EU - Variety of classification systems of hotels

As to the adoption of a classification system, countries can be divided into three categories:
(A) Groups of countries which have not taken any rating system – like the Nordic countries.  In these countries, the opposition to adopt a classification system is justified by the principle of market freedom, falling in disagreement with any form of intervention and control.


(B) Other countries have not adopted an official classification, but have an informal system of classification, which enjoys recognition from the public. In England, two automobile associations (Automobile Association and Royal Automobile Club) have introduced a ranking on the stars, from 1 * to 5 *. In Denmark, the top is promoted by
“Politiken”, with its guidelines. Hotel owners themselves in other countries through professional organizations, provide classification of hotels (the cases of Switzerland and Germany).
(C) Finally, other countries have adopted a formal system of classification, more or less de
tailed (Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Greece, Luxembourg, etc.). Among the most complex systems are judged to be those of France. For most countries, the criteria for classification of hotels have character, technical rules in which qualitative aspects are less represented. Essentially, the criteria used can be divided into  two categories:

• 1. area and equipment, including, in particular, criteria on surfaces (the  rooms), toilet facilities (including the proportion of rooms with bathrooms with tub and shower), and endowment with furniture and other objects;
• 2. quality criteria in relation to the quality of facilities, services and quality. The conditions set for each criterion are minimal. Each of the countries of the world, due to cultural traditions, national and otherwise, are using private rating systems, which prevent the application of a single classification system worldwide. 

However we could conclude that they shared a common language, such as:

• quality of services provided;
• general condition of the building;
• reception hall,
• facilities;
• accommodation;
• toilets;
• food premises;
• minimum services offered to tourists, which may be contained in the tariff or separate payment;
• the attitude and professionalism of staff;

To understand the essence of classification systems of hotels by the level of comfort it
should be seen the regulatory framework in international practice: the involvement of unions and state bodies or professional organizations. In addition to such established classification systems, systems are developed by marketing companies, authoritarian in the professional environment. They bear a subjective nature and are based on categories like: notoriety of the hotel, moral climate, the standard set of services exposed comprehensive presentation of the equipment needed in the work room.
The purpose of these classifications is to facilitate working with advertising for the common consumer.
Minimum criteria for classification should match expectations and needs of present and
future customers - the main recipients and beneficiaries of hotel services. As a mainstream
of technical progress, they are changing, but not necessarily same for all countries, but rather depending on material and spiritual culture of each.