According to the Hotel-Expert Association, more and more hotels among those filing applications for classification procedure have in mind not only the high 4- and 5 star status, but also that of  1-2*.
  
This tendency goes to show that hotels are gradually cooling down to the rush for the most flattering  image expressed in the number of stars on their facades. Of paramount importance becomes the desire to improve the service quality irrespective of the category and this is a sign that the most complicated psychological phase is over.

By way of an example, the Association experts  mentioned Tagansky Riad, a small 2* hotel in Ekaterinburg,  which has already undergone the expert examination. What caught the experts eye was a wide range of categories to choose from including luxuriant suites,  studios with all the inherent paraphernalia and 3-room 5th category suites, however  without a lavatory.   Tagansky Riad runs counter to the old 2 star hotel stereotype that would rather  invoke a picture of a slovenly hos-tel.  The experts declare that the hotel is in excellent condition and even clients of moderate means will feel comfortable and dignified there.

M. Nemolyaeva,  chief expert on the classification system says: The companies that do not fully meet the desired category requirements are most desirous to do their best to conform.   Expert examination is sort of practical aid for them and they are  very grateful for advice. Hoteliers are consciously willing to receive the category they deserve. She added that experts have finished their work at the Urals hotel aspiring to 4*.  All the papers on these and other hotels will be presented to the Certification Board at the next sitting.