The world’s first motel opened 100 years ago, but now only ruins remain

CNN - Apr 19th, 2025
Open on CNN

This week's travel news highlights the birth of the motel concept in 1925 by architect Arthur Heineman. The first 'motor hotel,' located in San Luis Obispo, California, catered to the growing number of road-trippers needing affordable overnight stays with car parking facilities. Despite the original Milestone Mo-Tel closing in 1991, the motel concept remains a staple in travel accommodation nearly a century later. Additionally, the Airports Council International released its annual list of the world's busiest airports, with Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport leading once again. Other notable mentions include Dallas, Denver, Dubai, and Delhi airports.

The travel section also explores the trend of Americans moving abroad, such as Keith Richardson who found a new home in Nardò, Italy, reflecting a growing interest in seeking a different lifestyle overseas. Furthermore, Qantas revives its historic 'Kangaroo route' from Sydney to London, offering a luxurious travel experience with multiple layovers and tours. The narrative underscores shifting travel dynamics, from nostalgic explorations of motels to modern-day airport rankings and lifestyle changes linked with international relocations, demonstrating the evolving nature of global travel and mobility.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides an engaging and informative overview of various travel-related topics, with strengths in clarity, readability, and public interest. It effectively combines historical context with current trends, making it both informative and entertaining for readers interested in travel.

However, the article could benefit from greater transparency in sourcing and a more balanced exploration of the complexities within the travel industry. While it covers a range of topics, it tends to focus on positive aspects without addressing potential challenges or controversies.

Overall, the article is well-written and accessible, with room for improvement in providing more comprehensive and transparent coverage of the travel industry. Its engaging content and broad appeal make it a valuable read for those interested in travel, but it could enhance its impact by incorporating more diverse perspectives and addressing pressing issues.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The article generally aligns well with historical facts and current events. The description of the birth of the motel and its historical context is accurate, citing Arthur Heineman's role and the location of the original Milestone Mo-Tel in San Luis Obispo. The details about the motel's design and its eventual closure in 1991 are consistent with historical records. Additionally, the information about Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport maintaining its status as the world's busiest airport is accurate and verifiable through aviation statistics.

However, there are areas that require verification, such as the specific details of the Qantas Kangaroo route, including the itinerary and cost. While the article mentions the popularity of Trader Joe's as a tourist destination, it would benefit from more concrete data or sources to support these claims. Overall, the article is mostly precise and supported by verifiable sources, but some claims could be bolstered with additional evidence.

7
Balance

The article provides a variety of topics related to travel, from historical insights to current airport rankings and cultural notes, which offers a balanced perspective on the subject of travel. The inclusion of different travel-related topics, such as the history of motels, airport rankings, and cultural souvenirs, helps present a well-rounded view.

However, the article tends to focus more on the positive aspects of travel and tourism without addressing potential negative impacts or challenges, such as environmental concerns or the effects of tourism on local communities. Including these perspectives would provide a more comprehensive view of the travel industry and its complexities.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and easy to follow, with clear headings and a logical flow of information. It transitions smoothly between different topics, such as the history of motels, airport rankings, and cultural souvenirs, making it accessible to a general audience.

The language used is straightforward and engaging, which helps maintain reader interest. However, some sections could benefit from additional context or explanation, particularly when discussing complex topics like international travel itineraries or cultural practices. Overall, the article is clear and concise, with minor areas for improvement in providing additional context.

6
Source quality

The article references reputable institutions like Airports Council International for airport rankings, which adds credibility to its claims. However, it lacks direct citations or attributions for some of the historical and cultural information provided, such as the details about the first motel and the popularity of certain souvenirs.

The reliance on general knowledge and broad statements without specific source attribution can weaken the perceived reliability of the information. Incorporating more direct references to authoritative sources would enhance the article's credibility and allow readers to verify the information themselves.

5
Transparency

The article provides a general overview of various travel-related topics but lacks transparency in terms of sourcing and methodology. It does not clearly disclose the sources of its information, especially for historical and cultural claims, which makes it difficult for readers to assess the reliability of the content.

While the article mentions institutions like Airports Council International, it does not provide links or detailed references that would allow readers to explore the data further. Greater transparency in sourcing and methodology would improve the article's credibility and allow readers to engage more deeply with the content.

Sources

  1. https://www.themayflowerhotel.com/100-anniversary/
  2. https://www.instagram.com/historichotels/p/DGikZPoMAUa/
  3. https://www.pbssocal.org/shows/artbound/swimming-pools-and-movie-stars-a-history-of-the-worlds-first-motel
  4. https://travelprofessionalnews.com/hilton-celebrates-100th-anniversary-with-random-acts-of-hospitality/
  5. https://atomicredhead.com/2022/07/14/remnants-of-the-motel-inn-the-worlds-first-motel/