A hotel is a type of lodging that provides accommodation to travelers. In some cases, a hotel also provides additional services such as restaurants and bars. This type of property is usually located in an urban setting. It may also provide recreational facilities such as swimming pools and tennis courts.
The term “hotel” is derived from the French word hotel, which refers to a building that offers care and a place to stay. Hospitality as a commercial activity began around the Middle Ages. Several religious orders offered hospitality to travellers. Some of these inns became the precursors to modern hotels.
An early version of a hotel was a townhouse in a city. These were occupied by an aristocrat or a high class citizen. They became popular in European cities that had rivers. There are many examples of such buildings.
Generally speaking, hotels are large structures that have a lot of room and facilities. Each has its own unique features. For example, some have suites that include separate spaces such as dining rooms or kitchens. These are typically larger than other bedrooms.
Some hotels provide other amenities such as swimming pools, business centers, and conference rooms. A hotel may also offer additional services such as laundry and health care. Hotels also often organize parties. However, these are not always included in the price of the hotel.
Most hotel establishments have a general manager as the head executive, who supervises all of the departments. He may also employ a large number of employees. These employees are generally housekeepers, receptionists, chefs, and doormen.
Hotels are generally designed to provide visitors with the ability to stay overnight. These facilities can range from an upscale luxury hotel to a budget motel. Even though the services provided vary, all hotels will provide basic room facilities such as air conditioning, television, and a telephone.
The structure of a hotel organization varies depending on the size of the facility and the goals of the establishment. Organizational charts are the most common way to illustrate the structure. Depending on the size of the hotel, the chart will define the responsibilities and authority distribution.
In addition to the general manager, the organizational chart will also specify the functions of the various departments. The HR department, for instance, will oversee recruitments, orientation, employee welfare, and training.
The security department is responsible for monitoring the surveillance equipment and ensuring the safety of the hotel’s guests and staff. The hotel security department is staffed by chief security officers. Those who work for the department are responsible for conducting fire drills and for protecting the property.
The control department is responsible for maintaining the hotel’s accounts. This includes managing inventory items, collecting payments, and processing employee payroll data. Typically, the financial controller oversees the accounting activities.
The purchasing department is in charge of procurement of all departmental inventories. Purchasing is an important element of the hotel industry.
A human resource manager is in charge of compensation, labor laws, employee welfare, and orientation.
