This is probabl;y a silly queston but can someone explain the stars rating of hotels in France? What is the difference between a 2 star and a 3 star hotel in terms of amenities and level of comfort that we should expect? <BR>Jeff

Sometimes, just an elevator, but also the room size, a minibar, or air conditioning, although some 3 stars don't have air conditioning, or minibars, and some rooms are minimal, as weird as it might sound. Let's say that they are 3 stars with 2 stars rooms. ;-) <BR> <BR>Surlok

Jeff, <BR>There is no significant difference in the rating systems used in any of the western European countries. In one for example, a one star hotel offers washbasin in each room, a communal lounge and access to a telephone (not necessarily in the room). A two starred hotel includes a breakfast room and television (again not necessarily in the room). Three starred hotel room includes a toilet, tub or shower in at least a third of the rooms, in room TV and telephone and a restaurant. Amenities such as hairdryers may be included. A four star hotel will have at least three quarters of its rooms with toilet tub or shower and 24 hour access.

I agree with wes [surprise!] -- it mostly has to do with how many rooms have private facilities.

&lt;&lt;What is the difference between a 2 star and a 3 star hotel &gt;&gt; <BR> <BR>Tough to say. The difference could be the height of the ceiling, the number of windows, the location of light switches. But generally speaking, the 3 star will have more amenities - a lobby, little larger rooms, a minibar or things like that. There are 2 stars with A/C and 3 stars without it. So it's really a tough call but USUALLY you'll get more at a 3 star. For more Paris information e-mail me – [email protected]

Actually the difference is in required amenities and the ratio of en suite bathrooms, showers and tubs compared to rooms. I do know that a hotel in Paris that I love recently went from a 2 to 3 star when they renovated all the bathrooms, without making any changes.

And, if you aren't confused enough already, it really all has to do with the system that the particular rater is using. One rater might rate a hotel a 2*; the next one, using different criteria, rates the same hotel as a 3*. There is no real standard. The only way you can know for sure is to get a copy of the rating system used by the folks who rated it. If your information is from a travel guide, the rating system is usually listed somewhere in the guide.

Jeff, <BR>To clarify the posting immediately above. Many European countries, England, France and Italy, among others, have state run or industry organizations that establish the criteria for awarding stars. Many guide books use these ratings in their books; others may elect to establish their own criteria, Michelin for example. Confusion lies in which source to believe coupled with how current is the rating that's been assigned.