Gradings & Ratings
The pineapple has long been regarded internationally as the hospitality symbol of cities, bed & breakfasts, hotels and restaurants. Originally, a pineapple was put out on the fence posts of homes in seaport towns to let sailors know there was a room available. If people had 'company' a pineapple was placed on top of the four poster bed then when the visitors had overstayed their welcome the pineapple was removed - this was a polite hint to leave! The GHG chose the hospitality symbol 'The Pineapple' as a meaningful grading symbol for their accommodation establishments. The GHG does not prescribe the rates the accommodation establishments charge, but recommends that the members use these recommended rates as a guideline when setting their rates. Please note that peak periods such as National Arts Festival, Graduation, Orientation Week and Balloon Week are considered 'High Season' and rates may increase.
For comments and complaints relating to grading or service of one of our members, please click see our contact details at the bottom of our website.
The following are the grading guidelines recommended by the GHG. Should a guest have a specific requirement, it is recommended that they check with the individual establishment.
Superior 
Recommended rates starting from R460 per person sharing (excluding breakfast)
- Superior accommodation with excellent levels of comfort, quality facilities and top class service to guests
- Spacious bedrooms and privacy for guests
- Superior quality beds and mattresses
- Bathrooms should be private or en-suite
- Percale linen and top quality bath sheet size towels
- TV with commercial DSTV
- Wireless Internet
- Superior heating and cooling facilities
- Full toiletries and hairdryer available
- Safe available
- Rooms serviced daily
- Hospitality trays
- Unless self-catering, cooked breakfast foods must be served together
- Secure, off-street parking
Highly Recommended
Recommended rates between R320 - R460 per person sharing (excluding breakfast)
- Very good quality accommodation
- Beds and mattresses should be of an excellent quality and in good condition
- Bathrooms should be private or en-suite
- Top quality linen and towels in very good condition
- TV available
- Heater and fan available in room and guest areas
- Full toiletries and hairdryer available
- Rooms serviced daily
- Hospitality trays
- Unless self-catering, breakfast should be offered, either served or self-service
- If breakfast is uncooked, it must be varied and substantial
- Secure, off-street parking
Recommended
Recommended rates between R245 - R315 per person sharing (excluding breakfast)
- Good quality, basic accommodation
- Beds and mattresses should be of a good quality and in good condition
- Bathrooms should be private or en-suite
- Linen and towels in good condition
- Heater and fan available
- Limited toiletries
- Unless self-catering, breakfast should be offered, either served or self-service
- If breakfast is uncooked, it must be varied and substantial
- Off-street parking
Approved
Recommended rates up to R240 per person sharing (excluding breakfast)
- Accommodation with basic levels of comfort, but clean and reasonable rates
- Beds and mattresses should be in good condition
- Bathroom may be shared
- Linen and towels in good condition
- Heater and fan available
- Unless self-catering, breakfast can be self-served and be uncooked
- Parking available
Star Grading (TGCSA)
The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) has secured the exclusive use of the "star" symbol to denote standards in the Tourism Industry. Establishments are assessed annually and given a "star" rating.
Fair to good (acceptable/modest) quality in the overall standard of furnishings, services, and guest care. Clean, comfortable and functional accommodation.
Good quality in the overall standards of furnishings, service and guest care.
Very good quality in the overall standard of furnishing, service and guest care.
Superior (excellent) comfort and quality with a high standard of furnishing, service and guest care.
Exceptional quality and luxurious accommodation (matching best international standards). Highest standard of furnishings.
For the minimum requirements, click here.
AA Quality Awards
AA Recommended
Reached set minimum requirements.
AA Highly Recommended
High levels of professionalism and attention to detail in decor and quality of furnishings.
AA Superior Accommodation
Pristine with excellent quality decor and furnishings, together with remarkable levels of professionalism hospitality and service.