How Are Hotel Stars Awarded? Hotel Ratings Explained
Hotel stars are an integral part of evaluating quality and standards in the hospitality industry. These small symbols can carry great significance for travelers. But how are these stars actually awarded? How do hotels earn their ratings, and what do they truly represent? In this article, we’ll explore this fascinating topic and take a look behind the scenes of the hotel rating process. Enjoy the read!
Where did hotel stars come from?
Hotel stars, also known as the hotel rating system, originated in the 20th century. They are the result of the hospitality industry's efforts to establish quality standards. Initially introduced by travel guides like the Michelin Guide, the star rating system responded to growing customer demand for clear criteria to assess the comfort and quality of accommodation. This system quickly gained popularity, and other travel guides and organizations began to adopt similar evaluations.
In the 1920s, the French publishing house Michelin, best known for its guides on routes and restaurants, introduced star ratings for hotels. Initially, stars were awarded primarily based on comfort and amenities, with the number of stars symbolizing the level of luxury.
Today, hotel stars provide a unified way to inform guests about the expected amenities, service, and overall standard of a property. Thanks to this system, travelers can make informed choices, and hotels are motivated to maintain high standards in order to earn and keep prestigious ratings.
How are stars awarded to hotels?
Hotel star ratings are based on a range of criteria and evaluated aspects that cover various elements of accommodation. There are many different rating systems, but commonly assessed categories include:
Room comfort and amenities: This includes the standard and cleanliness of rooms, bed quality, availability of amenities such as TVs and air conditioning, and bathroom equipment.
Service and staff: Evaluations consider professionalism, response time to guest needs, politeness, and overall customer service quality.
Infrastructure and facilities: Facilities available to guests—such as pools, gyms, spa centers, restaurants, and recreational options—are taken into account.
Safety: Ratings also assess safety features on the property, including alarm systems, security staff, and the general sense of safety.
Location: The hotel’s location matters, including proximity to tourist attractions and the general appeal of the surroundings.
Dining standards: For hotels that serve meals, the quality of food and variety of the menu are evaluated.
Guest reviews: In some systems, guest opinions and reviews can influence the final rating.
Hotel stars in different countries
Hotel stars are an international rating system, but the standards and criteria can vary by country. In Poland, hotel ratings are overseen by the Polish Chamber of Hospitality. The system is based on criteria aligned with European hotel standards.
For example, in the USA, there is no unified hotel star system. Various organizations, such as the AAA (American Automobile Association) and Forbes Travel Guide, conduct their own evaluations.
In Asia, countries like Japan and China have their own hotel rating systems, often incorporating cultural, traditional, and local considerations.
The exact number of stars may vary depending on the country and the rating organization. Therefore, a 3-star hotel in Poland may not be directly comparable to a 3-star hotel in Egypt.
How are hotel stars awarded in Poland?
The Polish Chamber of Hospitality carries out regular inspections of hotels, and star ratings are based on the results of these evaluations. In Poland, hotel stars range from one to five, where one star indicates basic standards, and five stars represent top-tier luxury. Regular inspections are essential to maintain high standards in the Polish hotel sector.
Below are sample requirements for earning specific star ratings:
1-Star Hotel
Double Room: Minimum size of 10 m², equipped with a bed, table, and chairs.
Bathroom: Basic amenities including a toilet and sink.
Cleanliness and Maintenance: Basic cleanliness standards.
2-Star Hotel
Double Room: Minimum size of 12 m², with additional amenities such as a wardrobe and air conditioning.
Bathroom: Toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub.
Internet access in the room or a designated area.
3-Star Hotel
Double Room: Minimum size of 16 m², with a TV, telephone, and desk.
Bathroom: Toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub.
Cleanliness and Maintenance: High standards of cleanliness and aesthetics.
4-Star Hotel
Double Room: Minimum size of 20 m², stylishly furnished, with a mini-bar.
Bathroom: Toilet, sink, shower or bathtub, and a hairdryer.
Qualified staff available for assistance.
5-Star Hotel
Double Room: Minimum size of 25 m², luxuriously equipped, often in the form of a suite.
Bathroom: Toilet, sink, shower and bathtub, with high-quality toiletries.
Service and Staff: Top-level service, including room service and a concierge.
Interesting facts about hotel stars
Tokyo is considered the city with the highest number of hotel stars in the world. Japan’s capital is home to many luxury hotels and frequently ranks as the city with the most highly rated properties.
In addition to hotels, the Michelin Guide also awards stars to restaurants, contributing to their culinary prestige.
In Poland, hotel star ratings are based on Hotel Stars Union standards, which aim to standardize ratings across Europe. The Polish Chamber of Hospitality follows these guidelines, ensuring that Polish hotels are evaluated according to international criteria.
Hotel rating standards are evolving alongside societal changes. Today, there is greater emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Guest reviews on booking platforms and review sites are becoming increasingly influential and can affect a hotel's official rating.
