How does Priceline come up with their * ratings?

[mtbscott]

I ask this question in general, but most specifically for the NYC area. When I look across various booking and travel sites, certain hotels will sometimes be rated with a different number of stars amongst them. TripAdvisor's rating might not be the same as Priceline's, who's isn't the same as Expedia's, etc.

I generally start my Priceline bids (from the links here) with 3*'s but am wondering aloud how much "luxury" I'm giving up in Manhattan if I were to go to 2 or 2.5 stars. Most rooms are small there, I'm not picky, all I really want is a private room with at least a double-sized bed and private bath. Am I assured that with a 2* rating in Manhattan via Priceline?

[Gallus50]

Pretty sure all Priceline rooms are guaranteed to have a private bath and sleep two at any and every star level. I'm sure if you read Priceline's fine print it will tell you that.

[AaronJB]

PRICELINE responded regarding private bathrooms to the user in this thread.

However, when you are talking about 2* properties in NYC, you are going to get a private bathroom, but the quality at the 2* level (and to a lesser degree the 2.5* level) is going to vary significantly. You may luck out and get a nice 2*, but you could definitely get a 2* that is not very nice.

Thank you for using the site's HOTWIRE or PRICELINE links to start your purchases and searches.

[dahammer]

There is not much bidding history at this level in Manhattan and there is speculation about the small price difference between 2* and 3* properties as well. With that said, it is always best to bid up to your maximum budget.

[mtbscott]

Thanks very much for the replies, especially the verification that a private room/bath is assured. This is my related thread about my hotel search/bid: Priceline New York City

I will keep updating that one. I'm continuing to stay at the 3* level for now, but I'm speculating if I went down to 2-2.5 I could get in for my current bid which seems to be very close to accepted 3*'s.