Boutique Hotels: Not Bigger but Perhaps Better

Quality over quantity is one of humanity’s wisest observations. Upper echelons of quality are often preferable even at the expense of grandiosity. As such, boutique hotels are becoming more popular with guests seeking a more personalized and cozy touch to their hotel experience. Boutique hotels are becoming increasingly more common as their popularity rises. 

Ananda in the Himalayas

Sitting atop the majestic Himalayan Mountains in northern India, Ananda in the Himalayas has one of the most picturesque landscapes on the planet. Ananda is the Sanskrit word for “happiness”. There’s no better name for a place so easy to find peace and tranquility in. Founded by Ashok Khanna, Ananda in the Himalayas is more than just a boutique hotel. Incorporating Ayurveda, an ancient and highly-regarded healing science originating in India, Ananda in the Himalayas is also a wellness retreat. Yoga, meditation, and detox practices are implemented to rejuvenate guests. A myriad of holistic medicine methods combined with one-of-a-kind views make it clear why Ananda in the Himalayas has had 20 years of success with many more years on the horizon.

Calabash Cove Resort and Spa

There’s nothing more precious than children, but sometimes parents need a getaway to recharge. The Calabash Cove Resort and Spa spotlights itself as an adult-only excursion. Guests can absorb the unrivaled St. Lucia sunshine or take a swim in the paradisiacal and pristine Caribbean Sea. Kayaking, paddleboarding, nature hikes are among the complimentary activities featured. The Calabash also provides special offers for honeymooners, fiances seeking to get married at the resort, guests looking for an unforgettable place to propose to their sweethearts, and vow renewals. Striking scenery and an emphasis on amorousness have Calabash Cove Resort and Spa poised to be St. Lucia’s most prominent vacation destination if it isn’t already.

Hotel Belmar

Not every unforgettable getaway needs to be on the beach or on mountain peaks. The Hotel Belmar is nestled near the lush cloud forests of Monteverde, Costa Rica. Guests are surrounded by trees as far as the eye can see. Horseback riding, a spring water pond, and a tropical mocktail class are a few of the available experiences and amenities. This woodland wonderland is perfect for nature-loving guests who feel at home around a variety of different plants and animals.

Imperial Hotel Kyoto 

Opening its doors on 5 March 2026, the Imperial Hotel Kyoto is a restoration of Yasaka Kaikan, a culturally significant former geiko theater that opened in 1936. Geiko theaters are where geishas would perform. The Imperial Hotel Kyoto retains the same sense of showmanship that the Yasaka Kaikan had. Patrons can take in the Kyoto scenery from the heart of the prefecture. 

The Dylan Amsterdam

Residing on the illustrious Keizersgracht canal, The Dylan Amsterdam is a testament to Dutch architecture. Amsterdam’s first theater once stood where The Dylan is now. Rembrandt, a legendary painter of the Dutch Golden Age, once worked in the theater as a production assistant. There are four distinct styles of rooms available to guests of The Dylan. Each style can be appealing to different sensitivities, but serenity and intimacy was a priority for the design of all guest rooms. For early birds, fourth floor canal-view rooms provide extraordinary views of the sunrise. Garden-facing rooms make it easy for guests to keep a sense of tranquility. Regardless of what rooms and views they prefer, guests of The Dylan can enjoy clear skies and pristine scenery on leisurely strolls throughout the heart of Amsterdam.