Main difference - 4-star vs. 5-star hotels
4 stars and 5 stars are two top ratings in the star rating system that is used to rate the quality of hotels. However, it can be problematic to determine the difference between 4 star and 5 star hotels, as there is a large variety of star systems in tourism and hospitality. While most of these systems have similar ratings, there can be some differences as well. The most important and most obvious difference between 4-star and 5-star hotels is their level of comfort; 5-star hotels offer the ultimate in luxury and sophisticated accommodations that go well beyond 4-star hotels.
This article explains
1. What are 4-star hotels? - Features, services, ratings
2. What are 5-star hotels? - Features, services, ratings
3. What is the difference between 4-star and 5-star hotels?
What are 4 star hotels
4-star hotels are more luxurious than 1, 2 and 3-star hotels and offer high quality service. Typically stylish and sophisticated, they offer upscale accommodations, fine dining, lounges, bars, and 24-hour room service. You will also have multiple room options, including suites. All bedrooms have WiFi or some other type of internet connection. The rooms and suites also have high-quality beds, bed linen and extensive amenities. Well-maintained swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, concierge services, extensive business facilities, multiple restaurants, and valet parking are also available at these facilities.
These hotels also have a high quality construction, refined furnishings, attractive decoration and very personal service. Guests generally have 24/7 access to the hotel. The comfort and convenience of the guests are the main concern of the staff. The exterior of the hotel - exterior and landscaping - is beautifully laid out and cared for.
Intercontinental Hotel, Singapore
What are 5 star hotels
5-star hotels are the hotels that offer the highest level of comfort, luxury and service. They are known for their superb hospitality, excellent architecture, interior design, landscaping and exquisite taste. These hotels also offer gourmet dishes by famous chefs and an elegant ambience in the rooms, public areas and outdoor areas. Premium beds, linens, floors, extensive amenities, high-speed Internet, 24-hour room service, butler service, original wall art and elegant room furnishings can be found in these hotels. They also offer luxury spa services, fitness facilities, fitness centers, tennis classes, business centers and meeting facilities, multiple pools and other services.
These hotels offer their guests a careful and personal service. The staff-to-guest ratio in 5-star hotels is usually high and the staff addresses guests by name and cater to their needs.
Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong
Difference between 4-star and 5-star hotels
Comfort, luxury and service
4-star hotels: 4-star hotels offer more service, comfort and luxury than 1-star, 2-star and 3-star hotels.
5-star hotels: 5-star hotels offer the highest level of comfort, luxury and service.
price
4-star hotels: 4-star hotels are usually cheaper than 5-star hotels.
5 Star Hotels: 5 Star Hotels are very expensive as they offer the ultimate in luxury.
Examples
4-star hotels: The Chateaux Deer Valley (USA), InterContinental Shanghai Expo (China), Kingsbrae Arms (Canada), Hotel Fasano São Paulo (Brazil) and The Langham London (UK) are some examples of 4-star hotels (According to Forbes reviews).
5-star hotels: Palace Hotel Tokyo, Crown Towers Macau (China), The Peninsula Beverly Hills (USA), Rosewood Mayakoba (Mexico) and The Ritz-Carlton (Hong Kong) are some examples of 5-star hotels (according to Forbes .). Reviews).
Since there are different rating systems in the tourism and hospitality industries, let's look at some criteria for 4-star and 5-star hotels that some of them require.
Stars | AAA | Forbes |
4 star hotels | Refined, stylish. Extensive equipment; a lot of hospitality, service, attention to detail | Outstanding features, exceptional service, maybe valet parking |
5 star hotels | Ultimate luxury, sophistication. Exceptional surroundings, meticulous service, first class comfort | Unmistakable luxury, superlative service. Looking forward to all of the guests' needs |
Reference:
“How reliable are hotel reviews?” Magazine for consumer reports . January 2011.
Image courtesy:
"Intercontinental Hotel, Singapore, Shophouse Suite" by Chris Hoare (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr
“The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong Tosca” by WiNG - Own work (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia