Hotel reviews on comparison portals are often a valuable source of information for travelers, but it is important to look at them with a critical eye. For a truly meaningful overall picture, you should definitely read the opinions of vacationers instead of just evaluating the score. If a hotel receives a noticeable number of positive or negative reviews in a short period of time, this could indicate deliberate manipulation.
Detailed comments from verified users on specific aspects such as cleanliness, location or service staff are often more helpful than general statements. The timeliness of hotel reviews on Booking.com, Expedia, HolidayCheck, Trivago, CHECK24 and other comparison portals plays a major role. After all, it is of no use to you if a hotel was highly praised five years ago but has been a permanent construction site for months.
Convenient planning through package tours
All components of the trip, such as flights, accommodation, transfers and sometimes meals or leisure activities, are included in the overall package. This not only saves time, but also reduces the stress that is often associated with individual planning. Tour operators receive more favorable conditions through bundled services, which they pass on to customers.
If problems arise during the vacation, they try to find solutions. However, package tours usually have fixed programs, which may leave freedom-loving tourists little room for spontaneous decisions or individual exploration far away from busy sights. Excursions and special services often cause additional costs on site that were not planned in advance.
Who actually awards the stars to hotels
Many European countries have similar rating systems, but stars can still be worth different amounts. They are usually based on national guidelines that meet certain criteria regarding infrastructure, facilities, services and comfort. While in France the rating system is regulated by the government, in Spain the stars are awarded by the respective regional tourism authority.
The classification of hotels in Germany is carried out by a private association. In the United Kingdom organizations such as VisitEngland or the Automobile Association have their own standards. A four-star hotel in Spain may therefore not have the same standards as a hotel with the same rating in another European country.
Hotel stars in Spain explained in detail
One-star hotels: In the budget segment, there are, not surprisingly, very simple accommodations, although basic hygiene must be guaranteed. There is only minimal service and possibly no 24-hour reception.
Two-star hotels: Here you can expect slightly higher amenities and the rooms should actually be clean and comfortable. Breakfast or simple meals as well as daily room cleaning are possible.
Three-star hotels: The rooms are comfortably furnished and offer amenities such as a television, minibar and private bathroom. There will also be a restaurant or bar. The reception is open 24 hours a day.
Four-star hotels: Facilities in this category often have additional leisure facilities such as fitness studios or swimming pools. The gastronomic offerings are also generally varied and of higher quality.
Five-star hotels: The focus here is on excellent services such as a spa area, several restaurants with different cuisines and well-trained staff. Guests expect the highest level of comfort and amenities in the most expensive category.
The standards in the USA and Canada often correspond to European criteria, although there may also be differences between urban and rural areas. In Mexico, Cuba, Brazil, Argentina and other countries in Latin America, hotels in tourist centers often have high quality standards. In less well-known areas, however, the level can drop significantly. The situation is similar in Asia.
