The Star ratings symbolise overall quality, level of service, food standard and range of facilities available. Hotels are required to meet progressively higher standards as they move up the scale from one to five stars.

1 Star
These hotels are likely to be small and independently owned, with a family atmosphere. There may be a limited range of facilities and meals may be fairly simple. Lunch, for example, may not be served. Some bedrooms may not have en suite bath / shower rooms. Maintenance, cleanliness and comfort should, however, always be of an acceptable standard.

2 Stars
In this classification, hotels will typically be small to medium sized and offer more extensive facilities. Some business hotels come into 2 Star classification and guests can expect comfortable, well-equipped, overnight accommodation, usually with an en suite bath / shower room. Reception and other staff will aim for a more professional presentation than at 1 Star level, and offer a wider range of straightforward services, including food and drink.

3 Stars
At this level, hotels are usually of a size to support higher staffing levels, and a significantly greater quality and range of facilities. Reception and the other public rooms will be more spacious and the restaurant will normally also cater for non-residents. All bedrooms will have fully en suite bath and shower rooms and offer a good standard of comfort and amenities, such as a hair dryer, direct dial telephone, toiletries in the bathroom. Some room service can be expected and some provision for business travellers.

4 Stars
Expectations at this level include a degree of luxury as well as quality in furnishings, decor and equipment, in every area of the hotel. Bedrooms will also usually offer more space than at the lower Star levels, and will feature well designed, co-ordinated furnishings and decor. En-suite bathrooms will have both bath and fixed shower. Services such as porterage, 24-hour room service, laundry and dry-cleaning will be available and the restaurant will demonstrate a serious approach to cuisine.

5 Stars
You should find spacious and luxurious accommodation throughout the hotel, matching the best international standards. Interior design should impress with its quality and attention to detail, comfort and elegance. Furnishings should be immaculate, services formal, well supervised and flawless in attention to guests' needs without being intrusive. Restaurants will demonstrate a high level of technical skill, producing dishes to the highest international standards. Staff will be knowledgeable, helpful and well versed in all aspects of customer care, combining efficiency with courtesy.

The Diamond ratings reflect visitor expectations, whereby quality is seen as more important than facilities and services. Guest Accommodation is required to meet progressively higher standards of quality and guest care as they move up the scale from one to five Diamonds.

1 Diamond
Clean and comfortable. A full cooked or continental breakfast. Other meals where provided, must be freshly prepared. Clean bed linen, towels and fresh soap. Adequate heating, with hot water available at reasonable times for bathing or showers, at no extra cost. An acceptable overall level of quality and helpful service.

2 Diamonds
All the above plus a higher level of quality and comfort, with greater emphasis on guest care in all areas.

3 Diamonds
All the above plus a good level of quality, well maintained and practical décor. A good choice of dishes for breakfast; all other meals where provided will be freshly prepared using quality ingredients. A greater degree of comfort and guest care.

4 Diamonds
All the above plus a very good level of quality and comfort. A very good degree of guest care, and extra attention given to cleanliness and warmth of welcome.

5 Diamonds
All the above plus an excellent overall level of quality and comfort with ample space and a degree of luxury. A fine quality bed, high quality furniture and interior design. A high proportion of bedrooms with en-suite or private facilities. Other meals where available, made with fresh, seasonal local ingredients. Excellent levels of guest care.

Assessors have visited flats, houses, cottages and serviced apartments and have devised a Star rating based on assessing quality, including comfort, space, facilities and most important of all, cleanliness.

1 Star
Acceptable overall level of quality. Adequate provision of furniture, furnishings and fittings.

2 Stars
All the above plus good overall level of quality and all units self-contained.

3 Stars
All the above plus good to very good overall level of quality. Good standard of maintenance and decoration, ample space and good quality furniture. All double beds with access from both sides and the availability of a microwave.

4 Stars
All the above plus excellent overall level of quality. Very good care and attention to detail is obvious throughout. Either access to washing machine and drier, if not provided in the unit, or a 24 hour laundry service.

5 Stars
All the above plus exceptional overall level of quality. High levels of décor, fixture and fittings, together with excellent standards of management efficiency and guest services. Excellent range of accessories and personal touches.