I usually rate hotels with the Epinions stars based on my overall experience at a specific property, not whether or not I think it's a one star or 5 star resort (like the AAA ratings). So if I stay at a Motel 6, but had a e good experience, should I rate 5 because everything was great and wonderful, or should I rate 1 because there were no special amenities, etc compared to say that of a Hilton resort?

Oops- I hit the REPORT button accidentally- sorry! (I know I'm not the first to make that mistake... it all happened so fast!)

Anyway, thank you for moving the post, I wasn't exactly sure where it should be. I know that some people rate more according to AAA standards, but I agree with you Michelle. You can find a AAA or similar rating almost anywhere, but that has less to do with an actual experience than what a property lists as their services/amenities... I'd love to hear other's thoughts on this as well!!

I'm in agreement with what's been said. Ratings are about your relative experience, not the hotel classification.

I agree with rating this way. But sometimes there are some intangible factors that come into play. I once stayed in a really decent motel that had thick bullet proof glass around the lobby desk. I was pretty uncomfortable thinking about what must have happened one night. -Dave

Beastie said:
Oops- I hit the REPORT button accidentally- sorry!

This reminds me of a Farside cartoon. A guy is sitting in an airplane and tries to recline his seat. But he accidentally hits a button that says ''Wings Fall Off'' :()

-Dave

I know I'm late jumping in here, but I agree with what others have said. When I review a book or a movie, one of my biggest considerations is the author's or producer/director's intent and whether they are successful in executing their projects. I use the same basis for hotel, destination or restaurant reviews.

Adrienne

I have just come back from 3 weeks in England.

I wrote a review years ago on a Holiday Inn Express and it was new, spotlessly clean, fantastic service, a great buffet, and 24 hour hot drinks. I couldn't fault it in anyway.

I had a comment that as it was a Holiday Inn Express it only deserved 2 stars. I gave it 5 because I have been back there and so have some of my friends and it is a great place to stay.

I rate the hotel how it compares to other hotels in it's class. I don't expect the same service from a Hampton Inn that I expect from a Hilton or Embassy Suites. In some ways, I am more comfortable with anywhere from three to five kids at a Hampton than at a Hilton anyway, making it a better option for my family and something I'm more likely to give a higher rating to.

Patti

I usually rate a hotel on the cleaniness and service. Hampton was a 9 in my opinion, and the Radisson a -0! That one had bed bugs and dirty dishes! anyone agree?