The hotel industry is a vast and varied one. Whether you are looking for an opulent and iconic grand hotel, a quirky boutique that looks straight out of a storybook, or a picturesque inn right on the beach, there is a place for everyone to find their perfect vacation hideaway. But choosing the best accommodation can be difficult if you are faced with an overwhelming number of options.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to narrow your choices and increase the chances that you will be happy with your choice.

First, try to stick with a hotel brand you are familiar with. This can be helpful because you know what to expect from it, including a certain level of service and amenities. It also gives you the opportunity to earn loyalty points and build a relationship with a specific company.

If you want to be more flexible, consider renting an apartment or a villa instead of staying in a hotel. These are often more spacious, and they allow you to have a home away from home on your trip. They are also generally a bit cheaper than hotels.

Next, look at reviews and ratings to help you decide on your hotel. Many websites, such as TripAdvisor, display the average rating for a particular hotel. You can also see photos and read reviews from actual guests who have stayed there. If possible, stay at hotels that have high reviews and are in a good location.

In addition, check out the amenities that are included in your hotel. For example, some hotels offer complimentary items like hairspray, deodorant and ironing boards to make your travel more convenient. Some hotels even have a special program that lends you essentials, such as baby food and bottle openers, yoga mats and portable chargers.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it can be less expensive to book a hotel during the off season. However, this may not be a great idea if the weather is bad or if the area has seasonal attractions.

Also, consider booking a hotel with a fitness center and spa. These facilities can be a nice way to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Traveling and hotels are important to the economy. In fact, it contributes $2.3 trillion annually, or about 9% of the nation’s economic output. It can also promote cultural exchange and understanding and generate jobs in the hospitality industry. Therefore, AHLA supports policies that promote domestic and international tourism.