Hotel ratings how reliable are they?

One of the toughest questions that I had to answer involved the accuracy of the hotel ratings provided by the travel wholesalers. Quite honestly those ratings were always a thorn in my side. It was obvious that many wholesalers would overrate some of their properties in order to generate more sales. It was a practice that I totally disagreed with because it misled the consumer and ultimately I was faced with an irate client upon their return from their vacation even if I tried in vein to deter them from a particular property. Unfortunately, vacation travel is a very lucrative business and most companies are in it for the $$$$$$ and nothing else.

Now before booking a particular hotel I suggest that you apply the following criteria:

1- Visit the hotel websites directly and carefully read the amenities that are offered as well as the type of rooms. Many times you can reserve a better or larger room with an oceanview for just a few dollars more.

2- Confirm the meal plan i.e. all inclusive, breakfast only etc.

3- The proximity to the beach, town and activities

4- Compare the hotel to other properties that you have visited in the past to see how it measures up

5- Visit an online site to read reviews submitted by other travellers that have stayed at the hotel that you're interested in. I suggest which is a very popular site

6- If dealing with an agent directly, ask if they have already sent other customers there and if so what were their comments. Normally, a good travel agent will always call back his client in order to gather feedback on the trip. Actually, this is part of offering outstanding customer service and even if the client has a few complaints he will always appreciate the callback.

7- Share your experiences with your family, friends, co-workers etc. in order to receive many varied opinions to be able to formulate a more informed decision.


In short, we have so much information available to us via the internet, take the time to properly research the property you are most interested in before you reserve in order to avoid ruining your vacation.


Have a great trip!!!!