Choosing the type of lodging you stay in is one of the most personal travel choices you’ll make. Some people are happy to sleep in a hostel room full of sweaty strangers and fall asleep to a chorus of snores, while others would lose their minds.
There are many things to consider when making your decision, including your budget and the kinds of amenities you want. While it’s not always possible to splurge on luxury, there are ways to get the best value for your money. Whether you’re booking through a hotel or a booking consolidator website, make sure you know all the details of your stay before paying. This includes extra fees like parking and taxes, as well as the policies around cancelling or changing your reservation.
In addition, you’ll want to pay attention to the location of the hotel. Hotels are usually found near airports, business districts, downtown areas, and other popular tourist attractions. Motels, on the other hand, are more likely to be located along highways and freeways.
If you’re planning to use public transportation, you may want to opt for a hotel with a more central location. This will save you time and effort as you travel between sites. You’ll also be able to access local restaurants and bars more easily.
Another important consideration is the type of dining options the hotel offers. This can vary from a small cafe to a full restaurant, or it may be limited to a room service menu. Some hotels even have a gym on site, which is great for those who want to stay active while traveling.
Some hotels have loyalty programs that reward frequent guests with rewards such as free stays. These can be an excellent way to cut costs while travelling, especially if you’re staying somewhere for a few weeks or longer. You should also check with the hotel to see if they are partnered with any major airline frequent flier programs.
It’s worth noting that the cost of travel has risen significantly in recent years. According to NerdWallet, it’s up 9% over the past year and 20% compared to 2017. In addition to hotel rates, food, transportation, and other travel expenses are all increasing, which means that travelers should expect to spend more on their trips in the future.
Besides the benefits of traveling, there are also plenty of lessons that can be learned from it. These lessons can be about a new culture, or they could be about overcoming challenges while traveling. Regardless, they will help you grow as a person and learn more about yourself.
One of the most valuable lessons you can take away from travelling is to be prepared. Being prepared means having the proper gear and knowing what to do in case something goes wrong while you’re on your trip. This can include things like having travel insurance and packing the right items. Having the proper supplies will help you feel confident and comfortable while on your trip, which will make it an overall more enjoyable experience.
