subject: 3 Hotel Rating Systems To Guide You With Hotel Selection [print this page] It is difficult to choose which hotel could best serve your needs, your budget, and your expectations because there are numerous hotels in your area of preference. The rating of a hotel helps you to understand the type of amenities and services you can expect at the hotel. Here are three common hotel rating systems that can help you with your hotel selection:
How to navigate hotel rating systems
Hotels are rated with the star system, 1 star for the least luxurious and 5 for the most. Hotels are given a rating from one, the most basic accommodation and facilities, up to a five star rating. On the other hand, a five star rating reflects very high status accommodations, amenities and services. The rating system of various sites and organizations range from half a star to seven depending on the quality of the establishment.
Find out more information on diamond ratings
In lieu of the traditional one to five stars, the Diamond system of rating is offered. Many North American and Caribbean hotels are rated by AAA, the American Automobile Association, using the diamond system. Hotels must apply to the AAA for evaluation, but they don't have to apply to other organizations. They have to meet specific requirements assigned by AAA to be rated as well as assessed.
Identify hotels with descriptive ratings
Hotels may also be rated and identified using descriptive terms. Two-star standard hotels have some better rooms and service than those found in economy one-star hotels, which are often in quite distant locations. These hotels, commonly found near airports and terminals, are called three star or, sometimes, first class hotels. Four-star hotels are also referred to as "Superior," and the accommodations are described as "more than comfortable." Last, but not the least, hotels with five star ratings are known as deluxe or luxury hotels and consist of classy rooms, service matching with the international standards and more facilities than many other hotels.
Understand the criteria for rating
The criteria used by travel websites and organizations for hotel evaluation usually include the quality of customer service, such as staff friendliness, concierge, valet parking, and room service; the features of the rooms; the elegance of the hotel decor; the amenities available, including swimming pool, business center, gaming room, children's play area, and fitness gym. Access to dining, shopping and business districts may also affect the overall rating of a hotel or resort. Solely because an area is popular, like Las Vegas, there may be far more hotels listed in the four star column.
In some places, hotel ratings may be inconsistent due to numerous institutions and travel websites rating a certain hotel. The ratings are essentially the same, with only about a half star separating them at most. To make sure your rating is accurate, it is best to check three or four sources.
