How to Choose the Best Boutique Hotel Stays in the U.S.

So, you’ve picked out where you’re going on your next getaway, made your travel arrangements and picked out a stunning new swimsuit for the pool. Now, all that’s left is to pick out where you’re going to stay.

If you’re looking for something unique, charming and less chaotic than a giant chain resort, consider a boutique hotel. These smaller hotels offer a degree of personalization and privacy wherever you’re traveling. Here are some tips on how to pick the best boutique hotel stay in the U.S. for your next trip.

Why stay at a boutique hotel?

The advantages of a boutique hotel go beyond the quality of the sheets or the availability of late check-outs. These hotels offer numerous advantages over the larger chain brands you see everywhere.

• Size: Boutique hotels are generally smaller than a typical chain hotel, often having 100 rooms or fewer.
• Personalized attention: With a smaller number of rooms, most boutique hotels pride themselves on providing personalized service to each guest. They may be family-run or provide individualized recommendations for food or activities catered directly to the guest’s interests.
• Unique spaces: Boutique hotels are often themed to their locations or to attract a specific clientele. They might have large common spaces with hipper furnishings for younger travelers or a darker, more romantic atmosphere for couples.
• Amenities: If you are looking for a spa or upscale restaurant during your stay, boutique hotels might offer high-class amenities to make your trip even more relaxing.

What to look for in a boutique hotel

With so many potential boutique hotels to choose from, it may feel overwhelming to decide where to go. Consider your unique preferences and needs to guide your decision-making.

Location that fits your trip style

What kind of vacationer are you? Do you get up at the crack of dawn to hit the biggest attractions? Or do you roll out of bed at noon to stroll down to the pool for brunch? You can find boutique hotels in big cities and quieter, rural areas. Think about what activities you might do on your trip and try to find a hotel close by. Consider how much you value privacy versus convenience. That exclusive bed and breakfast in the mountains may seem nice, but you might not be able to get a coffee around the corner like you might at a city hotel.

Thoughtful design

One of the hallmarks of a boutique hotel stay is its character. More than your average chain hotel, a boutique hotel’s design influences your experience each day of your trip. Some hotels might show off an upscale, fashion-forward energy designed to evoke a sense of luxury, while others might have an eco-friendly, natural aesthetic to reconnect with the surrounding area. If you’re someone who values quiet lodgings, don’t pick a boutique hotel that blasts music in the lobby all night.

Personalized service

A nice perk of a great boutique hotel is attentive, tailored service. It’s not uncommon for staff to know your name a few nights into your stay. Do your research and see what people say about their experiences in online reviews. Does the hotel offer to ship your luggage or provide exclusive dining reservations? Unlike at larger chains, staff may be more flexible in offering early check-in or late check-out, and they may help you book amenities like spa reservations. If you have specific questions or requests, it may be possible to get answers before you arrive.

Unique amenities and excursions

Many boutique hotels offer exclusive amenities to their guests. A beach hotel might offer complementary bike rentals to cruise the local boardwalk or partner with a local winery to offer exclusive tastings in the lobby. Unique food options, live music or bespoke bath products may also be available, among other things.

Are you going to spend a ton of time lounging in your room? Try to pick a boutique hotel with fantastic room service and high-class linens. If you’re heading for the great outdoors, look for a hotel that offers trail maps or sunscreen and bug spray in addition to the traditional soap and shampoo.

Size and guest experience

While most boutique hotels offer fewer rooms than traditional hotel chains, what they do with the space can vary. Some hotels try to build a sense of community in their common spaces. The lobby may have an open design to encourage conversation, or the dining room may have communal tables where you sit with fellow guests. Other hotels may have only a small, intimate lobby, leaving more space for rooms with an air of luxurious privacy. Consider how you’d like to feel while on your vacation, not just in your room, but on the way to and from and everywhere in between.

Reputation and reviews

Just like with any hotel, it’s important to do your research before booking. Sure, the pictures may look nice on the website, but what is it really like to stay there?

Look online for reviews on trusted travel platforms. What do they say about cleanliness, staff, or comfort? Does that suspiciously low price hide the fact that it’s in an inconvenient neighborhood? What’s the in-room experience like, and can you hear other people through the walls? Taking the time to research ahead of time will help make sure you get the experience you’re looking for.

Find your ideal stay

Staying at a boutique hotel is a great way to make any trip unique. Using Citi Travel^® search features can help eligible Citi® cardmembers compare prices and locations across a wide range of properties and score ThankYou® Points to redeem on your next trip. Shake up the routine on your next vacation and enjoy a stay you’ll never forget.

Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.

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