Published on May 21, 2012 by Sophie McGovern
With so many hotel chains out there now, it’s often the case that once in your hotel room, you could be anywhere in the world. You know exactly what to expect, and find the same decorations, room plans and even bathroom products whether you are in Milton Keynes or Madrid.
Whilst this might be great for business trips and family breaks, when you go on a romantic holiday, part of the pleasure is in enjoying a unique hotel experience. When facilities and services are inspired by the surroundings and designed with couples in mind, your hotel can become one of the most memorable aspects of your holiday.
Boutique hotels are a shiny new phenomenon in which the idea of standardised accommodation is dismissed with romantic flourish. Enjoy a luxury breakfast on your own private veranda with a view of the sea, lay back and drink champagne in your claw foot bath, or stay in a room with elegant, vintage decoration and classic service to match.
Companies like Mr and Mrs Smith specialise in boutique bookings, and a quick search on Google will bring up diverse boutique options in your destination of choice. Unique doesn’t have to mean extortionate, and options range from opulent five star establishments to cute bed and breakfasts.
Here are examples of three of three boutique hotels around the globe, each with their own unique themes and facilities.
Grand Hotel Villa Cora, Florence, Italy
Doubles from £200 p/n
If you want to go all-out on your romantic holiday then hotels don’t get much better than this. Palatial, tasteful and gorgeously vintage, this Renaissance style hotel encapsulates the romance and beauty of historic Italy, with frescos, statues, roses and chandeliers adorning the passionately designed interior. With a large heated pool, extensive gardens and special packages for couples such as ‘champagne and walking tours’, a booking here is guaranteed to make your loved one feel truly special.
Les Deux Tours, Marrakech, Morocco
Doubles from £150 p/n
Rich terracotta, hand painted tiles, lanterns and exquisite textiles: in this boutique hotel, there’s no doubting you’re in Morocco. The hotel showcases traditional North African design at its most stylish. Careful attention to detail is key: restaurant vegetables are organically grown on-site, local craftsmen have produced many of the unique decorations, and luxurious yet natural bath and body products are a delight to discover in your bathroom. With palm groves and pool to enjoy, everything is tailored towards relaxation.
Casa Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Doubles from £91 p/n
Personal butlers, spa therapy and contemporary, fusion decor make this fabulously priced hotel a dream destination for couples seeking seclusion and romance. Ask, and it shall be done: that’s the ethos here, and the hotel epitomises Sri Lankan hospitality. Close to city and coast, a stay here offers culture and relaxation, with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the paradise beaches for which Sri Lanka is famous on romantic day trips.
Stayed in a boutique hotel recently and want to rave about it? We’d love to hear of your experiences.
