The history of hotels is intimately tied to the history of civilisations. The earliest known facilities providing hospitality date back to biblical times. The Greeks built thermal baths in their villages to provide rest for travelers. Romans built mansions to accommodate travelers on government business. Modern hotels have their roots in the industrial revolution. Most have been built in major commercial centers along coastal trade routes. During this period, the industry has grown significantly. Listed below are some of the main types of hotels.
During the early eighteenth century, voluntary associations hired hotel dining halls and assembly rooms for meetings and celebrations. The hotel industry grew and spread in importance as political parties and factions set up their headquarters in hotels. Many of these hotels served as important public forums where political leaders made speeches and raised toasts. During the Gulf War, hotel buildings were attacked and vandalized by both sides. However, the industry rebounded and expanded again in the early 1990s.
The hotel purchasing department consists of several departments. The chief executive is called the “general manager” and oversees the employees and various departments in a hotel. Other members of the department include middle managers, administrative staff, and line-level supervisors. Depending on the size and function of a hotel, the organizational chart differs. However, the main function of the purchasing department is to procure all the necessary inventory. Some hotels have several departments, each reporting to a general manager.
The third generation of hotels emerged as the rapid growth of railroads freed the country’s river system. As a result, hotel chains started popping up in frontier settlements and multiplied. The Pacific coast and mountain West began to experience a rise in hotel construction. The recovery from this crisis is expected to take longer than in other sectors. Nevertheless, some general guidelines will apply across the industry. While the recovery period is expected to take years, there are some universal best practices that can help hotels rebound quickly.
While hostels tend to cater to budget travelers, many hotels offer upscale accommodations and amenities. Hostels often share bathrooms and kitchens with other guests. Apartment-style hotels are also common in many cities. These types of accommodations will provide similar experiences to renting an apartment. While they may not include all the amenities of a luxury hotel, they typically provide housekeeping services. For a more luxurious hotel experience, consider the amenities and location. Located downtown, hotels are popular with business travelers.
The hotel industry expanded at a rapid pace following World War II. The three-decade economic boom sent incomes soaring. Organized labor unions helped to distribute wealth more evenly, and paid vacations became a reality for millions of workers. The advent of reliable passenger aircraft and the interstate highway system also increased travel. With all of this, hotels were key battlegrounds in the increasingly conflictual domestic politics. They were also the sites of a great many social events.
