When planning a vacation, one of the key decisions you'll make is where to stay. Two popular choices are hotels and resorts. But what's the difference between a resort and a hotel?
What is a Hotel?
A hotel is a commercial establishment that provides lodging, meals, and other guest services for a fee. It is typically located in urban or business-centric areas, catering to travelers who need a comfortable and convenient place to stay, whether for business or leisure. Hotels often offer a wide range of room types, housekeeping services, room service, and access to facilities like a restaurant, gym, business center, and concierge services.
Hotels vary by star rating — from budget to luxury — and are designed mainly to provide overnight accommodation with essential amenities. Unlike resorts, they may not always focus on recreational or leisure activities.
What is a Resort?
A resort is a full-service lodging facility that provides not only accommodation but also a wide range of recreational activities, entertainment, and amenities all in one location. Resorts are often located in vacation destinations such as beaches, mountains, or forests, and are designed to offer guests a complete holiday experience without needing to leave the premises.
Resorts may feature facilities like swimming pools, spas, adventure sports, guided tours, multiple dining options, and entertainment zones. Many also offer all-inclusive packages that bundle lodging, meals, and activities, making them ideal for relaxation and leisure.
Top 5 difference between a hotel and a resort
Category |
Resorts |
Hotels |
Services & Facilities |
Offer extensive amenities like fine dining, bars, nightclubs, spas, salons, and on-site stores. Large areas with landscaped grounds and multiple pools. |
Amenities vary by type; basic services usually provided. Higher-rated hotels may offer spas, gyms, or conference rooms similar to resorts. |
Activities |
Designed for on-site experiences with activities like watersports, skiing, yoga, and hiking. Most are within walking distance of rooms. |
Typically located in central areas with access to nearby attractions. Offer limited on-site activities; promote external tours, museums, or entertainment. |
Entertainment |
Regular in-house entertainment such as live shows, music, talent events, workshops, and guest competitions. |
Limited in-house entertainment. Boutique or luxury hotels may offer live music or performances. Often guide guests to local entertainment options. |
Food & Beverage |
Multiple dining options on-site; includes fine dining, casual spots, and diverse cuisines. Guests can enjoy a different dining experience daily. |
Usually have one in-house restaurant (often for breakfast). Upscale hotels may offer fine dining or have partnerships with nearby local restaurants. |
Types of Travellers |
Ideal for vacationers seeking relaxation with all services on-site. Popular among families and leisure travelers wanting a complete destination. |
Best suited for business travelers or tourists who plan to explore the area and spend minimal time at the property. |
Location |
Located in remote, natural settings like beaches, mountains, or forests to accommodate large properties and provide a peaceful environment. |
Found in city centers, near tourist hotspots, airports, or business districts. Some beachside hotels exist but with fewer resort-style amenities. |
Types of Hotels
There are many types of hotels, and they can be grouped based on location, size, star rating, or travel needs. Some people choose hotels for luxury, others for convenience or budget. Let’s take a look at the most common types of hotels and what makes them different:
1. Boutique Hotels
These are small, stylish hotels with a unique design. Boutique hotels often follow a theme and give personal service. You’ll usually find them in trendy cities or popular travel spots.
2. Independent Hotels
Independent hotels are not part of any big hotel chain. They are run by private owners. These hotels often offer a personal, local experience with a unique touch.
3. Chain Hotels
Chain hotels are part of a big hotel group with the same brand name. They follow company rules and offer similar services in different cities. You’ll know what to expect, whether it’s a luxury hotel or a basic one.
4. Motels
Motels are found near highways and are made for people traveling by car. They offer simple rooms and free parking. Motels are affordable and good for short stays.
5. 5-Star Hotels
These hotels offer luxury and high-end service. They have many extra features like room service, fine dining, spa, gym, and more. Guests enjoy top-quality comfort here.
6. 4-Star Hotels
These hotels are upscale and offer great service, stylish rooms, and extra comforts. Many have restaurants, pools, or event spaces. They're a step below 5-star but still high quality.
7. 3-Star Hotels
3-star hotels are mid-range. They balance comfort and price. These hotels may have a gym, restaurant, or business center, and the rooms are usually neat and modern.
8. 2-Star Hotels
These hotels offer basic stays at a low price. You may get simple furniture, a TV, and a clean room. Good for short trips or budget travel.
9. 1-Star Hotels
1-star hotels are the most basic. You get a bed and a place to keep your things. These hotels don’t have many services, but they are cheap and helpful for quick stays.
Types of Resorts
Resorts come in many styles and locations around the world. They differ in size, design, and the kind of experience they offer. Some focus on relaxation, others on fun and adventure. Here are some popular types of resorts you can choose from:
1. All-Inclusive Resorts
These resorts offer everything in one package—meals, drinks, activities, and more. Some include pools, spas, kids’ clubs, and even water sports. It’s a great option if you want a worry-free vacation where most things are covered in the price.
2. Recreation and Wellness Resorts
These resorts focus on hobbies and health. You’ll find golf resorts, ski resorts, spa resorts, or yoga and fitness retreats. They are often in quiet, peaceful areas, away from the city. Guests come here to relax, recharge, or enjoy their favorite sport.
3. Eco-Tourism Resorts
Eco resorts care about nature and the environment. They use solar power, save water, and support local communities. Staying at an eco resort means enjoying nature while helping protect it.
4. Family Resorts
These resorts are made for families. They have fun things for kids like play areas, pools, and even mini amusement parks. Many offer childcare and kid-friendly meals. Rooms are spacious and made to fit the whole family.
5. Luxury and Adults-Only Resorts
Luxury resorts offer premium services like private pools, fine dining, spa treatments, and more. Adults-only resorts are peaceful and quiet, perfect for romantic getaways. They often don’t allow young children, creating a calm setting.
6. Beach Resorts
These are located by the sea, often with a private beach. You can walk from your room to the water in minutes. Beach resorts often offer water sports like snorkeling or kayaking. Pools, ocean views, and relaxing vibes are part of the experience.
How to book hotels and resorts using Insta EMI Card
You can use the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card to pay for your next hotel or resort stay in convenient monthly instalments:
- Visit the hotel or resort and choose your room or package. Ensure your chosen hotel or resort accepts EMI payments.
- At the billing desk, request the representative to put the purchase on the Insta EMI Card by providing your card details
- The bill will be converted into easy EMIs payable over your chosen tenure between 1-60 months
Benefits of Insta EMI Card
With the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card you can make your shopping experience hassle-free and a whole lot more affordable:
- Easy EMIs, so you only pay for your purchase, with minimal interest charges
- Flexible repayment tenures extending from 1 to 60 months, so you can comfortably pay per your financial situation
- Pre-qualified card loan limit of Rs. 3 lakh, which is both generous and precludes any worry about overspending
- Widespread acceptability across 1.5 lakh+ partner stores in more than 4,000 Indian cities
- Zero down payment offers during festive seasons, so you have to pay nothing upfront
- Creditworthiness is improved with regular, on-time EMI payments
- Basic eligibility criteria, including Indian nationality, age between 21 years and 65 years, regular income source, and a good credit score
- Minimal documentation requirements, including PAN and Aadhaar card, address proof, and bank information and IFSC code for e-mandate registration
- Easy sign-up process at a partner store, assisted by store representatives, involving a small one-time payment.
Choosing between a hotel and a resort depends on your vacation needs. If you're looking for a quick stay with basic amenities, a hotel might be the right choice. But if you're seeking a comprehensive vacation experience with numerous amenities, a resort would be ideal.
Remember, with the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card, you can make your stay more affordable by converting your bills into easy EMIs. So, whether you choose a hotel or a resort, make sure to leverage the benefits of the Insta EMI Card for a hassle-free vacation experience.
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