What does the hotel star rating system mean?

To help reduce the chances of getting what you did not bargain for, countries, including our own have a system of rating establishments. The other informal form of rating is through respected bodies like Forbes, consumer feedback on forums like travel website Trip Advisor, and of course, trusted travel writers. Just keep in mind, however, that these are much more likely to represent how much a person liked the hotel rather than the level of luxury the hotel offers.

Some countries adopt letter grading, from A to F or simply a ‘satisfactory’ or ‘unsatisfactory’ footnote for accommodation such as hostels and motels to grade accommodation. Others use terms such as Deluxe/Luxury, First Class/Superior, Tourist Class/Standard, and Budget Class/Economy.

Those that use of diamonds and stars to show rating, nonetheless, are more widely accepted. Generally, star ratings run from one-star to five-star and contrary to popular belief, there is no such rating as six-star or seven-star. Even the world’s super luxurious establishments like The Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai - the first hotel being widely described as a "Seven-Star" property, discourages the use of the term. Some resorts, however, do not necessarily conform to any typical hotel-star-rating system.

Vacation clubs like Kilifi’s Vipingo Ridge fall in this category where visitors choose the hotel based on what they specifically want during their stay. This could include among other things swimming pools, beach, restaurants, spa, and golf courses.

With so many different grading standards, it is not a wonder in recent hotel rating systems have also been criticised by some who argue that the rating criteria for such systems are overly complex and difficult for laypersons to understand. It has been suggested that the lack of a universal standard for rating hotels may also undermine the usability of such schemes.

There have been attempts at unifying the classification system so that it becomes an internationally recognised and reliable standard, but they have all failed. One feature, however, that cuts through the different star rating systems is that the number of stars awarded is indicative of the range of facilities available, and not necessarily equated to the degree of luxuriousness of the hotel. Food services, number of restaurants, entertainment, view, room variations such as size and additional amenities, spa and fitness centres, business centres and conference facilities, 24-hour room service, ease of access and location are all part of the considerations in establishing a star rating. Some consider this disadvantageous to smaller hotels whose quality of accommodation could fall into one class, but the lack of an item such as an elevator or valet parking would prevent it from reaching a higher category.

Even though star ratings can seem arbitrary, they can still be beneficial and can help to inform you about a hotel. If you are seeking high end polished personalised service, plush linen, exclusive range of toiletries, in-room video, 24-hour room service, gourmet menus, a full spa and fitness centre, a concierge desk, internet access and other premium services, you will probably want to look at hotels that are rated three stars and above. 

Three-star hotels are moderately priced hotels that are comfortable and absolutely adequate places to stay but may lack some of the luxuries of four-star hotels. A five-star rating is reserved exclusively for the country's highest-end chain and boutique hotels. Expect to pay a premium for five-star luxuries. This almost explains why some hotels go out of their way to bribe their way to the five-star rating.

Kenya, like most major reviewing bodies, uses the five-star system for grading done by Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA), a corporate body established under section 4 of the Tourism Act No.28 of 2011. The Authority periodically undertakes National classification of all regulated tourism activities and services with the aim of ensuring high standards and quality of services. A Standardisation and Classification Committee comprising members from both the public and private sectors oversee the classification exercises. This is based on the approved criteria for each category of establishments.

To get the most out of your next vacation, approach those stars with a savvy eye to make educated decisions about your hotel. To place ratings in context, here are simplified definitions of each star.

One-Star (meets basic needs)

Economy, Simple, no-frills accommodation. Expect a small hotel managed and operated by the owner. The atmosphere will be more personal and the accommodations basic. Restaurant service should be within walking distance, as well as nearby public transportation, major intersections and entertainment that is reasonable in price.

Two-Star (meets basic needs)

Affordable, basic, clean, comfortable, and Value. These hotels are generally part of a chain that offers consistent quality and limited amenities. They are small or medium in size and rooms will have a phone and TV. While you will not have the convenience of room service, there should be a small restaurant on site.

Three-Star (Comfort/high service with additional amenities

Mid-scale, convenience plus comfort, style, quality, comfort, personalized service Usually located near a major expressway, business centre and/or shopping area, these hotels offer nice, spacious rooms and decorative lobbies. On-site restaurants may be average in size but will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. Valet and room service, a small fitness centre and a pool are often available.

Four-Star (First-Class superior property with a variety of amenities

Superior, Deluxe/upscale comfort plus high quality Formal, large hotels, with top-notch service. There will usually be other hotels of the same calibre clustered nearby, as well as shopping, dining and entertainment. Above-average service, beautifully furnished rooms, restaurants, room service, valet parking, fitness centre and a concierge are some amenities to expect.

Five-Star (Luxury setting, flawless guest services)

Finest luxury establishment, superlative service, highest comfort standards well equipped, first-class services, and state of the art facilities A luxurious hotel, offering the highest degree of personal service. Elegance and style abound, and rooms are equipped with quality linens, VCR, CD stereo, Jacuzzi tub and in-room video. There are multiple restaurants on-site with extensive, gourmet menus, and room service is also available 24-7. A fitness centre, valet parking and concierge service round out the experience.

 Five-Star establishments in the country

1. Hotel Villa Rosa Kempinski

2. Hemingway’s Nairobi,

3.  Sankara Nairobi,

4. Fairmont The Norfolk,

5. Tribe Hotel, The Sarova Stanley,

6. Radisson Blu Hotel,

7. Dusit D2,

8. Intercontinental Nairobi

9. Boma Nairobi.

10. Segera Retreat Lodge, Laikipia County

11.  Lake Elementaita Serena Camp,

12.  Mara Serena Safari Lodge,

13.  Olare Mara Kempinski

14. Enashipai Resort and Spa

15. Medina Palms Suites and Villas in Kilifi

16. Leopard Beach Resort and Spa in Kwale

17. Swahili Beach Resort.