When looking to book hotels, most people prioritize factors like location, amenities, and ratings. Surprisingly, travel experts suggest that focusing too much on star ratings could lead to overspending and missing out on hidden gem accommodations.
Recent findings from TravelSupermarket indicate that opting for a 2-star hotel instead of a 4-star one could save an average holidaymaker approximately £285 per person on a 7-night trip. Chelsea Dickenson, a Holiday Expert, emphasizes that downgrading star ratings doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing quality.
According to Chelsea, hotel star ratings often reflect amenities rather than essential traveler preferences such as cleanliness, comfort, style, and service. Lower-rated hotels may lack certain luxuries like large pools or round-the-clock services but can still offer charm and prime locations.
The study by TravelSupermarket highlights that even shifting from a 4-star to a 3-star hotel could save around £200 per person, while moving down to a 2-star could result in savings of about £75 per person.
Chelsea points out that many travelers overlook 2 and 3-star hotels without realizing the potential cost savings. By carefully reviewing reviews and photos, travelers can find budget-friendly options that meet their needs, especially for city breaks or shorter vacations where extra facilities may not be essential.
To test this theory, Chelsea booked a 2-star hotel, Boho Suites in Mykonos, for a getaway with her partner. Despite her partner’s initial surprise, the hotel exceeded expectations with spacious rooms, stylish decor, and unexpected amenities like an outdoor jacuzzi. Chelsea’s partner mistook the hotel for a 4-star property, proving that star ratings don’t always reflect the actual experience.
For those considering a budget-friendly Greek escape, Skyscanner offers cheap flights to Mykonos starting from £48 each way. Share your holiday experiences with us at webtravel@reachplc.com.
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