Traveling and hotels are two aspects of the hospitality industry that share the same goal: to provide accommodations for travellers. A hotel can offer a wide range of facilities, from basic rooms to luxury suites with spa-like amenities and services. It may also include restaurants that serve cuisine from various countries and regions, as well as conference halls for business meetings. Other facilities often available in high-end hotels are fitness/health clubs, swimming pools and massage/therapy rooms. In addition, some hotels have shuttle transportation to transport guests to nearby attractions, airport terminals, car rental offices and other destinations within a limited radius.
The earliest examples of hotels date to the inns and taverns of biblical times, but the modern hotel as we know it started to appear in Europe in the 1800s. Leisure tourism was on the rise and hotels began catering to a new type of guest, with higher expectations for comfort, convenience and fine dining. This prompted the creation of hospitality management schools such as the EHL in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Today, a hotel is more than just a room to stay in for the night; it is an escape from everyday life. Many hotels are designed to be like home and have features that reflect local culture, such as artwork, music and architecture. Others are designed to be completely different, such as palace-style hotels and resorts in the Middle East or ski lodges in the Alps.
In most countries, the hotel business is regulated and some form of star rating is used. This can be based on objective criteria (e.g. facilities available) or subjective (e.g. customer satisfaction). Hotels may also self-rate, or be rated by package tour companies and other independent organizations.
When traveling, you can enjoy a diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and fish and other healthy food options. You can shop for your own ingredients at local markets and cook in your hotel room, or dine in restaurants serving locally produced meals. Many hotels take COVID-19 precautions by providing masks, bottled water and avoiding serving raw food.
Traveling gives you the chance to step out of your comfort zone, whether by visiting unfamiliar places or trying new foods. This can improve mental health and boost happiness levels. It can even decrease your risk for heart disease and other health problems. Plus, spending time with family and friends while traveling is a great way to reduce stress.
