Wonder how this will work to connect into hotel networks - on my glinet I have to clone my iPhone MAC address so I basically have to connect to the WiFi, do the with authentication enter room number and last name, then disconnect and boot up the router.

Is there a better way to get these connected to a WiFi for relaying where the Ethernet isn't an option?

A $40 router with WiFi to WiFi bridge support like the TP-Link AC750. You connect the router to the captive network and you connect your phone to the router. Connect everything else to the router.