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STAR
RATINGS EXPLAINED |
| There is
no standard method of rating hotel and apartment accommodation
across the world. Many countries have differing official
and unofficial ways of assessing properties and some do
not rate holiday accommodation at all. UK tour operators
offer a variety of rating systems including Stars, Shields,
Suns, Flames, Diamonds, “T”s and “A”s.
Some tour operators do not show any accommodation rating.
The following provide a guide on the various hotel and
resort rating systems. These are not standardised globally
and it is wise to review these prior to booking, especially
if you are travelling to regions of the world without
recognised hospitality industries. The following is taken
from Booking.com
and their banner is noted below as they also have a good
system for star-rated searching. |
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1 STAR |
| Usually denotes independent and
name brand hotel chains with a reputation for offering consistent
quality amenities. The hotel is usually small to medium-sized
and conveniently located to moderately priced attractions. The
facilities typically include telephones and TV's in the bedroom.
Some hotels offer limited restaurant service; however, room service
and bellhop service is usually not provided. |
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2 STAR |
| Typically smaller hotels managed
by the proprietor. The hotel is often 2 - 4 stories high and usually
has a more personal atmosphere. It's usually located near affordable
attractions, major intersections and convenient to public transportation.
Furnishings and facilities are clean but basic. Most will not
have a restaurant on site but are usually within walking distance
to some good low-priced dining. Public access, past certain hours,
may be restricted. |
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3 STAR |
| Typically these hotels offer more
spacious accommodations that include well appointed rooms and
decorated lobbies. Bellhop service is usually not available. They
are often located near major expressways or business areas, convenient
to shopping and moderate to high priced attractions. The hotels
usually feature medium-sized restaurants that typically offer
service breakfast through dinner. Room service availability may
vary. Valet parking, fitness centers and pools are often provided. |
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4 STAR |
| Mostly large, formal hotels with
smart reception areas, front desk service and bellhop service.
The hotels are most often located near other hotels of the same
caliber and are usually found near shopping, dining and other
major attractions. The level of service is well above average
and the rooms are well lit and well furnished. Restaurant dining
is usually available and may include more than one choice. Some
properties will offer continental breakfast and/or happy hour
delicacies. Room service is usually available during most hours.
Valet parking and/or garage service is also usually available.
Concierge services, fitness centers and one or more pools are
often provided. |
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5 STAR |
| These are hotels that offer only
the highest level of accommodations and services. The properties
offer a high degree of personal service. Although most five star
hotels are large properties, sometimes the small independent (non-chain)
property offers an elegant intimacy that can not be achieved in
the larger setting. The hotel locations can vary from the very
exclusive locations of a suburban area, to the heart of downtown.
The hotel lobbies are sumptuous, the rooms complete with stylish
furnishing and quality linens. The amenities often include: VCR's,
CD stereos, garden tubs or Jacuzzis, in-room video library, heated
pools and more. The hotels feature up to three restaurants all
with exquisite menus. Room service is usually available 24 hours
a day. Fitness Centers and valet and/or garage parking are typically
available. A concierge is also available to assist you. |
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Rated is part of Discovery Travel Network Ltd |