Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Forbes Travel Guide 2019
Forbes Travel Guide 2019
New Standards
PUBLIC AREAS
Standard: Did the property’s food and beverage experiences stand out in any way?
Classification: Elements of Luxury
FTG Clarification: This standard will take the place of the three “particularly impressive” standards at
the end of the Hotel Dining, Bar/Lounge Service and In Room Dining sections. It will serve to highlight
exceptional service, impressive dining venues or particularly notable food and beverage details. The
response here can also incorporate information about “non-tested” venues, such as a rooftop bar or
afternoon tea, which would not be tested against existing standards.
Retired Standards
HOTEL DINING
Standard: Was there something particularly impressive about the dining experience?
Classification: Elements of Luxury
BAR/LOUNGE SERVICE
Standard: Was there something particularly impressive about the bar/lounge experience?
Classification: Elements of Luxury
IN ROOM DINING
Standard: Was there something particularly impressive about the in-room dining experience?
Classification: Elements of Luxury
1. Standard: The hotel’s website is professional in design, intuitive and consistent with the
property and/or brand.
Classification: Technical Execution, Skill & Knowledge
4. Standard: Staff is professional and courteous when corresponding with the guest via email.
Classification: Courtesy & Manners
5. Standard: All email communications accurately reflect the property and/or brand.
Classification: Technical Execution, Skill & Knowledge
6. Standard: All text message communications are polite, professional and consistent with the
property style.
Classification: Courtesy & Manners
7. Standard: Text message responses are instantaneous or within the promised timeframe.
Classification: Efficiency
8. Standard: When guest requests are made through digital technology, the functionality is intuitive
and convenient.
Classification: Guest Comfort & Convenience
The following standards have been moved from their original sections to be assessed in the above Digital
Communications section:
RESERVATION SERVICE
Standard: Confirmation is personalized, professional and accurate; it accurately represents the
property and/or brand.
This standard will be assessed in Digital Communications Standards #3 and #5.
Standard: The hotel’s booking engine and/or mobile application is available, easy to navigate and
complete a reservation.
This standard will be assessed in Digital Communications Standard #2.
DEPARTURE SERVICE
Standard: If expedited check out is offered, the process is seamless and convenient.
This standard will be assessed in Digital Communications Standard #9.
PUBLIC AREAS
Standard: All digital communication is professional in execution and content display.
This standard will be assessed in various Digital Communications Standards.
IN ROOM DINING
Standard: If digital ordering technology is available, the process is intuitive and convenient.
This standard will be assessed in Digital Communications Standard #8.
Beginning with 2019 evaluations, Casino Service will no longer be evaluated as part of an official
Ratings inspection. Testing the casino for a Ratings evaluation is not a universally fair process, as
we are unable to evaluate casinos in some destinations for various reasons. As a result, additional
standards are tested for some properties but not others, though they have the same facilities. This
does not provide Forbes Travel Guide with a helpful database on global casino performance, and,
moreover, does not evaluate casino hotels on a level playing field.
If you are interested in continuing to receive feedback on your casino’s performance, please
contact your Partner Services representative to discuss Quality Assurance options.
ARRIVAL SERVICE
Guests are politely greeted curbside within 30 Guests are politely greeted curbside within 60
seconds of arriving. seconds of arriving.
Did the arrival process, staff or level of Was there something particularly impressive
thoughtfulness stand out in any way? about the arrival experience?
FTG Clarification: The meaning behind this standard has not changed, but it has been re-worded for clarity of
the requirement.
DEPARTURE SERVICE
Did the departure process, staff or level of Was there something particularly impressive about
thoughtfulness stand out in any way? the departure experience?
FTG Clarification: The meaning behind this standard has not changed, but it has been re-worded for clarity of
the requirement.
GUEST ROOM
A specific high quality welcome gift or amenity is A specific welcome gift or amenity is provided
provided during the visit. during the visit.
BAR/LOUNGE SERVICE
At least three well-chosen and diverse red wines, At least three well-chosen and diverse red wines,
three white wines and one Champagne/sparkling three white wines and one Champagne/sparkling
wine are available by the glass. wine are available.
POOL/BEACH SERVICE
It is not necessary to prompt staff, as they have
Staff is thoughtful and intuitive, demonstrating
anticipated all requirements and automatically
anticipatory service when appropriate and helpful.
provided or offered them.
FTG Clarification: While thoughtful service is still very important to the guest experience at the pool or beach,
the requirement for staff to provide a specific proactive gesture in every situation is not always a reasonable
expectation and can vary depending on the level of interaction, as well as other factors. The requirement here
has been refined so that the guest feels well cared for and does not need to prompt for anything during their
time at the pool or beach.
In 2019, Forbes Travel Guide is introducing a revised Performance Notification policy, replacing what
was previously known as the Warning Notification policy.
The revised policy includes a consideration that will help some properties avoid a Performance
Notification. When a property’s composite falls below the benchmark required to maintain its Star
Rating level, the system will average the current result with the past two final Ratings scores on file.
If the average of those three scores is above the required maintenance benchmark, the property will
retain its existing Star Rating without entering into a Performance Notification period. This status
will appear on your Rating report as a “Composite Score Advisory.”
Should the average of the three composite scores not meet the maintenance level, the property will
enter into the usual Performance Notification period, and must meet or exceed the achievement
benchmark in future Ratings evaluations in order to avoid a Star Rating adjustment.
Properties affected by the Performance Notification policy will receive more details when Ratings
are confirmed via letter in January 2019.
Thank you for participating in the Forbes Travel Guide Global Partnership. We are
delighted to present you with the Forbes Travel Guide 2019 Hotel Standards. Our
standards are evaluated annually to ensure they remain relevant and reflective of
the needs of today’s discerning traveler.
As you read through the criteria, please note that the philosophy and application
of each standard is applied with the average guest’s experience in mind. The
interpretation of the standards is rigid; however, our inspectors are trained to
understand cultural nuances, and to come to highly approachable conclusions
when observing certain interactions and situations. Our inspection team is
meticulously trained to articulate their experiences through diligent reporting, and
to capture the spirit of the staff and the personality of the property.
Amanda Frasier
Executive Vice President, Standards & Ratings
afrasier@forbestravelguide.com
+1 (404) 906-6017
Each Forbes Travel Guide standard reflects a category of the guest experience known as a
Classification. The following Classifications are represented within 2019 standards
for hotels:
Efficiency
These standards address the expected time of delivery of service
Elements of Luxury
These standards reflect detailed attention to the level of sumptuous comfort, choices and
convenience provided
Staff Appearance
These standards address the staff’s personal appearance and posture
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and
6 & Sense of Personalized Service
concern for the guest
Service
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
The guest's name is used naturally as a signal of
9 & Sense of Personalized Service
recognition
Service
Reservationist can describe the hotel facilities with Technical Execution, Skill &
12 Service
clarity Knowledge
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
14 Reservationist conveys enthusiasm & Sense of Personalized Service
Service
Details of the booking are repeated for confirmation Technical Execution, Skill &
17 Service
and confirmation number is given Knowledge
Confirmation is offered and received within 24 hours Technical Execution, Skill &
18 Service
of the call Knowledge
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
Cross-departmental channels of communication
20 & Sense of Personalized Service
among staff are consistent and complete
Service
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern
6 & Sense of Personalized Service
for the guest
Service
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
Staff is thoughtful and intuitive, demonstrating
7 & Sense of Personalized Service
anticipatory service when appropriate and helpful
Service
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
Cross-departmental channels of communication
8 & Sense of Personalized Service
among staff are consistent and complete
Service
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
The guest's name is used naturally as a signal of
10 & Sense of Personalized Service
recognition
Service
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
Staff does not decline any request without offering
15 & Sense of Personalized Service
appropriate alternatives
Service
All details of the reservation are accurate; departure Technical Execution, Skill &
23 Service
date is confirmed during registration Knowledge
Graciousness, Thoughtfulness
24 The guest is offered an escort to their room & Sense of Personalized Service
Service
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
9 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
18 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
9 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
When asked about local activities and attractions, Technical Execution, Skill &
20 Service
staff provides an appropriate choice of options Knowledge
When appropriate, staff effectively provides directions Technical Execution, Skill &
22 Service
and transportation options Knowledge
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
25 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
The service or resolution proposed by the staff fully Technical Execution, Skill &
26 Service
and accurately meets the guest's needs Knowledge
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
9 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
When asked about local activities and attractions, Technical Execution, Skill &
20 Service
staff provides an appropriate choice of options Knowledge
When appropriate, staff effectively provides directions Technical Execution, Skill &
22 Service
and transportation options Knowledge
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
25 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
The service or resolution proposed by the staff fully Technical Execution, Skill &
26 Service
and accurately meets the guest's needs Knowledge
The hotel's website is professional in design, intuitive Technical Execution, Skill &
1 Service
and consistent with the property and/or brand Knowledge
All email communications accurately reflect the Technical Execution, Skill &
5 Service
property and/or brand Knowledge
12 Personal headsets are available to all guests Guest Comfort & Convenience Facility
18 Chilled towels are presented in the fitness area Elements of Luxury Facility
21 Fitness classes or personal training is available Guest Comfort & Convenience Facility
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
8 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
13 All interactions are closed politely and appropriately Courtesy & Manners Service
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
17 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
22 Folded items are returned with luxurious presentation Elements of Luxury Service
Hanging items are neatly returned, with non-slip Technical Execution, Skill &
23 Service
inserts for trousers Knowledge
The service or resolution provided by the staff meets Technical Execution, Skill &
24 Service
the guest's needs and expectations Knowledge
2 All bathroom fixtures are thoroughly cleaned Cleanliness & Condition Facility
All used bathroom linens and robes are removed and Technical Execution, Skill &
4 Facility
neatly replaced Knowledge
6 Toiletries and cosmetics are neatly arranged Guest Comfort & Convenience Facility
Soiled in-room dining serviceware, trays or trolleys are Technical Execution, Skill &
16 Facility
removed from the room and not left in the corridor Knowledge
Magazines and newspapers are neatly compiled and Technical Execution, Skill &
25 Facility
arranged Knowledge
Good security precautions are taken when staff is Technical Execution, Skill &
34 Service
servicing rooms Knowledge
Guest room corridors are kept neat and organized Technical Execution, Skill &
35 Service
during daily service Knowledge
8 All collateral is accurate and magazines are current Guest Comfort & Convenience Service
20 All useful items are clean and in excellent condition Cleanliness & Condition Facility
21 If provided, the technology is easy to use and navigate Guest Comfort & Convenience Facility
1 Telephone conversations are calm and clear Courtesy & Manners Service
Staff can capably answer questions about the entire Technical Execution, Skill &
12 Service
hotel or obtains effective and prompt assistance Knowledge
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
17 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
20 Staff uniforms are exceptional in design and style Elements of Luxury Service
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
8 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
18 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
If asked for menu recommendations, staff can Technical Execution, Skill &
23 Service
provide helpful information Knowledge
35 Foods are flavorful and well-seasoned/balanced Food & Beverage Quality Service
36 Portions are generous and appropriate Food & Beverage Quality Service
37 Food presentation is precise and carefully plated Food & Beverage Quality Service
38 Cooking is done properly and as requested Food & Beverage Quality Service
All items ordered are served accurately and server Technical Execution, Skill &
39 Service
does not have to ask who ordered what Knowledge
49 Table is in excellent condition and completely clean Cleanliness & Condition Facility
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
6 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
When known, the guest's name is used naturally as a Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
10 Service
signal of recognition Sense of Personalized Service
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
16 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
All items ordered are served accurately and server Technical Execution, Skill &
19 Service
does not have to ask who ordered what Knowledge
24 Beverages are served at appropriate temperatures Food & Beverage Quality Service
36 If snacks are served, napkins are provided Guest Comfort & Convenience Service
Bills are conveniently and discreetly presented, Technical Execution, Skill &
45 Service
collected and accurately prepared Knowledge
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
8 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
17 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
Ordertaker can helpfully discuss details of foods and Technical Execution, Skill &
19 Service
beverages Knowledge
23 Beverages are opened and poured in the room Guest Comfort & Convenience Service
Plastic wrappings and plate covers do not remain on Technical Execution, Skill &
26 Service
any dishes Knowledge
28 Food presentation is precise and carefully plated Food & Beverage Quality Service
31 Foods are flavorful and well-seasoned/balanced Food & Beverage Quality Service
32 Portions are generous and appropriate Food & Beverage Quality Service
33 Cooking is executed properly and as requested Food & Beverage Quality Service
Staff exhibits a genuine sense of interest and concern Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
6 Service
for the guest Sense of Personalized Service
Staff does not decline any request without offering Graciousness, Thoughtfulness &
14 Service
appropriate alternatives Sense of Personalized Service
18 Sun protection products are conveniently available Guest Comfort & Convenience Service
19 Ample towels are automatically provided Guest Comfort & Convenience Facility
26 Restrooms are located within the pool/beach area Guest Comfort & Convenience Facility
All ordered items are accurately served and the bill is Technical Execution, Skill &
33 Service
correct Knowledge
The Emotional Engagement Survey gives partners unique insight into the emotional journey of
their guests.
• Available as an additional report option for any Quality Assessment or annual Rating
evaluation, the Emotional Engagement Survey provides feedback on up to 35 touchpoints of
the guest experience.
• The Emotional Engagement Survey complements the inspector’s objective observations on
adherence to Service and Facility standards, revealing the feelings that accompanied each
interaction.
• Emotional Engagement results are available for hotels, restaurants and spas, and may be
added to upcoming reports or any previously published report from 2015 or 2016.
Awestruck 100%
Most Postive (90%-100%)
Amazed 90%
Satisfied 60%
Disappointed 30%
Somewhat Negative (20%-44%)
Unhappy 20%
Frustrated 10%
Most Negative (0%-19%)
Angry 0%
STANDARD
After reviewing the hotel's website, how did you feel about your upcoming stay?
How did you feel about the level of courtesy exhibited by the reservationist?
Following the reservations call, how did you feel about your upcoming visit to the property?
ARRIVAL SERVICE
STANDARD
How did you feel about the combined efforts of the staff during your arrival?
Once the arrival experience was complete, how did you feel?
DEPARTURE SERVICE
STANDARD
How did you feel about the combined efforts of the staff during your departure?
When looking back on your visit, what was the overriding emotion you felt about your visit?
STANDARD
How did you feel about the level of expertise demonstrated by the concierge?
On reflection, how did you feel about the overall concierge service?
STANDARD
How did you feel about the level of expertise demonstrated by the concierge?
On reflection, how did you feel about the overall concierge service?
STANDARD
How did you feel about the level of courtesy and graciousness extended through digital communication?
How did you feel about the convenience of the hotel's automation and technology efforts?
FITNESS FACILITY
STANDARD
Upon first arriving to the fitness center, how did you feel in regards to the facility?
After your workout, how did you feel about your experience?
STANDARD
How did you feel about the overall service provided?
STANDARD
When you first arrived to the room, how did you feel about your daily service?
Once you were settled in, how did you feel about your daily service?
Overall, what did you feel in regard to the level of personalization this daily service provided?
STANDARD
When you first arrived to the room, how did you feel about your turndown service?
Once you were settled in, how did you feel about your turndown service?
Overall, how did you feel about the level of personalization this turndown service provided?
GUEST ROOM
STANDARD
How did you feel about the appearance of the bedroom and living areas when you first arrived?
How did you feel about the bathroom’s appearance when you first saw it?
Upon your final departure, how did you feel about your room?
HOTEL DINING
STANDARD
During the meal, how did you feel about the service provided by your server(s)?
How did you feel about the quality of the food in terms of the choice, presentation and taste?
Following your meal, how did you feel about your overall dining experience, including the setting and
atmosphere?
STANDARD
During your time at the bar, how did you feel about the service provided by your server(s)?
How did you feel about the foods and beverages offered at the bar?
Following your time at the bar, what was your overriding feeling about the experience, including the setting and
atmosphere?
STANDARD
How did you feel about the overall combined service provided by the staff?
How did you feel about the quality of the food in terms of the choice, presentation and taste?
Following your in-room dining meal, how did you feel about the level of luxury overall?
STANDARD
Upon first arriving to the pool, how did you feel about the pool/beach area?
How did you feel about the overall combined service provided by the staff?
After you left the pool/beach area, how did you feel about your overall experience, including the food/beverage
quality and the setting?