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What do star ratings mean in hotels?

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Published: 03Aug2009
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Star ratings in hotels are difficult to define exactly, as there is no common standard internationally for measuring the level of service that you get in a hotel, which means they vary from country to country. However, there is a basic set of standards regarding security, electrical safety and fire regulations and kitchens will have to comply with health and safety regulations.

The English Tourist board, AA and RAC and a few others will rate accommodation in the UK, as Mobil Travel Guides do in America. Yet in Europe there is no consistent definition of a three-star hotel. A voluntary organization or the government provides many ratings in Europe and they will use a quantitative measure to access the price range that a hotel must charge. There is little rhyme or reason to this and in certain cases a three star rated hotel can be more expensive than one rated with four stars.

One thing that is reassuring though, is that inspectors give no warning of an inspection, which means a hotel is judged on its normal appearance rather than being dressed up for an inspection. This is good as aesthetic requirements are also taken into consideration, so the higher the star rating, the better quality furnishings, decoration, light and space can be expected in a bedroom and the hotel's other equipment.

Star rating aside for a moment, the least you can expect from any hotel room is clean linen on your bed, a rubbish bin, bedside cabinet, chair wardrobe, carpet or suitable flooring and a waste bin. Naturally a one star hotel rating suggests the bare essentials and five stars means you can expect to be pampered with luxury. Interestingly enough Singapore has a self-proclaimed six star hotel called the Fullerton and Dubai the Burj Al Arab calls itself a seven star hotel.

When travelling to big cities it pays to look for at least two or three star hotels, especially if you want a television, private bath and telephone, but expect your room to be small. If the weather's hot and you want air conditioning, then look for a bargain four-star hotel in areas that are not renown for tourists.

If certain hotel services are important to you, then you can't expect very much from a one or two star hotel. When you stay at a three star hotel, it's not unreasonable to have luggage storage facilities, room service, money exchange, safety boxes, valet and a reception manned each hour of the day. There will generally be a bar and restaurant and maybe a swimming pool.

A four star hotel will definitely have a swimming pool, a good range of services and be extremely comfortable. You can also expect a wide range of restaurants, gym and health clubs. Five star hotels offer luxury, high-class service and will be immaculately furnished and decorated.

Before booking any hotel regardless of its star ratings, it's wise to gather as much information as possible by requesting brochures and taking a good look at their website. If you are not sure about something, use the contact information they provide and ask your questions. This is far preferable than being disappointed on your arrival.

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