
The Hotel Industry
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by Anthony Collins
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The hotel industry in the United States expanded at an unprecedented rate after World War II. The rapid development of internal waterways such as the Mississippi and Erie canals and the increase in commercial travel increased the number of travelers. In addition to their economic benefits, hotels also became important public forums. Politicians frequently delivered speeches at the hotel’s lobbies or held crowded meetings and receptions. And during times of domestic strife, hotels served as important battlegrounds.
Hotels employ various different types of workers. These include front office employees, concierges, guest relations, housekeeping and laundry workers, food and beverage workers, and accounting staff. Other common jobs in the hotel industry include engineering, human resources, and information technology. The modern hotel also incorporates shops and other services. The types of staff and management vary depending on the size of the establishment and its function.
While some establishments are subject to federal or state laws prohibiting discrimination, others are not. The federal government’s Anti-Discrimination Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, or ethnicity. Most states have enacted similar laws. However, some establishments, such as “private clubs” that host guests, are exempt from these laws. The answer depends on the facts and circumstances of the case.
Several independent organizations use a five-star rating system to grade hotels. A one-star hotel, for example, is usually inexpensive and lacks frills. A five-star hotel, on the other hand, provides personalized services and luxurious amenities. The five-star system also distinguishes between luxury and economy hotels.
The modern hotel grew out of the humble inn that arose in medieval times. As time passed, upscale luxury hotels appeared in cities, such as the Savoy Hotel in London, which had its own electricity and several special services. By the early nineteenth century, hotels were booming in Europe and North America. They quickly evolved into the luxury hotels that we know today.
In the first decade of the nineteenth century, many cities saw massive hotel construction. In Chicago, the Stevens Hotel opened in 1927 and contained 3,000 rooms. It held the title of world’s largest hotel until the late 1960s. In Moscow, the Hotel Rossiya was built in the 1960s and was demolished in 2006. In the late 20th century, the First World Hotel in Malaysia surpassed the Stevens Hotel in size and claimed the title.
Historically, hotels have served travelers as a hub for commerce and culture. In the Roman Empire, hostels were known as mansiones and were often located along roads. They served as lodgings for travelers on commercial and government business. The commercial revitalization in the European Middle Ages also spurred the growth of hotels. Many of these establishments were run by monastic brotherhoods. In fact, the Great St. Bernard Pass hostel was founded in the 10th century by St. Bernard of Montjoux. Augustinian monks still operate the hostel today.
The hotel industry in the United States expanded at an unprecedented rate after World War II. The rapid development of internal waterways such as the Mississippi and Erie canals and the increase in commercial travel increased the number of travelers. In addition to their economic benefits, hotels also became important public forums. Politicians frequently delivered…
The hotel industry in the United States expanded at an unprecedented rate after World War II. The rapid development of internal waterways such as the Mississippi and Erie canals and the increase in commercial travel increased the number of travelers. In addition to their economic benefits, hotels also became important public forums. Politicians frequently delivered…