Residents
Owners
When you are vacationing in a place for the first time, you will surely need a place to stay. Two types of accommodation are popular among travelers: vacation rentals and hotels. What will be your choice depends on various factors.
It is also vital to consider that one lodging option can be difficult to distinguish from another. You will find vacation rentals in condominiums that look like hotels. On the other hand, some hotels provide a comprehensive set of services like vacation rentals.
Despite those factors mentioned, traditionally, the two types of accommodation have some clearly defined characteristics. In this article, we will explore vacation rentals vs. hotels, particularly in providing guest accommodation services.
DIY Hosting vs. Professional Staff
Vacation homes provide DIY hosting to guests with the benefit of having a deeper sense of connection with the host. Many guests who had experienced staying in vacation rentals even became friends with the property owners and managers. It can be an advantage because it will be easier for them to not feel out of place if they want to visit the destination next time.
On the other hand, hotels provide a more professional hospitality service. Their staff and employees are trained to engage and interact with the guests professionally. Vacation rental owners and property managers can learn from hotel management, especially when there are issues with the guests’ stay.
Good for Solo/Couple Trips vs. Good for Large Groups
Hotels have different spaces for your privacy and bonding with your vacation companions. While vacation homes have floor plan flexibility, hotels have a much larger space to accommodate large groups. You can both hang out with your travel buddies in a hotel and seek a nook to enjoy your privacy in a hotel.
For people planning to build a vacation rental, you can put guest bedrooms on different wings or floors of the property. You can attach a bathroom for each bedroom because it is what transient guests look for in a vacation rental. It is also a big plus if you create an area away from the social spaces of the house.
Making each bedroom a refuge for privacy can also be as easy as adding soundproofing or placing a lock on each bedroom. You can be creative in making your vacation rental accommodate a large group of guests.
Seclusion vs. Interaction with Strangers
Vacation rentals, particularly ones that provide the entire house to guests, are more exclusive and secluded. It is highly likely that this feature is what guests love most about vacation homes. The way guests do not have to mingle with strangers and have the property exclusively for themselves is a big advantage of vacation rentals.
In contrast, hotels have shared spaces like pools, lobbies, restos, and bars that allow people to meet strangers or interact with them. For those who love to socialize with other people, hotels can be a great option for you.
Owners of vacation homes can take a cue from hotels if they want to create shared spaces for their guests. You can make your vacation rental like a hotel by adding a gym, pool, lobby, and bar where guests can interact with each other. Just inform the guests regarding the rules in those shared spaces because there are others who might be surprised by such features.
Local Neighborhoods vs. Hotel Zones
The location of vacation rentals within local communities allows you to immerse in the culture of the place you are visiting. Vacation homes can be located in neighborhoods that are off the beaten path, which gives you a unique experience of your vacation destination.
In contrast, hotels are located near dining places, shopping areas, or major attractions. While this can be advantageous to many, it will only provide you with the ordinary. But, of course, if you want to own a vacation rental, you can choose a location that is within a local neighborhood but not far away from major tourist attractions.
Distinctive Design vs. Typical Design
Owning a vacation home gives you the opportunity to choose a design that is unique. You can incorporate design elements that are relevant to the local culture of the place. However, if you want your vacation rental to be not like any other, be sure to choose a design that still appeals to the taste of most people.
In contrast, hotels typically have more similar designs, especially if you are talking about chain hotels. Of course, it is not bad, but hotels can take on a more personalized design that guests will love.
Takeaway
Now you know the difference between hotels and vacation rentals. Of course, at the end of the day, the choice is on the guests. But there are various reasons to choose one over the other. Take note of the things we have discussed above if you are torn between choosing a hotel or a vacation rental.
