Rabontu and Niculescu (2009) in order to define the concept of boutique hotel, one
has to define these two separate terms. Thus, boutique is the name given to the small
and luxurious stores that sell goods on small series and the hotel is the building with
furnished rooms that offer the possibility of hiring on short-term, especially to
travellers.
The concept of boutique hotel is strongly opposed to big chain hotels as it describes
hotels reduced in size, located in prestigious areas, furnished with unusual furniture,
and designed to offer an intimate and/or family atmosphere. Unlike big chain hotels,
boutique hotels offer a unique experience. Certainly their small size can offer privacy
and discretion to customers. Boutique hotels are able get to know customers very
well and offer services tailored to their needs and preferences that large hotels cannot.