classificationofhotelestablishmentsandothertypesofaccommodation(I)

The accommodation universe is vast and diverse. To organize this variety, establishments are classified according to their structure, the services they offer, and the legal framework that regulates them.

The Andalusian Tourism Law, for example, establishes a clear distinction between different types of accommodation, each with its own characteristics and aimed at a different audience.

This classification not only helps users choose the option that best suits their needs, but also establishes the quality and service standards that each type of establishment must meet.

The Hotel Establishment and its Star System

The hotel is the most archetypal form of tourist accommodation. It is defined as a building dedicated primarily and professionally to the temporary accommodation of people, called guests, in exchange for a fee.

Although they are not required to offer complementary services, most do so to improve the customer experience.

The most recognized classification for hotels is the star system, which ranges from one to five and is awarded by each country according to its own regulations, which means that the criteria may vary. This system evaluates the amenities and quality of services.

For example, a detail such as the presence of a safe in the room can be a differentiating factor between categories.

One-star hotels are the most basic and economical, often located far from the center and with shared bathrooms in the hallways.

Two-star hotels are low-cost establishments but usually offer rooms with a basic private bathroom, TV, and telephone.

Up to three stars, we find more established hotels, with rooms that include a basic bathroom and, sometimes, a small bar that may occasionally offer restaurant service, representing a more economical but functional option.

Four-star hotels are already considered high-quality establishments, with personalized attention and a good range of services such as a bar, restaurant, and entertainment options.

Their rooms are comfortable, although not as lavish as the higher categories, and their prices are high, but not as high as those of five-star hotels. stars.

Finally, the five-star category represents luxury at its finest.

These hotels, such as the Barcelo, are characterized by expensive decor, multiple dining and leisure options (bars, pubs, gyms, swimming pools, spas), and very high accommodation prices.

Within this elite, some 4- and 5-star hotels may earn additional distinctions such as "superior" or "grand luxury."

The frequency of bed linen changes, for example, is daily in four- and five-star hotels, while in lower categories it may be weekly.

Tourist Apartments and Rural Accommodation

Beyond the traditional hotel, there are other accommodation options that offer greater independence.

Tourist apartments are accommodation units located in buildings, houses, or villas and are equipped with the necessary furniture and facilities for guests to store, prepare, and consume their own meals and drinks.

This type of accommodation is ideal for longer stays or for families looking for the comforts of home.

Their quality is measured through a key classification system, ranging from one to four.

Rural houses, on the other hand, are accommodations located in rural areas, outside the urban centers of large towns, which offer a more authentic experience and connection with the environment.

These establishments are usually managed directly by their owners and provide guests with complete facilities such as a kitchen, living room, bathroom and several bedrooms, depending on the size of the house.

They are the preferred option for those looking for tranquility, nature and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Summary

The accommodations are classified by their structure and services. The hotel is the most common and uses a star system to measure quality, which helps users choose.

The star system ranges from the basic, with one or two stars, to the maximum luxury of five-star hotels, which offer exclusive services and multiple leisure options.

Other options offer independence: tourist apartments have kitchens and are classified by keys. Rural houses, meanwhile, offer a quiet and authentic stay surrounded by nature.