What is the Difference Between Boarding and Lodging?

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The main difference between boarding and lodging lies in the services they provide. Here are the key distinctions:

  • Boarding: Boarding refers to a place where one gets accommodation along with regular meals for a payment. It is typically used by students who need both accommodation and food when staying away from home for a long period. Boarding implies a longer stay and is more commonly used in the context of school or college dormitories.
  • Lodging: Lodging refers to a place that provides temporary accommodation without the provision of regular meals. It is a short-term arrangement and is more commonly used by tourists or travelers who prefer to try meals at different local places. Lodging facilities include hotels, motels, inns, guest houses, or homestays, among others.

In summary:

  • Boarding provides both accommodation and meals, usually for a long-term stay.
  • Lodging provides accommodation only, typically for a short-term stay.

Comparative Table: Boarding vs Lodging

Here is a table comparing the differences between boarding and lodging:

Feature Boarding Lodging
Definition Boarding refers to a place that provides both accommodation and regular meals, often involving longer stays compared to lodging. Lodging refers to a place that provides temporary accommodation without the provision of regular meals, such as hotels, motels, inns, guest houses, or homestays.
Duration Boarding typically implies a longer stay, such as for a boarding school or an extended period of weeks, months, or years. Lodging is temporary in nature and refers to a short stay at a guest house or a hotel.
Meals Boarding houses provide regular meals, often served family-style at a common table. Lodging facilities do not provide regular meals, but guests may have access to cooking facilities or nearby restaurants.
Services Boarding houses often provide additional services like laundry and cleaning. Lodging facilities may offer limited services, and guests are responsible for cleaning their own rooms.
Examples Boarding schools, long-term boarding houses, and full-board accommodations in family homes. Hotels, motels, inns, guest houses, short-term apartment rentals, and campsites.

In summary, boarding involves both accommodation and meals, while lodging provides temporary accommodation without meals. Boarding typically implies a longer stay, whereas lodging is temporary and for short durations only.