Estimated read time: 3 minutes.
As hotel experts, we often get asked how star ratings are set, as of course, it can often determine the sort of hotel the guest wishes to stay at. The true meaning behind these ratings can often be misunderstood. In this blog, we’ll unravel the mystery surrounding hotel star ratings, explore global standards, outline general guidelines for each rating, address the myth of 7-star hotels, and provide clarity on differentiating guest review ratings from star ratings.
Global standards for hotel star ratings
While the criteria for star ratings may vary slightly between countries and organisations, there are several globally recognized standards that serve as a general guideline for hotel classifications. These standards include the AAA Diamond Rating in the United States, the Forbes Travel Guide Star Rating, and the Hotelstars Union in Europe. However, the general rule of thumb for each star rating is as follows:
1-Star Hotels: Provide basic accommodation and minimal services. They typically offer clean and comfortable rooms, although amenities may be limited. Expect shared or budget-friendly options, often suitable for budget-conscious travellers or those seeking a no-frills experience
2-Star Hotels: Provide slightly more amenities and services compared to 1-star establishments. They typically offer private bathrooms, housekeeping, and may include a basic on-site restaurant. While they still cater to travellers on a budget, they may provide a slightly higher level of comfort and convenience.
3-Star Hotels: Offer a good standard of accommodation with additional amenities such as a reception desk, room service, and a restaurant or bar. These hotels cater to both business and leisure travellers, offering comfortable rooms and a higher level of service.
4-Star Hotels: Are considered upscale and provide a superior level of service. They often boast well-appointed rooms, higher quality furnishings, excellent on-site dining options, and additional amenities such as fitness centres and swimming pools. These hotels aim to provide a more luxurious experience for guests.
5-Star Hotels: Represent the pinnacle of luxury and offer exceptional service, amenities, and facilities. They provide spacious and elegantly furnished rooms, personalized concierge services, gourmet dining options, and extensive leisure facilities such as spas and fitness centres. These hotels cater to discerning travellers seeking a truly lavish experience.
Is there such a thing as a 7-star hotel?
In reality, there is no official international 7-star rating system for hotels. The term “7-star” is often used in marketing to emphasise extreme luxury and exclusivity. Iconic properties such as the Burj Al Arab in Dubai are sometimes referred to as 7-star hotels, but this is not an official rating.
Differentiating guest review ratings from star ratings
It’s important not to confuse guest review ratings with star ratings. While star ratings are determined by a set of criteria based on facilities and services, guest reviews reflect personal experiences and opinions. Online platforms and travel websites often display user-generated ratings and reviews, allowing guests to share their experiences. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the hotel’s quality and service, but they should be considered alongside the official star rating when planning. Our reviews are aggregated from many different review sites to give a much broader overview of a hotel and what previous guests have had to say about it.
In summary, guest review ratings provide subjective opinions, star ratings are based on standardised criteria. Hotel star ratings are a useful guide for understanding the level of service and amenities you can expect from a particular establishment. Understanding the general guidelines associated with each star rating can help you make informed decisions when booking accommodation for your customers. It is worth remembering that Stuba don’t feature any hotels below a 3-star rating and over 88% of our hotels are 4 and 5 stars.
