the difference between a motel and hotels

In theory, motel means "motor hotel" or accomodations that are easily reached by automobile. These used to be one-story multi-unit facilities along the American roadways.

In fact, they have grown to include multi-story accomodations in cities that are not car friendly. There is nearly no difference these days between hotels and motels.

The motel guaranteed parking near your room but that is no longer always the case and hotels in these days usually have parking available too.

If you check hotel/motel web sites, they should tell you if the rates are for the room or per person. In most cases a double would be the room rate but it is a good idea to check.