Focus on Travelers: Unlike chain hotels with headquarters based far away, possibly even overseas, hostels are more in tune with the local neighborhood. Many of the hostels in Asia were started by former travelers who wanted to settle down and build a business without losing touch with the travel world. These experienced business owners know how it feels to be far away from home. In short, they understand what travelers need.
  • You Can Negotiate: Since some hostels cater to backpackers who only stay a couple of nights at a time, you may be able to negotiate a better rate if you’ll be staying a week or longer. Many owners would rather have a long-term guest occupy a room to avoid cleaning or the chance that a room sits empty for a few nights. Hostels may be willing to work with you on price, particularly if you’re staying during the low season in Asia .
  • Less Hidden Fees: Many hotels throughout Asia tack service charges of up to 15 percent onto your bill at checkout. Despite a lack of tipping in most Asian cultures , the staff in upscale hotels have actually become conditioned to receiving a gratuity. Western guests who don’t know better tip when they shouldn't. This usually isn't a problem with hostels.
  • Payment May Not Be as Convenient: With already low rates, many budget hostels simply won’t accept payment via credit card , or if they do, a service charge will be tacked on. Some hostels in Asia may ask that you pay for your stay either upfront or day by day.
  • Don't Expect All Amenities: As already mentioned, good hostels can reduce their nightly rates by eliminating a lot of the extras found in hotels. Don't be disappointed if the TV in your room, if there is one at all, doesn't have HBO.
  • Some Hostels Are Noisy: This is where a little research pays off. If booking online, read reviews carefully but take them with a grain of salt. Reviews about bed bug infestations are often left by competing hostels. Some hostels do attract a younger crowd. If your room is adjacent to the bar or common area, you may have to deal with late-night noise.

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The Packable Life

Hostel vs Hotel: Which Option Suits You Best?

Hostel sign and hotel sign split screen

If you’re a worn-out traveler, you’ll need a place to rest your weary bones at the end of the day. This biological necessity comes with a price tag and a slew of options, chief amongst which lies the decision between picking a hostel vs hotel.

It seems like an easy decision, right? Not so fast. The debate between a hostel vs hotel begs that you ask yourself a series of important questions.

Are you traveling for business? Is this a wild and loose party trip with you and your friends? Are you a solo traveler looking to meet interesting people and see the world through a new lens? Do you enjoy sleeping in a room with a dozen other strangers?

Some people have no issue shacking up in a room full of sweaty travelers and falling asleep to a chorus of snores. Others might lose their mind sleeping in a room full of pungent strangers. Where do you fall in this spectrum?

So much about traveling comes down to learning about who you are, and choosing where to stay is an exercise in knowing oneself.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the specifics of hotels vs hostels.

Hostel vs. Hotel

What is a Hostel?

What is a hotel.

  • Differences Between Hostels & Hotels

Which is Safer: Hostels or Hotels?

  • Which Accommodation is Best for You?
  • Booking Sites I Recommend
  • More Travel Resources

Man fixing a bike in front of a hostel in Hanoi, Vietnam

Hostels are a budget-friendly , communal option for backpackers and travelers looking for a place to lay their heads at night. Built around shared spaces, hostels offer an affordable way to spend time around people from all walks of life, and they’re often nestled in ideal locations.

This is why many hostels refer to themselves as youth hostels — these spaces are meant for young people who might not have a lot of money to spend on lodging. Don’t get tripped up on the word ‘youth,’ however, as hostels are usually great options for travelers of all ages. (I’ve met more than one 70-somethings cutting loose and thoroughly enjoying themselves in a hostel environment.)

To keep prices low, hostels feature dorm-style rooms. These rooms can sleep upwards of 20 travelers in bunk-style beds, though most rooms sleep between four and ten. When staying in a hostel, you’re not just sharing a room; you’ll likely share everything, including a bathroom, kitchen, and the sounds and smells of your new friends. For that reason, be sure to bring earplugs and deodorant when sleeping in a hostel .

If you’re the type who isn’t too interested in the noises or aromas of your traveling peers, know that you can book a private room in a hostel. Private rooms afford you a much higher level of solitude than you’d find in a dorm room, so fork out a few extra bucks if you need your own space at the end of the day.

Neon 'HOTEL' sign in the night sky against a brick building

You’re likely familiar with hotels, but for the sake of comparison, let’s get into it. A hotel offers short-term stays to travelers of all types. Business people, weary road trippers, spring breakers, and all sorts of other people stay in hotels. But, with a hotel, you get a private room, room service if you want it, and usually a place to park your car.

You won’t have to share anything with strangers, including your shower, toilet, your sounds, and your smells. This feeling of privacy alone pushes many people to pick a hotel when choosing between hostel vs hotel.

When it does come time to pick your hotel, you’ll have options ranging from budget-friendly to outright exorbitant. Hotels offer all manner of stays, including rooms with little more than a bed and television to grand suites with ocean views. Depending on what your trip looks like, a hotel could make much more sense than a hostel, especially if you need quiet and the utmost privacy.

Main Differences Between Hostels and Hotels

Hostel dorm room with eight to ten capsule beds

By now, you’re probably getting an idea of the differences between hostels and hotels, but let’s dive a bit deeper into each consideration so you can choose the most fitting accommodation possible.

Hostels Offer Less Privacy than Hotels

Most likely, the biggest difference between comparing a hostel vs a hotel, is that hostels offer far less privacy than hotels, even if you book a private room.

Hostels are communal by nature, so you’ll probably have to walk through areas where people are lounging around just to get into your room or out of the building. If you got drunk and said something stupid the night before in your hostel, chances are you’ll probably run into the guy or gal you offended.

With a hotel, it’s much easier to move about life in anonymity, and it’s unlikely that you’ll form bonds with the random person staying next door. Herein lies a fundamental difference between hotel and hostel.

Now, if you’re going the hostel dorm route, you’ll have to stash your belongings in lockers and keep them safe with a travel lock . This can feel intrusive and less private than simply tossing your backpack in your hotel room and getting on with your day.

Hotels Usually Cost More than Hostels

On average, hotels cost more than hostels, specifically due to significant overhead and amenities that hostels don’t offer. A well-run hotel has cleaning people, front desk personnel, bartenders, managers, and others to keep the building running smoothly. In a hostel, the employees often wear many different hats — most clean, do administrative work, and can bartend within a single day.

Because hostels are generally smaller than hotels, a single person can do more of the work required to keep the place running. Many hostels employees are working in exchange for room, board, and maybe a small wage in an effort to stretch out their travels. The type of employee you’ll find in hostels vs hotels and their compensation represents a fundamental difference between the cost of the two.

Hotels and Hostels are as Diverse as Their Clients 

Of course, there are many different types of hotels. If you’re a Vegas high roller, you might score a vast room with a rotating bed and a mirror mounted on the ceiling above. Or, you might stay in a room with a television chained to the cement floor in a sketchy neighborhood 15 miles north of The Strip. Hostels are just as diverse.

Some hostels tailor to the party animal, and others gear towards health-conscious solo travelers looking to get in touch with themselves. There’s a hostel for every type of traveler out there; you just need to find the one that fits you. Chances are, you’ll occasionally make a mistake and pick an unsuitable hostel, but these experiences will prepare you for the time you’re ready to book.

Most hostels offer opportunities to go on sightseeing adventures, beer crawls, and other social endeavors, but the overall vibe of each hostel can vary wildly from place to place.

Hostels and Hotels Attract Very Different Types of Travelers

If you want to meet people from all corners of the world and enjoy a more communal lifestyle, a hostel will fit the bill better than a hotel ever could. Some people just want to hang out, smoke a joint on a rooftop in Mexico City, and watch the day fade into the night. They’ll likely feel right at home in a hostel.

Others have deadlines to meet, families to raise, and shit to get done. They should probably stay in the clean, quiet, and predictable environment of a hotel and avoid hostels at all costs.

For instance, it would make little sense for a business person with time-sensitive responsibilities to stay in a party hostel. Falling asleep before 3:00 am would prove difficult, and pumping electronic music along with the buzz of inebriated chit-chat will likely invade any suitable workspace.

Business travelers beware: booking a party hostel before meeting an important client could result in job loss.

Hostel dorm room with sandals on the floor next to two lockers

You may think that hotels are a safer option than hostels. Hotels, after all, provide more privacy and don’t require you to stash your stuff in communal spaces where it could get stolen. Also, you might think, there’s that one hostel movie where everyone got butchered. You surely don’t want to end up like them!

Cool your jets for a moment, okay? Remember The Shining? It took place at the Stanley Hotel, and a lot of people didn’t make it out of that one alive either.

So, if you’re wondering if hostels are safe, here’s the truth: if you do your due diligence, read reviews, and pick the proper hostel, you’ll likely leave in one piece (with all of your belongings).

Tips for Staying Safe in Hostels

My main piece of advice to stay safe in hostels is to remain aware of what the hell’s going on around you. Most criminals engage in crimes of opportunity, so keeping your eyes open and your belongings behind lock and key can prevent a significant number of bad things from happening to you.

Read Reviews

Don’t book a hostel without reading reviews first. If any number of reviewers express that they felt unsafe in any way, stay away from that hostel. You don’t need to tempt fate by sleeping anywhere is deemed unsafe when there are likely better options out there. When you’re thousands of miles from home, your health and is of the utmost importance, so stay in a hostel that values you and your safety.

Travel with Portable Locks

Keep an eye on your stuff. In my experiences at hostels, people are generally friendly and want to hang out. But behind every smile could lie an ulterior motive, so don’t give anyone the opportunity to rip you off and take your belongings. Instead, buy a travel lock , find a locker, and secure your stuff. If you forget your lock, many hostels allow travelers to rent one cheaply.

Book a Private Room

If you can’t get on board with sleeping in a hostel room with 19 other people, book a private room. You’re going to feel safer in your own space than you would in a dorm-style room surrounded by snoring strangers. Staying in your own hostel room is the closest you’ll get to enjoying the privacy of a hotel without sacrificing the opportunity to meet new friends, drink beers together, and ask each other strange questions.

Hostel vs Hotel: Which is Best for You?

Man looking out of his hotel room contemplatively

Every trip you take will have a unique purpose and feel from the others. If you’re traveling for business or you simply want to avoid electronic music, a hotel might be your best option. If you’re looking to connect with like-minded travelers or do yoga on a rooftop with your bunkmate, a hostel might suit your needs.

One type of accommodation might make more sense than the other during your trip, so mix it up and stay wherever your travel instincts are telling you to stay.

Keep the following in mind when considering a hostel vs hotel:

You Might Prefer a Hostel if…

  • You need to save money on lodging
  • You want to meet new people
  • You want to stay in a party environment
  • You want to stay in an excellent location
  • You seek like-minded travelers

You Might Prefer a Hotel if…

  • You want complete privacy
  • You want room service
  • You need a parking space
  • You don’t want to worry about locking up your stuff
  • You want to collect hotel points with each stay

There are a million different considerations to mull over when choosing a hostel vs a hotel. What makes a certain type of lodging desirable for you might make it a nightmare for somebody else.

I tend to believe experience is the best teacher, so get out there, explore all your options, and develop the best travel style for who you are. Nobody is getting graded on any of this stuff, so pick out some lodging, drop your bags off, and enjoy the hell out of yourself as you travel.

No Matter Where You Stay, Get Out There and Travel

I certainly hope that this guide has provided you with enough information to find the perfect stay for your next trip. Remember to research every potential property when considering your stay in a hostel vs hotel diligently. This step alone will save you many headaches and ensure that you’re as comfortable as possible while you get to know the world around you.

Now get out there, explore some new places, and take a lot of pictures along the way. Your mom wants to see them when you get back.

The Only Two Sites I Use to Book Hostels and Hotels

Booking.com.

Booking.com consistently offers hard-to-beat prices, a gigantic selection of hotels, hostels, homestays, and is extremely user-friendly. I love fiddling with its vast set of filters to zero in on the best possible accommodation.

Hostelworld

Hostelworld puts you in touch with the world’s best hostels, often at the best price on the internet. This site is geared towards backpackers and long-term travelers, so the reviews you read will likely come from gristled veterans.

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

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Ryan Squires

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A Backpacker's World

Hostel vs Hotel: 13 Differences Between Hostels and Hotels

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Wondering what the difference is between a hostel and a hotel?

You’ve come to the right article as I’ve written a complete guide to hostels vs hotels.

Knowing the difference between a hostel and a hotel is important to know before choosing what type of accommodation you are going to stay at when travelling.

As a full-time traveller and as someone who stays regularly in both hostels and hotels, I am going to compare a hostel vs hotel throughout this post.

This will allow you to decide which choice is right for you . So let’s get right into it!

What Is A Hostel?

Before we jump into comparing the two, let’s first get the definitions straight for both types of accommodation.

A hostel, sometimes called a “youth hostel”, is a form of accommodation similar to a hotel but with a few major differences.

A hostel offers shared accommodation , where you sleep in a bed, typically a bunk bed, in a room with between 3 and up to 39 other people.

Of course, this is much cheaper than a private room , which some hostels also offer. Hostels are a great way to stay somewhere cheaply, as well as meet new people quickly and easily. A hostel is similar to a dormitory.

If you find yourself saying “Okay, sounds good but what is it like to stay in a hostel? “ , I have written a full post about my experiences from my stays.

A picture of a typical hostel room with bunk beds in very close proximity to eachother.

What Is A Hotel?

Hotels generally offer a more “premium” stay, offering only private rooms but often much more in terms of amenities.

Hotels would typically have a pool, gym, restaurants and more. A hotel is the most popular form of accommodation for travellers to stay in.

The chances are, you have most likely stayed in a hotel before, on a family trip, or staycation, for example.

A picture of a typical hotel room with a double bed.

Difference Between Hostel and Hotel Overview

Immediately, we can notice key differences between hostels and hotels, the biggest differences are in terms of privacy and cost.

However, this is only scratching the surface, there are many more differences between the two.

To properly compare a hostel vs hotel, I have evaluated 13 differences. These differences are:

  • Amenities (Facilities)
  • Social Interactions and Events
  • Types of Travellers
  • Staff and Service
  • Availability
  • Room Options

I will assess the pros and cons of both a hostel and a hotel for each of these categories.

After assessing the pros and cons, I will declare a winner of each category!

Hostel vs hotel differences.

In a hostel, you are typically sharing with at least 3 people. In Southeast Asia, where hostels are very popular, due to the famous backpacking route, the Banana Pancake Trail , the hostel rooms can have as many as 40 beds. I would say, worldwide, the most common would be 6 or 8-bed rooms.

Due to the shared space in a hostel, you most likely change clothes in the bathroom and remain semi-clothed while asleep (looking at the guys here…). Of course, there are minor changes to everyday life, but they are important to follow. Hostel etiquette should be followed.

Although there are options to stay in a private room in a hostel, throughout this post, I will refer to a hostel as a dormitory-style room, for continuity and comparison’s sake.

A picture of a typical hostel room with bunk beds in very close proximity to eachother.

Whereas in a hotel, you will have a private room all to yourself. You can do however you please and no one is going to tell you otherwise. You can undress without having to worry about who is looking and sleep however you want- you need to cover up to sleep in hostels . Not to mention a bit of privacy is always nice to just have some time to yourself.

There is a clear winner in the privacy category. You will always have more privacy by yourself compared to sharing a room with others.

Winner- Privacy: Hotels

Hotels are a very cheap and affordable form of accommodation. Prices vary worldwide, but wherever you are, hostels are definitely going to be the cheapest option.

You could typically expect to pay around £/$/€15-20 for a hostel in Europe. Despite mainly originating in Europe, hostels are more expensive here than in other parts of the world.

Such as in Asia, where you can find hostels for as cheap as £/$/€1-2 per night. That’s incredibly cheap! Although the prices are rising as an aftermath of the pandemic.

Like all forms of accommodation, some hostels are cheaper than others. The cheapest hostels are usually dirty, old and not worth staying at.

On the other hand, the most expensive hostels are not worth staying at simply because they are overpriced. Usually, the best hostels are somewhere between the cheapest and most expensive.

A picture of 2 bunk beds with curtains to pull over for privacy.

Hotels are probably the most expensive style of accommodatio n, outside of renting or buying a house or flat etc. For a good hotel, you would expect to pay around £/$/€100+ per night.

This is due to having a private room, which is more expensive due to the benefits and perks that come alongside it. Of course, it is possible to stay in a budget hotel for somewhat cheaper.

Some hotels also include breakfast as part of their price. That being said, one of my favourite hostels, while I was backpacking Rome also included breakfast in the price.

Hotel prices generally fluctuate throughout the year too, whereas hostel prices are more consistent. Of course, similarly to hostels, hotels’ prices also vary depending on the location and country of the hotel.

It’s worth noting that a private room in a hostel is also cheaper than a hotel room . When it comes to price or cost, there is a clear winner for this category.

Winner- Cost: Hostels

3. amenities (facilities).

As you can probably imagine, hostels typically have limited facilities, compared to hotels. But that’s not to say hostels are missing any facilities. Hostels, for the most part- of course, there are exceptions, only have the necessities. However, these facilities will be shared, as you may have guessed.

You will share your bathroom including toilet and shower, your bedroom is shared of course too. But a huge plus for hostels is they usually have a kitchen.

It’s always great to have the option to make your own meal as opposed to eating out. Not only will it save money, but it’s usually healthier too.

You do however need to bring your own toiletries etc. as they are not provided in hostels the same way they are in hotels. I have a full list of things to bring to a hostel if you want to know what you need to take.

For me personally, it doesn’t matter too much what amenities or facilities the hostel, or hotel have. When I’m travelling, I only really use my accommodation to sleep, clean and sometimes cook and eat. For the most part, I am out exploring and doing things all day. I don’t spend the day in my accommodation.

A picture of a pool in a hotel.

Hotels will generally have more facilities, with swimming pools (although quite a few hostels in Southeast Asia do too), gyms, saunas, jacuzzis, restaurants and bars, but how often do you take advantage of these facilities? If you are anything like me, you don’t spend that much time in a hotel.

If you are the type of traveller who spends all day in a hotel relaxing by the pool, then it’s not worth considering a hotel vs a hostel, the answer for you is a hotel.

So while a hotel will have better and more facilities, I don’t see any point in them. I use my accommodation as a base camp while I am out during the day. For that reason, I’m calling this one a draw.

Winner- Amenities: Draw

Comparing hostel vs hotel in terms of comfort is a case of “you get what you pay for” . Sleeping in a hostel usually involves bunk beds and a single thin pillow on a solid mattress. Whereas in a hotel, you get a comfortable double bed (usually) with soft sheets and more pillows than sense.

It’s a short category, but it doesn’t require much explaining. Sleeping in a bunk bed with uncomfortable pillows compared to sleeping on a large double bed with comfortable pillows, there’s a clear winner.

Winner- Comfort: Hotels

5. atmosphere.

The atmosphere of a hostel is somewhat unexplainable. You have to feel it to be able to understand it. There is a sense of togetherness, that everyone has something in common.

Most people I have met at hostels have similar mindsets to mine. I describe the atmosphere in hostels as “ hakuna matata “ . Yes, the phrase from the Lion King, but it’s actually a real phrase used in Africa.

The atmosphere in hostels is “go with the flow”, whatever happens, happens, that sort of thing. People who stay in hostels are generally outgoing, “up for anything”, and spontaneous people.

It’s due to this atmosphere, that I have met so many great friends from all around the world simply by staying in hostels and speaking to people. You’ll meet someone for the first time and then go out for dinner together an hour later.

There are lots of hostel life quotes but I think the quote “A hostel is not just a place to stay; it’s a community of like-minded wanderers” perfectly captures what it’s like to stay in a hostel.

If it wasn’t for hostels, I would never have had the most random but amazing friend group in Washington D.C. consisting of a Brit (me, someone from China, someone from the Philippines, someone from Vietnam, someone from Greece, someone from Turkey and someone from Germany. What other situations can produce groups this diverse? It’s incredible to be a part of.

A picture of two travellers speaking in a hostel. In terms of atmosphere in a hostel vs hotel, hostel is the winner.

On the other hand, I’m not sure I have ever experienced an atmosphere as such in a hotel. Maybe in a resort hotel, where you stay in the hotel for a week sunbathing and doing fun activities within the resort, but in a typical hotel, I’m not sure there really is an atmosphere. Perhaps I’ve just never noticed one.

Nonetheless, it’s impossible to award this one to hotels.

Winner- Atmosphere: Hostels

6. social interactions and events.

Hostels are known for their social interactions. In fact, most hostels are designed to encourage you to meet new people , and make new friends. Having shared living spaces and rooms where you can just hang out (common rooms) are standard in most hostels.

As I said in the last category, most people share a similar attitude and mindset towards life, so making new friends is really easy. It’s common for me to make a friend I feel like I’ve known for years when in reality it’s been 2 or 3 days.

Hostels typically also put on many events. Whether it be happy hour in a local bar, a bike tour of the city or a full day trip to a nearby landmark; hostels are known for being courteous and organising lots of tours and other fun things. I’ll say it again, hostels are designed to allow you to make new friends!

A group of travellers talking in a hostel.

In contrast, hotels generally will not put on (m)any events at all. Maybe there is nighttime entertainment, but that is usually all. Hotels may also have a kids club, but if you are considering staying in a hostel, the chances are that you aren’t travelling with kids.

For me, there is a clear winner in terms of social interaction and events.

Winner- Social Interaction and Events: Hostels

7. types of travellers.

The most common types of travellers to find in hostels are backpackers or budget travellers, and solo travellers . It makes sense because backpackers and budget travellers want to save money, and solo travellers want to meet new people.

Hostels accommodate both of these. Hostels are especially common in areas where backpacking is popular, such as South America where backpacking Brazil , Colombia and Argentina is common.

It’s worth noting that hostels have an age requirement , usually 18. Some hostels have an age limit, but this isn’t too common. But I would also say that most travellers in hostels are under 30, but that’s not to say you can’t stay in a hostel past 30!

The hostel I stayed in in Washington where I made that unique friend group, I had some amazing conversations with a 70-year-old woman travelling the States. Having conversations was really insightful and her attitude on life at 70 was remarkable.

A backpacker checking in to a hostel. Backpackers and solo travellers love hostels vs hotels commonly have families, couples, etc.

Hotels will generally have any type of traveller. Families, couples, friends, and solo travellers, all will choose to stay in a hotel. Private rooms are attractive to anyone, meaning hotels attract everyone.

There’s not really a winner as such in this category unless you prefer a certain type of traveller.

Winner- Type of Traveller: Draw

8. staff and service.

Obviously, staff and service depend on the hostel or hotel in particular. It would be unfair to say hostels have worse service and staff than a hotel or vice versa.

That being said, I would say it is more likely that any hostel staff member would be more likely to help you book a tour, or organise a bus etc. Whereas in a hotel, there are usually staff employed specifically for this.

There’s no real winner in terms of the staff here. Hotels most likely have more staff, but this doesn’t really matter.

A picture of staff behind a bar in a hotel. There is no difference between hostel and hotel staff.

On the other hand, hotels probably offer more services. You can get room service etc, but this is not possible in most hostels.

Hostels do have regular cleaning staff, the same as hotels, that clean rooms between stays etc. You will find that most hostels are just as clean as a hotel, but once again, you get what you pay for.

In terms of service, hotels do offer a little bit more than hostels, so for that, I will give them the win for hostel vs hotel for staff and service, but again, this is nothing to do with the staff.

Winner- Staff and Service: Hotels

From my experience, I have had no safety issues while staying in hostels. You can read my full guide on “ are hostels safe ” for more information.

However, there are stories of people having less safe stays in hostels.

Naturally, staying in a room with a group of strangers is going to be less safe than staying in a private room by yourself. It’s one of the concerns people have that backpacking is dangerous .

For this reason, safety has to go to hotels. But do not let this deter you from hostels, most hostels are incredibly safe.

Winner- Safety: Hotels

10. freedom.

Some hostels do have curfews, where you are only allowed in and out of the hostel between certain times. This is for a number of reasons but mainly as receptions sometimes aren’t 24 hours, and also to avoid disruption within rooms.

Imagine trying to sleep and someone walks into the room drunk at 3 am. Although hostel curfews are less common now than in decades prior, it’s still common courtesy to be back at a respectable time or if you are out late, make as little noise as possible when coming back. Don’t turn the light on if people are asleep for example, that does my head in!

Thankfully, there are ways to teach yourself how to fall asleep in a noisy hostel .

A picture of a door with a lock on it, to symbolise a curfew in a hostel.

Whereas in a hotel, you can come and go as you wish. There doesn’t need to be much more explanation than that. When it comes to freedom, there is a clear winner once again.

Winner- Freedom: Hotels

11. availability.

Comparing a hostel vs hotel in terms of availability, there are usually more hotels, but these hotels are quicker to book out than hostels. Usually.

There are a growing amount of hostels in most cities across the world, as budget travelling becomes more popular. Some cities have literally hundreds like Bangkok which is very useful if you are backpacking Thailand . During peak times, some hostels in popular backpacking destinations, like Bangkok, will sell out.

Hotels are usually more available in the sense that there are more hotels than hostels, generally speaking. So even though a hostel is more likely to have beds available, there are more hotels than hostels so hotels win in terms of availability.

However, if you need somewhere to stay last minute, I would suggest trying a hostel.

Winner- Availability: Hotels

12. room options.

Most hotels will have multiple room options ranging from single rooms, rooms with ensuites, twin rooms, and family rooms, just to name a few. There are numerous options for every type of traveller, accommodating different needs and coming in at different prices.

Although some hostels do offer private rooms, it generally doesn’t go much further than that. You have a choice of a hostel bed or a private room. That being said, some hostels have rooms varying in the number of beds. You could choose between a 4 bed, 6 bed and 8 bed-room for example.

A picture of a typical hostel room with bunk beds in very close proximity to eachother.

Despite these offerings, hotels definitely offer more choices in terms of rooms. But in my opinion, if you are going to stay in a hostel, there’s only really one type of room you would plan to stay in, which is a room shared with other people, so hotels don’t really need to offer anything else.

Winner- Room Options: Hotels

13. reception.

Both hotels and hostels mostly offer 24-hour receptions. But a hostel is more likely not to. Does that make sense? A hostel and a hotel most likely will have a 24-hour reception, but if one of them were to not, it would most likely be a hostel.

In terms of size and number of receptionists, it varies from hostel to hostel and hotel to hotel. There’s no clear winner. You will find a hostel reception is very similar to a hotel reception. It’s just someone behind a desk who checks you in and out and offers any help or advice as and when needed.

A picture of someone at a check-in desk in a hostel. There are few differnce in a reception in a hostel vs hotel.

I’ve found that a hostel receptionist is more likely to show you straight to your room/bed than a hotel receptionist though.

But there’s no winner or “loser” here, it’s a reception. It does its job.

Winner- Reception: Draw

Hostel vs hotel: which is right for you.

When deciding between hostel vs hotel, you need to consider what you want to get out of your accommodation . Below is a summary of the differences between hostels and hotels along with the winners of each category.

As you can see from the summary table, hotel “wins” 7 categories and hostel “wins” 3 categories and there are 3 draws. Hotels win in terms of privacy, comfort, staff and service, safety, freedom, availability and room options. And hostels win in terms of cost, atmosphere and social interactions and events.

So there is a pretty clear split between a hostel and a hotel. A hotel is the choice for you if you want privacy and luxury in your accommodation. Hostels are the choice for you if you want cheap accommodation and also the ability to meet loads of new, like-minded people.

It really comes down to how you like to travel and what you seek from your accommodation. As someone who likes making new friends, and travels cheaply, hostels are my preference. And in my opinion, the categories that hotels prevail in, most aren’t too important: freedom, availability, room options, staff, etc. As for me, I prefer hostels. But as I say, it depends on how you like to travel.

Difference Between Hostel And Hotel: FAQ

Below are a few questions related to the difference between hostel vs hotel, along with my answers.

It depends on what you want to get out of your stay. If you prefer luxury stays, hotels are better. If you like to meet new like-minded people and travel cheaply, hostels are better.

Yes, a bed in a hostel is significantly cheaper than a room in a hotel. A private room in a hostel will also be cheaper than a room in a hotel.

Hostels are a great affordable form of accommodation that allows people to travel cheaply, on top of meeting new like-minded people during their stay.

Hostels are an amazing way to make new friends. Most people who stay in hostels are outgoing and spontaneous. Hostels are also very affordable and offer many of the services that hotels do too.

Difference Between Hostel And Hotel: Conclusion

And there you have it, a full evaluation of the 13 differences between hostels and hotels.

To summarise, hotels are more luxurious forms of accommodation, that allow you to have more privacy.

Hostels are for people who want to travel cheaply and also make lots of new friends while doing so.

Whichever one you choose, make sure to have a good consideration between hostel vs hotel, and most importantly, enjoy your trip!

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Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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  • Hotel Reviews

Hostel vs Hotel: What Are the Key Differences?

Published: August 9, 2020

Modified: December 27, 2023

by David Jefferson

  • Budget Travel
  • Hotels & Accommodation
  • Travel Guide
  • Budget Accommodation

Hotel Bed Photo by Adam Winger on Unsplash 1200x700 - Hostel vs Hotel: What Are the Key Differences?

Hostel vs hotel — even with only one letter separating the two, their differences have become fuzzy. While hotels and hostels both provide accommodation for travelers, they do have key differences. When choosing between the two, it all boils down your preference. Budget travelers who don’t mind sharing a room can opt for hostels. Meanwhile, those who can’t leave behind the luxurious amenities and services would prefer hotels. 

Should you book a hotel or a hostel on your next trip? Read on to find out more! 

Hostel vs Hotel: What Is the Main Difference?

Woman sitting on a hotel lobby

Photo by StockSnap from Pixabay

What clearly separates hostels from hotels? You’d be surprised to know that more than the price, it’s the room style and its characteristics. Normally, a hotel room emphasize on privacy. Hence, it’s a non-sharing room that can accommodate up to two adults for a normal room and usually comes with an en-suite bathroom. Meanwhile, the spaces in a hostel is commonly shared, which include the living spaces, bathroom, kitchen, lounge area, and so on. Most hostels are designed like dormitories where you share the room, though there’s an exception whereby you can pay more for a non-sharing accommodation.

There’s a long list of types of hotels, depending on the size, location, and target market. It can be airport hotels, city hotels, family resorts, clothing-optional resorts , floating hotels, and more. Hostels, on the other hand, mainly vary depending on room size, hostels theme, and style. Whether it’s a premium hostel, boutique hostel, or a capsule hostel, the choices are endless. 

Hostel Vs Hotel: What Are The Key Differences?

Bunkbeds in a hostel

Photo by Nicate Lee on Unsplash

Privacy is among the key differences between hostels and hotels. If you’re fine with sharing a room with strangers, then a hostel should suit you just fine. While hotels are walled off to give you privacy, hostels are set up for cohabitation. From the rooms, communal kitchen, lounge area to bathrooms, these spaces are shared with random travelers. If meeting new people thrill you, a hostel fits the bill perfectly.

If you’re particular and picky, a hotel room is best for you. Privacy can be a concern if you’re not feeling well. If you’re trying to get over a bout of sickness, it can be tough trying to rest with a bunch of strangers in your room. Business trips may also need more privacy that hostels cannot provide. 

Hostels may be famous for dorm-type rooms, but there are also those that offer private rooms. This is especially true around Asia where backpacker hostels are found everywhere. Private hostels let you enjoy the best of both worlds — privacy and affordability. 

2. Budget and Room Prices

Comfortable looking bed in a hotel

Photo by Rhema Kallianpur on Unsplash

Most hotels come with a heavy price tag, and it’s not hard to understand why. With premium rooms, hotel amenities , and pampering services, you get more than what you pay for. On the other hand, hostels, generally, will cost you much less than private rooms. The friendly rates can significantly help you cut down your travel costs. 

Curious about hotel and hostel price difference? You can book a hostel at half the rate of a hotel, but most of the time the markdown is so much more. In fact, there are dorm rooms that are ridiculously cheap. A four-bedroom can costs as low as $8 a night, whereas a room in a 5-star hotel can start from $165 a night. Here’s the rough idea of the hotel and hostel prices.

  • 5-star hotels: From $150 – $1000+ per night
  • 4-star hotels: From $90 – $300+ per night
  • 3-star hotels and Boutique hotels: $80 – $160+ per night
  • 2-star hotels and below: As low as $15 per night
  • Premium hostels: $100 for a private hostel room with a non-sharing toilet.
  • Boutique hostels: $40 – $60 with two-sharing bed
  • Capsule hostels: $18 – $50 depending on the hostel set up, whether it’s a soundproof capsule hotel or otherwise.

Of course, there’s a reason why the price difference can be extreme. With cheap hostels, you get a bed and not a room. Because you’re sharing the same room with other travelers, the cost of the room is divided among you. Hotels, meanwhile, offer privacy, in-room services, facilities, and amenities, among other features. Basically, you’re not just paying for a room, but for everything, the hotel has to offer. 

4. Amenities and Facilities

Hostel guests interacting outside of their capsule rooms in Resol Poshtel

Photo from Resol Poshtel’s Facebook page

Care to use the gym or a sauna? How about lounging at the cafe or a private pool? All these and more are easily enjoyed by hotel guests. Add to that the daily room services that are ready to spoil you. Depending on the type of hotel you choose, there can be more amenities and facilities to take advantage of. Meanwhile, hostels can only offer you a bed, or a few in-room amenities such as a small kitchen or toilet. Resol Poshtel, a famous capsule hotel in Tokyo, has a cozy lounge area where guests can gather. While some hostels do have basic amenities, these are meant to be shared with the other guests. 

Depending on what you’re willing to sacrifice, both can be a great option for you. If you’re going on a busy trip, perhaps you’ll find some hotel amenities useless. Sure, hostels can be bare, but sometimes all you need is just a clean room for the night. Most hostels also include shuttle services and free breakfast, although you should expect them to be basic. 

5. Personal Safety 

Rows of lockers in a budget hostel

Photo by stephriddell from Pixabay

In the battle of hostel vs hotel, safety is among the key differences. Hotels have security staff, front desk safes, and even vaults in each room. Meanwhile, contrary to the preconceived impression that hostels are dirty and unsafe, it’s not always the case. Most modern hostels do have 24-hour staff who can serve as security. While they lack private vaults, some dorm rooms have lockers to keep your valuables. 

Hotels are not without security guards and security cameras, keeping your worries at bay. When booking a hostel, one way to check if it’s safe is to read the reviews. If you’re not traveling with valuables, then there’s not much to worry about. 

6. Customer Support and Help Desk

Hotel receptionist desk

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Hostels and hotels are accommodation options that both have people running them. However, the difference is that hotels have more staff members than hostels. Aside from that, hotel staff is more professional and formal. They’re also more polished in appearance compared to the people who work in hostels. 

Hostel staff are encouraged to be more casual so they can interact better with guests. You will normally see them dressed down and mingling with their guests. Their roles are also not tied to just giving your room keys and taking calls. Hostel staff can take you to city tours and introduce you to nightlife. But this doesn’t mean they can’t be professional. Just expect them to be more like their natural selves. 

7. Interaction with Hotel Guests and Staffs

hotel guests lounging in the living room

@Photo by Unsplash

As mentioned, the interaction between guests and hostel staff is different than that in hotels. While hotel lobbies are spacious, they’re not quite meant for interaction among guests. Sure you can hang out at the bar and meet some people. The swimming pool and gym are also great spots to strike a conversation. But interaction in hostels is much more casual, friendly, and relaxed. Hostels have common kitchens, lounge areas, and bathrooms for guests to share. These intimate spaces inevitably encourage casual conversations that lead to friendly interactions. 

It’s not surprising that many travelers meet new friends in hostels. Cooking and dining together, sharing a room, taking turns in the shower. All these times together easily break the ice with other travelers. 

8. Hotels and Hostels Overall Atmosphere

Cozy hostel living space with dormitory-style beds

Photo by Tristan Paolo from Pexels

Another key difference when it comes to hostel vs hotel is the atmosphere. The weight of its significance depends on the type of vacation you have in mind. The vibe in hotels and hostels varies greatly.

If you prefer a much business-oriented and professional atmosphere, a hotel is perfect for you. However, if you want a more relaxing yet lively setting, book yourself a hostel room. Aside from that, modern hostels come in various themes and styles to choose from. This makes the atmosphere much more personalized. From trendy dorm rooms, capsules, mini lodges to prison cell types, the options are tempting. 

9. Your Expectations for a Hotel or Hostel

Visitors dining together in hostel's shared dining room

Photo by fauxels on pexels

Hostels may come with cheaper price tags, but this doesn’t mean you can’t expect them to be fun. While you don’t have to necessarily lower your expectations when staying in budget rooms, you just have to set them differently. 

If you’re used to daily fresh sets of towels delivered to you in hotels, expect to do your own laundry in hostels. In-room dining and luxurious spas? Forget about those if you opt to stay in dorm rooms. Instead, enjoy cooking your own meals in a shared kitchen and mingle with fellow travelers in the lounge area.

To keep it short, expect a basic and simple room experience when booking a hostel. Hotels have a long list of activities and facilities to keep you busy, whereas hostels are mainly for sleeping. Keep in mind, though, that hostels make up for the bare facilities with the fun and freedom they offer. 

Hostel Vs Hotel: Which Suits You The Best?

Clearly, there’s no winner here as it all depends on your preference and the kind of vacation you have in mind. Hostels and hotels both have offerings that can make traveling fun. But with their list of pros comes a number of cons, too. These key differences set them apart, making it easier for travelers to choose which suits them best.

From budget, privacy, room style, to the vibe, there are many factors that set hostels apart from hotels. Nonetheless, regardless of their differences, both guarantee travelers a safe haven for the night.

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  • Key Differences

Know the Differences & Comparisons

Difference Between Hotel and Motel

hotel-vs-motel

Both hotels and motels are a part of the hospitality sector that provides accommodation. The hotel offers numerous amenities to its guests apart from providing accommodation facilities. However, a motel offers a layover facility to its guests to take a rest while they are on a trip.

In this post, we will talk about the difference between hotels and motels.

Content: Hotel Vs Motel

Comparison chart.

  • Classification

What is Hotel?

Hotel

It has interior corridors that take to various rooms. It is a good alternative for convening meetings and conferences due to its sizeable facility and strategic location within the city.

Do you know?

The term ‘Hotel’ originated from a French word which means ‘Town House’. As per British Law, a hotel is a place where travellers can get food and shelter.

Classification of Hotels on the basis of ratings

Hotels can be classified on the basis of star ratings from one to five. There is a star rating system for hotels to understand the quality of hotels and their services.

  • One-star hotels : These are tourist hotels and are generally small. The owner and his/her family members run such a hotel. These are low-budget hotels and provide a few services only.
  • Two-star hotels : are budget hotels and are usually larger than one-star hotels. They offer comfortable accommodations to tourists. The bedrooms have en-suite shower rooms. The staff is trained and professional. They are standard hotels.
  • Three-star hotels : These are comfortable hotels with huge staff who speak at least one foreign language. The reception is quite spacious and has other public rooms as well. All the rooms have en-suite bathrooms with toiletries. They also offer a TV set, hairdryer and telephone to the guests.
  • Four-star hotels : These are first-class hotels that use high-quality furniture, decorative items and equipment. The rooms are large and well-designed. It also has a huge staff that provides services 24*7. It has a lobby, laundry, dry cleaning, bar and restaurant facility. Rooms have mini-bars, and they provide access to the internet to the guests.
  • Five-star hotel : These luxury hotels provide spacious accommodations to their guests. The luxuries match the best international standards. Special guests are welcomed with bouquets and garlands. One can find safe boxes, air conditioners, and mini-bar in all the rooms. Suites are available in these hotels. They have a unique interior design and furniture. High quality and multi-cuisine are offered by the restaurant. The staff is humble, helpful and efficient. Services of laundry, dry cleaning, and ironing are available.

What is a Motel?

A motel is a type of hotel. The word ‘motel’ is a combination of two words ‘, motor’ and ‘hotel’. You can find a motel generally on highways, outskirts and national road networks. It is meant for family or business travellers who go on a trip by car. A motel has a small reception, and it provides comfortable bedrooms to travellers for a charge.

Simply put, it is meant to fulfil the needs of people who want to stay one or two nights while on a trip, alone or with their loved ones. It provides reasonable lodging facilities to highway travellers.

motel

Motels have ample space for parking vehicles. It usually has one or two floors, and the rooms can be accessed from the parking. To be precise, the motel rooms are generally facing the parking zone to make the entry and exit of people easy.

Motels offer facilities like car parking, a garage for car servicing, accommodation, food and beverage, a service station, and vehicle refuelling. Some motels have restaurants, dining rooms and even a swimming pool.

Features of a Motel

  • Designed for short stays
  • Offers quick, basic breakfast
  • One of the most economical places to stay.
  • One or two floors with outdoor room entrances.

How did Motels come into existence?

In the twentieth century, there was extensive development of road networks that resulted in an increase in the number of travellers. It became a very common thing in Europe and America.

So, the travellers who used to travel long distances by their own car look for a hygienic and safe accommodation for resting and sleeping at night. Along with that, they also needed garages and refuelling facilities for their vehicles. Hence, in the year 1950, motels were established.

Key Differences Between Hotel and Motel

  • A hotel is a large establishment that comprises many bedrooms and provides beds and food on a short-term basis. They also offer several additional guest services, for example , a swimming pool, entertainment, childcare, spa, etc., to the guests. Some hotels provide conference rooms, meeting rooms and banquet halls encouraging people to hold meetings. On the other hand, a motel is meant to provide a place for guests to stay overnight, especially for road travellers. Its main purpose is to provide short-term layovers to long-distance travellers.
  • The cost per night stay in a hotel is more. It completely depends on the location where the hotel is situated. They are meant for longer stays. However, the cost per night stay in a motel is comparatively very less. They are designed for shorter stays, i.e. one to a few days. Here one must take note that a number of factors affect the prices of the room, including hotel location, facilities provided, size of the room, and demand for rooms.
  • Hotels offer a wider range of services which covers room service, restaurant, laundry, pool, fitness centre, salon and spa. On the contrary, a motel offers a swimming pool and breakfast apart from accommodation.
  • You may find receptionists, valets, bellboys, chefs, housekeepers, doormen, and elevator operators in hotels. On the other hand, in motels, you can find receptionists and housekeepers.
  • A hotel is a large building with hundreds of rooms. The entrance to the room is generally from inside the hotel. As against, Motels have a drive up external entrances to the rooms, which makes easy entry and exit for the guests.
  • Hotels are meant to facilitate longer stays and are generally found in the city’s centre or near airports. Conversely, motels are motor hotels on major highways, and they are designed for layovers.

Above all, when choosing a hotel or a motel, it all comes down to what suits you best for your need. If you want a comfortable stay with all the amenities, in such a case, a hotel is the best alternative for you. Business people often prefer a hotel, where they can stay for a few days and have all the basic facilities. But a motel is best when you are on a road trip and do not want to inflate your budget.

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Brief | Intelligent Investment

APAC Hotels & Hospitality Market Update - Hong Kong SAR

March 26, 2024 3 Minute Read

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Looking for a PDF of this content?

CBRE Asia Pacific Hotels & Hospitality’s Market Update series explores key trends in the region across indicators such as tourism arrivals, hotels performance, supply and investment activity, as well as notable market developments that are relevant to the hotel sector.

In this inaugural issue, we focus on Hong Kong SAR .

After a prolonged period of challenging operational conditions, hotel performance in Hong Kong SAR rebounded strongly in 2023 following the removal of pandemic restrictions earlier in the year, which led to an increase in inbound travellers.

Hotel performance was outstanding during the eight-day Lunar New Year holiday in February 2024, with average room occupancy rates and average room rates at or above the same holiday period in 2019. The upturn in hotel performance has been driven by the return of global travellers, particularly mainland Chinese tourists, who account for over 79% of all inbound arrivals over the past 12 months.

With a considerable margin still existing between historical and current overnight visitor numbers, CBRE is confident that there will be further operational growth in Hong Kong SAR in 2024, driven by a recovery in occupancy in well-managed assets.

The luxury and upscale segments are expected to see a greater improvement in operating performance in 2024, with these assets having experienced relatively slower price appreciation when compared to other tier 1 markets in the region.

While hotel operational numbers have improved significantly over the past 12 months, the investment market is still presenting challenges at this time. Expectations are that borrowing costs will begin to decline in mid-2024 in tandem with the Federal Reserve, which will promote investment activity. However, negative carry and uncertainty over when interest rates will begin to move will limit chances of a strong uptick in investment volume.

Private investors will continue to drive acquisitions in 2024, with a value-add and opportunistic strategy as their primary focus. Co-living, student accommodation, and serviced residence operators will further expand their footprint by capitalising on the overall shortage of assets in the living sector and the opportunities presented by the Top Talent Pass Scheme.

Research Contacts

Henry chin, ph.d..

Global Head of Investor Thought Leadership & Head of Research, Asia Pacific

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  • Phone +852 2820 8160

Gus McConnell

Associate Director, Research, Asia Pacific

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Hotels Contacts

Steve carroll.

Head of Hotels - APAC

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  • Phone +65 91791439

Senior Manager, Hotels & Hospitality, Hong Kong

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In a country that relies heavily on visitors, hotels faced repeated evacuations, and one resort was temporarily shut.

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Reporting from London

The Blue Lagoon resort in the south of Iceland is a scenic network of steaming azure pools surrounded by dark rocks, where tourists dip in the geothermal water, have spa treatments and enjoy what the resort advertises as “a universe of radiant well-being.”

But last week, a stream of radiant lava burst from a crater a few miles from the resort, forcing it to evacuate hundreds of guests, in yet another eruption of a volcano system in the Reykjanes Peninsula that had been dormant for 800 years.

The outbursts began in 2021, and the eruptions and earthquakes in the peninsula have destroyed some houses and forced villagers from their homes. One construction worker went missing in the town of Grindavik after falling down a crack caused by an earthquake.

The effects of the volcanic eruptions have rippled out beyond the peninsula, disrupting the tourism operations of a country that relies heavily on visitors.

Arnar Már Ólafsson, director general of the Icelandic Tourist Board, said that when a looming volcanic eruption led to the evacuation of Grindavik in November, it resulted in global anxiety that brought a drop in tourists.

“A spouting volcano doesn’t sound very inviting,” he said.

Icelandair, the country’s national airline, said it also saw a “significant negative impact on bookings” in the last months of 2023. And the low-cost Icelandic airline Play said that news of the eruption “cooled demand for Iceland as a destination.”

The tourism board did not release an estimate for the financial losses, and the airlines, while saying they experienced significantly slowed sales, did not quantify them.

Airline officials and the tourism board director stated emphatically in interviews and in the national news media that the reaction was unwarranted because the eruptions did not represent a direct threat to visitors or flights. They accused the news media of “alarmism.”

“In the international press, it just looks as if Iceland is ruined,” Birgir Jónsson, then Play’s chief executive, said in an interview published in December by a financial magazine.

Tourists used to flock to the Reykjanes Peninsula to watch the northern lights or bathe in the waters of the Blue Lagoon resort. But since the November earthquakes, the Blue Lagoon has had to close for some days . It said in a statement on Wednesday that it had also shut down from March 16 until at least Thursday and would continue to follow the authorities’ safety guidelines.

The Northern Light Inn, a family-run hotel, has also had to evacuate its guests four times since January and close for weeks, said Fridrik Einarsson, the inn’s owner. Now, they are compensating for the drop in tourists by serving lunches to the construction workers building protection walls in the area.

“If this continues for a long period of time, it will eventually be very, very challenging for us ,” Mr. Einarsson said.

Mr. Ólafsson said that any threat to the Blue Lagoon geothermal resort undermined a key component of Iceland’s tourism sector.

“Without the Blue Lagoon, it would be a different destination,” he said, “like Egypt without the pyramids or Paris without the Eiffel Tower.”

The resort is particularly popular with visitors from the United States, and every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the spa, according to the Blue Lagoon’s website. The spa is now protected by barriers.

The resort owes its existence to the geothermal energy generated by the volcanic system, which heats up its waters. But that same system is also now its main threat.

That paradox, many say, is at the heart of Iceland’s identity as an adventure travel destination where tourists seek out untamed nature in the form of waterfalls, glaciers and hot springs. And 130 volcanoes.

During the volcanic eruptions last year, as tourists flocked to sites where they could see the glowing river of lava, the government had to warn people to steer clear of the area since the situation could turn dangerous.

Now, Icelandic tourism operators say, the anxiety has eased somewhat, and tourism demand has gone up again since January. But for those remaining in the peninsula, there seems to be no immediate end in sight to the disruption of their businesses.

Last week, as Mr. Einarsson, the inn owner, evacuated his guests to another hotel because of the volcanic eruption, he said they could see lava from the parking lot.

“It’s quite a magnificent experience, to see a volcano,” he said.

Mr. Einarsson called his relationship to volcanoes a “tricky love and hate situation.”

On one hand, he said, “people are understandably concerned to stay in a hotel next to an eruption site.” On the other, he said, people come to Iceland for its nature, and the nature would not be the same without the country’s volcanoes.

“And I would not be in the business,” he said.

Egill Bjarnason contributed reporting from Gran Canaria, Spain.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in London, covering news across Europe and around the world. More about Emma Bubola

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Utah women’s coach says team experienced racial hate crimes at NCAA Tournament hotel

  • Updated: Mar. 26, 2024, 1:09 p.m. |
  • Published: Mar. 26, 2024, 12:28 p.m.

Lynne Roberts

Utah head coach Lynne Roberts speaks during a press conference after a second-round college basketball game against Gonzaga in the NCAA Tournament in Spokane, Wash., Monday, March 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Young Kwak) AP

Utah’s successful women’s basketball season came to an end on Monday following a loss to Gonzaga in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

But what was supposed to be the culmination of the team’s accomplishments this season was marred by a racist incident that occurred at the hotel prior to the tournament getting underway.

Utah coach Lynne Roberts was asked about the incidents, which she called “racial hate crimes,” during a press conference after the loss. They allegedly occurred at a hotel in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho — about 35 minutes away from the McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane- where the team was playing games.

“It was incredibly upsetting for all of us,” she said. “You know think in our world, in athletics and university settings, it’s shocking. There’s so much diversity on a college campus so you’re just not exposed to that very often so when you are, you have people say, ‘I can’t believe that happened.”

“But racism is real, and it happens, and its awful. So, for out players, when it happens, they are, white, black, green, whatever, no one knew how to handle it. And it was really upsetting and for our players and staff to not feel safe in an NCAA Tournament environment. It’s messed up.”

KSL.com reported that the first incident occurred on March 21 after the team and members of the band and cheerleading team gathered at a restaurant for a dinner to celebrate the season.

While walking to the restaurant, someone in a white truck pulled up, revved its engines and yelled the N-word toward the team before speeding off.

Two hours later, they were met with a similar situation. According to KSL, people in two trucks were revving their engines after dinner and yelling the N-word.

The NCAA and host Gonzaga later helped the team move to a hotel in Spokane. Gonzaga released a statement saying it is “frustrated and deeply saddened” that the team’s experience in the region was compromised by racists.

“I was just numb the entire night,” Utah deputy athletics director Charmelle Green, who is Black, told KSL.com.

Utah, which went 23-11 this season, won at least one game in the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive season for the first time. The Utes beat South Dakota State in the first round.

Its roster is diverse, with players from across the U.S., Portugal, Spain and Belgium.

“It was a distraction and upsetting and unfortunate,” Roberts said. “This (the NCAA Tournament) should be a positive for everybody involved. This should be a joyous time for our program and to have that black eye on that experience is unfortunate.”

Utah filed a police report on the racial hate crimes, but there have been no updates since the report was filed, KSL reported.

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