As we said last time, it’s a phrase that really conjures up some wonderful imagery. It was originally coined in 1984 when Steve Rubell compared the Morgans hotel – which he owned along with Ian Schrager – to a small boutique as opposed to a “monolithic department store”.
So what is a boutique hotel then, exactly?
Well, there isn’t a specific definition but there are some common characteristics:
- size. Boutique hotels are small, typically less than 100 rooms or so. Not too small though, otherwise it might be classed as Bed & Breakfast. It’s this small size that offers up the intimate feeling that so many guests enjoy
- independence. They strive to be unique, and have an independent attitude – as do many of their guests – and they are usually privately owned
- architecture and décor. They are often a little bit quirky, perhaps even eccentric, and more often than not different from all the rest. Think Picasso (although you’re unlikely to find one on the wall, sadly!)
- service. This will be exceptional and highly personal
- eating and drinking. You’ll want to do it, of course, and you’ll probably find the food amongst the best you’ve tasted and a splendid range of drinks. Extraordinary restaurants and bars is one description we’ve read
- They may be small, but they will certainly be luxurious, making sure that your stay is a wonderful one
How would we summarise all this?
Transforming the guest experience seems a good summary to us … the guests are positively surprised and delighted in equal measure!
Why wait, when there’s so much on offer?
It’s a good question isn’t it? To help transform your own guest experience, Fine Individual Hotels exists. We are a collection of some of the finest independent and exclusive luxury family boutique hotels in the United Kingdom, and we are waiting to surprise and delight you!
Go on, spoil yourself!
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You can find our web site here – and be completely spoiled for choice – and if you like Facebook you can find us here, and Twitter lovers please look here.
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