The Basics Of Hotel Ratings
The first thing that needs to be mentioned is that there is no set star rating or standardized set of ratings across the board. In other words, a hotel that one organization or publication ranks as a five might be ranked at a three or four by another organization. Whenever you see a rating, then, you should look for the explanation or key that explains what each rating denotes. Otherwise, you could be in for a very unpleasant surprise when you actually go to stay at the hotel that you've booked.
Who Rates Hotels?
In Europe and in the United States, many different independent bodies rate hotels. Travel websites and online travel resources often appoint a star rating to hotels depending on certain variables. Travel associations typically use a one-through-five rating system as well. Since so many different print and online sources appoint ratings for hotels, it's not surprising that confusion sets in for many travelers - and that so many conflicting ratings occur. As a general rule, it is best to seek out a source whose ratings you generally agree with, then stick to it when it comes to booking a hotel stay.
A Note About Customer Ratings
Many websites now allow people who have stayed at a hotel to assign it a rating of their own. The amalgamated results of many people's ratings create a single rating that you can use to get a feel for the quality of a hotel. However, there are a few caveats to keep in mind about amateur, or customer, ratings. First of all, it's not unheard of for competing establishments to log onto travel websites, giving poor ratings to their competitors. Also, a guest who is disgruntled about an anomaly that occurred during their stay - like a power outage due to a storm - might assign an otherwise great hotel with a low rating.
Why Professional Ratings Are More Reliable
Since customer ratings can be colored by things beyond the control of the hotel in question, it is usually best to stick with the ratings of a professional travel organization, association or website when making your decision. Professional hotel raters know what to look for in a hotel, and apply the same standard to every hotel they visit. By using a single source for your hotel ratings, you can get a much fairer assessment of the hotels that you're thinking about staying in. Customer ratings are still useful, but they definitely shouldn't be used as the sole basis for staying - or not staying - at any given hotel.
What The Ratings Mean - A Breakdown
Although every organization has its own spin on the ratings system - and some European hotel ratings system use a one-to-four scale - it's possible to apply a general description of each star rating that is typically assigned to a hotel. Ratings one through five are described below.
One-Star - These are usually small, family-run establishments. Very basic accommodations will be provided and there won't be a restaurant on-site. However, it will be located within a reasonable distance to dining and transportation.
Two-Star - Although a 2-star hotel won't have room service, it is likely to have a restaurant on-site. Also, it will often be part of a chain that has consistent quality from location to location.
Three-Star - These are usually centrally located and have nicely furnished lobbies. Room and valet service is typical, and there's usually a pool.
Four-Star - Exceptional service and large, spacious rooms are the norm here. Valet and room service, a concierge and other convenient amenities are to be expected.
Five-Star - Only true luxury hotels receive this rating. They have multiple, high end restaurants on the premises and 24/7 room service. The rooms are extremely well-appointed and guests are catered to by a very attentive staff.
Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who represents a number of UK businesses. For travel hotel reviews [http://www.gawwk.com/travel/directory/], he recommends Gawwk.com, one of the worlds biggest travel sites.
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