When booking hotel accommodations, you’ll often see references to ‘limited service’ options. But what exactly are some examples of limited service hotels? In essence, these lodgings provide guests with a room to sleep in and minimal amenities.
If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills place to stay, here’s an overview of the most common types of limited service hotels and what they offer.
Budget Hotels
When it comes to affordable accommodation options, budget hotels are a popular choice for travelers looking to save money without compromising on comfort. These types of hotels are designed to provide basic amenities at a lower cost compared to their luxury counterparts.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of budget hotels:
Motel 6
Motel 6 is a well-known budget hotel chain in the United States. With over 1,400 locations across the country, Motel 6 offers clean, comfortable rooms at an affordable price. Their rooms are equipped with essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and comfortable beds.
Motel 6 focuses on providing a no-frills experience, making it a great option for travelers who are simply looking for a place to rest their head at night.
Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn is another popular budget hotel chain that offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. With over 650 locations in the United States, Red Roof Inn is known for its friendly service and clean rooms.
One of the standout features of Red Roof Inn is their pet-friendly policy, allowing guests to travel with their furry friends without any additional fees. This makes it a great choice for pet owners who are on a budget.
Days Inn
Days Inn is a budget hotel chain that operates globally, with locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. Known for its convenient locations and affordable rates, Days Inn offers comfortable rooms with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and in-room coffee makers.
Their friendly staff and reliable service make it a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
When choosing a budget hotel, it’s important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and reviews from previous guests. Websites like TripAdvisor and Booking.com can provide valuable insights and reviews from real travelers, helping you make an informed decision.
Extended Stay Hotels
Extended stay hotels are a popular accommodation option for travelers who require a longer stay away from home. These hotels are designed to provide guests with all the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and separate sleeping quarters.
Whether you’re on a business trip, relocating, or simply need a temporary place to stay, extended stay hotels offer a convenient and affordable solution.
Home2 Suites by Hilton
One of the most well-known extended stay hotel brands is Home2 Suites by Hilton. This brand is known for its modern and stylish accommodations that cater to the needs of long-term guests. Each suite comes equipped with a full kitchen, a separate living area, and a comfortable bed.
Home2 Suites also offers amenities such as a fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and a 24-hour business center, making it an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Candlewood Suites
Candlewood Suites is another popular extended stay hotel brand that offers comfortable and affordable accommodations. Each suite features a fully equipped kitchen, a large workspace, and a comfortable bed.
Guests can also take advantage of amenities such as complimentary laundry facilities, a 24-hour fitness center, and a convenience store. With over 400 locations worldwide, Candlewood Suites is a great option for travelers looking for a reliable extended stay experience.
Staybridge Suites
Staybridge Suites is a well-established extended stay hotel brand that offers a range of amenities and services. Each suite comes equipped with a full kitchen, a separate living area, and a comfortable bed. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, evening socials, and access to a fitness center.
Staybridge Suites also offers a unique “bridge to home” program, which allows guests to bring their pets along for their extended stay. With over 200 locations worldwide, Staybridge Suites provides a comfortable and convenient option for long-term travelers.
Small Independent Hotels
When it comes to small independent hotels, there are several common types that travelers often encounter. These types of hotels offer a unique and personalized experience for guests, often showcasing the local culture and charm of their surroundings.
Boutique Inns
Boutique inns are known for their intimate atmosphere and attention to detail. These small-scale establishments typically have fewer than 50 rooms and are often located in historic buildings or unique settings.
Each room is individually decorated with a distinct style, creating a cozy and personalized environment for guests. Many boutique inns also offer special amenities such as spa services, gourmet dining options, or themed rooms to enhance the overall experience.
Family-Run Lodges
Family-run lodges are another type of small independent hotel that provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. These lodges are often owned and operated by a single family, who take pride in offering personalized service to their guests.
With a focus on hospitality and creating a home-away-from-home experience, family-run lodges often have communal areas where guests can socialize and connect with other travelers. These lodges may also offer home-cooked meals and organize activities to help guests explore the local area.
Bed and Breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts, commonly known as B&Bs, are a popular choice for travelers seeking a cozy and intimate accommodation option. These establishments typically have a limited number of guest rooms, ranging from 3 to 10, and are often located in residential homes or historic buildings.
As the name suggests, a key feature of bed and breakfasts is the inclusion of a homemade breakfast as part of the stay. This meal is often made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, providing guests with a delightful start to their day.
Additionally, B&Bs offer a personalized touch with hosts who are knowledgeable about the local area and can provide recommendations for sightseeing and dining.
Whether you choose a boutique inn, a family-run lodge, or a cozy bed and breakfast, staying at a small independent hotel can offer a unique and memorable experience. These establishments prioritize personalized service, attention to detail, and a warm atmosphere, making them a great choice for travelers looking for something beyond the standard hotel experience.
Hostels
Hostels are a popular type of limited service hotels that cater to budget-conscious travelers looking for affordable accommodation options. They offer a unique and communal experience, allowing guests to meet and interact with fellow travelers from around the world.
Hostels are known for their laid-back and social atmosphere, making them a great choice for solo travelers or those looking to make new friends during their trip.
Private Rooms
Many hostels offer private rooms as an alternative to shared dormitories. These rooms provide a more comfortable and private space for guests who prefer some extra privacy. Private rooms in hostels are typically equipped with basic amenities such as a bed, a small desk, and sometimes an en-suite bathroom.
While they may not offer the same level of luxury as traditional hotels, private rooms in hostels are a great option for travelers who want a balance between affordability and comfort.
Shared Dorms
Shared dormitories are a hallmark of hostels. These rooms are typically equipped with bunk beds and accommodate multiple guests, often ranging from 4 to 10 people per room. Staying in a shared dormitory is a great way to save money on accommodation costs, as they are usually much cheaper than private rooms.
It also allows travelers to connect with fellow guests and share their travel experiences, creating a sense of community within the hostel.
Communal Kitchens
One of the unique features of hostels is the presence of communal kitchens. These shared spaces provide guests with the opportunity to prepare their own meals, saving money on dining out. Communal kitchens are usually equipped with cooking appliances, utensils, and a dining area.
They encourage guests to interact with each other, share recipes, and even cook together, fostering a sense of camaraderie among travelers.
Capsule Hotels
Sleep Pods
Capsule hotels are a unique type of limited service hotel that offer a truly one-of-a-kind accommodation experience. Instead of traditional hotel rooms, they provide guests with small, individual sleeping pods known as “capsules”.
These capsules are designed to provide a comfortable and private space for guests to sleep, with just enough room for a bed and sometimes a small desk or storage area. The concept originated in Japan and has gained popularity around the world, especially in densely populated cities where space is at a premium.
Minimal Space
One of the defining features of capsule hotels is their minimalistic design and efficient use of space. The capsules are usually stacked vertically or arranged in rows, maximizing the number of units that can fit into a limited area.
As a result, the individual capsules are compact and may not offer much room for movement or storage. However, they are typically equipped with basic amenities such as a reading light, power outlets, and sometimes a small television or radio.
High-Tech Amenities
Despite their small size, capsule hotels often incorporate high-tech amenities to enhance the guest experience. Many capsules come equipped with features like built-in speakers, mood lighting, and adjustable temperature controls.
Some even offer advanced features like personal entertainment systems and smartphone-controlled room settings. These technological advancements not only add convenience and comfort for guests but also contribute to the futuristic and innovative atmosphere that capsule hotels are known for.
For more information on capsule hotels and their unique features, you can visit Japan-Guide.com, a comprehensive travel guide to Japan that provides detailed insights into various types of accommodations in the country.
Conclusion
From barebones motels to high-tech capsules, limited service hotels offer straightforward lodging without abundant amenities. Focusing on the essentials of a place to sleep, they provide an affordable option for travelers looking for value.
The range of choices offers minimalist accommodations for all budgets and needs.
