Differences Between Accommodations

Cheap accommodations aren't limited to hostels anymore. Now, listings like those for hostels in London are full of places that boast of B&aMP;B, hotel, apartment, studios and campus accommodation (including colleges, houses and other residencies). The difference between all of them can be slight in some cases, large in others. It should be noted that London England hostels showcase the variety of options available, as do large cities across the globe. However, smaller cities may have more limited offerings.

B&aMP;B: B&aMP;Bs are generally private rooms in a house. The owner may or may not live in the home with his or her family. A custom or extensive breakfast is usually included. B&aMP;Bs are not places to meet many travelers, or host loud parties. Bathrooms are often in the room.

Hotel: Hotel rooms are private rooms. The quality of the rooms vary, and can usually sleep 2-4 people comfortably. Bathrooms are attached.

Hostel: Hotels offer a variety of sleeping arrangements include private rooms and dormitory-style housing. A room that is considered 'private' means that you will have the whole room to yourself, or your group. A solo traveler cannot book one bed in a three-person private room unless you are willing to pay the whole amount. Dorm rooms can sleep anywhere from 4-100 people, depending on where you are. Bathrooms may or may not be attached to the room, or shared.

Apartment: Apartments usually require longer stays of at least a weekend or week. Some only rent out by the month. Apartments include a bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. A sitting or family room is also common. They are furnished.

Studio: Like apartments, studios usually require longer stays. Studios are one large room where the sleeping, cooking and television viewing is all done in the same space. A bathroom is usually included, but a shower may be shared.

Campus Accommodation: Campus accommodations are most commonly available in the summer months when students are away from school. They include a mix of dorm rooms with only enough room to sleep, and shared bathrooms down the hall, apartments and studios.