History of the hotel industry

The concept of accommodation for travelers has evolved significantly over history. In

ancient times, inns and taverns were among the first establishments providing lodging for weary

travelers. These were basic shelters, often unstable and unsafe, with little in the way of comfort

or hospitality. During the Roman Empire, mansio stations were developed along trade routes to

provide food, lodging and fresh horses for government officials and messengers traveling long

distances $($Mansio Sebatum, n$.$d$.).$ These marked an early attempt at a system of accommodation

for travelers.

In the Middle Ages, religious pilgrims traveling to shrines and monasteries sparked a

growth in basic hostels and monasteries offering shelter. Eventually inns and taverns became

more common in towns and cities across Europe. These ranged from small family establishments

to large coaching inns for stagecoach travelers. While still fairly rustic, inns and taverns offered

greater security, food, drink and lodging on a commercial basis $($Stainton$,2020).$

A major shift occurred in the $1800$s with the onset of the industrial revolution and train

travel. Grand railway hotels emerged, catering primarily to upper class clientele. These hotels

were often lavishly designed and offered services way beyond basic room and board $($Anderson$,$

$2019).$ They began offering elegance, activities, entertainment and a resort$-$like experience. In the

late $1800$s$,$ large glamorous hotels like the Waldorf Astoria opened, establishing luxury

hospitality as a thriving industry. Furthermore, the $1900$s brought additional evolutions. Motor

hotels or motels appeared along major highways to serve auto travelers. Airport hotels and

convention hotels also emerged, targeting business travelers. Major hotel chains began to

establish brands and standards. Services and amenities continued to evolve $-$ air conditioning,

pools, gyms, spas, restaurants, childcare and more became common. The focus expanded from

simply providing accommodation to offering a full hospitality experience. Eventually, the hotel

industry evolved from humble inns offering basic shelter to an industry providing a meticulously

designed hospitality experience with the aim of satisfying guest's every possible need and desire

during their stay. And it is still continuing to evolve by leveraging technology and focusing on

the consumer experience. WHAT ARE THE KEY POINTS OF THIS WHOLE PARAGRAPHS?