Originally Posted by
slawecki
some countries (italy and france)have regs for star count. include stuff like elevator, 24 hr desk. i no longer stay in 5* starwoods, but in 4* smalls. they are much more personal, i think have much better amenities, and i have a better time. been to barcelona, venice, bologna recently. these hotels are terrific. see you in lyon in a couple weeks.
+1. Can't disagree with that...lots of excellent local boutiques in the 3-4 star range in most European cities if you can bear to pull away from the points/status game for a few nights.