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What Are Hotel Stars?
Anyone who has booked a hotel is familiar with the 1-star to 5-star hotel rating system. However, it is unclear what these stars mean specifically. For example, what is the difference between a 5 star hotel and a 3-star or even a 1 star hotel? Why do different countries have different standards for hotel stars? And who determines the criteria required to gain a certain star rating? Read on to find out.
What do hotel stars mean?
Hotel stars are a way of classifying hotels based on defined criteria. Every five years, the criteria are reviewed and adjusted if necessary, often to keep up with rapidly changing technical standards. The assessment usually covers the following areas:
Infrastructure
Interior of the rooms
Reception area and common spaces/game rooms
Service
There is basically no international hotel star rating system that is seen as a standard, which is why the quality of hotels based on hotel stars or other rating symbols may differ greatly from country to country. For example, a luxury hotel on the coast of Greece may not have the same standards as a comparable hotel with the same number of stars in the USA. In some countries, several hotel rating systems are used.
Given this, do hotel stars have any significance at all? Yes, as there is a system in place across the globe wherein a maximum of 5 stars are awarded to hotels, sometimes with subclasses. This classification rates 4- and 5-star hotels as luxury hotels.
In Europe, hotel classifications are prescribed by law in the following countries:
Belgium
Denmark
Greece
Italy
Malta
Netherlands
Portugal
Spain
Hungary
In all other European countries, an evaluation can be done on a voluntary basis.
What are the standards for a 5-star hotel?
Since 2009, the Hotelstars Union, which belongs to the European umbrella organization for hotels, restaurants and cafés (HOTREC), has awarded hotel stars across Europe. In the United States, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and Forbes Travel Guide (formerly Mobil Travel Guide) are two organizations that rate hotels on a hotel rating system.
An incomplete list of the requirements for a 5-star hotel are as follows:
24-hour reception
Multilingual staff
Safe (in the room)
Personalized greeting (flowers or other gift)
Bellhop
Ironing and shoe-shining service
"Undercover" guests (unannounced visits for test purposes)
Minimum score: 600
A 5-star rating from Forbes Travel Guide is considered the highest recognition for a hotel. These hotels are considered luxury accommodations and have a high staff-to-room ratio. 5-star hotels may have more or better quality features than 4-star hotels and usually offer a larger variety of services, such as ironing and shoe-shining services.
What are the standards for a 4-star hotel?
Most 4-star hotels are just below their 5-star counterparts but still offer a high standard of service and comfort. These hotels often cater to both business and leisure travelers, offering a variety of amenities, though typically with fewer luxuries than 5-star establishments.
Key features of a 4-star hotel might include:
Reception available at least 16 hours a day
Multilingual staff
Room service (but not 24 hours)
On-site restaurant
A range of room types with private bathrooms
Fitness center or wellness facilities
In-room minibar or coffee-making facilities
Higher staff-to-room ratio than 3-star hotels
Concierge service
Though 4-star hotels offer a luxury experience, the level of service is typically more streamlined than that of a 5-star hotel. These accommodations are designed to offer comfort and quality without the extravagance that may be found in luxury properties.
What makes a 3-star hotel?
Most 3-star hotels are often ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still desire a comfortable stay. These hotels offer essential amenities and typically focus on providing a good balance of comfort and affordability. Common features of 3-star hotels include:
Reception must be available during working hours
Free Wi-Fi and internet access
Standard room with private bathroom
On-site restaurant or breakfast service
Limited room service (often breakfast only)
Basic fitness facilities or nearby access to a gym
A reliable level of cleanliness and comfort
Hotels with 3 stars are great for those looking for a simple, clean place to stay with a few added amenities. While the level of service and luxury isn’t as high as 4-star or 5-star hotels, the essential comforts and affordability make them a popular choice for travelers.
Understanding hotel star ratings in different countries
As previously mentioned, the criteria for hotel star ratings can vary significantly from one country to another. While the general principles remain consistent, the exact requirements for each star level can differ. For example, a hotel with a 3-star rating in France might offer a different experience compared to a 3-star hotel in Japan.
In some regions, hotels may need to undergo regular inspections and meet national standards to maintain their classification. On the other hand, in some countries, hotels may voluntarily apply for a rating, and the process may be less stringent. Because of these variations, travelers should be cautious and always research what each hotel star rating entails in the specific destination they’re visiting.
Choosing the best hotel for your vacation
Hotel stars serve as a useful guide for travelers when choosing accommodations. However, due to the differences in standards between countries and rating organizations, it’s important to understand what each star level signifies in the context of the region you’re visiting. A 5-star hotel in New York is undoubtedly a luxury experience, while 3-star hotels in Thailand provide a more budget-friendly, yet still comfortable, option.
With a little research into the classification system in the country of your destination, you can make a more informed decision about the type of hotel that will best suit your needs and preferences.
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