STAY AT A PARIS BOTIQUE HOTEL

If you are looking for a different kind of place to stay in Paris, boutique hotels are a good alternative to the usual luxury accommodations available in the French capital.

Wouldn't that be nice to find a feel at home place with unique design and ambiance where you are treated like an exclusive guest? That's what boutique hotels are about.

How do you know a hotel is boutique or not?

The confusing thing for customers is that "boutiqueness" isn't defined by official rules. What is and what isn't, is more in the eyes of the beholder. The fact that everyone in the industry wants to be call boutique adds up to the confusion.

There isn't a sure-fire way to separate the pretenders from the genuine boutique but following some simple steps will help you find the real deal.

Hotels in Paris in the boutique category are smaller properties with usually less than fifty rooms. They have in common the following criteria:

Location

They are located in the best Paris areas, Champs Elysees (8th, 9th), St Germain des Prés (6th,7th), Marais (3rd, 4th), Montmartre (18th ). Try to focus on these locations.

Ambiance

Providing a sense of exclusivity to the guest isn't just about putting together fancy pieces of furniture. It is a well thought designer work to create a unique atmosphere with the right balance of colors, lights, fabrics, furniture and great attention to details.

A unique ambiance is the distinctive sign of a good boutique hotel. In Paris you will find different style:

Contemporary- minimalist- Zen: Simple and relaxing.

Classic- vintage- historical: For a travel back in time.

Designer- trendy- artistic: Colorful, innovative and high tech.

Make sure the style suits your taste before you make a reservation. Go to the hotel official websites to read descriptions and see pictures. Look for customer reviews and photos posted in forums and unbiased travel websites.

Customer services

Customer services and satisfaction are at the center of the boutique concept. Hotels in this category usually are four star properties. Some three stars have joined too. They usually have the amenities you can expect in a luxury hotel, spa, swimming pool (some have it), lounge bar, reading room, gym room... Once again check what is offered on official websites and read what customers say and how they rate it.

Great location, unique ambiance, small size and quality customer services are the ingredients you need to see to make sure the hotel will deliver that exclusivity and uniqueness feeling.

How to book online?

If you look for "Paris boutique hotels" in the search engines, you will find a number of booking websites specialized in this market segment. Compare their offers with the rates given by hotels. Official hotel websites often have early birds and off season offers that might slash the regular rates significantly.

Whether it is design, contemporary or classic, staying in a small exclusive hotel is a rewarding experience and can truly enhance the pleasure of your stay in the French capital.