GLOSSARY
 

1.  BOUTIQUE HOTEL

a) Definition

A small property, typically offering an enhanced level of service and marketed to the affluent. boutique operation. Any business venture that seeks to provide an enhanced level of service, at a premium price, to a select clientele.

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 an exceptional and personalized level of 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 (ranging from 3 to 100 guest rooms) boutique hotels are generally fitted with telephony and wi-fi Internet connections, 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.

Of the total travel market a small percentage are discerning travelers, who place a high importance on privacy, luxury and service delivery. As this market is typically corporate travelers, the market segment is referral-rich, non-seasonal, high-yielding and repeat, and therefore one which boutique hotel operators target as their primary source of income.

b)  Boutique Hotel Patrons

The boutique hotel patron is a “sophisticated” traveler who enjoys the uniqueness of the venue and appreciates individualism. The boutique hotel guest is willing to pay more, to get more and is desirous of a high degree of personal attention in this ever increasingly impersonal world. The boutique hotel attracts large numbers of multipurpose stays (both leisure and business travelers) and this patron is highly loyal to the venue, posting high rates for repeat visitation. Also, the boutique hotel attracts a larger percentage of female travelers, attributed, in part, to the heightened sense of security that a more intimate, highly service-minded environment demands.

2.  Bed-and-break·fast or bed and breakfast (B & B)

A private residence, several rooms of which are set aside for overnight guests whose paid accommodations include breakfast.

Also, B and B. A hotel or other hostelry that offers a room for the night and a morning meal at an inclusive price. For example, Staying at a bed and breakfast meant never having to plan morning meals. This term and the practice originated in Britain and have become widespread