Day 2 – Voyage with Words: Mastering Travel English in 30 Days
Welcome to Day 2 of our travel English series!
Today, we’re focusing on an essential part of travel – accommodations. When traveling, where you stay plays a significant role in your overall experience. Whether it’s a luxurious hotel, an economical hostel, or a quaint bed and breakfast, each type of accommodation offers a unique experience and requires specific vocabulary to navigate.
Vocabulary List:
- Hotel (hoʊˈtɛl) – A commercial establishment offering lodging to travelers.
- Example: We booked a room in a five-star hotel.
- Hostel (ˈhɒstəl) – A budget-friendly accommodation, often with shared rooms.
- Example: Staying in a hostel is a great way to meet other travelers.
- Reservation (ˌrɛzərˈveɪʃən) – An arrangement to have something, such as a seat or room, held for one’s use.
- Example: I made a reservation for two nights.
- Suite (swiːt) – A set of rooms designated for one’s use in a hotel.
- Example: They upgraded us to a luxury suite.
- Double Room (ˈdʌbəl ruːm) – A room intended for two people, usually with a double bed.
- Example: We need a double room for our stay.
- Single Room (ˈsɪŋɡəl ruːm) – A room intended for one person.
- Example: I prefer a single room when traveling alone.
- Check-in (ˈtʃɛk ɪn) – The process of registering upon arrival at a hotel or hostel.
- Example: Check-in starts at 3 PM.
- Check-out (ˈtʃɛk aʊt) – The process of leaving and paying for one’s accommodations.
- Example: We need to check-out by 11 AM.
- Amenities (əˈmɛnɪtiz) – Desirable or useful features or facilities of a place.
- Example: The hotel offers many amenities, including a pool and spa.
- Concierge (kɒnˈsjɛərʒ) – A hotel employee who assists guests by arranging tours, making reservations, etc.
- Example: The concierge helped us book a city tour.
- Reception (rɪˈsɛpʃən) – The area in a hotel or hostel where guests go to check-in and check-out, and receive assistance.
- Example: We were warmly greeted at the reception.
Understanding the right terms not only helps in making informed choices but also aids in seamless communication with providers. Let’s dig a little deeper into some of these terms to help you prepare for your future journeys!
Hotel vs. Hostel: While a hotel typically offers private rooms and more amenities, a hostel is more budget-friendly, often with shared rooms and communal areas. Hotels are ideal for those seeking comfort and privacy, whereas hostels are perfect for travelers looking to socialize and save money.
Reservations: Always a crucial step in travel planning. Making a reservation guarantees your spot, be it in a hotel or a hostel. With the rise of online booking platforms, securing your accommodation has never been easier. However, it’s essential to understand the cancellation policy and check-in/check-out times.
Room Types: The choice between a single or double room often depends on the number of travelers. A single room is designed for one, providing a cozy space, while a double room typically caters to two people, often with a double bed or two singles.
Check-In and Check-Out: These terms mark the beginning and end of your stay. Check-in is the process of registering at the hotel or hostel upon arrival, whereas check-out involves vacating the room and settling any outstanding charges. This process is done in the reception area.
Amenities and Concierge Services: Amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and Wi-Fi can significantly enhance your stay. The concierge is your go-to person for local recommendations and assistance, a valuable resource for any traveler.
Now, let’s see these terms in action through a dialogue between two friends planning their accommodation for an upcoming trip.
Sample Conversation:
Riley and Taylor discuss their accommodation plans for an upcoming trip, touching on various aspects like reservations, room types, and amenities.
Riley: Hey Taylor, have you finished packing for our trip?
Taylor: Just about! I’m double-checking our reservation details. We’re staying at the Greenfield Hotel, right?
Riley: That’s right, in a double room. I hope it has a good view.
Taylor: Me too. Did you see the amenities they offer? There’s a rooftop café and a fitness center.
Riley: Nice! What time is our check-in?
Taylor: At 3 PM, but the concierge said we could leave our luggage in the reception area if we arrive before then.
Riley: Perfect. I can’t wait to relax in our suite after the long flight.
Taylor: Just remember, check-out is at 11 AM sharp on our last day. We should set an alarm.
Riley: Good idea. I’m so excited for this trip!
Check back later for Day 3, where we’ll get lost in discussing transportation. Before you go, reinforce what you’ve learned by taking the quiz below. Leave a comment to tell us about your favourite vacation or one that you have coming up! Happy learning and safe travels!
#1. What is a concierge responsible for?
#2. What might amenities in a hotel include?
#3. What kind of room is best for one person?
#4. Where do you register upon arrival at a hotel?
#5. What time do you usually need to leave the room on your last day?
#6. What does a reservation ensure?
#7. What is a suite in a hotel?
#8. What is the primary feature of a double room?
#9. What is a hostel?
#10. What is the meaning of check-out?
Results
