The Traveling and hotels industry is one of the largest service industries in the world. It is centred on people travelling from one location to another and the services required along the way such as accommodation, transport, food and beverage, attractions and leisure activities.
There are many different types of hotels, some geared towards business travellers while others are aimed at more leisure-orientated tourists. Some are part of a hotel chain, while some are independent. Hotels may offer amenities such as a gym or swimming pool, spa facilities (including a sauna and massage rooms) and business centres with equipment available for rent. A few hotels may have beauty salons and/or a hairdresser.
It is important to research a hotel before booking. The Internet is a great resource for information about hotels, including reviews and photos. Also, it is important to compare prices and cancellation policies. Some rates require advance payment while others allow free cancellation until the night before the stay. It is often better to book several days in advance of the arrival date, since the rates are usually lower.
It is also important to remember that just because a hotel advertises free breakfast and/or airport shuttle does not mean it actually provides them. In addition, hotel association rates are often only available through travel agents and may not be available to the general public. These rates can save travelers a lot of money, especially at pricey hotels such as the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay.