Hotels throughout the world are graded on a star or diamond system, this is based on what the hotel can offer you, and therefore this system doesn't really work for the new breed of hotels springing up known as Small Hotels or Boutique Hotels.
Stars and diamonds are awarded based on the facilities and amenities offered by each hotel, so while a Small Hotel may only be rated as a 2 star this doesn't mean it isn't luxurious. The star and diamond system is standardized throughout the world, and does not take in to account intimacy and personalized service.
A Barbados Small Hotel can offer you the ultimate in luxury, with a small staff on hand to cater to your every whim. There are some excellent Small Hotels in Barbados, all of which are adjacent to the beach, giving spectacular views of the ocean.
Some of these smaller hotels have all the rooms located within the hotel complex, while others have self contained properties within the grounds, this gives you some added privacy but with all the amenities of a hotel on your doorstep.
These hotels usually provide your own butler, maid and personal chef. These properties are popular with famous personalities as it gives them a sophisticated retreat and a complete break from the outside world.
Small hotels are decorated to a high standard with large patio's for sunbathing and private whirlpool spas, private tropical gardens and a unique Caribbean style of interior design complete with Barbadian mahogany furniture, vibrant art from local artists and hand crafted pottery from local outlets.
The rooms themselves come equipped with cable television, video, DVD, Internet connection, hair dryer, safe, mini bar and telephones. You can expect crisp white linen in the bedrooms and a fragrant bouquet from fresh tropical flowers.
The bathrooms are made from marble with a tub and shower and usually have scented candles, robes, white fluffy towels and exclusive toiletries. Rooms are individually decorated and unique, meaning no one has the same room, you will have an en-suite bathroom and air-conditioning as standard.
Small Hotels are ideal for couples but are not usually geared up for children. The intimacy of these hotels means tranquillity and a relaxing holiday, which is not really conducive to a children friendly environment. These hotels provide a perfect venue for couples to unwind and spend quality time together enjoying the early morning sunshine and walks along the beach right through to evening cocktails as you watch the sunset and romantic dinners.
Food is served as you feel like it, either in your room, by the pool or in the dining room, and like most other hotels you can choose your accommodation package from room only, or half board, which includes breakfast or full board, which includes your breakfast and evening meal.
In a Small Hotel you can expect a very personal service with everyone knowing your name and vice versa, you can enjoy the private swimming pool of the hotel with waiter service for food and drinks. You can also enjoy in room massage, reflexology and beauty treatments.
Boutique Hotels and Small Hotels aim to give you their undivided attention so all you have to concentrate on is relaxing, with only a handful of rooms these unique hotels only have a handful of guests to look after at any one time and therefore staff are on hand to plan your excursions, organize private catamaran sailing cruises or a round of golf at one of the island's top golf courses.
Some hotels even provide on site car hire for the days that you feel like touring the island, just remember to have your driving licence for insurances purposes and to obtain a local visitors driving permit, all of which the hotel will organise for you.
They will even take care of your laundry and offer a daily maid service so you really don't have to lift a finger!
Boutique Hotels offer privacy, relaxation, pampering and above all peace and quiet at very affordable rates.
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