The Stars of Israel
We all know the hotel rating system here in the US. Five-stars is the highest; one-star is the lowest. Pretty simple.
Hotel reception desk
However, in Israel for most of its modern existence, hotels were rated as superior, deluxe, super deluxe. Trying to translate that and match it to the star system seemed to be easy: superior= 3 star, deluxe= 4 star, super deluxe= 5 star.
Then, several years ago, Israeli hotels added a 5 star plus rating. But this rating was self-assigned, that is, the hotels rated themselves. Hmmmm. In our experience, some of the hotels rated themselves accurately while some did not.
That’s why it is important to you to work with a company that is completely familiar with the hotels and their service. Israel Celebration Tours wants to be certain you get the service and quality you request and expect. That’s where our years of experience and high standards come into play.
Israel Celebration Tours never uses the 3 star hotels. In all our years, there was only one time we booked a small group at a 3 star insisted upon by the clients and against our recommendation. And three days into their trip, they requested to be upgraded to 4 star accommodations. (But I didn’t say, “I told you so”.) Hence, we have learned the American tourist prefers the 4 star and 5 star hotels.
And don’t expect the luxury of an American 5 star hotel in Israel. Of course, there are a few exceptions but for the most part, there are some intangibles that apply. For example, the famous King David Hotel in Jerusalem is rated a 5 star plus. This rating is not for the luxury as the rooms are a bit smaller, much like European hotel rooms. But the high rating is a result of the history of the hotel and its location. All visiting dignitaries seem to stay there.
And when you travel up north, though there are traditional hotels in Tiberias, there are some alternatives. How about staying at a kibbutz guest house? Or a spa? Or an organic farm with a gourmet dairy restaurant and hotel.
Don’t misunderstand; there are true luxury hotels in Israel. At Israel Celebration Tours, we know, after we interview you, what would suit you best. And sometimes, we opt for the 4-star when it will meet all your needs.
Shopping for a hotel stay in the US is fairly easy; less so in Israel. Getting you into the hotel that suits you? That’s what Israel Celebration Tours is all about.