Small Is Beautiful

How boutique hotels are capitalizing on short-term stays

- STORY BY JILLIAN DARA

THERE ARE MORE than eight million active Airbnb listings around the globe—yet, as the amount of short-term rental properties increases, user popularity is decreasing. The reason? Boutique hotels can now rival the rental platforms by offering even more personalized stays.

"Today's travelers want consistency, peace of mind, and meaningful extras that enhance their trip," says Bettina Landt, managing director at White Elephant Palm Beach. Though Airbnb once offered travelers a more curated way to experience a destination, these details were never considered. This, paired with hidden fees, misrepresentation of accommodations, and lack of customer support, have presented turbulent times for the booking platform, and boutique hotels are positioned to capitalize on it.

“We're in the sweet spot between the privacy and individuality people once sought in short-term rentals and the reassurance, service and consistency of a hotel,” says Francesco Sardelli, general manager of The Hari London. He says boutique hotels now have an opportunity to shine “because they can offer something that's hard to replicate: professional hospitality with heart.”