Can anyone explain or tell me how to find out the star system for hotels ie how a hotel gets 5 stars?

I specifically want to find out if it's possible to get half a star, I've seen 3.5 star hotels advertised in Europe, what's the difference between them and a 4 star?Can anyone explain or tell me how to find out the star system for hotels ie how a hotel gets 5 stars?This is a hard question to answer because the grading system varies from country to country - it's not universal.



For example, in France a hotel cannot be graded at 3 stars or above unless it has English speaking staff on reception.



In the UK grades awarded by the AA/RAC relate to room facilities eg whether the room has an en-suite or not, whether there are tea and coffee making facilites etc.



Many tour operators worldwide assign their own grades/stars based on the perceived level of luxury (rather than specific facilities) and this may not agree with 'official' ratings. I suspect the 'half' stars you seen are exactly this - a tour operators attempt to differentiate better between the various hotels it offers.Can anyone explain or tell me how to find out the star system for hotels ie how a hotel gets 5 stars?Tough one. Every country is different. However, star ratings are not based solely on standard. It has a lot to do with facilities. For example, if a hotel in Australia does not have 24 hour room service, then it can not be 5*. Who knows what the 1/2 star is for!?!

genghis grill