Boutique Hotels Or Hotels - What's The Difference?

Introduction

When it's time to plan your vacation, the opportunity to select from boutique hotels or hotels that fit the classical definition may cause you to pause. That's a good thing. Boutique hotels are a relatively new entry in the world of hospitality and travel. If you are unfamiliar with this emerging style of lodging, you may think that your only choices are inns, bed-and-breakfasts or hotels. Its worth your while to look into the possibility that the boutique hotels at your destination may offer exactly the type of stylish relaxation that you want during your break from everyday work and life. Although the charges may be higher than what it costs to stay at run-of-the-mill motels or hotels, the trade-off is a unique experience that you can remember fondly for years to come.

History

In the latter part of the 20th century, designers, owners and marketers in the hospitality industry envisioned a new style of lodging. This type of property would celebrate innovative design and provide an experience that was different from other lodgings or hotels that simply offered a space to sleep and change one's clothes between other activities. One feature shared by most boutiques is the element of luxury. This is accomplished with upscale amenities and a staff that caters very specifically to each of the guests' needs. In recent years, this segment of the hospitality industry has recognized its role as a lifestyle option for travelers. The major business association for this niche is called the Boutique Lodging & Lifestyle Association. Its membership includes property owners, management, staff representatives and suppliers that cater to boutique hotels or hotels that are small and focused totally on providing a luxurious lodging experience at your vacation destination point.

Features

While you may be able to find motels or hotels that claim to be luxurious, you may have better luck starting your search for lodging by looking for boutique hotel listings. Not only does the boutique style of lodging have a luxurious atmosphere, it also trends heavily toward unusual and state-of-the-art design features. Because boutiques are typically smaller-scale lodgings -- many have fewer than 30 rooms -- the investment the owners have made in artwork and stylish amenities is more concentrated.

Boutique hotels have the latitude to indulge in modern, trendy and unusual colors, designs, linens and room decoration schemes that larger lodgings or hotels rarely offer. It is not unusual to find the work of local artisans and craftsmen in the boutique hotel's common areas and guest rooms. High design concepts coupled with a dedication to comfort will make your stay enchanting and memorable. Architectural features of boutique hotels tend to make use of modern materials and building techniques, even if the hotel is based on the restoration of an older building.

Expect personalized service and attention at a boutique hotel that is far beyond what can be provided by another lodging or hotels. It is not unusual to be welcomed warmly and have your every need catered to at a boutique hotel. Beyond funky, fabulous design, the goal of boutique hotel management is to make your stay a complete deviation from humdrum everyday existence. 

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