Hotel Classification
There is no uniform hotel classification in the United States that corresponds to the European “star” system. Superior Deluxe and Deluxe (D) roughly correspond to European 4* or 5; Superior (S) – 4 or 4; First Class (F) – 3 or 3; Moderate First Class (M) – 3.5-3 and Tourist Class (T), or Inexpensive, – 2*.
Hotels are also rated by the American Automobile Association (AAA) and Mobil. Each organization has developed its own hotel classification system. Both classifications (AAA and Mobil) are calculated on a 5-point system, counting 5 as the highest rating. Both organizations conduct annual reviews of the accommodations they have already rated, and both evaluate any hotel – on request and free of charge. AAA reviews its assessment standards every 5 years and uses visiting hotel professionals. Mobil makes do with in-house expertise.
Mobil 1. This is a hotel, motel, or inn with minimal services, but clean, comfortable and reasonably comfortable accommodations. Mobil 2. A hotel, resort hotel or inn with such significant advantages as a full-fledged restaurant, added to the clean and comfortable accommodation. Mobil 3. A hotel, resort hotel or inn with technical equipment, a restaurant and extra services – for example, a fitness center, a golf course, tennis courts, 24-hour room service, etc. Mobil 4. A hotel, resort hotel or inn with deluxe service and comfort. Hotel services must include 24-hour room service and parking. Mobil 5*. A place of accommodation with maximum comfort and level of service. The services offered should be almost limitless. Particular attention to detail: from stylish staff uniforms to expensive linens.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) rates the level of hotels in “diamonds. 1 Diamond. These accommodations are designed for those who prefer a budget way to travel. In such hotels you may find only the most basic pieces of furniture and bathroom fixtures, as well as a minimal set of services. 2 Diamonds. These accommodations are suitable for those travelers who expect from the hotel a little more than just a place to sleep. Comfort, comfortable furniture, tastefully decorated rooms. 3 Diamonds. For those who have certain requirements for the hotel. Preference is given to comfortable modern furniture and appliances. 4 Diamonds. These means of accommodation are distinguished by a good style, quality approach to comfort, high quality service, increased hospitality staff, modern furniture and equipment. 5 Diamonds. Room decor, furnishings in the lobby and restaurants, as well as the level of service should be worth the highest marks. Such a hotel must meet the most exquisite requirements of each guest.
Accommodation in hotels
Check-in and check-out is usually done after 3 p.m., check-in before 11 a.m. (check-in or check-out after that time is charged as an extra full day). Photo identification is required for hotel accommodations. By American Standard, 3- and 4-bed rooms have 2 beds. An extra bed (roll-away bed) is not booked in advance, but if available, it can be paid for at the time of your stay. Many hotels do not have hairdryers and other small appliances we are accustomed to (but very often there is a coffee maker with a set of coffee and filters) – they must be ordered at the reception (often free of charge).
Room rates
The cost of the room is almost the same for single and double accommodation. To the room rate is usually added tax (up to 12.5% depending on the state) and tourist tax (also set in each individual state separately). However, all sorts of fees, also added to the cost of the room in accordance with the laws of a particular state, can raise the price of the room by 20-30%. Breakfasts are usually not included in the price of the room, and are paid directly at the restaurant or during checkout, and their cost is usually considerably higher than in the nearest city restaurants or cafes.