Lately, I encounter more and more hotels describing themselves as a boutique hotel. It sounds posh, chic, something extraordinary, But what exactly is a boutique hotel?
Boutique hotel is a term originating in North America to describe intimate, usually luxurious or quirky hotel environments. Boutique hotels differentiate themselves from larger chain/branded hotels and motels by providing personalized level accommodation and services / facilities.
Typically boutique hotels are furnished in a themed, stylish and/or aspirational manner. Although usually considerably smaller than a mainstream hotel (often ranging from 3 to 100 guest rooms), boutique hotels can often have hundreds of rooms in major cities. Guest rooms and suites are fitted with telephony and Wi-Fi Internet, air-conditioning, honesty bars and often cable/pay TV. Guest services are attended to by 24 hour hotel staff. Many boutique hotels have on-site dining facilities, and the majority offer bars and lounges which may also be open to the general public.
Basically, it’s offers all the conveniences of large chain-hotels, with the personalized service typical of smaller establishments. Such type of accommodations are on the rise in Asia, too. Here are Newsweek’s top picks:
New Majestic, Singapore - serves some of the best modern Cantonese cuisine in town
Reflections, Bangkok (photo) -visitors can view and choose their own rooms on the hotel’s web site
Jia Hong, Kong -the popular restaurant Opia offers modern European cuisine and has won awards for being one of the best restos in town.
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