What is a Boutique Hotel

Boutique hotel is a term popularised in the UK and United States to describe intimate, usually luxurious or quirky hotel environments. Boutique hotels differentiate themselves from larger chain/branded hotels and motels by providing personalised accommodation and services. Sometimes known as ‘design hotels’ or ‘lifestyle hotels’, boutique hotels began appearing in the 1980s in major cities like London, New York, and San Francisco.

Typically boutique hotels are furnished with themed and stylish décor, with rooms being individually designed; they are usually considerably smaller than mainstream hotels, often ranging from three to 50 guest rooms.

Boutique hotels are always individual and are therefore extremely unlikely to be found amongst the homogeneity of large chain hotel groups. Guest rooms and suites may be fitted with wi-fi internet, air-conditioning, honesty bars and satellite television, but equally may have none of these, focusing on peace and comfort rather than gadgetry. Any free toiletries will almost certainly be top-of-the-range and the linen will be high thread count and luxurious, as will the towels and bath robes. Guest services are often attended to by 24-hour hotel staff and many boutique hotels have high quality on-site dining facilities; the majority offer bars and lounges that may also be open to the general public although are frequently for guests only.