Minibar, maxi-hassle: so goes the new mantra sweeping the global hotel industry, which is calling time on the small drinks with the big prices. Chains from Hilton to Starwood are removing minibars from rooms after deciding that keeping fridges stocked with drinks and snacks is more trouble than it's worth.

First he named himself Francis (of down-with-the-poor Assisi fame) offering an impression of humility only enhanced by his uncanny likeness to Jim Bowen.

As a Welsh hostel is awarded five stars, Simon Calder reports on a reinvention

A python, a winning EuroMillions lottery ticket, Harry Potter's wand, breast implants, a bucket of live crabs and a diamond-encrusted iPhone have topped a list of the most bizarre items people have left behind in hotel rooms.

Fireworks displays will entertain millions of people across the country tomorrow night but fewer than one in five Britons will take part in public New Year's Eve parties because they are exhausted and short of cash.

Budget hotel chain Travelodge is to create almost 200 jobs before Christmas by opening nine new hotels.

Boasting Grade II-listed buildings, extensive grounds and themed activities, it appears to be a typical luxury hotel chain.

What we love, we're not sure about, we're buying and can't wait for...

What we love, we're not sure about, we're buying and can't wait for...

Travelodge, the debt-laden budget hotel group, has staved off collapse with a radical financial restructuring that will see more than £700m of loans written off.

One of Britain's biggest budget hotel operators is set to walk away from 49 of its hotels and write off £700 million of its debts under a controversial rescue deal.

Dubai is bracing itself for a hefty £400m loss as Travelodge, the debt-laden hotel group it bought near the top of the market, finalises a bailout that would obliterate its investment in the company.

Budget hotel chain Travelodge is to create 1,000 new jobs at 41 new hotels across the UK this year.