Motels

Motels are a type of rental accommodation typically situated along traffic routes for those travelling by road.

A motel, the term for which was derived as a combination of the words “motor hotel”, is best described as a one or two storey structure with rooms that open to the exterior of the building, usually surrounded by a common balcony or patio. The first Australian motels include the West End Motel in Ballina, New South Wales which opened in 1937 and the Penzance Motel in Eagle Hawk, Tasmania which commenced operation in 1939.

Motels are found throughout the country and operate as both chains and locally owned establishments. Motels are usually found on highways and major roads on the outskirts of towns and cities, and also in popular tourist areas. The prinicple clientele of motels are people travelling via car, for either tourist of business purposes. Motels are also popular with bus and coach tour groups, both for their lower room rental costs and also for their ease of access for large vehicles.

Motels may or may not have restaurant or dining facilities available, but will usually provide limited – breakfast only – room service. In-room facilities will commonly include air-conditioning or heating systems, hairdryers, modems and data ports. Wi-Fi is also available in most motels, as is complimentary pay TV. Irons and ironing boards may be available, and tea and coffee facilities are usually standard. Other motel services and facilities may include such things as licensed restaurant, limited room service, valet dry cleaning, undercover car parking, swimming pools, guest laundry, and disabled access rooms.