When booking accommodations for an event or vacation, you’ll likely notice that hotels tend to advertise their star ratings. This is to set guest expectations, attract specific types of travelers, and justify their pricing. For example, if you see a hotel with a 5-star rating, then you’ll likely expect luxury facilities and a higher price point. Meanwhile, budget-conscious travelers may opt for lower-star hotels as they are more affordable. Through these ratings, potential guests can then easily understand the level of service and facilities they can expect from, say, the Metro Manila hotel or Cebu resorts accommodation that they just booked.
That being said, not everyone may be familiar with the differences of the star ratings and how they are even given in the first place. To clear up that confusion and help you make more informed decisions when choosing your hotel accommodations, here’s a quick guide to hotel rating systems.
How Hotel Ratings Are Given
Hotel star ratings are an internationally recognized indicator of an accommodation’s standards and cleanliness, often awarded by particular organizations after rigorous evaluation. Note that different countries and organizations may have different criteria. Still, the general idea is that the higher the star rating, the more luxurious the accommodation is. NUSTAR Resort & Casino, for instance, is a luxury resort and casino located in Cebu that has a 5-star rating. Thus, it’s no surprise that NUSTAR guests can expect more top-of-the-line amenities and services such as world-class ballrooms for events, premium personal care products, a convenient shuttle service, and an electric vehicle (EV) charging station in its parking area.
In the Philippines, hotel star ratings are assigned by the Department of Tourism (DOT). For hotels to receive star ratings, they must first apply for DOT accreditation to be officially rated. DOT representatives and third-party auditors will then visit the hotel to inspect and assess its facilities, services, and quality standards. Once the evaluation is complete, DOT assigns the star rating and issues an official certificate.
Criteria for Hotel Star Ratings in the Philippines
The DOT scores hotels based on a points-based system covering multiple variables. The major criteria included in the evaluation include arrival and departure, public areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, food and beverage, amenities and services, and business practices. The higher scores a hotel gets for each criteria, the higher the star rating they receive.
1. Arrival and Departure – For this criteria, auditors inspect the hotel lobby’s size and ambiance as well as how efficient the check-in and check-out process is. The friendliness of the reception or front office staff and how knowledgeable they are about the hotel’s facilities and services are also evaluated here.
2. Public Areas – This criteria is concerned with the cleanliness and maintenance of common spaces such as restrooms and lounge areas. The public washroom’s cleanliness and accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs) also fall under this criteria.
3. Bedrooms – The bedrooms criteria refer to room sizes, cleanliness, and comfort level. Inspectors will evaluate bed quality, furnishings, air-conditioning and lighting, and other in-room amenities such as a functional fridge, television, and safety box.
4. Bathrooms – This rating criteria is concerned with the bathrooms in the hotel, particularly if the fixtures like the faucets, toilet, and showers are in good working order. Availability of toiletries such as bath towels, toilet paper, bath soaps, and the like are also inspected.
5. Food and Beverages – Inspectors will assess the availability of in-house dining options under this criteria, particularly if they offer Filipino dishes. Cleanliness and adherence to food safety standards are also graded here.
6. Amenities and Services – This criteria will look into general services such as availability of room service, in-house or on-call medical services, and having a first aid kit readily accessible in case of emergency.
7. Business Practices – Lastly, hotel inspectors will be looking into how the hotel manages its operations such as if it has a backup energy or water supply and its compliance to regulations. Staff efficiency, hospitality, and friendliness are also categorized in this criteria.
What Guests Can Expect from Each Star Rating
Now that you know how the ratings are given, here’s what you can expect for each star rating.
1-Star Hotel – One-star hotels can provide you with the essentials such as a simple room with basic furnishings and bathrooms (typically shared) with minimal toiletries. The hotel will also likely have limited facilities and parking. These hotels are perfect for budget travelers and backpackers who just need a place to sleep and shower.
2-Star Hotel – Two-star hotels can provide a bit of a step up from budget stays, often offering air-conditioned rooms and private bathrooms with better toiletries and towels. There may also be a small in-house restaurant and room service available. These hotels are for tourists looking for comfortable yet affordable accommodations during their short stay.
3-Star Hotel – Three-star hotels strike a balance between price and amenities, offering mid-range comfort that’s suitable for families, business travelers, and tourists. Rooms are often spacious and well-furnished, and amenities such as a gym, small pool, and restaurant may also be available. These hotels are often located in city centers and shopping areas.
4-Star Hotel – Four-star hotels offer upscale and premium service that’s perfect for those looking for personalized service. Rooms likely come with elegant interiors, premium furnishings, and high-quality bedding. Moreover, guests can expect a swimming pool, spa, gym, and possibly a rooftop lounge. These hotels are suitable for honeymooners, executives, and high-end travelers.
5-Star Hotel – Five-star hotels like Fili at NUSTAR sit at the height of luxury when it comes to accommodations, providing guests with VIP-level treatment during their stay. Rooms are extremely spacious with designer interiors and top-tier furniture; multiple fine-dining restaurants, rooftop bars, and 24/7 room service are often available as well. These hotels are the top choice of luxury travelers, celebrities, and business executives.
With the help of this information, you can now better determine which hotels to book depending on your budget, needs, and preferences. So, the next time you’re traveling by yourself, with family, or with friends, use this article as your guide in making sure you and your companies book the perfect hotel for the trip.
If you’re looking specifically for a 5-star experience in Cebu, book a room at NUSTAR Resort & Casino today. With our top-notch dining options, luxuriously appointed rooms, and an expansive casino floor for ultimate excitement, you can expect nothing but a VIP experience.
