In 1999 a small paperback created a sensation in bookstores worldwide. For a brief period the first volume of Hip Hotels was outselling even the likes of Harry Potter.

The reaction to the book from consumers and press alike was intense; almost fierce. Hip Hotels had struck a nerve – many people around the world were obviously interested in hotel environments that were excitingly different and aesthetically pleasing. Hip Hotels City was followed in quick succession by Hip Hotels Escape, a global guide to extraordinary places to lose yourself. Hip Hotels Escape proved even more successful than Hip Hotels City, and it was clear that people travelling on business or for pleasure preferred to opt for Highly Individual Places.

Since May 1999, the Hip Hotels series has sold well in excess of 2 million copies world wide and continues to be committed to a schedule of 2 new titles a year. Printed in 10 languages, Hip Hotels has launched an entirely new chapter in the evolution of travel. It is now accepted that hotels have become the destination.

Individual, independent hotels have become the fastest growing and most consistent component of the global tourism industry. The content for future titles and publications keeps expanding exponentially and Hip Hotels, with its contacts, database and photo reportage capabilities, is perfectly placed to continue to document this worldwide trend.

In a joint venture with Warner Music, Hip Hotels has launched the first of a series of albums based on music discovered in the process of travel. These are not compilation CDs in the traditional sense; it is music that reflects the emotive nature of travel.

The Hip Hotels collection counts in excess of 400 hotels and 25,000 rooms worldwide. Most of these can be found on hiphotels.com, plus the welcome convenience of being able to book online.