Accommodation Ratings

As standard hotel ratings vary enormously around the world, we have established our own grading system utilizing "Globes" instead of star ratings. This enables us to standardize our ratings on a global basis.

Most of our properties are personally visited by our contracting team and graded on the criteria listed below. When grading our properties, we consider all room types, not just the best rooms.

STA Travel accommodation ranges from hostels to 5 Globe deluxe properties. Properties can vary widely within a category, but here are some guidelines as to what you can expect.

Hostels

Our range of hostels vary from small hostels with few facilities to 500-bed hostels with pools, bars, restaurants, internet cafes, and sports facilities. They provide basic, budget accommodation in dormitory or private rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Hostels usually have a great communal atmosphere and are ideal for people on tight budgets who want to meet fellow travelers. Dormitory sizes vary--small generally from 4 to 6 beds, large generally from 8 to 12 beds and extra large from 12 beds or more.

1 Globe Hotels

Simple, very budget style accommodation mainly offering rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Room furnishings are basic with often older style decor and hotel facilities are very limited. Suited to travelers on tight budgets, looking for private rooms and "no frills" accommodation.

2 Globe Hotels

Budget, "tourist class" style accommodation, generally offering rooms with ensuite bathroom facilities, TVs, and  telephones. Some properties may have shared bathroom facilities. Usually adequate and offering good value, however, rooms can often be quite small, especially in Europe. Pensions in Europe are usually in this category.

3 Globe Hotels

Offer a good standard of comfortable accommodation, usually with modern décor and can offer an in-house bar and restaurant. Rooms are very comfortable with facilities such as a mini-bar and satellite TV. All rooms have ensuite facilities.

4 Globe Hotels

An excellent standard of accommodation offering good services and facilities for guests. All rooms are modern and usually quite spacious with ensuite bathroom facilities. Hotel facilities include restaurants, bars, and often gyms and/or swimming pools. Services such as porterage, 24-hour room service, laundry, and a business center may be available. 4 Globe hotels are usually well-located in city centers.

5 Globe Hotels

First class, deluxe properties with an extremely high international standard of services and facilities--perfect for those wanting to experience a high level of comfort and luxury. Properties will usually be of a good size, well-located, and will offer a greater quality and range of facilities--restaurants, bars, entertainment, fitness facilities, and business centers. Reception and public areas will be more spacious. 5 Globe hotels can be compared to superior 5 star deluxe properties.