The Rise of the Six Star Hotel
An article which first appeared in the Wall Street Journal looks at the increased interest in luxury travel. The amenities craze is causing some hoteliers to up the ante, hence the six-star hotel. The term is a bit of a misnomer since the hotels are declaring themselves six star worthy rather than being awarded the title. Even existing "five-star" chains such as the Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons hotels actually only rate four stars from the Mobil Travel Guides. Six star hotels come with personal butlers, private pools and other special features that merit the thousand of dollars a night fees they command. A former chairman of the Ritz-Carlton hotel company, says he is set to open a six-star chain next year which will include properties in Mexico, Austria and Ireland. Right now, the most famous six stars are the Setai in Miami which is opening this month and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab in Dubai shown here.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
CD Dec 18th 2005 6:02PM
Of course the Burj's six stars are self awarded. It's not what I would consider the best or most exclusive hotel in the area. Apart from having only suits and butler/check-in on every level it, there is nothing special about it. In fact there are budget chains in europe having only suites - I don't see why this should affect the rating. I consider the Burj over-rated and over-priced. The restaurants are mediocre in their class. The hotel is most of the time without guests and it is common knowledge among the locals that it performs far below investors expectations. Thus the rooms are let at dumping prices to travel agencies in Germany and GB.
I'd prefere the "One & Only Royal Mirage" over the Burj at any time and occasion. It has far more flair, style and comfort.... and the interioir doesn't make me feel like having to puke (sorry!).
In the end the six star award is just part of Dubai's typical self exaggerating marketing buzz.... that in fact is very professional and effective, making ordinary people believe that the Burj was the best hotel in the world.
I hope other hotels claiming to be six stars worth will do better :)
TheMatt Dec 18th 2005 6:02PM
I agree. I just love these "six star" places. Mind you, I'd love to go to one, but there are places like the Broadmoor which has been awarded Five Stars and Five Diamonds from Mobil and AAA since the awards started. And they have to earn those every year!