Ask budget travelers what words describe their favorite bargain stays and the term "boutique hotel" wouldn't be the first descriptive phrase you'll expect to hear from them.
But as with Bed and Breakfast stops and some downtown hotels, the boutique hotel can be an excellent value, although it might require some additional effort and money to find it.
One of many boutique bargains is downtown Seattle's Paramount Hotel.
Prime Location
The 11-story Paramount takes its place among downtown Seattle's many high-rise hotels as a relative newcomer. Built at the corner of 8th and Pine in 1996 and renovated in April 2008, the furnishings during my 2009 visit were stylish, contemporary and fresh.
The location is equally attractive. Just one block from both the Paramount Theater and the Washington State Convention Center, visitors are likely to enjoy the neighborhood. In fact, within walking distance is the heart of downtown Seattle's shopping district, with Nordstrom, Macy's and Barnes & Noble among the popular stores just moments away by foot.
The hotel advertises its proximity to Pike Place Market, but it's a bit of a hike to Pike (seven blocks) and the return walk would be uphill. Still, a cab ride to this well-loved urban tourist attraction is short if you aren't up for the walk.
The Paramount does charge a whopping $27 USD for overnight parking, but it comes with unlimited in-out privileges. This has become a common complaint among budget travelers who wish to stay downtown in any large city. It certainly is not unique to the Paramount -- just be aware of the added charge (which, by the way, does not include tax.)
If you're in the mood for a splurge meal in Seattle, this is a convenient location. For example, Ruth's Chris Steak House is just across the street. Far more affordable is the Dragonfish Asian Cafe, which bills itself as one of Seattle's top ten restaurants. Share some appetizers or go for their "happy hour" specials.
Rates Reasonable for Such a Location
There are less expensive lodging options in greater Seattle, even within the downtown area. But the Paramount offers a combination of value, location and style that's hard to beat.
If you have planning time prior to your trip to a boutique hotel, it pays to get on their email list and shop for specials. Standard room rates here start at $148 for a queen or double queen room. Look at some of the nearby competitors and you'll find that price is reasonable: a search of hotel rates in downtown Seattle shows most comparable properties are at least 25 percent higher.
You will need to beware of added fees that could drive your bill upward. In addition to the aforementioned parking costs, high-speed Internet access here is $9.95/day. There is no charge for in-room coffee, a clock radio with MP3 capability and 24-hour business and fitness centers.
If you'll be heading to Sea-Tac Airport, check out the Gray Line Seattle Downtown Airporter. It's just $11 USD one way, far less than you'll pay for a shuttle or cab ride. That price works out to about a dollar a mile. Climb aboard right next door at the Grand Hyatt.
Getting Down to Business
Because of the proximity to the convention center, this hotel is an obvious choice of business travelers. The room desks offer plenty of space to spread out and get some work done.
If you'll be traveling to other parts of the city for meetings, Interstate 5 is just a few blocks away. Fortunately, the traffic noise on this busy freeway fails to reach the Paramount's rooms.
Two meeting rooms here each accommodate up to 125 guests and feature floor-to-ceiling views of downtown. Audio/visual support is available.
Who can transact business without coffee? The original Starbucks is just outside of Pike Place Market, but you'll find coffee from a variety of vendors literally on just about every nearby block.
Boutique and Value: Not Mutually Exclusive
That word "boutique" can be scary. Some hotels that use the term will charge you a rate far above what all but a few budget travelers would pay for a night's sleep.
The Paramount is a classic boutique hotel: it offers stylish furnishings, a trendy and popular eatery on-site and a helpful, multi-lingual staff. But it is also an example of a boutique hotel that can be a relative bargain.
Price isn't the only consideration. If downtown is your focus, you'll save time because of its central location.
Don't turn away boutique hotels without a little examination of their benefits. You might find another Paramount in your destination city.
Details: The Paramount Hotel, a Coast Hotel and Resort, is part of the K Hotels collection and is located at 724 Pine Street, Seattle, WA 98101. The phone number is 206-292-9500.
Please note: As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary accommodation for the purpose of reviewing these services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.
