If you’ve ever been to a hotel or worked in the hospitality industry, you may have wondered what to call guests who are staying at a hotel.
The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
In this article, we’ll explore the different terms used to describe hotel guests and the factors that determine which term to use.
Hotel Guest vs. Hotel Resident
What is a hotel guest?
A hotel guest is a person who pays for a room or suite in a hotel for a short-term stay. A hotel guest is usually someone who is traveling for business or pleasure and needs a place to sleep, rest, and freshen up. Hotel guests are typically provided with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, room service, and access to the hotel’s facilities such as the gym or pool.
What is a hotel resident?
A hotel resident is a person who has been staying at a hotel for a longer period of time than a hotel guest. A hotel resident is someone who has made the hotel their temporary or permanent home. Hotel residents may be people who are relocating to a new area or city, or they may be people who are in between homes or apartments. Hotel residents are typically provided with amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and housekeeping services.
What distinguishes a hotel guest from a hotel resident?
The main difference between a hotel guest and a hotel resident is the length of their stay. Hotel guests stay for a short period of time, usually a few nights to a week, while hotel residents stay for a longer period of time, usually weeks or even months. Another difference is the amenities provided. Hotel guests are typically provided with basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi and room service, while hotel residents are provided with more extensive amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities.
It’s important to note that some hotels may use the terms “guest” and “resident” interchangeably, and the distinction may not always be clear. Additionally, some hotels may offer extended stay options for guests who plan to stay for a longer period of time, blurring the lines between a hotel guest and a hotel resident.
Short-term vs. Long-term Stays
When referring to someone staying at a hotel, the length of their stay can determine what they are called. Let’s explore the different terms used to describe hotel guests based on their length of stay.
How does the length of stay affect what you call a hotel guest?
Typically, a hotel guest who is staying for a short period of time, such as a few nights or a week, is referred to as a “transient guest.” This term is commonly used in the hotel industry and refers to guests who are not staying for an extended period of time.
On the other hand, guests who are staying for a longer period of time, such as a couple of weeks or more, are referred to as “extended stay guests.” These guests often have different needs and expectations compared to transient guests.
What is a transient guest?
A transient guest is someone who is staying at a hotel for a short period of time. They may be traveling for business or pleasure and typically stay for a few nights or up to a week. Transient guests often book their stays through online travel agencies or directly with the hotel.
According to recent statistics from Statista, the average length of stay for a hotel guest in the United States is around 2.4 nights, indicating that most hotel guests are transient guests.
What is an extended stay guest?
An extended stay guest is someone who is staying at a hotel for an extended period of time, often a few weeks or longer. These guests may be traveling for business or personal reasons, such as relocating to a new city. Extended stay guests typically require more amenities and services than transient guests, such as a kitchenette or laundry facilities.
According to a report by the American Hotel and Lodging Association, extended stay hotels make up approximately 8% of all hotel rooms in the United States.
What is a permanent resident?
A permanent resident is someone who has been staying at a hotel for an extended period of time, often several months or even years. These guests may be staying at the hotel due to a job or housing situation and have made the hotel their long-term home.
While permanent residents are not a common occurrence in most hotels, there are some hotels that cater specifically to this type of guest, such as extended stay hotels or residential hotels.
| Type of Guest | Length of Stay | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Transient | A few nights to a week | Tourists, business travelers |
| Extended stay | A few weeks to several months | Relocating individuals, business travelers |
| Permanent resident | Several months to years | Individuals with long-term housing needs, temporary workers |
Regardless of the length of their stay, all hotel guests should be treated with respect and provided with excellent customer service. Whether they are a transient guest, an extended stay guest, or a permanent resident, hotels should strive to meet their guests’ needs and exceed their expectations.
Other Terms for Hotel Guests
When staying at a hotel, you are typically referred to as a guest. However, there are several other terms that can be used to describe someone staying at a hotel, depending on the circumstances. Here are some of the most common terms:
What is a lodger?
A lodger is someone who rents a room in a private home or boarding house. This term is not typically used to describe hotel guests, as hotels are not considered private residences.
What is a boarder?
A boarder is similar to a lodger, but typically refers to someone who pays for both room and board (meals) in a private home or boarding house. Again, this term is not commonly used to describe hotel guests.
What is a tenant?
A tenant is someone who has a legal agreement to occupy a property, typically for a longer period of time than a hotel stay. This term is not typically used to describe hotel guests, as hotel stays are generally shorter and not legally binding.
What is an occupant?
An occupant is simply someone who is occupying a space, such as a hotel room. This term can be used to describe hotel guests, but is not specific to them.
So, while the most common term for someone staying at a hotel is “guest,” there are other terms that may be used in certain situations. It’s always a good idea to clarify any terms or agreements when booking a hotel stay to avoid any confusion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several terms used to describe someone staying at a hotel, and the term used can depend on various factors, such as the length of stay and the guest’s status.
Whether you’re a hotel guest, resident, lodger, boarder, tenant, or occupant, the most important thing is to enjoy your stay and have a pleasant experience in the hotel.
