Forbes Travel Guide has announced its list of star rating winners for 2021, which includes four Irish hotels.
Forbes' team of inspectors travels the world to assess hotels, restaurants and spas based on 900 objective standards that determine its star ratings. The inspectors pay particular attention to the provision of exceptional service. The top rating possible, five stars, is only given to properties that meet more than 500 service and physical criteria, and show "an impeccable standard of excellence in hospitality" during anonymous inspections.
Ashford Castle
Co. Mayo's Ashford Castle has been given a five star rating on the annual honours list, and, for the second consecutive year, is the only Irish hotel that has achieved the top rating possible.
Ashford Castle general manager Niall Rochford stated, "After a tremendously difficult year for the hospitality industry, the team as Ashford Castle couldn't have asked for better news at this time. This is arguably the most coveted accolade for any hotel, and receiving the news that we have retained our five star rating in the 2021 Forbes Travel Guide is hugely rewarding. We truly have the best team, and I couldn't be more proud."
Forbes Travel Guide said that during a challenging year for the hospitality industry, Ashford Castle continued to demonstrate five-star service and hospitality to guests.
Forbes Travel Guide CEO Filip Boyen commented, "Our 2021 award winners are a testament to the resiliency of the hospitality industry. During an unprecedented time, Ashford Castle along with other top properties across the world adapted to numerous adversities, all while maintaining high service levels and ensuring the health security of their guests and staff."
K Club, Marker And Merrion Hotels
Meanwhile, Co. Kildare's K Club hotel and Dublin's Marker and Merrion hotels have been given four star ratings.
Four star ratings are given to venues that demonstrate "exceptional service and the quality of facility to match".
Fitzwilliam, InterContinental, Shelbourne And Westbury Hotels
Additonally, Dublin's Fitzwilliam, InterContinental, Shelbourne and Westbury hotels have been listed as "recommended".
"Recommended" ratings are given to venues that are considered to be "excellent with consistently good services and facilities".
© 2021 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
