What is the difference between an Inn, Bed and Breakfast and a Hotel/Motel?

Question

What is the difference between an Inn, Bed and Breakfast and a Hotel/Motel?

Answer 1

Hi!  A hotel and motel are usually only different in size and parking.  Hotels usually have a main parking lot and then you go inside the building and access your room through rooms and halls.  A motel usually has the rooms on the outside of the building and you park in front of your room and walk directly to your room door.  Not a rule of thumb but hotels are usually a little nicer than motels (my experience).

Inn's are usually smaller, quainter hotels/motels with a little more of a personal touch but can be used as a synonym of the above.

Bed and Breakfasts are usually a house that rents out each bedroom to the couple or family and has a host/hostess that will take care of your needs.  They usually have wine and cheese in the late afternoon or tea and cookies.  Then they will cook a big breakfast in the morning and all of the guests usually come together at one table to eat.  They are very romantic and a lot of fun.

Michelle

www.triadlendinggroup.com  

Answer 2

A B&B tends more to the "quaint," very homey decoration, with a full breakfast provided.  Most often the rooms are all in one house.  

A motel has parking right outside the rooms, few amenities.

A hotel has lots of rooms with parking elsewhere, and provides a variety of amenities depending on the individual hotel (and its price).    

An inn is a pretty generic term; it could be any of the above.

Add:  Contrary to the above, B&Bs don't require you to leave after breakfast.

Answer 3

A true Inn is more akin to a boarding house, though usually attached to pubs - meals are included in the tariff.  Bed and Breakfast is similar, but your are expected to clear out after brekky.  A hotel offers only lodging and maybe a pool & gymnasium (though room-service is usually available at an extra charge).  Motels offer no amenities other than the room and maybe a pool & gymnasium (usually) and the rooms open to an outdoor walkway rather than an indoor corridor.