What is a boutique hotel?

We hear more and more about Boutique Hotels, a concept developed in the 1980s in the USA, the Boutique Hotel. Following the arrival of massive hotel groups and their thousands of uniform rooms, this concept emerged, focused on seeking independent, charming establishments with clear and well-defined concepts and themes, offering accommodation that meets a demand for originality in particular. The Boutique Hotel was born, but was it really that new?

Temporary accommodation for travelers has existed for millennia. The Romans offered accommodation and baths to government travelers. Caravansaries served as shelters for people and animals along the famous Silk Road, from Turkey to China. In the Middle Ages, monasteries served as refuges for traveling pilgrims. In the 21st century, hotels are ubiquitous. Styles range from mega-hotels to 2.0 hostels, all-inclusive beach resorts to picturesque country inns. Today, the constant search for something "new and different" has inspired the evolution of boutique hotels. But what exactly is a boutique hotel?

What are the characteristics of a Boutique Hotel?

Boutique hotels are characterized by their intimate atmosphere and idiosyncratic style. They distinguish themselves from large hotel chains by offering personalized attention and stylish accommodations that play on a theme, style, or genre...

Although there is no strict definition of a boutique hotel, the genre tends to have certain common characteristics. Here are nine features commonly found:

Boutique Hotels, Small Establishments

Indeed, they are generally small, with 10 to 100 rooms. They are intimate, creating the atmosphere of a personal guest in a private home rather than a mere hotel occupant. They often have "living spaces" where guests can meet.

Original Establishments

A Boutique Hotel will always have the particularity of having an original form. You will never get the feeling of déjà-vu. It is often operated independently and will not be affiliated with a large chain. That said, aware of the demand for this type of establishment, large groups have rushed to copy the model, at least trying to offer a targeted offering. It is also possible that a hotel is independent but belongs to a luxury hotel association, like Relais & Châteaux.

A Unique Design

The architecture and interior design of a boutique hotel will always be unique and high-end. The lines can be sleek and contemporary or picturesque, even very artistic. The rooms always give an impression of the ideal home, a sense of true intimacy, and use high-quality linens and exclusive amenities.

Always a Bit of Character

A boutique hotel will generally have an eccentric personality, without necessarily going to extremes! They are fun and funky, both fashionable and offbeat. Their sense of eccentric humor may manifest through creative and original offers.

Locations in Developing or Trendy Areas

Once again, there is no absolute rule, but many boutique hotels are located in booming urban areas, the trendiest or most fashionable. You will find them in lively neighborhoods, thriving, where they represent one of the factors in the revitalization of local activity, like here in the 13th arrondissement of Paris. Boutique hotels are also found away from the tourist epicenters while offering, on the one hand, locations in dynamic neighborhoods, but also simple and quick means of transport to reach the must-see sites of the capital in our case.

Boutique Hotel and Culture

Often bly rooted in their respective neighborhoods, boutique hotels often highlight the local flavor. Ecology, sustainable development, and consumption are also themes that can be found across all establishments, along with connectivity, digital... The boutique hotel is undoubtedly the 2.0 version of modern hospitality. Art and design are also b components of the cultural influence of these hotels. Boutique hotels with themes build the entire customer experience, from decoration to services, around a particular theme such as art, fashion, ecology, design, digital... or rather a combination of all of these.

Boutique Hotel and Service

A highly personalized service is the hallmark of a Boutique Hotel. The staff will always be inclined to approach you in a clear and friendly manner, offering personalized amenities, services, and advice just like those in establishments traditionally considered more upscale. The clear goal is to offer a personalized experience of the highest quality.

Boutique Hotel and Gastronomy

Like everything concerning boutique hotels, their restaurants and bars tend to be trendy, fashionable, and locally sourced, even organic. Authentic cuisine of high quality, along with original and comfortable atmospheres, make these dining places highly appreciated by locals and guests who blend in just like at Papote et Popote.

A Diverse but Relatively Young Clientele

The types of travelers attracted to boutique hotels are as unique as the hotels themselves and tend to be just as trendy. Millennial clients to Baby Boomers who appreciate creative design, offbeat character, and personalized service will feel at home.

If you'd like to learn more about the offer of the 3-star establishment Urban Bivouac, our services, our rates, as well as our ethics and our project, feel free to contact us or come talk to us during your visit to the Tolbiac neighborhood in Paris.

Urban Bivouac, Your Boutique Hotel in Paris

In 2018-2018, we renovated the Urban Bivouac Paris 13 hotel to offer you a true Boutique Hotel experience, ensuring you an enjoyable, charming, and above all unforgettable stay in Paris.

While Paris offers a wide range of hotel accommodations, ultimately, few present the exact characteristics we expect from a boutique hotel, namely a human-sized, original, even unique establishment in its decoration, design, and layout, offering personalized services for each guest, with a focus on offering good products, being attentive to your needs and suggestions. Choosing a boutique hotel like Urban Bivouac during your stay in Paris is a way to experience the best that the capital has to offer, it's the chance to feel like you're in a Palace without paying the price. In short, it's giving yourself the best chance for an unforgettable stay.

We answer your questions (FAQ)

• What is the price for a night at Urban Bivouac Boutique hotel?
  Like most establishments today, room rates vary daily depending on occupancy, periods, seasons, and the length of your stay. By using the booking form, you will know our rates for a specific period, with no commitment on your part.
• Does the hotel offer suites?
  Yes, indeed. We offer suites, which we call VIP rooms. They come with a private sitting area, a balcony, essential oil showers... Our boutique hotel offers 3 types of rooms:
  • The UP rooms: featuring a Queen-Size double bed
  • The ZEN rooms: featuring a double bed or twin beds
  • The VIP rooms, which are our suites. To learn more about our suites and their features: www.ubparis.com/chambres.
• Does your boutique hotel have a swimming pool?
  Unfortunately, we do not have a pool available inside the hotel. However, nearby you can swim in two of the most beautiful pools in Paris: Joséphine Baker Pool and Butte aux Cailles Pool.
• Do you offer rooms with a private balcony?
  You can indeed enjoy a private balcony in our suites.
• Is the Urban Bivouac Boutique Hotel romantic?
  For your stay, we prepare everything according to your needs. A bottle of champagne, flowers in your room, spa service, meal trays, and breakfast in your room for couples. Everything is possible, and you can really experience Paris like in the movies.
• Is your boutique hotel suitable for families?
  Families are very welcome here. The suites are perfectly adapted. We can also offer adjoining rooms for your comfort.
• Do you accept pets at Urban Bivouac?
  Yes, we accept pets. Some cleanliness conditions apply, which you will easily understand. Depending on the case and your pet, an additional charge may apply.