Since the late 1950s, hotels have been classified using a star system. A hotel must meet certain criteria or requirements in order to receive a specific star rating. A description of each standard can be found below:
A one–star hotel
A one–star hotel is a basic or no–frills lodging option with limited amenities. It’s worth noting that a one-star rating does not imply that the venue is filthy or unsafe. You can think of it as a small (typically family-run) location where you can leave your luggage and sleep.
A two-star hotel
A two-star hotel is still affordable, and it can be privately owned, though it is frequently part of a cheap hotel chain. Expect a TV and phone in a 2 star hotel room, but don’t expect cutting-edge technology. There is usually a restaurant and housekeeping services offered.
A three-star
A three-star hotel is a mid-range alternative that provides a greater level of comfort and a more modern look. A gym, business centre, room service, cable TV, and valet parking are all common facilities.
A four-star hotel
A four-star hotel is a high-end establishment that provides exceptional service and comfort. Designer toiletries, luxury bedding, concierge service, a wellness or spa centre, a swimming pool, and high-end pick-up services, such as a limousine, are all available. This category includes a lot of boutique hotels.
A five-star hotel
A five-star hotel is a high-end establishment that provides first-rate service, amenities, and comfort. Personal greetings, complementary services such as ironing, fresh flowers, a personal butler, in-room jacuzzi, access to several restaurants (some of which may be award-winning locations), on-site golf courses, and other facilities are common in luxury hotels.
In Europe and North America, the star system is primarily employed. Stars may be used in various places of the world, although the standards are not the same as the ones stated above.
Hotel categories can be characterised by a variety of factors other than stars, such as location, clientele, or theme.
Hotels arranged by location
The following are examples of frequent hotel types in this category:
Hotels in the city
Typically, these homes are located in large cities and are perfect for visitors interested in city breaks or who seek convenient access to public transit, restaurants, museums, shops, and other amenities.
Resorts on the beach
In many cases, these are all-inclusive hotels with a beachfront location that emphasise leisure and relaxation.
Hotels for skiers
Provide convenient access to ski slopes and are designed to accommodate winter sports such as snowshoeing, ice skating, snowboarding, and sledding.
Hotels categorised by clientele
Hotels are also classed according to the type of guest they cater to. Business hotels, for example, will provide a variety of amenities for this type of traveller, such as meeting and conference rooms, high-speed internet, airport pick-up, and a business centre.
Then there are family hotels, which may offer a children’s club, children’s cuisine, specific play areas, or babysitting services. Adult-only hotels are located on the opposite end of the spectrum and are ideal for celebrating a special occasion such as a wedding anniversary or honeymoon.
Hotels with a theme
Finally, themed hotels cater to unique travel interests. Gastro hotels (ideal for foodies), spa hotels (focused on well-being and relaxation), wine hotels (typically located in or near vineyards to provide a comprehensive experience for wine lovers), and retro hotels (designed and set to transport guests back in time) are all popular types.