hotel

The Dwell Hotel, Chattanooga

November 10, 2016

Before visiting Chattanooga I had researched a few hotels in the area. My husband and I love to stay in boutique hotels when possible because they are usually independently owned and provide more intimacy over a larger chain. The Dwell Hotel is newly renovated and reopened in 2016. It’s the brainchild of Seija Ojanpera, a worldwide traveler with a background in the service industry. The hotel is now head to toe mid-century modern with a touch of old Hollywood glam.

Conveniently located to several restaurants and Warehouse Row, The Dwell Hotel offers exceptional service, a friendly staff, valet parking and incredible attention to detail. The bright colors and pleasant decor throughout the hotel bring instant happiness.

Each room is uniquely designed and different. With the original floors and bones of the building still intact, it feels like you’re staying in a bed and breakfast. We stayed in the New Yorker King Balcony Suite which has a sitting area, gas fireplace, downtown views, a soaking tub and a stand alone shower. I immediately fell in love with the bright orange and green colors that filled the room. There was even prosecco waiting for us upon our arrival (it was our anniversary weekend). I spent a good hour soaking in the amazing tub and sipping champagne nearly every day. I loved the overall relaxing vibe from our room.

Not only were we thrilled with our room and the wonderful service, but the downstairs bar and restaurant were equally as inviting. Matilda Midnight offers several specialty cocktails and appetizers that definitely hit the spot before a night out or as a night cap. I highly recommend the Pommes Frites and Spinach & Goat Cheese Cigars. The Magician craft cocktail definitely caught my eye with melon vodka, honeydew shrub, cocchi rosa and blue curacao. I love that the bar sits so conveniently hidden behind the lobby and gives guests a sense of privacy from the outside.

Located on the main floor of the Dwell is Terra Mae. With an adorable mix of retro furniture and beautiful paintings, the decor is almost as good as the food. Their menu aims to please and has everything from Belgium Waffles to Pork Cheek Benedict. Brunch at Terra Mae had me wish I was staying another night so I could indulge just one more morning. Another plus side to staying at the Dwell, the amazing breakfast is included in your stay.

If your travel plans take you to Chattanooga anytime soon, you must stay at The Dwell Hotel. It was by far the highlight of our entire trip and one of the most beautiful hotels I have ever stayed at. I cannot wait to return!

*Our stay was in partnership with the Dwell Hotel. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

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Loews Hotel, Atlanta

September 9, 2016

For our five year anniversary, my husband and I decided to do a mini staycation at the Loews Hotel in Atlanta. We were excited to experience all the hotel has to offer: prime location in the city, an incredible room service menu, a fabulous restaurant, a Starbucks in the lobby, and an amazing spa. We really struck gold with the Loews and had the most wonderful time. Everyone was so helpful and kind and really made sure that our anniversary was special and all of our needs were taken care of. Located in the heart of Midtown, the Loews Hotel is within walking distance to nightlife, amazing restaurants, attractions, and landmarks.

We checked in around 3pm, had some drinks at the lobby bar and then headed to our room. We stayed in the Grand Luxury King Suite which overlooks Midtown with beautiful corner views and floor to ceiling windows. There is a separate living room with dining table and a huge bathroom with a soaking tub. I cannot tell you how long it had been since I was able to relax in a bath without hearing kids crying and dogs barking. It was nothing short of amazing and so needed. When most parents have the luxury of getting away, even for a night, most want a nice king size bed, cozy sheets, great pillows and a relaxed environment. The Loews provided all of that and more for our anniversary and we really felt pampered throughout our entire stay.

After relaxing for a bit we headed down to Exhale Spa, located on the 7th floor of the hotel. This spa has a few locations around the Atlanta area however this was our first time visiting. We had a couples massage with two female therapists which were beyond excellent. I’m usually not a fan of massages because they always seem to hurt me more than relax me, but my masseuse Monica was amazing. She listened to my concerns and was really experienced in the art of therapeutic massage. If you are an Atlanta local, you need to request her for your next visit. When we were finished with the couples massage we headed into the dry steam room to further relax and clear our minds. It can be so hard to unwind after a long week of working, taking care of children, pets, households, etc, but I have realized these past few months that self-care needs to come before anything else. We can’t expect to take care of everyone else if we don’t put ourselves first. buy prevacid online https://blackmenheal.org/wp-content/languages/new/prevacid.html no prescription
Parents need their time together (and alone) to really be the best version of themselves. Even escaping for just 24 hours helped me get centered and focused again. After our wonderful visit to Exhale, we got ready for our anniversary dinner at Saltwood, the hotel restaurant. Before heading down we were treated to an amazing charcuterie platter and bottle of champagne. The presentation was so beautiful that it was hard to eat, but I’m so glad we did because it was delicious. You can read my full, detailed review of our dinner experience here. It was one of the best meals we’ve ever eaten.

After getting a full, uninterrupted night of sleep, we woke feeling refreshed and energized. Sleeping in is something we never get to do and it was one of the aspects we were looking forward to the most. We visited the fitness center at Exhale Spa before heading back to our room to indulge in a beautiful hotel breakfast spread. From the Belgium waffles to the eggs benedict, every piece of our meal was to die for. Ordering a hotel breakfast is one thing we cannot stay away from when traveling. We were so impressed by how amazing everything looked and tasted. buy priligy online https://blackmenheal.org/wp-content/languages/new/priligy.html no prescription

Our experience at Loews truly made our anniversary memorable. Even if you don’t have an anniversary or special event to celebrate, I encourage you to take time and escape! Where is your favorite escape?

Thank you to the Loews Hotel, Atlanta, for hosting us. As always, all opinions expressed are my own. buy proair online https://blackmenheal.org/wp-content/languages/new/proair.html no prescription

Hotel Indigo, Athens

August 3, 2016

Last week we took a family trip to Athens, GA and stayed at the beautiful Hotel Indigo. The hotel is centrally located right in downtown Athens and close to nearly everything. Had it not been so hot we probably would have walked everywhere. However, having two kids in tow it just made more sense to drive. This was the kids first time in a hotel and they thought it was the coolest thing ever and would have both been fine staying inside during our entire trip. Since we were visiting in the summer, most of the college kids had gone home so the city was relatively quiet and peaceful. It was almost as if we had the town to ourselves. buy cenforce online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/cenforce.html no prescription

We stayed in the jacuzzi suite which is perfect if you are traveling with kids or another couple. The suite has two bedrooms and a spacious living room with a pull out couch, which Henry slept on. There is a huge jacuzzi tub, a separate shower and a double vanity in the bathroom. The toilet is in a separate room with an additional sink which was ideal for us because we put Evelyn’s pack n play in the main bathroom and were still able to use the facilities at night and brush our teeth. buy clomid online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/clomid.html no prescription

I love the concrete ceilings and hardwood floors. There is also plenty of windows that let in a ton of natural light and full drapes which totally block out daylight if you’re trying to get a nap in (or in my case, two naps in!) The mini fridge is huge, perfect for bottles of water, orange juice, milk and fruit for the kids. There is a bar sink in the living room by the fridge which is great for rinsing out sippy cups. I also really liked that they provided cans for recycling in the room. You’d be surprised how many plastic bottles we went through. We didn’t get a chance to eat at the hotel restaurant, Madison Bar & Bistro, but it was so welcoming and everything on the menu sounded delicious. The kids loved the outdoor patio space and had they not been with us, my husband and I would have definitely enjoyed a few drinks out there! buy clozaril online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/clozaril.html no prescription

Hotel Indigo is perfect for any vacation: a romantic getaway, family weekend, or a place to stay while going to a Bulldogs game. The staff was so friendly, the rooms were spotless, the parking is convenient and you cannot beat the location. We could not have asked for a better first family hotel experience.

*our stay was in partnership with Hotel Indigo. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

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The Godfrey Hotel, Boston

May 24, 2016

While in Boston we stayed at beautiful Godfrey Hotel, which is a new boutique hotel located in the Theater District. The vibe at the Godfrey can best be described as hip ,laid back, cool and welcoming to all. During our stay I saw people from all walks of life: young travelers, families with small children, professionals and large groups. The main thing that stood out during my time interacting with and observing the staff is that they were all polite, patient, helpful and professional to everyone. The Boston Commons and Public Garden are only a few blocks away and The Paramount Theater and Boston Opera House are only a few steps from the entrance. Public transit is also close by, making the Godfrey convenient to an array of attractions.

A plus side of staying in a newer establishment is that there is usually minimal to no wear and tear. We stayed in the Executive King Suite and everything in our room was clean and new. All the decor and fixtures are modern and stylish. The carpet is a chic grey which compliments the plaid headboard and bedding. There is a large desk, wardrobe and two side tables. The room was the perfect size for my husband and me. buy zithromax online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zithromax.html no prescription

Unlike most conventional hotels, the bathroom is equipped which a beautiful sliding door, which hides nicely along the back of the wall. The shower doors are floor to ceiling glass and the sink is a beautiful porcelain. All the minimalistic and modern accents throughout our room really added an elegant touch.

I loved that there was a mini fridge in our room which was empty, allowing us to fill with waters, juice and coffee creamer without having to take all of the mini bar items out. It was such a bonus to come back to the room after being out all day and having cold beverages to drink. A single cup Keurig is a must for any traveler. I was able to enjoy my entire cup of coffee warm in the morning without having to reheat it 10 times (#momlife). The 55″ HDTV’s come equipped with the hotels Innspire, letting you stream movies and music directly from your phone. The WiFi is free at the Godfrey in all rooms and lobby which is an excellent deal since some hotels can charge upwards of $20+ a day. buy zocor online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zocor.html no prescription

A beautiful breakfast spread was provided for guests every morning in the front lobby near the bar. Everything from juice selections, hot coffee, fresh fruit, yogurt and pastries were exactly what we needed to start our mornings off right. Since our days were pretty packed, having a quick bite fit right into our schedule. The bar area was really fun in the evening and extremely convenient for a nightcap before heading to bed. There is an amazing bartender who made some incredible cocktails and was always so friendly.

My absolutely favorite part of the hotel was the the original marble staircase and elevators which were both carefully restored to their former glory. The first floor of the building used to be a fashionable place to shop, now it’s a fashionable place to stay. I love when hotels keep part of the original architecture since it adds so much to the character of the redesign.

With only 11 floors and 242 rooms, the hotel was never overly crowded or noisy, which I appreciated. We never had a wait time and the staff was always on top of our needs as well as the other guests. Thank you so much to The Godfrey for having us and providing such a pleasant and enjoyable stay. If you are planning a trip the Boston soon, I cannot recommend this hotel enough. You definitely will not regret it!

*This review was in partnership with The Godfrey Hotel. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Atlanta

May 4, 2016

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to take a break from my real life and escape to The Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Atlanta. For Christmas, my husband surprised me with a spa gift card to their spa and he decided it would be a great little getaway for me to use around Mother’s Day. The Mandarin Oriental definitely lives up to its 5 star reviews. From the moment I pulled up until I drove off, my stay was nothing short of wonderful. The staff and concierge were so helpful, friendly and attentive. All the guest rooms are non smoking which is such a bonus because I cannot stand the smell of cigarette smoke. Check in was a breeze, guest services was on top of everything and valet had my car up before I finished checking out. buy lipitor online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/lipitor-no-prescription.html no prescription

The hotel is in a prime location across from Lenox Square and close to several restaurants and nightlife. Even though it’s located in a busy area, it’s tucked away just enough to prevent street noise. My spacious room was on the sixth floor and I was lucky enough to stay in a king terrace room which had it’s own private balcony over looking Buckhead. It was beautiful and clean and had been well maintained (no chipped painted, spots on carpet, smells etc). The deep soaking tub was my favorite. I can’t tell you how long it had been since I’ve been able to enjoy a bath without toys floating everywhere. buy paxil online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/paxil-no-prescription.html no prescription

After checking in for my spa appointments, I was treated to some amazing hot peach tea and warm towels for my hands. I was then introduced to the spa grounds by a very helpful member of the spa staff. She showed me to the locker room where I had a robe and private locker for my belongings. For my three spa treatments I chose a massage, pedicure and facial. It was my first time having a hot aroma stone massage, which was 50 minutes long. In the past I was always hesitant because I thought the stones would be too hot but this wasn’t the case. The massage therapist was definitely skilled in her training and worked out a lot to tension I had in my shoulders and limbs. This relaxing massage uses heated stones to generate energy and create a sense of balance and calm, as well as, giving relief to deep-seated muscle tension.*{source} The dim lighting, calming sounds and smells create a tranquil atmosphere and allows you to achieve the ultimate level of relaxation. Next up was my essential facial which was nothing short of amazing. My skin felt so soft, wonderful and clean afterwards. buy priligy online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/priligy-no-prescription.html no prescription

I finished my appointments with the nourishing pedicure, which is completely waterless. Something I had never heard of but makes total sense. Without a tub filled with water there is less to clean and disinfect making the process more sanitary for the client (the technician wrapped my feet in hot towels instead). I didn’t think a waterless pedicure could produce smooth results since I’m on my feet a lot but it was better than any regular pedicure with water that I’ve ever had. It’ll be hard to go back to one that uses water after experiencing this. After the spa services I came back to my room feeling so relaxed and rejuvenated. Upon my return, I was greeted with some macaroons and a very sweet note from the hotel. It was such a nice surprise because I was starving and they were so good.

After almost three hours I spent in the spa, I was craving room service and lying in bed without “mommy” being yelled 100 times per minute. To be expected, everything on the menu looked outstanding. I chose the Signature Burger: 8 oz Angus Beef, St. Andre Cheese, Avocado, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Tomato, Frisée and House Dressing on a Honey Wheat Bun with their house made potato chips. It was cooked perfectly and tasted delicious. I ended the night with some cheesecake because why not?

The spa and wellness center is available for hotel guests between 5:30am-9:30pm. After waking up feeling refreshed and energized I headed to the steam room to do even more relaxing. I am kicking myself for not bringing my swimsuit because their 60 foot saline lap pool is nothing short of amazing. No hotel stay would be complete without breakfast in bed. In true Chanel fashion, I went all out. Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day and I could eat it for every meal. Everything on their menu looked mouth watering. I decided on the french toast, bacon, cheese grits, poached eggs, an english muffin, coffee and orange juice. Just like with dinner, everything was perfect and so tasty.

It was so nice to sleep without the sound of a baby monitor next to my ear. I woke up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It is amazing what one night of uninterrupted sleep and no kids and responsibility can do for you. If you are a husband looking for a last minute Mother’s Day gift for your wife, surprise her with an overnight stay at a local hotel. If there’s a spa that’s a bonus, but I’m sure any mother would love a night alone and a chance to sleep in, relax and temporarily escape from her responsibilities. For my Atlanta readers, the Mandarin Oriental is hosting a beautiful brunch for Mother’s Day this Sunday from 11:30am – 3pm. The brunch will feature appetizers and desserts and guests will also choose an entree. There will also be a pop-up flower shop in their amazing gardens. Priced at $90 per adult and $35 per child aged 5-12 (plus tax and gratuity). They’ve also recently launched a family package which includes a one-night stay in a two-bedroom family room with tickets to Legoland and The Children’s Museum of Atlanta along with a few goodies. This is ideal for families who live in the South and are thinking about coming to Atlanta for some family fun.Thank you Mandarin Oriental for such a wonderful visit. I will definitely be returning and next time bringing my husband so we can enjoy a night out on the town.

*The Mandarin Oriental provided me with a valet, wifi and one night stay free of charge. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

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