The Laurel Hotel and Spa Awarded the First and Only AAA Five Diamond Designation in Alabama

AUBURN, AL. (WTVM) - Most are familiar with hearing the star rating system. AAA uses the Diamond rating system which is a consistent inspection, no matter the state or country the hotel is in. The inspection is random, unannounced and anonymous. Clay Ingram with AAA Alabama says earning Five Diamond Designation is extremely rare.

“It’s just almost impossible to get a Five Diamond rating. These people have really worked hard to earn this rating here at this property. I know they’re very excited and very proud,” he said.

The Laurel General Manager, Josh Head, says it was the staff, and Auburn University students in the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management, who stood out to the inspectors.

“It was the people. It was the genuine care from the team, personalized service, anticipating our guests needs, that was what truly stood out,” he said.

There are over 20 thousand hotels and restaurants with a diamond rating, but less than one percent, roughly 130 in the country have ever earned a Five Diamond rating. The Laurel Hotel and Spa is the first and only in the state of Alabama.

“If you earn a Five Diamond rating, you are exceptional in every possible category,” said Ingram.

The Laurel Hotel and Spa is owned by Auburn University. It’s purpose is to give student workers a world-class resort hotel and hospitality experience.

“They’re prepared to go out an operate in a luxury environment and really be part of the best in the world. They’re gaining that experience right here and they’re doing a tremendous job, as we can see with this award,” said Head.