5 Star Hotel
Ever wondered who decides between five star hotel ratings, and four star hotel ratings. Those little stars beside a hotel are supposed to denote prices, amenities, service etc. However, there is not a standardized star rating system in many countries. From country to country, the amount of stars, ranking system, etc.. will all vary. Furthermore, even within a particular country, the star rating system is inconsistent.
In the United States, several organizations, web sites, travel agencies, and independent’s rate hotel’s. All of these entities use different criteria in their rating system. A 5 star hotel in one travel guide, may be a 3 star hotel in another guide.
Typically, a 5 star hotel has the most amenities, services, and luxury setting. However, a small spa, with private butlers, limo service, chef, etc.., could be deemed a four star (under some rating systems,) simply for lack of an elevator. A five star hotel rating is generally reserved exclusively for the high end chain and boutique hotels. On the other hand, hotels can be deemed five star, by many rating bodies, based on thing's the consumer really does not care about- like taxes paid.
Over the last ten years, there has been an ever increasing move toward online hotel reservation services. From one booking company to another, a hotel may vary up to two stars. So, look for a site that offers an explanation on what data they base a five star hotel rating on. Nearly all online hotel reservation sites will provide a tab for “services”- restaurants, pool, gym, internet, spa, room service, limo service, bedding, maid service, décor, concierge, etc. The consumer is the real judge of what a 5 star hotel is!
