Michelin recently started rating hotels, beginning with 189 properties in France. However, an analysis conducted by Shiji ReviewPro found that there were discrepancies between Michelin’s top-rated hotels and the hotels favored by online reviews across various travel sites. Michelin awarded top honors, including three keys, to nine Parisian hotels, with additional properties receiving one or two keys.
Shiji ReviewPro compared Michelin’s ratings for Parisian hotels with the average scores of those same hotels on over 140 online travel agencies and review sites. The analysis showed that many of the hotels that received high praise from online reviewers were not recognized by Michelin. This discrepancy led to questions about how Michelin judges hotels and how its ratings process differs from that of online review sites.
In order to receive Michelin keys, hotels must excel in areas such as architecture, interior design, service quality, overall personality, value for the price, and contribution to the neighborhood or setting. While Michelin’s ratings focus on such criteria, online reviews tend to highlight different aspects of the hotel experience. This could explain why crowd favorites among online reviewers did not align with Michelin’s top picks.
Despite the differences in ratings, online reviews offer their own advantages. They provide a variety of perspectives and detailed feedback, often reflecting the experiences of a larger number of guests. For example, the best 50 hotels in Paris had an average of 461 reviews each, showcasing the depth and variety of feedback available online. This nuance and detail can be valuable for travelers seeking insights into a particular hotel before making a decision.
Overall, the debut of Michelin’s hotel ratings has sparked a discussion about the different ways hotels are judged and reviewed. While Michelin focuses on specific criteria to award keys, online reviews reflect a wider range of guest experiences and opinions. The contrast between Michelin’s picks and crowd favorites from online review sites highlights the diverse perspectives that travelers consider when choosing a hotel. Ultimately, both types of evaluations provide valuable insights for travelers seeking the best accommodation options for their needs.
