Rating Criteria: Lodging
The Star Rating Process
The Forbes Travel Guide process of rating each establishment includes:
• Facility inspection: Every property is visited by a trained facility inspector,
who uses a checklist to evaluate cleanliness, physical condition and location.
This inspection is unannounced and results in a Forbes One, Two or Three Star
rating. Spas are the only exception -- the minimum standard for a Forbes spa
rating is three stars.
• Service evaluation: Based on the facility inspection, properties that might
qualify for a Forbes Four Star or Five Star Award certification will receive a
visit from a second, this time, incognito inspector. This inspector makes an
anonymous visit and performs an incognito evaluation based on more than
550 service standards. During service evaluations, inspectors behave as regular
guests and never reveal that they represent the Forbes Travel Guide. This
inspection largely focuses on the guest experience and the consistency in
service, not just the physical facilities and amenities.
Only facilities that meet the Forbes Travel Guides rigorous standards are rated and
listed in both the travel guides and on the website. Deteriorating, poorly managed
establishments are deleted. A Forbes Travel Guide listing and review constitutes a
positive quality recommendation; every listing is an accolade, recognition of
achievement.