Editorial research on Only5Star is guided by four priorities: privacy, design, service and calm. This page explains those priorities, how we form a view, and the limits of our research.
The four guiding priorities
Privacy. Space to be yourself, without crowds or intrusion. Design. Architecture and interiors that reward attention. Service. Anticipation without performance. Calm. A genuine sense of ease, not just quiet.
What rules a property out
Scale in place of substance. A reputation that rests on the brand name rather than the experience. A service culture that feels transactional. Any expectation of payment for editorial coverage. If a place relies on being famous rather than being good, it does not qualify.
How we form a view
Where we have stayed, we say so, and the view is first hand. Where we have not, we assess a property against its published information, the judgement of people whose taste we trust, and consistent guest reporting, and we tell you that is the basis. We would rather be honest about how we know than imply an experience we have not had.
Independence
Editorial selection is independent. We accept no money for editorial inclusion, ranking or a better write up. How we fund the site is set out plainly in our disclosure.
Getting it wrong
If we have a fact or a judgement wrong, tell us. We correct it, and we note any material change.