You may be where there are 2 available wifi networks:
the motel's (with the passphrase) and an 'open' (hotpspot) of unknown origin.
If you're using Windows to configure your Wifi, go to Control Panel> Wireless Network Connections> Wireless Networks tab; here you'll need to identify all wifi networks your system 'sees', and "Add" your newly named network which will NOT show unless you do; then for your own (or preferred) network, highlight it, then 'move up' to the top of the list: then, go to 'Advanced' button, tick 'access points only' and uncheck 'Automatically connect to non-preferred networks'>close> OK
Using Public 'Hotspots'
can be trouble if you don't use extra precautions.
Because 'open' networks have no encryption between your unit and the router, everything you send or receive is in plain text. Meaning that a hacker, with a commonly available application, can intercept and log all of your traffic 'packets'; and with commonly available software, can run "brute force" programs that crack passwords.
So the best advice is: do not visit sites that are private, or require 'log-in', or credit cards, banks, etc.
The only secure method to use, over a 'hotspot' is a VPN, or SSL website, unless the hotspot uses a gateway, which can log all traffic.
Also, when you use a "hotspot" you are by definition in that LAN; and as such, default Windows settings open certain ports which can be used to access your computer, by the bad guys.
So for laptops, turn off (aka 'unbind') printer & files sharing, via:
Start> Control Panel> Network Connections> right click 'Wireless Network Connections> Properties> General tab: here, uncheck "File & Printer sharing..."> OK out.