One of the most popular objections we receive from our tourists is that the hotel does not meet the stated number of stars. Of course, in such situations, we try to help the client, if possible, to upgrade the room category or change the hotel. But it is important for us that already at the selection stage you understand what is behind the stars and, most importantly, that this is not the main criterion for making a decision. So that the vacation does not disappoint, we have prepared material that will help you choose the best option.
Classification of hotels by stars: basic principles
The process of assigning stars to hotels in different countries may differ — there is no universal system. Our usual assessment is not universally used. For example, in the UAE, China and Italy, there are hotels with 6 and 7 stars: this classification is marketing, which indicates a high level of service and repairs with expensive materials. In Greece and Thailand, letter designations are often used, and in Britain — crowns.
Attempts have been made to unify the classification of hotels by stars: There are standards of the World Tourism Organization, HOTREC and Hotelstars Union. But they are rather advisory in nature and relate only to the countries participating in the agreements.
How stars are awarded: the certification process
It can be difficult to understand what determines the star rating of a hotel in a particular country. The government is more often involved in the assessment. There are cases when certification is carried out by private companies.
The average process looks like this: the hotelier prepares the documents about the facility, and the on-site inspector evaluates the compliance of the data with reality and established standards. Despite this, the question of how to assign stars to hotels remains open: in each country, it takes place according to its own scenario.
So, in Thailand, owners often determine the number of stars themselves, so objects may not correspond to the ideas of the declared category. In Russia, certification is a mandatory process. It is conducted by accredited organizations in accordance with the recommendations of the World Tourism Organization for a fee.
The Hotelstars Union system operates in many European countries. That’s how hotels are assigned stars based on it.:
- the facility is preparing an application;
- the association organizes verification of 270 parameters.
The value of stardom for guests: what to pay attention to
We have already stressed that the stars in the hotels do not mean that the vacation will go as planned. To make the expectations about the service and infrastructure match reality, we made a checklist – rely on it when choosing a hotel.
- Cost. No matter how attractive the price may be, it is important to remember that the budget and expensive five will differ markedly in level. Sometimes even a four will leave a better impression than the economical 5* option. The star quality of the hotel does not always mean that you will find fresh renovation, friendly staff, cleanliness and varied food.
- Reviews. On our website you will find the impressions of tourists — the block with reviews is located under the block with possible tours. We never hide negative comments, so you can form a more objective opinion. If you choose on your own, it’s better to check other resources. Reviews can sometimes be more eloquent than any photos.
The reviews block is located under the tour options.
- Expert opinion. Most popular hotels have a section where you will find a brief summary of information from an expert: what are the pros and cons of the option under consideration, who it suits, and which category of tourists is better to look for an alternative. This block is placed after the reviews.
You will find the expert’s opinion under the reviews section.
- Information about the hotel is on our website. In this section, which is located after the expert excerpt, we describe not only the availability of certain options and infrastructure features, but also the condition of the rooms, the quality of service, and also give recommendations that will help with the choice.
Pay attention to the description of the hotel — it is located under the expert block.
- Infrastructure and map. The description will answer many questions, and viewing the map will help clarify the location, the distance to the beach, the number and condition of buildings and pools.
- Belonging to a well-known network. Such hotels have higher requirements, which means that even in different countries the level of services will meet internal standards.
We advise you to determine the target criteria: what is it, a dream vacation? It is important for someone to diversify their vacation with walks and excursions – in this case, it is better to choose a hotel, including by location. Another one needs a comfortable room and a high level of service. Another one has a beach with a convenient entrance and beautiful views. If it’s difficult to find an option for your request on your own, contact our manager: it’s free. Even when you have chosen a hotel, you can consult with an expert — just to clarify whether everything meets the request.
Remember that different countries have their own peculiarities. In Thailand, most of the hotels are urban — you should not expect a developed infrastructure from them, in Turkey, a non-network 5-ka is likely to be better than a similar one in Egypt. There are 5* hotels in Russia with a decent level of service, but they cost more than in popular resorts abroad. In the UAE, however, there is a more reverent attitude towards tourists, so even in a 3-room with an old renovation, it will most likely be clean, and you will not get poisoned by food.
If you are wondering what basic criteria a hotel should meet in different categories, do not rush to close the article!
Star rating criteria: from 3 to 5*
Requirements for 3-star hotels
This is the most sought-after option in the world. Here you can book excursions and transfers, request the help of an interpreter, eat, wash clothes, work out in the gym and swim in the pool. What else should a 3-star hotel have?
- All rooms are single and double rooms with private bathrooms.
- Elevator in buildings starting from 3 floors.
- Separate entrances for employees and guests, places for short-term parking, security and video surveillance systems.
- Illumination at night.
- Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily.
- Wi-Fi for guests.
- Equipped conference room.
- Lunch and dinner on site.
Standards for 4-star hotels
Unlike 3-star accommodation options, they often have a better infrastructure and a high level of service: they may have spa centers, several cafes and restaurants, as well as hygiene kits in the rooms. The requirements for four-star hotels have been expanded, and the criteria listed above are being added:
- Increased floor space and more room types to choose from.
- Elevator if the building is higher than 2 floors, as well as elevators for staff and cargo transportation.
- Private parking, doorman, safes, mini-bars and thermostats in the rooms.
- A change of bedding every 2 days, the possibility to order meals in the room at any time, and bottled water, the supply of which is updated daily.
- Restaurant or cafe, bar or night club, open 24 hours a day, swimming pool (sometimes with sauna), business center.
- Buffet breakfast.
Criteria for awarding 5 stars
The criteria for evaluating a 5-star hotel are much broader. Here you will find the most impressive range of services, spacious rooms and a variety of recreation scenarios. It is worth considering that 5 stars guarantee you only the presence of additional characteristics, such as:
- There are different categories of rooms with an area of 13 sq. m. or more. In them you can find personal hygiene products, bathrobes according to the number of guests, daily replaced bed linen, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, etc.
- There are several elevators on each floor and a lobby measuring 160+ sq. m.
- Children’s areas and a special menu.
- Express laundry and dry cleaning services.
- Car rental.
- There is a medical office on the premises.
- The opportunity to buy tickets for public transport and various events.
The level of comfort depends not so much on the stars as on the concept, the professionalism of the staff and the attitude of the owners towards the business and customers.
Approach the choice of a vacation destination comprehensively, not focusing only on the number of stars. There are both very budget and luxury hotels on our website, as each option has its own buyer. We have tried to add to the pages all the information that will allow you to weigh the pros and cons. But if you have any questions, feel free to contact our managers, they will help you choose a tour for your budget.