Definition, Origins, and Modern Usage
1. Definition of Accommodation
Accommodation is a broad term that refers to a place where people stay or lodge temporarily, especially while traveling.
- In tourism and hospitality, accommodation means any facility or space provided for people to sleep, rest, and live during a trip away from home.
- It can include hotels, lodges, guesthouses, hostels, apartments, campsites, cabins, tents, homestays, villas, and more.
Simple Definition:
Accommodation is any arrangement, place, or facility where travelers or guests can sleep, rest, and be housed during their journey.
2. Origin of the Word
The word accommodation has a fascinating history:
- Root: The word comes from the Latin accommodare, meaning “to make fit,” “adapt,” or “supply.”
- Middle English: Entered English as “accomodation” (now “accommodation”) in the early 17th century.
- Original Meaning: Originally, it referred broadly to anything supplied to meet a need or convenience—adjustment, adaptation, or lodging.
- Modern Usage: Over time, the meaning narrowed in travel and hospitality to mean “a place to stay or lodge.”
3. Short Forms and Abbreviations
As the word “accommodation” is quite long, several short forms and abbreviations are commonly used in both spoken and written English—especially in travel and online forums:
- Accom: The most widespread short-form, seen in travel guides, booking websites, and informal writing.
Example: “Looking for good accom in Nairobi.” - Accoms: A plural or more casual version, especially in online travel communities and social media.
Example: “Which safari accoms do you recommend?” - Acc: Sometimes used in industry lingo or spreadsheets.
- A/C (Accommodation): Rare, mostly as shorthand in booking systems (note: can also mean “air conditioning” in other contexts).
4. Accommodation in Tourism
Accommodation is one of the foundational “4 A’s” of tourism, along with Attractions, Accessibility, and Amenities.
Types of accommodation include:
- Hotels, lodges, resorts
- Safari camps, tented camps, bush lodges
- Hostels, guesthouses, homestays, B&Bs
- Self-catering villas, apartments, cabins, cottages
- Public or private campsites, mobile camps, glamping sites
- Houseboats, floating lodges, treehouses
Each provides different levels of comfort, price, and experience, but all fulfill the basic human need for a secure, comfortable place to rest.
5. Why “Accoms”?
The abbreviation “accoms” is friendly, modern, and easily recognizable in the digital age.
- It’s frequently used in travel chats, online booking sites, and by young, international travelers.
- “Accoms” sounds informal and approachable, and fits well into brand names and hashtags.
6. The Story Behind SafariAccoms.com
SafariAccoms.com was created to make it easier for safari-goers to find, compare, and book the best places to stay during their African adventures.
- “Safari” captures the spirit of exploration and wildlife.
- “Accoms” is the accessible, relatable short-form of “accommodations,” instantly telling travelers what the site is about.
- Together, SafariAccoms.com means: Your go-to guide for finding the right accommodation on your African safari.
7. Summary Table: Accommodation Essentials
| Term | Meaning | Common Usage Example |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Place to stay while traveling | “What accommodation do you recommend?” |
| Accom | Short form of accommodation | “Best accom for families in Amboseli?” |
| Accoms | Plural/informal, accommodations | “Browse the top safari accoms in Kenya.” |
| Acc | Abbreviation (industry, rarely used) | “Acc details updated in booking system.” |
8. Final Thoughts
Accommodation is a core part of every travel experience—it’s your home away from home.
- The word itself has evolved to match changing travel trends, from formal “accommodation” to the friendly “accoms” used across the globe.
- SafariAccoms.com celebrates this spirit by making it simple to find and book the best safari accommodation—no matter your budget, style, or dream destination.
Ready to discover the world of safari accoms? Explore, compare, and book your stay with us—your adventure begins with the perfect place to rest!