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- Determine
whether the site rates hotels, or uses ratings supplied by others.
If they provide ratings, look for a description of the rating
process. If the ratings are supplied by the hotels that are
listed - or others with a direct financial interest in the property
- it may be best to double-check that rating at another Web
site.
- Read
the descriptions for the various levels (usually from one through
five) and determine what you want or need. If you're looking
for luxury, then you may only want to look at properties at
the four or five level. If you need economical lodging, you
might concentrate on properties at the one or two level. But
be aware that terminology can vary significantly. What is considered
a "deluxe" room in one rating system may differ in
size, amenities or degree of luxury elsewhere.
- Ask
questions to determine how long the rating organization has
been evaluating properties, how many properties are rated each
year, whether there is a financial obligation between the rating
organization and the listed properties, and whether the rating
criteria or guidelines are published.
- Find
out how the ratings are assigned. Does someone with the rating
organization visit the property or does the hotel determine
its own rating? Also, how often are properties reviewed after
their initial rating?
- Ask
a travel agent for advice. When in doubt, turn to the experts
in the industry to find out what they consider to be the most
reliable and consistent rating programs.
(Source:
AAA)
AAA Diamond Ratings for lodgings and restaurants throughout North
America appear online at www.aaa.com in the Online TourBook®,
and as part of Internet TripTik® and AAAmaps.com, AAA's online
mapping and trip planning products.
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