Motel: meaning, definitions and examples

Motel is typically used to describe a roadside hotel designed primarily for motorists. They offer easy parking and are often located near highways.

• We stayed at a motel during our road trip to California.
• The motel had a convenient parking lot right outside our room.

Motor lodge is a term similar to motel but is less commonly used. It emphasizes accommodations for motorists with features like adjacent parking.

• After hours of driving, we decided to stop at a motor lodge.
• The motor lodge was conveniently located near the main road.

Inn is generally used for a small hotel or pub that provides lodging and may offer meals. Historically, inns were places where travelers could rest and eat.

• We stayed at a cozy inn in the countryside.
• The inn had a lovely restaurant serving local cuisine.

Lodge often refers to cabins or accommodations in rural or nature-rich settings, commonly used for outdoor activities like hiking or skiing.

• They rented a lodge in the mountains for their ski trip.
• The lodge offered beautiful views of the forest.

Guesthouse is often used for smaller, privately-owned accommodations that provide a more personal and homely experience. They are usually less formal than hotels.

• We found a charming guesthouse near the beach.
• The guesthouse owner was very friendly and cooked us breakfast.