The term ‘boutique hotel’ is a relatively modern concept that first appeared in trendy cities like New York and London in the 1980s. When they first arrived they broke all of the existing rules of traditional accommodation. The dated, functional, standardised hotels run by large chains now had a new competitor. The new concept was innovative from the moment it first appeared on the market. It took away the staleness of the status quo and instantly made guests feel at home when away from home.
Benefits of chain hotels
If you are travelling for business, sometimes predictability can be a great asset when travelling. With a hotel chain, you know what to expect before you even check-in. Chain hotels can operate nationally and internationally and offer continuity in all locations.
Just about every chain hotel offers a loyalty program that can offer benefits such as a free night, free meals, and other amenities. The benefit from staying at the same chain repeatedly can really add up, even if you travel to different cities. This is something that is rare to find with a boutique hotel.
Benefits of boutique hotels
Boutique hotels are surging in popularity as travellers seek an authentic experience when they tour. It is one thing to visit a location, it is another to actually ‘live’ in it. This is what boutique hotels offer, an authentic experience with personalised service. The freedom from the corporate structure of a chain allows boutique hotels to be flexible in their offerings. Owners can change the décor or alter the amenities as required, rather than following a strict corporate line. The best boutique hotels also utilise local knowledge, allowing them to infuse the local culture and cuisine into the experience.
Individualised service
n a boutique hotel, you’re not just another guest. The staff will know you by name and tailor your experience so that it intimately mirrors your preferences. This is simply not possible in a chain hotel that caters for a daily turnover of hundreds of guests. In a boutique hotel, the fewer number of rooms, and subsequently the number of guests, allows the staff to personalise every stay.
Prime Location
Boutique hotels tend to be perfectly located, often nestled downtown in close proximity to the major landmarks and attractions. They located in buildings that are discreet and fit naturally into their surroundings. You get a comfortable, homely feel, right within the big-city environment.
Dining
The food and beverages on offer are typically outstanding and pack a local flavour. It focuses on quality food and beverage. The in-house restaurant will offer an outstanding dining experience that draws in not only the guests, but the locals as well. A boutique hotel will generally offer a stylish bar or lounge with a modern cocktail list and regional beer and wines.
The element of surprise
The element of surprise is one of the main reasons travellers love boutique hotels. No two hotels are likely to be the same. Unlike chain hotels, which will offer a standardised décor, a boutique hotel will offer furnishings that are unique and regionally significant. From intriguing pieces of art, luxury bathroom amenities and artisan local foods, every boutique hotel has something unique to make your experience memorable.
Artistic influence
Boutique hotels always feel more sophisticated than a standard hotel chain. They can boast custom décor, a quirky architectural design and fascinating decorative pieces of art.
Unique experience
Each boutique hotel offers a completely unique experience, from rooftop bars to bespoke cuisine. No two experiences will ever be the same, which is part of the boutique hotel appeal. They can have a trendy hipster vibe, a down-to-earth homestead style or be a sophisticated metropolitan retreat. The service will be outstanding and personalised. Every aspect of your stay will contribute to a one-of-a-kind experience that will create memories that will last a lifetime.