Bigger is sometimes better, but that is not usually the case with luxury hotels and resorts. Beyond a certain size they often lose their intimacy, their hands-on service touch and the magical feeling that they know and care about guests as individuals. In short, big resorts often lose the sensation of a true home away from home. But on the other hand, small properties often under deliver, lacking the amenities of a full service hotel that many travelers want, such as multiple restaurant options, a lavish spa and sporting facilities.

There are fantastic boutique hotels all over the world, but these 10 are closer to home, in North and Central America.

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   Award-winning travel journalist Larry Olmsted is a Contributing Editor to US Airways Magazine and Cigar Aficionado Magazine and “The Great Life” columnist for Forbes.com.