When it comes to arranging hotel accommodation, we all have certain essential criteria; a convenient location, excellent amenities and a decent rating.
Yet according to travel industry experts, the latter could actually be adding to your costs, while potentially causing you to overlook some brilliant hotels.
Research from TravelSupermarket has shown that choosing a 2-star hotel instead of a 4-star could save the typical holidaymaker approximately £285 per person on a week-long break. According to Chelsea Dickenson, Holiday Expert, this doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing quality either.
“I think most people assume that dropping hotel stars means massively compromising on quality – but actually, what this data really shows is how much money people can save simply by being a little more open minded with hotel ratings,” Chelsea said.
“Because the reality is that hotel star ratings are often based much more on facilities than things travellers actually care about most, like cleanliness, comfort, style or service. So whilst yes, a lower star hotel might not have a huge pool, room service or a 24 hour reception, it absolutely doesn’t mean it can’t still be a beautiful hotel in a fantastic location.”
Boho Suites Mykonos PR SUPPLIED: (Image: Chelsea Dickenson)
TravelSupermarket’s research also revealed that significant changes aren’t necessary. For instance, switching from a 4-star to a 3-star could save you roughly £200pp, while opting for a 2-star instead of 3-star saves approximately £75pp. Chelsea added: “What’s really interesting to me is that many travellers automatically filter out 2 and 3 star hotels entirely when searching for holidays, without realising they could potentially be saving hundreds of pounds per person by simply checking the reviews and photos first. For lots of travellers – especially people booking city breaks, boutique stays or shorter holidays – those extra facilities often aren’t even things they’ll use anyway.”
To put the theory to the test, Chelsea booked a stay at a 2-star hotel in Mykonos — Boho Suites — alongside her partner James, whom she describes as someone who favours the “finer things in life.” Impressed by the positive reviews and appealing photographs, she decided to take the plunge and book it, without disclosing the hotel’s rating to her partner.
Upon arrival, it became evident she had made an excellent choice. She explained: “His initial reaction was that he was impressed – I think he thought I’d booked him into a hostel! And he was quick to note the huge space, big bed, double wardrobes, rainfall shower, minibar fridge and a terrace with a sea view. However, the moment that really blew his mind was when we stepped out onto a final terrace and he spotted the outdoor jacuzzi!
“Having taken this all in, I asked him what star rating he thought the place was and without a moment’s hesitation, he confidently stated that it had to be a 4 star hotel. And – I got it. This place was spacious, stylish, and had a real wow factor. I don’t think many would punt that this was only a 2 star property.”
For those inspired to snap up a budget-friendly Greek escape, it’s well worth checking out Skyscanner, where bargain flights to Mykonos are available from as little as £48 each way.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
