What is motel is a portmanteau of hotel and what?

The word "motel" is a portmanteau of "motor" and "hotel." This is because motels were originally designed for motorists who needed a convenient place to stay during long road trips. In the mid-20th century, motels became popular in the United States as more people began traveling by car and needed affordable lodging options near highways and major roads. Today, motels can be found all over the world and are known for their simple rooms, easy accessibility, and reasonable prices.