If you’re planning a vacation, the hotel you book can make or break the trip. Poor accommodations could mean you spend your nights tossing and turning, while a bad location means you might spend more time driving than enjoying your time off. When you’re planning your next trip, consider the following reasons to choose a boutique hotel instead of a chain.

What Makes a Boutique Hotel Stand Out?

1. Intimate

Because they put a lot of thought into the architecture, design, and decoration, boutique hotels are usually smaller than chain locations. The goal is to create a unique experience for each guest—not turn over as many rooms as possible. You’ll be able to relax and enjoy the personal touches at a boutique location.

2. Themed

Many large chain hotels are homogenous; you could visit one anywhere across the country, and they would look the same. In contrast, boutique hotels are often designed around a particular theme; they may try to emulate a mid-century modern, rustic, or tropical setting. That means your stay will be more memorable, and you might find yourself visiting the hotel again and again for a different experience.

3. Convenient

Boutique hotels are keyed in to what’s happening in their city, and they’re often built in convenient locations that encourage exploration. You’ll never get bored with dining, shopping, and entertainment options that are just a short walk away.

4. Dining

If you don’t feel like leaving the hotel for a meal, that’s okay too. Many boutique hotels pride themselves on their restaurants and bars, even attracting clients who aren’t even staying there. Look for lodgings that have multiple restaurants, so you can experiment with unique dining choices.

If you’re making a trip to Missouri, you’ll want to stay at The Cheshire in St. Louis—a premier boutique hotel that’s inspired by the architecture and culture of England. With 108 literature-themed rooms and six novelty suites, each stay is a new adventure. They also have three on-site restaurants and are pet-friendly and conveniently located 10 minutes from downtown St. Louis. To learn more about their amenities, visit them online. To book a stay you’ll never forget, call (314) 647-7300.