An Exploration of the Experiential Nature of Boutique Accommodation

There has been increased attention given in the tourism literature to the experiential consumption of tourism. This article addresses the lack of attention in previous studies to the experiential nature of accommodation products, especially with regard to boutique or specialist accommodation. Attention to tourists’ experiences with accommodation is essential for determining guest satisfaction and the personal benefits that guests derive from their stay. In-depth interviews with 19 hosts and 30 guests at boutique accommodation establishments in Nelson in the South Island of New Zealand highlighted the emotive aspects of the experiences gained by guests and revealed five key experiential dimensions that are seen as important to the success of boutique accommodation product: unique character, personalized, homely, quality, and value added. Ways in which the experiential qualities offered by boutique accommodation are perceived to differ from that provided by other traditional and specialist types of accommodation are also discussed.