Recognising excellence

Hotel awards, explained.

Hotel awards come from inspections, expert votes and traveller surveys. Explore what each distinction measures.

Top10Star scores are separate from external awards.

Professional inspection

Forbes Travel Guide Star Ratings

Anonymous inspections of hotel service and facilities.

What it recognises

Five-Star, Four-Star and Recommended distinctions recognise hotels, restaurants and spas that meet Forbes Travel Guide's service and facility standards. Anonymous inspectors evaluate the guest experience, with particular emphasis on service.

Check whether the distinction belongs to the hotel, its restaurant or its spa.

Forbes Travel Guide ratings
Professional hotel selection

MICHELIN Keys

One to Three Keys recognise exceptional hotel stays.

What it recognises

One, Two and Three Keys identify exceptional hotel stays in the MICHELIN Guide selection. Inspectors consider design, service, character, value and the hotel's contribution to its setting.

Keys recognise hotels; MICHELIN Stars recognise restaurants.

How MICHELIN Keys work
Professional inspection

AAA Diamonds

Inspected hotels and restaurants receive Diamond designations.

What it recognises

AAA Diamond designations assess approved hotels and restaurants. Five Diamond is its highest tier, recognising exceptional luxury, amenities and service; Four Diamond identifies refined properties with an upscale experience.

AAA coverage is most relevant in the Americas, so availability varies by destination.

AAA Diamond programme