Scotland

Did you know that there are different types of hotels to choose from when taking a break? For one thing you could check out the latest boutique hotel trends. You actually have a choice of different hotel suites to enjoy. Conventional hotel advertising has brainwashed many people into a perception of what a hotel should look and feel like.

Right, so you can choose to stay in an inn such as The Holladay house which you can find in Virginia. Or perhaps you would like to stay at a well known brand chain hotel. But there is another type of hotel hovering just below the radar. If you want something that has the relaxed atmosphere of a homely bed and breakfast, and the amenities of a big hotel, then you could choose a stay at a boutique hotel.

Boutique hotels have had mixed fortunes since the emergence of affordable hotel accomodation. What has helped them remain popular is the homely atmosphere. Quite often the buildings are historic, and this gives them an elevated air of gravitas. Boutiques strive for individuality, and are usually designed around a theme. You will see a lot of local fashion and culture references, with art and local hand crafts on display. Colour schemes and decor have usually been designed to compliment the building and theme and reflect boutique hotel resort trends.

The resort surroundings of boutique hotels can be incorporated into the theme. Santa Fe has a boutique that displays a lot of culture associated with Native American Indians. The Anasazi Inn displays handmade rugs, pottery and throws.

Other hotels choose to base their theme around a time in history. New Orleans hotels are based around the 19th Century. Over in San Francisco’s Hotel Union Square, it is decorated according to the Prohibition era. You will find black granite, cream and travertine tiles.

You won’t just find these hotels in the United States. Such is the level of service and style provided by boutique hotel owners, their popularity is immense. Boutique hotels can be found in Paris, Tokyo, Seville and even Russia. You can even get funding to start a hotel from specialized boutique hotel lenders.

Boutiques on average have about 25-50 rooms. You can also find some with 8 rooms and also others with over 150. They generaly are much smaller than chain hotels. This enables the staff to offer a higher level of customer service to its guests.

Since there’s a limited amount of space in each boutique hotel, it’s important to get your reservation in immediately. Waiting until you’re about to leave is sure not going to get you a room at the boutique hotel of your choice. In fact, it’s unlikely you will get a boutique room anywhere in your vacation/business city if there’s a business conference coming up. If you can, call ahead a month or more to reserve your room.

Many boutique hotels regulary update the qualiy of their suites. Little but nice extras such as improved room furnishings can really bring a smile to your face. You can choose between a deluxe or standard room, complete with high speed wireless internet connections, and a private bath. You will also find at larger boutiques the same amenities as a brand name hotels. Large restaurants, spa’s and fitness suites, and of course bars. If you are on a company business trip, you can book a room for meetings.

If you are tired of staying in those chain hotels, boutique hotels are an alternative. This alternative may cost a little more but is well worth the money you spend. Remember this saying: you pay for what you get. If you want a unique experience, boutique hotels will give you that and more.