In an interesting, and probably wise from all angles, partnership the original king of the Boutique Hotel concept Ian Schrager teems up with corporate hospitality giant Marriott. These two will create a new lifestyle hotel brand called Edition. The thinking is that more and more customers want the personalized service and style that Schrager is legendary for (think Mondrian in LA, Delano Hotel in Miami, Hudson Hotel in NYC, Clift Hotel in San Francisco, & Sanderson Hotel in London), as well as the operational expertise that the Marriott company is known for.

The partnership has recently opened the first of many to come in Waikiki.

Rates start at $375. I love the boutique hotel concept and am interested to see how this partnership works. I am sure cost conscious Marriott will have a difference of opinion or two with the legendary hotelier known for having to have the coolest of everything. That said, it makes sense on a lot of levels, and will bring high design and service to more properties throughout the world. Please visit the Edition Hotels website for more information.