Luxury hotels have long been an emblem of opulence and style, representing a tangible bridge between the ordinary and the grandeur of the world's most sought-after destinations. The decision to select and book a luxury hotel is not merely a transactional interaction; it is an ethical and aesthetic choice that resonates with the personal identity of the discerning traveler. This discussion will delve into four critical inquiries that should form the backbone of any cost-benefit analysis prior to settling on a luxury hotel of choice.

Firstly, it is imperative to delve into the historical and cultural significance of the hotel. The edifices housing these grand establishments often contain a rich tapestry of stories and memories dating back generations. The hotels' histories, intertwined with those of various societies, are replete with tales of pioneering entrepreneurs, visionary architects, and undeniably, the occasional scandal, intrigue or romance. These narratives shape the legacy of the hotel and contribute to its unique character. Hence, a discerning traveler, much like a connoisseur of fine wines, would do well to investigate the historical provenance of their chosen abode. After all, the thrill of luxury travel often lies in the ability to immerse oneself in a different time and place and to experience history in a personal and intimate manner.

Next, one must consider the intricacies of the hotel’s location. This goes beyond mere geographical positioning and into the realm of geo-spatial analysis, encompassing elements such as physical geography, socio-cultural environments, and microclimates. The spatial distribution of luxury hotels is not random, but rather, a calculated strategic decision based on a multitude of factors. For example, a hotel situated in a coastal region might leverage the benefits of a marine climate, while one nestled in a bustling city center might offer unparalleled convenience and connectivity. As such, an understanding of spatiality will allow the discerning traveler to better appreciate the hotel's location and its implications on the travel experience.

Thirdly, the architectural design and interior décor of a hotel provide deeper insights into its aesthetics and ethos. These aspects, which are intrinsically linked to the concepts of semiotics and visual culture, serve as symbolic expressions of prestige and status. The architectural grandeur of a luxury hotel is not merely a display of affluence; it is a manifestation of the cultural capital and artistic vision of its creators. The interior décor, on the other hand, is a careful orchestration of art, design, and craftsmanship, aimed at cultivating a unique and personalized guest experience. Thus, the discerning traveler would do well to appreciate these aspects as they contribute to an enhanced aesthetic experience.

Lastly, a comprehensive assessment of the hotel's service quality is crucial. This extends beyond traditional measures of customer satisfaction and delves into the realm of service-dominant logic. This modern approach to understanding service quality posits that value is co-created between the hotel and the guest through interaction and experience. Consequently, a high-quality service experience relies not only on the hotel's ability to fulfill its basic obligations but also on its ability to foster meaningful and memorable guest experiences. As such, discerning travelers should consider factors such as personalized service, attention to detail, and the ability of the hotel staff to anticipate their needs and preferences.

In conclusion, the decision to book a luxury hotel is a complex and multifaceted one. It involves a deep dive into the hotel's historical and cultural significance, an understanding of its location and geo-spatial implications, an appreciation for its architectural design and interior décor, as well as an assessment of its service quality from a service-dominant perspective. These four essential inquiries go beyond mere consumerism and tread the path of intellectual curiosity, ultimately leading to a more enriching and fulfilling luxury travel experience.