MYANMAR’s Ministry of Hotels and Tourism intends to implement a star rating system for hotels in the country.

The rating system is designed to “improve and maintain the service at hotels” targeting mostly foreign visitors, according to a ministry spokesperson.

“As the number of (international) tourists visiting Myanmar is increasing, we need to offer better hotel facilities and services to guests,” the spokesperson explained.

So far, 13 three-star, seven two-star and one one-star hotel have been rated in Nay Pyi Taw; in addition to 11 three-star, seven two-star and four one-star hotels in Bagan-Nyaung U; and 10 three-star, eight two-star and 13 one-star hotels in Taunggyi-Inle.

“We will continue monitoring the services of these hotels and the star status may upgrade or degrade in the future due to their facilities and services,” the spokesperson said, adding that the ministry would soon be installing bronze star symbols at the properties based on their ratings.

Hotels in Yangon, Mandalay and other key destinations in Myanmar are also due to be rated.

Lwin Mar Aung, communications manager of Traders Hotel Yangon, welcomes the official star rating system.

“The (proposed) system is fair and accurate…and will end some problems among the hoteliers. Before, many hotels were rating their own properties as three- or four-star,” she said. “It will also help visitors when they choose a hotel.”

Ministry of Hotels and Tourism figures show Myanmar has 691 licensed hotels, offering more than 23,454 rooms.

Earlier this year, the ministry announced plans to increase the number of hotel zones in Myanmar (TTG Asia e-Daily, January 13, 2012). So far, 11 zones have been created in popular tourist regions, while over 50 hotels are expected to open across the country over the next two years.