hotel

A commercial establishment providing lodging, meals, and other guest services.

In general, to be called a hotel, an establishment must have a minimum of six letting bedrooms, at least
three of which must have attached (ensuite) private bathroom facilities. Although hotels
are classified into 'Star' categories (1-Star to 5-Star), there is no standard method of assigning
these ratings, and compliance with customary requirements is voluntary. A US hotel with a certain
rating, for example, is may look very different from a European or Asian hotel with the same rating, and
would provide a different level of amenities, range of facilities, and quality of service. Whereas
hotel chains assure uniform standards throughout, non-chain hotels (even within the same country) may
not agree on the same standards. In Germany, for example, only about 30 percent of the hotels choose
to comply with the provisions of the rules established by the German Hotels & Restaurants association.
Although both WTO and ISO have been trying to persuade hotels to agree on some minimum
requirements as world-wide norms, the entire membership of the Paris-based International Hotel &
Restaurant (IH&RA) opposes any such move.
According to IH&RA, to harmonize hotel classification based on a single grading (which is uniform across
national boundaries) would be an undesirable and impossible task. As a rough guide:

A 1-Star hotel provides a limited range of amenities and services, but adheres to a high standard of
facility-wide cleanliness.
A 2-Star hotel provides good accommodation and better equipped bedrooms, each with
a telephone and attached private bathroom.
A 3-Star hotel has more spacious rooms and adds high-class decorations and furnishings and color TV. It
also offers one or more bars or lounges.
A 4-Star hotel is much more comfortable and larger, and provides excellent cuisine (table d'hote and a la
carte), room service, and other amenities.
A 5-Star hotel offers most luxurious premises, widest range of guest services, as well as
swimming pool and sport and exercise facilities.
Top 10 Most Luxurious Hotels In The World

1. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi

Costing approximately $3 billion to build, Emirates Palace has 394 rooms and suites, 40 meeting
and conference rooms, a white sand beach, a myriad of pools and fountains, a sumptuous spa,

marble imported from 13 different countries and over 1,000 crystal chandeliers. Its like a small
pleasure fortress that also boasts the most prestigious marina development in the Middle East.
Royalty, or those who want to feel like it, can luxuriate in one of the many palace suites, all with
lavish surroundings that would befit a Sultan of old yet with enough modern amenities to please
todays top tycoons.

2. Mardan Palace Hotel, Turkey

Built by Russian Billionaire Telman Ismailov in 2009 to the tune of $1.65 billion, the Mardan
Palace Hotel in Antalya, Turkey boasts the largest swimming pool in the Mediterranean (fits
1,000 guests) and is touted as one of the most elite luxury hotels in Europe. Beyond the sinfully
sumptuous suites and jaw-dropping interiors of gold leaf, crystal, and Italian marble, there are
also ten dining spots, 17 bars, a lavish spa and a sunken aquarium full of exotic fish. 9,000 tons
of white sand was flown in from Egypt for the beach alone. 24/7 personal butler service is also
included.

3. The Westin Excelsior, Rome

Built in 1906, The Westin Excelsior Rome has an impressive pedigree in the Via Veneto district.
Though most rooms are affordable, their piece de resistance is the Villa La Cupola Suite that has
recently been refreshed with a $7 million renovation. This signature luxury cocoon spans two
full floors making it the largest suite in Italy. Furnished in grand old style with modern high tech
gadgets, hand-frescoed cathedral style domes, its own private fitness room, sauna, steam bath
and Jacuzzi, and a formal dining room, its a perennial favourite for those who deem money to
be no object.

4. Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai

Built to resemble a billowing sail, the stunning architecture of Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai
makes it one of the most photographed in the world. All rooms are luxurious suites spanning two
floors with state-of-the art everything and incredible views. And beyond the unique over-the-top
amenities like the attached heliport and hovering tennis courts, there is a vast array of futuristic
dining and nightlife options. Their guest care is also seriously intensive. Upscale extras include
in-suite check-in, 24/7 personal on call butlers, and a chauffeur driven Rolls Royce fleet, all
catering to an extremely well-heeled VIP.

5. The Plaza, New York City

Though the Big Apple has many legendary and swanky hotels, The Plaza is often the top choice
for visiting VIPs especially for its Royal Plaza Suite that boasts the best views of Manhattan. The
three-bedroom/three-bathroom suite is styled in the most opulent of old world charm with a
formal dining room, a library, a gymnasium, a grand piano, full kitchen (for personal chefs), and
a butlers pantry, and is serviced by its own private elevator. Butler service is also included. Built
in 1907, the iconic structure was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1969.

Manila 5 Star Hotels

1. Edsa Shangri-La Hotel Manila
Location
Edsa Shangri-La Hotel is situated in Mandaluyong City, nine kilometres away from Ninoy Aquino International
Airport. Visitors can catch events and expos at SMX Convention Center or check out the stores at SM Mall of
Asia.
Rooms
This luxury hotel features 632 elegant rooms and suites are outfitted with air conditioning, cable TV, wireless
Internet access, telephone, coffee-/tea-making facilities and mini bar. Some units come with bathtub and city
views.

2. Diamond Hotel Manila

Location
Diamond Hotel is ideally set on Roxas Boulevard, about eight kilometres from Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Holidaymakers can admire colourful flowers at Manila Orchidarium, explore Intramuros then cap off the night
playing at the casino or partying at Resorts World.
Rooms
The 500 rooms and suites are designed in chic interior and equipped with cable TV, mini bar, safe deposit box,
Internet access and air conditioning. Suites come with living area and study table.

3. Grand Opera Hotel Manila

Location
It is found in the bustling city centre and near the historic walled fortress Intramuros. Vacationers can watch the
famous sunset at Manila Bay or walk around Rizal Park during free time.
Rooms
The tastefully furnished rooms and suites done with comfort and relaxation in mind. Amenities include air
conditioning, cable TV, Wi-Fi access, telephone, mini bar, private bathroom and safe deposit box.

4. Hyatt Regency Hotel & Casino Manila

Location
Hyatt Regency Hotel is situated in Malate, Manila, close to the Baywalk and eight kilometres to Ninoy Aquino
International Airport. Vacationers can watch the sunset from the promenade, stroll around Rizal Park and explore
the nightlife in the old district.
Rooms
All 376 deluxe rooms and suites are equipped with high-speed wireless Internet access (fees apply) and
cable/satellite LCD TV. Some units have balcony, kitchenette, study, and separate living and dining areas.

5. Makati Shangri-La Manila

Location
Shangri-La Manila is situated in the city of Makati, seven kilometres away from Ninoy Aquino International
Airport. During spare time, vacationers can explore the historic Intramuros or watch events at Smart Araneta
Coliseum.

Rooms
All modern room and suites have classy interiors and amenities like LCD TV, Wi-Fi access, telephone, coffee/tea-making facilities, mini bar and hairdryer. Suites come with panoramic views of the city.

6. Mandarin Oriental Manila Hotel

Location
Mandarin Oriental Manila Hote is located on Makati Avenue where major corporate offices are situated. A quick
ride from the hotel brings guests to more posh shopping areas in Bonifacio Global City and Rockwell Centre.
Affordable choices are in Greenhills Shopping Centre 10 kilometres away.
Rooms
There are more than 500 tastefully furnished rooms and suites outfitted with cable TV, telephone, tea and coffee
making facilities, mini bar, refrigerator, safe deposit box and hairdryer.

7. Manila Marriott Hotel

Location
Manila Marriott Hotel is located in Newport City and offers splendid views of the 18 holes Villamor Golf Club. It is
just 15 minutes drive away from Manila's newest dining and business hub, Bonifacio Global City Taguig and 20
minute drive from the Makati business district.
Rooms
All 342 accommodation units are well appointed with amenities such as in-room safe, mini-bar, internet access,
air conditioner and a private bathroom.

8. Peninsula Manila Hotel

Location
Located in the heart of Makati, Manila's business and financial district, the Peninsula Manila Hotel is close to the
premier shopping areas and is within easy access of Manila's numerous attractions. Strategically placed on the
corners of Ayala and Makati Avenues, the hotel is just a 20-minute drive from the Manila's Domestic Airport and
30 minutes from Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Rooms
Elegantly furnished in classical style, the Peninsula Manila's 498 rooms and suites provide modern and
technologically advanced conveniences ensuring all guests a pleasant and relaxing stay in Manila.

9. Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

Location
Located in Manila city, Sofitel Philippine Plaza is close to area attarctions such as Manila Zoo and Rizal Stadium.
Rooms
This property features 609 rooms and luxury suites that are pleasantly decorated and well equipped with modern
amenities such as air conditioner, cable television, telephone, safe and a private bathroom.

10. The Heritage Hotel Manila

Location
The Heritage Hotel is on Roxas Boulevard in Manila near World Trade Centre, three kilometres from Ninoy
Aquino International Airport. While in bustling city, vacationers can also check out Manila Ocean Park or watch
concerts at the Mall of Asia Arena in SM Mall of Asia.
Rooms
The lavish rooms and suites have air conditioning, cable TV, coffee/tea maker, mini bar, safe deposit box,
hairdryer and bathroom with shower. Suites come with separate living area.

Job Description of a Room Service Attendant

Many hotels offer room service for guests' convenience. Room service attendants have a variety of
responsibilities to ensure each guest has an enjoyable experience in the hotel. These attendants must
strive to supply guests with their needs and requests. Depending upon the size of the hotel and
versatility of the staff, responsibilities of room service attendants vary.
Experience

Ideal candidates for a room service job have at least one year of experience working in a
restaurant, especially as a server. Applicants with other customer service experience, such as in
retail, also are considered good candidates.

Skills

Room service attendants must have excellent people skills in order to communicate politely and
professionally with guests and determine whether guests have everything they need during
their hotel stay. They must pay attention to detail in order to deliver precisely what the guest
has ordered.
Attendants must take pride in their personal appearance and maintain the established uniform
of the hotel. They also must be capable of standing or walking for long periods of time, as well
as be able to push heavy carts.

Responsibilities

Room service attendants in hotels of all sizes deliver food, drinks, silverware and condiments to
guest rooms to fulfill guest orders. The room service attendant wheels the tray into the guest
room with the guest's approval, sets up the table, opens platters and identifies each portion.
The attendant may check back later to remove the cart.
Depending upon the size of the hotel, room service attendants also may be responsible for
taking guest orders by phone. These servers must be familiar with the hotel menu to answer any
guest questions, such as those concerning food allergies.
Room service attendants also may deliver packages that arrive for a guest and take care of
guests' dry cleaning orders.
When they are not delivering items to guest rooms, room service attendants may be responsible
for stocking supplies for orders.

At a Hotel - Ordering Room Service - English for Hotel and Tourism

Introduction
Welcome to twominenglish.com. Teaching you English through two-minute lessons.
In this lesson we will learn phrases you can use to order room service in English.

Ordering Food.
Albert: Hello! Im calling from room no. 324. Id like to order dinner in my room.
Samantha: Sure. Whatd you like to have?
Albert: Please send 1 vegetarian platter, 2 servings of crispy garlic noodles and 1 serving of mushroom
gravy.
Samantha: Alright. Is there anything youd like to drink?
Albert: Do you serve wine in the room?
Samantha: Im afraid not. Alcoholic drinks are served only at the hotel bar.
Albert: Not a problem. Just send the food, please. How long would that be ?
Samantha: Max 30 minutes.
Albert: Thatll be fine. Thank you.
Asking for Laundry Service.
Gerard: Hi! Can you send someone to pick up the laundry from my room? Its number 346.
Jerry: Sure. Is there anyone in the room?
Gerard: Yes. My wifes there. Could you send someone right now? We are leaving in 15 minutes.
Jerry: Alright. Ill ask the housekeeping staff to pick it up immediately.
Gerard: Thank you so much.
Ordering from Housekeeping.
Terrance: Id like to get two fresh towels, please.
Jerry: Sure. Do you need anything else, Sir?
Terrance: No. Thats all for now.
Jerry: I am sending someone right away.
Terrance : Thank you.
Ordering Breakfast.
Samantha: Room service. How may I help you?
Albert: Good morning. This is room 234. Can I have some breakfast?
Samantha: Of course. Do you want the English breakfast with coffee?
Albert: Nah! I just want some fruits and a glass of carrot juice.

Samantha: Okay.
Albert: Yup. How long will it take?
Samantha: Be there in 10 minutes.
Albert: Great! Thank you.