AA Travel Guides American Express Accommodation Awards winners

Winners were announced in 40 categories such as guest houses, bed & breakfasts, self-catering establishments, township accommodation, game lodges and different types of hotels.

Now in its 18th year, this consumer-based programme is claimed to be the only established mechanism for consumers to voice their opinion about the quality of tourist accommodation in South Africa.

More than 41 000 consumers commented on approximately 1100 AA Quality Assured or star-graded establishments across the country this year, either electronically or by completing quest critique forms. Guests commented on aspects such as service levels, ambience, food and the quality of facilities.

Growing popularity

Convenor Vanessa Sand says the awards programme grows in popularity each year and the honour of emerging a winner or a finalist is fiercely sought after by contestants as this gives a very definite marketing edge to their establishments.

"The fact that only establishments with recognised quality indicators may enter the programme already sets a high standard and after a rigorous judging process we are confident that our winners are the best in the market."

High-scoring establishments were examined carefully and were visited by qualified and experienced assessors to verify that high scores were justified.

Winners and finalists in the programme receive extensive publicity and are listed in the annual South Africa's Best publication, which is distributed at local and international travel fairs, and through the media. Lists of finalists and winners can also be viewed on www.accommodationawards.co.za.

Because all information received from guests, whether positive or negative, is sent back to participating establishments, Sand says the awards programme plays a significant role in improving standards of accommodation in the country. "Our feedback assists establishments to improve certain aspects of their operations, if necessary, and to maintain existing high standards."

"Of course the programme is also hugely beneficial to consumers as it enables them to choose a winning establishment when wanting to stay over. We are proud that our programme is a very effective tool to respond to the needs of consumers," she says.

The awards programme is supported by American Express Card, Avis, BnB Sure and Sealy.

The 2011 Winners