According to the Michelin Guide, the new hotel rating system, Michelin Key, builds upon the prestige of the Michelin stars associated with fine dining. Throughout 2024 and early 2025, Michelin introduced the Key at 15 major tourist destinations before the global launch.
In addition to its globally renowned restaurant list and star system, the Michelin Guide has curated a selection of over 7,000 hotels in more than 125 countries. These hotels are evaluated by a team of inspectors based on five globally consistent criteria, focusing on the overall guest experience rather than just amenities, aiming to establish a new international standard for quality hotel service.
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Tony Greenberg, CEO of SingleThread Farms and Inn, receives the highest Michelin Key award. Photo: Michelin Guide |
Tony Greenberg, CEO of SingleThread Farms and Inn, receives the highest Michelin Key award. Photo: Michelin Guide
The Michelin Key system has three levels. One key signifies a special stay experience at an establishment with personality, unique characteristics, a high standard of quality exceeding the average, and service that surpasses its price point. Two keys indicate a wonderful stay experience at unique hotels offering a memorable stay, distinct style, attentive staff, and characteristic local design and identity. Three keys denote an outstanding stay experience, awarded to establishments that offer a surprising and satisfying experience with impeccable service, style, luxury, and comfort, marking a "once-in-a-lifetime" destination leaving a lasting impression.
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SingleThread Farms & Inn in Healdsburg, California, USA, was awarded three keys in 2024. Photo: SingleThread Farms & Inn |
SingleThread Farms & Inn in Healdsburg, California, USA, was awarded three keys in 2024. Photo: SingleThread Farms & Inn
Currently, the nomination list includes over 1,500 hotels that meet the Michelin Key criteria. The first global announcement is expected to make it easier for travelers to search, book, and experience the world's best hotels.
In addition to the Michelin Key, four special awards will be presented for design, wellness, local identity, and the most noteworthy new hotel opening of the year. Nominations for these categories will be announced from August to September on the Michelin Guide's digital platforms.
The Michelin Key announcement ceremony will take place on 8/10 in Paris, with around 300 international hotel managers, media representatives, and industry influencers in attendance.
The Michelin Guide has been present in Vietnam since 2023, featuring a list of starred restaurants in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, contributing to raising the profile of Vietnamese cuisine on the global culinary map. The expansion of the rating system to include hotels is expected to provide further opportunities to promote local accommodations if they are recognized in the future.
Bich Phuong
