For the past few decades, the typical “cookie-cutter” hotels have enjoyed a large following of business and leisure travelers. They have made it easy to book their rooms through central telephone and online reservations systems, they have hotels in every major city, and they all have about the same decor and amenities. And for a long time, everyone liked knowing exactly what they’d get when entering a hotel room. What they lacked in character, they provided in consistency.  Finally, boutique hotels began popping up in all the right places. They offer the same technology, location, and comforts of the “cookie-cutters,” but were able to add interesting design concepts and more personalized service.  Travelers began to feel more comfortable booking boutique hotels, mostly because the price of a room warranted an elevated level of service. So, they assumed they’d be getting something special.  Now, “Historic-Chic” hotels are giving business and leisure travelers something really unique. Along with offering the exceptional level of service expected at boutique hotels, they are revitalizing historic buildings, making them “greener,” and giving the guest a special experience. Some “historic-chic” hotels are doing all this at a price equivalent to, or less than, that of the “cookie-cutters.” Throughout my years in the hospitality industry, I have had the luxury of experiencing all types of hotels. I can honestly say that the hotels I recommend most often to my clients, are the historic hotels with an interesting past and special amenities not found at the “cookie-cutters.” It adds a whole new level to the experience of traveling. Business travelers have been enjoying the offerings of “historic-chic” hotels, because they are tired of seeing the “same-old-thing” on every trip. Even though they are primarily using the hotel room as an “office away from the office with a comfortable place to sleep,” they are welcoming the newness of history.  One of the things to keep in mind when looking for a “historic-chic” hotel is, almost all of them will offer extensive technology and superior comforts, not typically found at the “cookie-cutters.” You will have everything you need and more. Here are a few of my favorite “historic-chic” hotels in the US. The Carlton Hotel on Madison Avenue in New York City. During the renovation, workers uncovered an authentic Tiffany dome that had been covered for decades. Now, it is showcased in the hotel’s restaurant. The Sunset Marquis Hotel in West Hollywood, CA has been known as a hangout for rock musicians for years. Its Whisky Bar, now called Bar 1200, is a favorite of U2, Jeff Beck, UB40, The Black Crows and Nirvana. The bar’s walls are lined with photos of starts like Alice Cooper and Tina Turner. You can’t beat that for music history. The Adolphus Hotel in Dallas, TX was built by Adolphus Busch (you may be familiar with his history as a St. Louis beer baron). It was to be a baroque masterpiece in the middle of unsophisticated Dallas. The hotel has hosted Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Presidents Carer, Regan, George H.W. Bush, Babe Ruth, The Vanderbilts, U2 and Donald Trump, just to name a few. The Adolphus Hotel history is extensive and interesting. The Varden Hotel in Long Beach, CA was originally known as the Dolly Varden Hotel. It was named after an eccentric circus performer who lived on the top floor of the hotel. Since its renovation this year, the hotel has incorporated many “green” aspects into the new design, while keeping the historic structure in tact. The Varden is offering a rich history and green elements at an economical price.   The next time you are looking for a hotel, try one of the new “historic-chic” boutique hotels. You don’t have to be an executive business traveler, or a rock star, to enjoy the benefits of a hotel with history. You just have to enjoy a different kind of cookie.�