With the growing popularity of alternative lodging options like rentals through Airbnb and Vrbo, many travelers are wondering if there are better options than traditional large-brand hotels for their next vacation.
One of these options is a boutique hotel, a smaller, unique hotel where you’ll be one of only a few guests and experience the familiar amenities of a hotel along with the personalized experience of an Airbnb or other short-term rental. What other benefits does a boutique hotel offer over a large brand? Read on below to find out.
Personalized service
First of all, and maybe most importantly, boutique hotels pride themselves on providing personalized service. They are often known for having better and more customized customer care than larger hotels because, in an establishment with a dozen or so rooms as opposed to hundreds, it’s easier for the staff to be aware of each guest.
From the moment you step through the door of a quality boutique hotel like Wanderstay Boutique Hotel in Houston, Texas, you’re greeted with warmth and hospitality by staff whose job is to make you feel at home during your stay. This personalized touch creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes boutique hotels feel more comfortable and less corporate than large hotels.
Distinctive character and design
Another great advantage of boutique hotels is their distinctive character and thoughtful design. Large hotel chains build cookie-cutter hotels with the same standardized decorations in every room, but the unique nature of boutique hotels lets them tell their own stories.
Since boutique hotels are smaller buildings with fewer rooms, they are often repurposed from older spaces instead of built specifically to be hotels. Whether it’s a converted historic mansion, a trendy urban loft, or a charming countryside retreat, each boutique hotel has its own personality and style. Guests in a boutique hotel can expect a thoughtfully designed interior with nods to local culture or rooms with interesting themes.
Prime locations
Another benefit of the smaller size of boutique hotels is that they’re often located in areas that give a more authentic experience of the city. While large affordable hotels are often built on the edge of town for easy access to the freeways, when staying at a boutique hotel, you could find yourself in the heart of the city with easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and other entertainment.
Shorter wait times
As boutique hotels have fewer guests, you’ll experience shorter wait times for assistance from staff than you would at a larger hotel. In a boutique hotel, you won’t have to worry about waiting in line to check in or check out, and the staff can devote more time and attention to ensuring your needs are promptly met.
This personalized approach extends beyond just the check-in process; whether you need recommendations for local dining spots, assistance with finding transportation to your next destination, or any other request, the staff at a boutique hotel will be readily available to help you, creating a more seamless and enjoyable experience.