Practical guide

Choose a hotel beyond its star rating

A simple method to compare price, location, comfort and flexibility without relying on one indicator.

Notebook, city map and tablet used to choose a hotel

Rank your needs before searching: location, quiet, breakfast, parking, accessibility, facilities or cancellation. Three priorities usually narrow the choice.

1. Set your priorities

Rank your needs before searching: location, quiet, breakfast, parking, accessibility, facilities or cancellation. Three priorities usually narrow the choice.

2. Compare like for like

Rates are comparable only for the same dates, occupancy, room type and terms. Include taxes and optional services.

3. Read reviews critically

Prefer recent reviews describing the room, noise, cleanliness and welcome. The overall pattern matters more than one comment.

4. Check the location

Check real travel times to your points of interest. A central location may be noisy; a remote one may add time and transport costs.