My friend Ray and I were sitting around and talking about the rating systems for hotels. The question was brought up, “Is there a standard as to what I can expect from a 3 star as opposed to a 4 star hotel?”

We agreed that it would be a good post for The Shopping Nazi. How else would you know if you are getting good value for your money. A couple of days later I received an email with five links that describe the rating system of hotels. They are Hotels.org, How Stuff Works, Forbes Travel Guide, Super Pages, and Go Europe at About.com.

From each one of the links Ray gave me there was a little different. However, after doing some more research, I came up with some basic things that should be expected from each rated hotel.

A one star hotel or motel will give you the most basic room and  bed with nothing else. Rooms are very basic and plain. They do not offer guests much more than a place to sleep.

Two star hotels offer guests basic rooms with limited services. 24 hours front desk, and some many have an on-site restaurant or coffee shop. Rooms are clean, and housekeeping service is provided daily.

Three star hotels offer guests rooms which are above the basic level and have more services and facilities. These include an on site restaurant, valet services, business services, conference facilities, gym, pool, and many other items.

Four star hotels offer guests superior rooms which often have enhanced in room amenities and a offer guests a far greater level of services and amenities. Additional services include, personalized concierge services, a variety of fine dining restaurants, day spas, whirlpools, a variety of suites, and limousine services.

The five star hotel are rare in any city. The standard of services and facilities required to be ranked a 5 star hotel is almost unattainable. These hotels will arrange for their guests absolutely anything they wish. Personal butlers are assigned to ensure that the guest will want for nothing.

Bottom – line: After this research, it is clearer as to what I can expect from each rated hotel. Usually, I book 3 stars, because they have a gym or workout room. This helps me wake up before breakfast.

I have stayed in hotels where the quality varied in just the 3 star rating. Some I liked. Then there were some I thought they ripped me off. Maybe that is why people who travel regularly go to the same hotels and eat at the same restaurants?

In addition to the star rating it is good to get recommendations from people who travel to a specific city on a regular basis. This could save time, money and frustration.

Tags: About.com, Forbes Travel Guide, Go Europe, Hotels, Hotels.org, How Stuff Works, Lodging, Motels, Super Pages