Where to Stay Ratings Methodology

The “Where to Stay” category brings together rankings of accommodation options in various formats — from hotels to guesthouses and hostels. The methodology is based on the general principles of the Madloba system and adapted to account for the specifics of the accommodation market, seasonality, and differences in guests’ expectations.

Which properties are included in the category

The category includes accommodation properties presented in open sources and meeting the requirements for accuracy and completeness of information.

Taken into account are:

• hotels of various categories and formats;
• guesthouses;
• hostels;
• aparthotels and mini-hotels (if there is consistent public data available).

To participate in the rankings, the property listing must contain up-to-date contacts, an address, information about the accommodation format, and confirmed working hours. Properties without stable public data or temporary projects may not be included until sufficient information becomes available.

Which rankings are included in the “Where to Stay” category

Within the category, separate rankings are formed by accommodation format.

Main data sources

Public sources and external signals

Only open data is used when forming the rankings.

Primary sources:

• Google Maps
• Booking
• TripAdvisor
• other specialized accommodation aggregators

Reviews are analyzed in RU / EN / KA, which makes it possible to account for both local and international audiences.

Key indicators for accommodation properties

Specifics of the accommodation category

The accommodation market has pronounced seasonality, especially in tourist cities. Ratings may depend on the travel period, occupancy level, and guests’ expectations.

Additionally taken into account are:

• differences between short-term and long-term stays;
• the impact of service and the property’s condition on long-term reputation;
• the stability of ratings across several seasons.

Working with conflicting data

If ratings differ across platforms, a combination of sources is taken into account.

New accommodation properties

New hotels, guesthouses, and hostels may be included in the ranking based on public data and editorial review.

The property’s position is revised as reviews and user activity accumulate.

Updates to the “Where to Stay” rankings

A scheduled review is carried out at least once per quarter.

Changes may occur more frequently when new ratings appear.

The date of the last update is indicated on the page of each ranking.

The methodology of the “Where to Stay” category is part of Madloba’s overall rating formation system.