The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) has awarded the Palace of the Lost City at Sun City a five-star grading.

The Palace achieved a 98 percent satisfaction score and this high grading has been achieved annually since 2002.

The TGCSA developed a star-grading scheme for the entire hospitality industry so that tourists are assured of quality accommodation.

The council provides reliable information on each facility and is industry-regulated.

South Africa has a range of accommodation options catering for a diverse spectrum of travellers including businessmen, backpackers, families, adventure-chasers and luxury seekers.

Accommodation ranges from five-star hotels to B&Bs;, luxury game lodges, farm stays, self-catering facilities, youth hostels and country inns.

The criteria for assessing each type of establishment are already well developed locally and based on international best practice.

"We are delighted that our 5-star rating has once again been reinstated," says Chris van Dam, general manager of the Palace of the Lost City.

"We scored an impressive 98 percent which shows that our customers are extremely satisfied with our service and amenities.

It also strengthens our commitment to continue to work hard and improve upon The Palace experience for all our guests."

The five-star grading recognises exceptional quality and luxurious accommodation (matching best international standards).

The grading procedure includes an assessment of the accommodation, the public areas, guest facilities and guest services.

A random assessment of a cross-section of the guest rooms was conducted, housekeeping and maintenance were monitored and the assessor evaluated the total guest experience observing guest reactions to service and facilities provided.

For more information call Sun International Central Reservations 011-780-7800.

• This article was originally published on page 16 of Saturday Star on February 03, 2006