What do stars mean in hotels
How to choose a hotel, if you're booking accommodation in a new city or even country for the first time? It's quite simple — count your money, check the hotel's stars, and look at photos.
We'll tell you where hotel stars come from, how to book a hotel cheaper, based on its rating, and we'll delve into hotel classification.
How stars are assigned to hotels
Stars are assigned to hotels by special accredited systems, based on criteria for living comfort and the range of services provided by the hotel. For example, in Europe, the Hotelstars Union system assigns stars to hotels, evaluating accommodations based on 27 criteria. In Russia, the Regulation on Hotel Classification is in effect.
What do stars give a hotel?
Overall, stars are a great way for a hotel to find its target audience without unnecessary hassle. This allows clients to get an idea of the quality of services and the establishment's service before booking. Additionally, thanks to stars, a hotel understands its development prospects, gains an additional opportunity to compete, and even participate in government tenders. However, if your hotel has a five-star rating, be prepared not only for an endless stream of guests but also for constantly maintaining service at a “luxury” level.
Hotel classification by stars
No stars
Hotels without stars are the most budget-friendly accommodation option. These can be hostels, economy-class apartments and even quite pleasant hotels whose owner didn't want to bother with assigning a rating to their “brainchild.” The latter, of course, is harder to find, so a standard no-star hotel resembles a dormitory. A small room, a shared shower room on the floor, a common iron and ironing board, ventilation, and heating. In short, the basic minimum for those who plan to go there “just to sleep.”
With “one star”
When checking into a one-star hotel, you can expect a room up to 10 sq.m, a bed, a table, a wardrobe or hanger. Typically, these rooms are cleaned daily, and linen is changed once a week. The bathroom is on the floor, shared by several rooms. Breakfast is not provided.
“Two stars”
In “two stars,” the service is exactly the same as in one, but with nuances. A separate bathroom is offered, rooms have an internal telephone and a TV, and bed linen is changed at least every three days. The hotel may also offer paid laundry, dry cleaning, and ironing services.
Hotels “three stars”
Such hotels are considered among the most popular for booking. Indeed, “three stars” offer an optimal balance of price and quality. Each room must be equipped with air conditioning, a refrigerator, a safe, and bottled drinking water. Most often, guests' stay includes breakfast, daily room cleaning and towel change, and car parking.
Hotels “four stars”
A “four-star” hotel room must have at least two power outlets, a TV, a mini-bar, a refrigerator, drinking water utensils, kettles, and, of course, internet access. Meals are included in the price and provided two to three times a day. The hotel itself houses a restaurant, a nightclub, a SPA salon, a gym, and lounges equipped for relaxation. Additionally, the hotel premises must offer luggage storage and currency exchange services.
Hotels “five stars”
Five-star hotels have everything for maximum comfort: a swimming pool, a private beach, equipped sports areas, a SPA, conference rooms, and children's facilities. Guests are served around the clock. Rooms must be spacious, with mini-bars, bathrobes, a set of cosmetic products, slippers, towels, and luxury items, such as paintings or elegant interior decor. Moreover, when checking in here, you can be sure that any request regarding your stay on the hotel's premises will always find a solution. Russians most often choose such hotels for a trip to Antalya or to Hurghada.
Difference in stars in Russia and abroad
In Russia, the star assignment system is more stringent and supported by the state. Every hotel must undergo certification before admitting guests. Abroad, a different strategy is in place, more marketing and reputation-based. Obtaining stars for foreign hotels is voluntary, and the state usually does not interfere with ratings. For example, in Turkey, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is responsible for assigning stars. Therefore, upon arriving abroad, you may feel a sharp contrast between a three-star hotel in Moscow and one in Alanya.
We wish you working outlets and great “all-inclusive” experiences this summer!
