Hotel Categories

Different Types of Establishments

Without generalizing too much, for travelers visiting non-Western countries in particular, hotels can be divided into four categories, each with its own specific features. Youth hostels can also be added to this list, as many of them are increasingly similar to hotels.

Luxury Hotels

Beyond the four- or five-star hotels, which are often unaffordable for travelers, this category also includes establishments offered in all-inclusive packages. Of course, the location, services, and amenities—both in the property and the rooms—are expected to be (at least in principle) up to standard.

Pros and Cons

While quality is undeniably a plus, it comes at a cost... unless you’ve chosen an all-inclusive package, where the base price is quite affordable (but watch out for extra expenses). On the other hand, many luxury hotels around the world tend to standardize, and you’ll often encounter the same type of guests.

In short, unless you’re going all-inclusive, a luxury hotel is worth considering if you have the means or want to treat yourself occasionally. But if you do, prioritize charming or unique establishments, and keep in mind that luxury often costs less in non-Western countries or certain cities like Las Vegas or Dubai.

Hotel Chains

Best Western, Holiday Inn, Ibis, and others—hotel chains are increasingly expanding their presence worldwide, with nearly 5,000 hotels across 80 countries for Best Western alone. While some brands specialize in high-end offerings, the vast majority provide comfortable and affordable accommodations in the 2- and especially 3-star range.

Pros and Cons

Among the advantages are generally functional and comfortable establishments that are easy to "identify," often offering good value for money in their category. Some brands even have loyalty programs.

On the downside, these hotel chains tend to over-standardize their properties, services, and even rooms, regardless of location. While this may reassure some guests (especially business travelers) by providing familiar reference points from one hotel to the next, this standardization—often impersonal and lacking charm—isn’t always appealing, particularly for vacationers.

Local Establishments

Under this label, we refer to hotels that originally targeted (or still target) a local clientele outside traditional tourist guides and networks. However, "local" doesn’t necessarily mean "budget"—whether in terms of services, amenities, or even prices. Things are just sometimes a little less standardized, organized, or "Westernized" than in the previous category. In short, some of these establishments (including family-run ones) have nothing to envy more recognized hotels. Travelers have caught on, and many of these hotels have shifted over time from a local clientele to a more international one.

Schematically, this is the category where you’ll find what many (including guidebooks) call "backpacker hotels"—a local setting combined with services and amenities halfway between local and international. And often, the result is a (very) good value for money.

Pros and Cons

Generally, good value for money in a "local setting," ideal for many backpackers or budget travelers. However, this category sometimes requires adaptability and not being too demanding about services and amenities.

Basic Accommodations

From basic to downright sordid, in every aspect. While prices are usually very low, the value often isn’t great. Unless you’re strictly looking for the "cheapest" option, for just a little more, you can often find much nicer places that will make your trip more enjoyable.

Pros and Cons

Beyond the price—and if you’ve opted for a truly off-the-beaten-path local stay—there aren’t many advantages, and there may even be some risks in the most sketchy places...

Youth Hostels

What Is a Youth Hostel?

Even though the differences have blurred over time, youth hostels (also called "A.J." in French or "hostels" in English) aren’t quite the same as hotels.

Created in the early 20th century in Germany, youth hostels aim to foster intercultural exchanges among young people through affordable, communal accommodations (though private rooms are increasingly available). Alongside lodging, shared spaces are provided to encourage interaction, starting with a kitchen where everyone can prepare their meals. Some hostels also offer leisure, sports, or discovery activities.

Located in cities, by the sea, in the mountains, or in the countryside, youth hostels are part of networks, including the FUAJ (United Federation of Youth Hostels), which is part of the 4,200 hostels worldwide (160 in France).

While access to youth hostels was long restricted to young people, with gender-segregated accommodations and strict schedules, things have changed significantly. Most are now open to all ages without particular constraints. The only requirement is being a member of the Federation (you can join for a year on your first visit), which, in addition to allowing you to benefit from hostel rates, often grants discounts on services and activities from other providers.

Advantages and Disadvantages

While youth hostels generally offer affordable lodging designed to encourage interaction among travelers, they can sometimes feel a bit cut off from the "rest of the world."