
Originally Posted by
vladmire
A hotel is an establishment that provides paid lodging, usually on a short-term basis. Hotels often provide a number of additional guest services such as a restaurant, a swimming pool or childcare. Some hotels have conference services and meeting rooms and encourage groups to hold conventions and meetings at their location.[citation needed]
In Australia or Canada, the word may also refer to a pub or bar. In India, the word may also refer to a restaurant since the best restaurants were always situated next to a good hotel
Entering dictionaries after World War II, the word motel (blend of "motor" and "hotel" or "motorists' hotel") referred initially to a single building of connected rooms whose doors face a parking lot and, in some circumstances, a common area; or a series of small cabins with common parking. Their creation was driven by increased driving distances on the United States highway system that allowed easy cross-country travel.
A pension is a family-owned guesthouse or boarding house. This term is used in Spain, Italy and other countries as a synonym of cheap hostel, where one can usually get a room with a shared bathroom. These small businesses may offer special prices for travellers staying more than a week.
In Switzerland this definition has a wider range. There, these family run guesthouses may be located in historic old buildings, have beautifully designed rooms with private bathrooms and usually have a restaurant for breakfast and dinner. They are less expensive than a full service hotel since they are family run and have limited services beyond lodging and food. A real advantage is ongoing interaction with the owners which may lead to a more enjoyable experience. Don't be surprised to find family antiques and beautiful artwork mixed in as well. Many found in smaller villages in the mountains.
took all information in wikipedia