boutique hotel
/buːˈtiːk hoʊˈtɛl/
Meaning
A small, stylish, and typically upscale hotel that offers personalized service and unique decor. Unlike large international chain hotels, these properties usually reflect the local culture and have an intimate, trendy character.
Examples
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We stayed at a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the historic district.
We stayed at a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the historic district.
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Instead of a massive resort, they preferred the intimate vibe of a boutique hotel.
Instead of a massive resort, they preferred the intimate vibe of a boutique hotel.
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This boutique hotel only has twenty rooms, so the service is incredibly personalized.
This boutique hotel only has twenty rooms, so the service is incredibly personalized.
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The boutique hotel we booked features local artwork and vintage furniture in every room.
The boutique hotel we booked features local artwork and vintage furniture in every room.
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It's a bit more expensive than a chain hotel, but the boutique hotel experience is worth it.
It's a bit more expensive than a chain hotel, but the boutique hotel experience is worth it.
Common Mistakes
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✗ We stayed in a shop hotel in Paris.
✓ We stayed in a boutique hotel in Paris.
Although 'boutique' can mean a small shop, the term for a small, stylish hotel is always 'boutique hotel', never 'shop hotel'.
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✗ The Marriott is a great boutique hotel.
✓ The Marriott is a great luxury hotel.
Boutique hotels are characterized by being small and independent. Large, standardized global chains do not fit this description unless they belong to a specific independent-style sub-brand.
Related Expressions
Practice
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I prefer staying at a ___ because the rooms are uniquely decorated and the service is personal.
💡 A small, stylish, and intimate lodging option.
Show answer
boutique hotel
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This trendy ___ has only fifteen rooms, each designed by a different local artist.
💡 The opposite of a large, uniform chain hotel.
Show answer
boutique hotel