Gro(w)hio – Development Underway

New development, brand conversions and supply changes have continued to fluctuate and progress throughout 2021. Though some projects came to a screeching halt, others have stayed on the course… not without challenges. From supply chain delays to lack of labor, these projects have pushed forward.

What a time we are living and working in. A recent property that I had visited shared that though much of their renovation was complete, their sleeping room floor lamps among other items were on a barge in the middle of the Atlantic with no arrival date in sight. Really?

We are continuing to see most new builds identifying as select service brands with several independent type properties in the pipeline. There are also a few proposed properties that would be new brands to the state of Ohio such as The Tapestry Collection at Canton’s Hall of Fame Village or the St. Regis, of the Marriott portfolio, proposed for Easton Town Center in Columbus.

Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites by Hilton Dual Property – Columbus & Toledo

I recently had the opportunity to do a hardhat tour at the Columbus Easton location and I was delighted. The layout is very impressive with extensive & flexible meeting space for a diverse number of events. This location is unique in that it will feature Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse. The large, covered, outdoor patio will also be a key feature and an ideal location for your next happy hour.

The new packages for Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites are built on the foundation of modern grays with vibrant pops of color. The Hilton Garden Inn side follows a purple palette while the Homewood Suites embraces aqua accents.

Though I have not been inside of the Toledo location. I did have the opportunity to see the site as part of other construction happening at the Seagate Convention Centre (a $50 million expansion & renovation!). Our friends at Destination Toledo, shared with us their views and exciting news for things to come. Did you know that the downtown Toledo adjacent to the convention center is being revitalized? Retail, dining, drinks, plus extensive updates at the convention center AND this new property will be a win-win for all.

Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites by Hilton Easton

Shaner Hotel Group is on the Move – Dayton & Cincinnati

Shaner Hotel Group continues to grow its Columbus footprint with two new builds from newer brands.  An AC Hotel is up next as a perfect addition to downtown Dayton’s lodging options. AC Hotels are Marriott’s European Style Limited-Service hotel, having a sleek, upscale vibe. This AC is the fifth AC Hotel to be built in Ohio. Other AC Hotels are located in Liberty Center, Downtown Cincinnati at The Banks, Downtown Columbus and Dublin.

On deck is the new Tribute Hotel which will be built in the Clifton Heights area of the Uptown Cincinnati/University of Cincinnati area. Also, a Marriott property, Tribute Hotels are an upscale, boutique style property that often houses a full-service, high-end restaurant, unique, local artwork and design. Tribute is also a new addition to Ohio’s hotel market, with this being the second Tribute to be built in Ohio. The first Tribute was opened in Downtown Cincinnati as the Kinley Hotel.

DoubleTree by Hilton – Dublin

One of 3 recently developed DoubleTree properties in the state, this 174-room property, set to open this winter, is conveniently located just SIX minutes away from the newly developed Bridge Park area of Dublin. Guests will have the opportunity to take advantage of dining next door or take a quick jaunt to historic Dublin or Bridge Park for shopping, nightlife, dining and more.

The property will also offer just over 4,000 square feet of meetings and events space and each guest will feel extra special when they bite into everyone’s favorite chocolate chip cookie at check-in… yum!

There is more excitement in the pipeline, stay tuned!

Until Next Time,

Lauren

P.S. Did you hear that the owners of the historic Renaissance Cleveland have plans to rebrand the property as Hotel Cleveland, a part of the Marriott Autograph Collection?

We are All Students in the Queen City

“We are all students.” Sound familiar? We first talked about this school of thought back in 2019 when two new properties were in the pipeline for Ohio. The Graduate Hotels brand has made its mark since then with two unique and unmistakable properties in Cincinnati and Columbus. This brand pays homage to the most dynamic university towns by incorporating the spirit and cultural nods at heritage and history of each university and town.

The OHLA team recently hosted an event at the Graduate Cincinnati, and it did not disappoint. The colorful design and eccentric artwork are a far cry from its former, more traditional glory as the Marriott Kingsgate.

I laughed to myself when I came through the front entrance and a large bright green statue of Fiona welcomed me. Fiona is a hippopotamus that was born at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the first in 75 years, and has become a mascot of sorts for Cincinnati. Her name also graces the vibrant bar & restaurant offering drinks & casual eats. I loved the atmosphere of this lobby and entryway. It just feels fun when you arrive, offering Fiona’s, Poindexter Cafe, and so many lounge areas to mix and mingle.

The event space is just as exciting; these are a few of my favorite pieces from these areas:

  • Bright custom carpeting featuring the ubiquitous Cincinnati flying pigs and Cardinals, the state bird of Ohio.
  • In the event rooms the lighting fixtures are meant to symbolize the smokestacks and nod to the relevance that riverboats had in the early history of Cincinnati.
  • Amazing locally inspired artwork throughout the pre-function spaces.

The sleeping rooms continue this property’s bold color palette with a keen focus on the University of Cincinnati’s history. I personally love the grid lined wallpaper in the rooms (perhaps a nod to the University of Cincinnati’s top ranking architecture and interior design programs?). Also, did you know that you can buy some of the Graduate Hotels’ most common wallpaper via Chasing Paper?

If you are headed to Cincinnati to cheer on the Bearcats be sure to check availability. I am positive it will be a nostalgic experience if you are an alum or a Cincinnati native.

P.S. Stay tuned to explore the Graduate Columbus in coming weeks!

Until next time,

Lauren

How do you discover Unique Ohio?

It has been a while and the world looks even more different than it did a couple months ago. Being cooped up all spring and the better part of the summer is making many eager to get out of the house. Others though are a bit travel shy, and that is okay. Meet somewhere in the middle. Ohio’s Unique Lodging properties are only a short drive away and I know exactly where you can find them – www.uniquelodgingofohio.com

Discover Unique Ohio…

By Region

Search by any of Ohio’s 8 major regions – Amish Country, Central, Hocking Hills, Lake Erie & Geneva-on-the-Lake, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest – to find the atmosphere and unique lodging that you desire.

 

 

 

 

 

By Unique Accommodations

You will be sure to find lodging that satisfies everyone’s comfort level and needs with a variety of property types. With inns, cabins, tree houses, B&Bs, and more you will be sure not to disappoint!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Shared Experiences

Hear directly from the communities across the state of Ohio with our local blog posts. Learn about the latest news, upcoming events, must-visit destinations, and vacation suggestions for that region.

 

 

 

 

 

By Special Promotions

Ohio is an ideal destination for exploring historic sites, spending time in the scenic outdoors and sipping local wine (who knew?) while you soak up the beauty of the valley. Right now there are getaways available of up to 35% off!

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Local Events

Discover new, exclusive, and socially distant experiences happening all around the state. You may be surprised what you find..

 

 

 

 

 

No matter how you search Unique Ohio one thing is for sure: there is something for everyone.

Graduate Hotels: What’s Their School of Thought?

Another year, another new brand emerging in the state of Ohio with two locations in the works. I introduce you to the Graduate Hotel brand coming very soon to Columbus and Cincinnati.

What is a Graduate Hotel? These properties are popping up across the United States in energetic & lively university cities where the hotels themselves pay homage to the local university through design and aesthetic.

“To be a Graduate is to be part of a well-curated, well-crafted collection of hotels that reside in the most dynamic university towns across the country. Every site and property celebrates and commemorates the youthful optimism of school days and cultivates the spirit of each community in a bright new way.”

Columbus’ location is a new build in the bustling Short North Arts District just south of The Ohio State University with an eagerly anticipated opening date set for this October (just in time for the peak of football season!). Opening Winter 2020, the Cincinnati location will be at the University of Cincinnati after the Kingsgate Hotel & Conference Center undergoes a full conversion.

What we can see so far is that the Columbus property will be adorned with Scarlet & Gray plaid and gold accents throughout. As an alum, my inner Buckeye, CANNOT WAIT to see the finished product and I am sure all of my Bearcat friends are equally as excited.

 

Until Next Time,

Lauren

OHLA Staff Picks for Spring Break

Hello InnLovers –

It’s that time of year again, we are just coming out of the deep freeze that is winter for the Ohio region, college classes halt for a week, and everyone wants to cross state lines…You guessed it – we are talking about SPRING BREAK!

We are doing something a little different for this blog post. You are going to hear a little from each of us at the OHLA office about our favorite places to travel for the infamous week-long vacation. We have got a little bit of everything for you. Some like the beach, some like the sights, some go for the food, but we can all agree it is just nice to get away from the everyday. (Don’t get us wrong, we love Ohio, but…)

Here it is, without further ado – the places you need to see on spring break, according to the OHLA staff:

Lauren’s Pick – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

“Cabo San Lucas is one of those places that the photos just don’t do it justice. Once you break through the neighborhoods, you are exposed to the desert terrain of sand and cacti and as the car twists through the hills you get to a point where you see the crystal blue water peek through a valley… and just like that, you sink into the beauty of Cabo. I’ve been to various parts of Mexico (Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cozumel, etc.) and each of these cities are covered with lush green plants, bright flowers and trees. Cabo is unique in comparison and is simply stunning.

We stayed at the stunning Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection, and it was everything I could have hoped for and more. The level of service is unmatched. During our visit we went on a catamaran to the famous Stone Arch at Land’s End (highly recommend!), snorkeled and explored the fabulous & restaurants that are offered.”

Michele’s Pick – Washington, DC (Metro Area)

“During spring break season DC does not offer the swimming weather that the southern half of our country does, but it does offer history, sites that will take your breath away, and food that will keep you coming back.

One of my favorite sights in the area has to be Iwo Jima Memorial. There is just something about the feeling of reverence and awe that the memorial inspires, especially when you see it lit up at night. If you are the area during the summer months I would also recommend the U.S Marine’s Sunset Parade which usually happens in the shadows of the memorial Tuesday evenings June-August. The parade is comprised of musical performances of the Marine Drum & Bugle Corps and the Silent Drill Platoon. It really is something to see.

If historical sites are not your thing, consider seeing the Washington Nationals play south of the city adjacent to the Navy Yard. This venue is huge with many places to eat. If the game does not interest you the food definitely will. My personal go to for food at Nats Park is the one and only Shake Shack (who needs a hot dog when you can get a burger and milkshake, am I right?). A few other enjoyable sites if you have the time to see them are the National Zoo, National Mall, and the Smithsonian.

Despite the hustle and bustle of the city, DC gives you many opportunities to “stop and smell the flowers,” especially if the cherry blossoms are in bloom!”

Cindy’s Pick – Boulder, CO

“Recently, I visited Boulder, Colorado to visit Erin, my daughter and Brad, her husband! I love visiting Boulder, it’s small enough to walk lots of places in town. I’ve been there for most seasons, winter was a favorite, as I like the snow. We drove up to the mountains and went dog sled riding. Hiking is a must all round Boulder, the scenery is so different from Ohio.

There’s great dining in Boulder on and near the Pearl Street Mall. A couple favorites are Mountain Sun, small craft brewer; Illegal Pete’s Pearl St. Mall, a great Mexican place, and a very unique Nepalese restaurant. Not to mention, Lucille’s is a must for a delicious breakfast. If you are in the area, you have to go once to the Celestial Seasonings Tea Company –  tour the peppermint room! There are many fun casual places to eat in Boulder, but the best is roof top dining with a view of the Flatirons.

A treat this past summer was getting out of town and seeing a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Lady Antebellum. Such a beautiful and unique venue. A few other memorable stops we made were visiting Pike’s Peak, a bucket list item, and the Sand Dunes National Park. We chose a hot day – 101 degrees.”

Halle’s Pick – Charleston, SC

“My pick for Spring Break (or frankly, any time of year) is Charleston, SC. Charleston is one of my all time favorite places in the world and it’s right here — a (long) day drive or short, inexpensive flight away.

I lived in Charleston for a summer, so perhaps there is a special place for it in my heart, but I truly believe in the magic of southern hospitality and if you haven’t been, it needs to go on your bucket list.

If you haven’t stayed in Charleston before I highly recommend you ditch the beach and opt for an historic inn or Hotel in downtown Charleston. The brick streets and Southern porches are too charming to pass up. Downtown Charleston is only a ten minute drive from beautiful beaches like the Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island, so the good news is you can stay downtown and soak up the historic charm and you can spend a day or two at the beach – The Best of Both Worlds!

If I could recommend a perfect evening in downtown Charleston I would suggest grabbing a AAA guidebook and doing a walking tour of Charleston’s historic homes and buildings. Stop by at a number of open-air places for a glass of wine or cocktail to break up the walking. Finish off the evening at one of the best Lowcountry fine dining restaurants one could find – like Slightly North of Broad (S.N.O.B) or High Cotton. If you’re interested in trying something a little different, stop by Kaminsky’s – the dessert bar of Charleston. Patrons can select from a number of decadent desserts or dessert cocktails. Don’t let the line outside scare you off, it’s worth the wait! No trip to Charleston, or review from me, would be complete without brunch. Make sure to try some of those famous southern biscuits and a mimosa or two before you head out of town. There are SO many places to choose from, you cannot go wrong, but Husk is definitely at the top of my list.

Planning to eat and charm your way through Charleston, sometime soon? I want to hear about it!”

Joe’s Pick – American Southwest

“The desert Southwest has always been among my favorite places to get away. There is great beauty across our country, but there is something about the vibrant desert landscapes that is uniquely American. For Spring Break fun, the Las Vegas region provides some of the best opportunities for fun, exploration and natural beauty. Many people say the casino and nightlife of Vegas aren’t for them. But to me, the best parts of Las Vegas are outside the city.

Even during a short stay, you can plan wisely and take advantage of amazing opportunities a short drive away. Valley of Fire State Park is stunning in its scope and amazing color. Anyone who thinks desert landscapes are boring is in for a very nice surprise. Drivable and walkable, Valley of Fire makes any trip to Vegas something much more than expected. Also nearby are Lake Mead National Recreation Area, historic Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon National Conversation Area, and crisp cooler air on Mt. Charleston. If you plan right, and have a little luck, you might also catch some exciting acrobatics over the desert from cutting-edge aircraft flying out of Nellis Air Force Base outside of the city. When you’ve had enough adventure, get your R&R poolside. Consider some of the great off-strip properties which are affordable and even more convenient for exploring outside of town, such as Green Valley Ranch and its sister property Red Rock Resort.

Although Las Vegas has some of America’s greatest hotel & resort properties, don’t be fooled into thinking it is all about windowless rooms designed to take your money.  Get outside and see some of the greatest landscape America has to offer.”

Well there you have it, the OHLA picks for spring break. Now the question is, which of these are YOU going to pick?

 

Thank you for traveling with us!

-OHLA Staff

Lauren Stazen, Director of Membership
Michele Marcinick, Communications and Events Coordinator
Cindy Sams, Director of Operations
Halle Markwas, Manager of Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships
Joe Savarise, Executive Director

Taking Flight at Marriott at the University of Dayton

Marriott at the University of Dayton has had an overhaul that we have been seeing across the Marriott brand. Long gone are the days of bold rich reds, golds, and purples. Hello, are the days of a modern edge with a personalized twist paying homage to the area.Marriott - Dayton, OH

The redesign celebrates Dayton’s rich history of flight experiencing tributes to Orville and Wilbur Wright’s first plane design. As you walk in the front doors, the ceiling is notable as it offers depth and an aviation-like flow to the front desk.Marriott - Dayton, OH

Throughout the property you see rounded lines, rich woodworking, and a neutral palette with accents of rich blues and green plants. I enjoyed seeing all of the working areas, nooks to relax in, and the business center. Everything is comfortable and open with an undoubted sense of pride for the city of Dayton and its’ history. One of my favorite art pieces was the plane blueprint artwork that sat behind a working area, a three-piece installation that is a creative addition.

Marriott - Dayton, OHWhat once was Sharkey’s and an amphitheater is now a relaxing courtyard with outdoor seating. In addition, their restaurant got a full makeover and is now called Dewberry 1850. The restaurant is beautiful, bright, and open and is accessible easily from the entry. The bar within serves up coffee shop beverages by day and transforms to a bar by night. The menu features American classics served up fresh with a twist. While we were visiting, I did try their special coffee beverage, an iced Blackberry White Chocolate Latte, it hit the spot on a humid morning!Marriott - Dayton, OH

The Marriott at the University of Dayton has certainly undergone a fresh redesign and will continue to serve the Greater Dayton community for years to come.

Next week we are going to explore…. a wedding at the Hyatt at the Arcade in downtown Cleveland. (I know what you are thinking, yes, I am going to another wedding!)

 

Until Next Time,

Lauren

 

Marriott - Dayton, OH

 

LeVeque Luxury

Hotel LeVeque Columbus, OHHi, Inn Lovers! As the newbie of OHLA, this is my first contribution to the Inn Love blog, so hang with me as I share my venture into downtown Columbus to Hotel Leveque, the first Autograph Collection in Columbus, situated within the iconic Leveque Tower. Trust me, you’ll want to hear about this one!

The LeVeque Tower has always been an iconic part of the Columbus skyline, completed in 1927, it became the fifth tallest building in the world (standing ½ foot taller than the Washington Monument). Fast forward to 1975, when Katherine LeVeque took over Hotel LeVeque following her husband’s death. She then managed the day-to-day operations of the hotel, where she lived on the 41st floor until 2011, the same year the hotel officially became a landmark.

Hotel LeVeque, Columbus, OHThis property’s MO is “A Beacon of Hospitality”, how fitting! From the moment I pulled up in front of the striking building I was in awe. The entryway alone is enough to take your breath away with its intricate metal working, hanging lamps, tiled flooring, painted ceilings… Oh my gosh, we haven’t even made it inside yet!

Hotel LeVeque, Columbus, OHAs I walked through the lobby to the super hip front desk I couldn’t help but to look up and see the stellar light fixture in a soaring atrium. I began putting the pieces together and saw the overall theme; astrology! There were seemingly subtle notes all around me including the shimmering ever-changing constellation artwork behind the front desk pods. (Forgive my picture from Christmas, I just had to include this one of the lobby, it was so beautiful! And the tree almost reached the second floor!)

Hotel LeVeque, Columbus, OH

Hotel LeVeque Columbus, OHOk, Inn Lovers, the sleeping rooms are SO fun! The rooms carried on the overall theme with ultra-modern furnishings, pops of gold and yellow, and light fixtures that mimicked the fixture in the atrium. Abstract shelfing also offered unique books, gadgets, and gizmos. After all this excitement, I could not wait to see the restaurant and lounge.

Hotel LeVeque, Columbus, OHFirst, I wanted to freshen up and the bathroom did not disappoint! Spacious with marble tiling throughout. And by spacious I mean you can fit at least 15 people in the shower alone. I would be remiss not to mention the toiletries by Cliff Original, which I later found out is a local company right here in Columbus!

I made my way to The Keep Liquor Bar, an overall French concept. It was dark and exciting with quite the menu for food and drink. I started with a Front St. Fizz and dabbled in a few small plates (the braised short rib was delectable!). I couldn’t help but to stay a little longer and absorb the vibe.

Hotel LeVeque Columbus, OH

Eventually, I decided I needed to end this fun visit and head to bed (it was a work night after all!). However, I was surprised again! My room had gotten turndown service complete with a projected constellation on the ceiling. This night I got to fall asleep under the stars.

Hotel LeVeque, Columbus, OH

Hotel LeVeque, Columbus, OH

Hotel LeVeque, Columbus, OH

Happy Travels!

-Lauren

Dapper Dual Property

Marriott Columbus University AreaIn the spirit of welcoming our new Director of Membership, Lauren Stazen, and the Ohio State spring game coming up (sorry readers, at some point everything in Columbus relates back to OSU football), I decided to visit Lauren’s former property – Marriott & Residence Inn Columbus University Area! The dual property is the first of it’s kind for the brand, and you’ll want to see this one. Come with me as I explore Marriott’s new concept, located just two miles from the heart of Ohio State’s campus.

Dual property? Yes! This project served as a pilot program for Marriott International featuring a full-service Marriott connected to an extended stay Residence Inn. I could immediately tell a difference when I walked in the front doors. It was so OPEN. The lobby and soft seating flowed right into the bar area and then opened into the restaurant. It honestly all felt like the same space, which was extremely welcoming and very on-trend (for all my Chip and Joanna fans out there).

Marriott Columbus University AreaAnd speaking of trends… I learned that Columbus’ stake in the fashion industry was the designer’s décor concept for the Marriott side of the property. Warm neutrals greet you as you enter the front doors and continue down the halls and even into the elevator, which looks like a men’s tie on the inside (fun fact: the neutral pallet was chosen based on the colors and fabrics used for luxury men’s suits).

Marriott Columbus University AreaI headed back into the open space at the front of the property (which Lauren later told me is called the “Great Room”, very fitting) for dinner at MODA. MODA (meaning “fashion” in several other languages) continues the trendy theme of the property with unique dishes like the braised short rib nachos and a slow roasted mojo pork Cuban sandwich, but I have to say my favorite dish was the roasted brussels sprouts.

Marriott Columbus University AreaAfter dinner I was allowed a sneak peek at the M Club…which is always the cool part for a person who isn’t loyal enough to any brand or airline to reap the benefits of points or miles…but I may have been convinced after seeing this space. The room is filled with mostly white marble on the countertops, floors, and a feature wall with accents of maroon throughout. There are plenty of spaces to sit and work, hang out and watch TV, or enjoy my personal favorite…the 24-hour coffee and snack bar.

Marriott Columbus University AreaVenture down a connecting hallway and you’ll find yourself in the Residence Inn, which pays homage to Ohio State academics through its décor in the public areas and sleeping rooms. One of the most notable pieces of artwork (that I’m trying to figure out how to recreate) is a script Ohio made of 12,000 pencils that hangs just behind the front desk. Cozy spaces surround you in the lobby with textbooks, a fire place, area rugs (also custom OSU themed), flat screen televisions, and comfortable seating that truly makes you feel at home. And after touring the space, I’m thinking I just might have to book my next extended stay here during a Buckeye football game, which can never come fast enough for an Ohio State alumna 😊

Marriott Columbus University Area

Marriott Columbus University Area

Marriott Columbus University Area

 

Happy travels!

The Queen City Comeback

I think I may have spoken too soon about Spring coming given the snow that appeared in Ohio this week…luckily for me, I had the perfect property on my travel list to bring me indoors. Even better, in my hometown of Cincinnati!

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OHIf you haven’t visited Cincinnati recently, now is the time to start planning your trip. The last time I lived in Cincinnati, in the early 2000’s, downtown was not even close to a destination for residents or tourists. In fact, part of downtown was ranked in the top ten most dangerous neighborhoods in America (Over-the-Rhine). Today, those neighborhoods are unrecognizable. Join me as we explore the beautiful boutique brand that has focused its attention on revitalization projects in cities experiencing a renaissance, the 21c Museum Hotel.

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OHThe first time I returned home from DC, I thought my friends were joking when they asked me to meet them at a bar in Over-the-Rhine (OTR, as we call it). Downtown Cincinnati truly was THAT bad when I left. Today, I am so proud of the hard work and funding dedicated to the revitalization of the city I love so much…and the reason I admire properties like the 21c Museum Hotel.

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OH

“For more than 10 years now, the 21c Museum Hotel experience has seamlessly blended art and hospitality. Our multi-venue contemporary art museum, unique boutique hotels and chef-driven restaurants together create a new kind of travel and cultural experience, globally connected yet rooted in the local community.”

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OHThe mission of 21c Museum Hotel was apparent when I walked into their Cincinnati location, I honestly had a hard time telling it was a hotel, it’s truly that focused on art. I checked in and met up with CJ Lecky, Corporate Director of Sales and Business Development, who gave me a wonderful tour of the museum, located on three floors of the property, while telling me all about how the brand got its start.

“21c Museum Hotel was founded by preservationists and contemporary art collectors Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson. The couple wanted to take an active role in the preservation and revitalization of downtown Louisville motivated by changes happening in and around their hometown.”

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OHCJ informed me that the couple really had no intention of opening more than one property, but it was easy to see how the concept caught on, earning not only national, but international attention and awards. In fact, all seven 21c Museum Hotels were ranked among Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Hotels in the World. If that wasn’t impressive enough, the brand has also earned Travel + Leisure’s Global Vision Award, Monocle Magazine’s Best Hotel Brand, and Inc.’s 5000 Fastest Growing Companies recognition.

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OHAfter I finished touring the appropriately-timed “The Future is Female” exhibit, showcasing contemporary feminist art from around the globe (check out the pictures – it was incredible), I headed to my room. It was no surprise that the room was every bit as quirky and wonderful as the hotel lobby – notice anything about the shower wall? And I have to say…this was one of the most comfortable hotel beds I’ve ever slept in.

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OH
I had a snack and custom craft cocktail at the Metropole downstairs before I ventured out to revisit the Cincinnati nightlife that didn’t exist when I lived there. The 21c Museum Hotel is very conveniently located… within a few blocks of any number of activities you might enjoy: The Aronoff Center for the Arts, Fountain Square, breweries, shopping, and of course Cincinnati’s hottest new neighborhood…you guessed it…OTR. Bonus: one of my personal favorite Cincinnati restaurants, Sotto, is across the street. Get the donuts if you go, thank me later.

What a wonderful getaway to my beloved city that might become your new favorite destination too! One thing is for sure, I will be returning in the summer to experience their fabulous rooftop cocktail terrace.

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OH

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OH

21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, OH

Happy travels!

 

-Mackenzie

Modern Beauty in Bangkok

Spring is fast approaching and I think we are all ready for what the season brings…a change in weather, experiences…and bloggers! As some of you may know, Halle had her beautiful baby boy this week, so I’ll be standing in to take you along on some of my travels. I was fortunate enough to leave behind five inches of Columbus snow a couple weeks ago and step off a plane into 90 degree Southeast Asia.

 

I have to admit, Bangkok was a bit overwhelming for me. I didn’t know what to expect, and I’d really only seen pictures of beaches, islands, and elephant reserves in Thailand. Bangkok is not that. Despite part of its city limits reaching the gulf of Thailand, Bangkok is a huge metropolitan area almost the size of New York City, just as crowded and busy. So, you could say I was thankful for a relaxing break at the Park Hyatt.

This property is a bit hidden on the inside, as it sits atop the 8 story Central Embassy mall (sidenote – I could probably write an entire blog about the malls in Asia). You first travel up a few floors to the most inviting space filled with bookstores, restaurants, study spaces, and children’s playgrounds on the same level and weave your way back to a set of elevators marked as the hotel’s.

Once the doors open on the 9th floor, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the Park Hyatt Bangkok. The designer of the interior space wanted to embody “livable luxury”, and it’s obvious. The entire hotel smells like the lobby of a spa, every wall is a fresh hue of ivory or light wood with carefully placed artwork, and the architecture is remarkable. I almost felt like I was in an art gallery or museum, everything feels so intentional.

It’s hard to pick a favorite space, so I have to tell you about two, the pool and the rooftop entertainment area.

The pool. Wow. After a long morning of sightseeing on foot in 80% humidity, lunch by the pool was a dream. When you walk onto the pool deck, you instantly feel like you’re in a garden. If you choose not to sit along the 130 ft. saltwater infinity pool (I saw more infinity pools in Asia than I’ve seen in my lifetime), you can continue to the back where a few stairs take you to different levels of cabana-style seating. We chose this spot (mostly because the cabanas are essentially queen-sized beds covered in the softest terry cloth) and ordered a couple drinks and (of course) Thai food!

I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves here, but I think I was pleasantly surprised when the service was just as impressive as the scenery. There isn’t a tipping culture in Asia, so at most places you have to let staff know when you need anything. Not here. Our servers were angels, telling us about the history of the property, suggesting the best meals for an authentic Thai experience, and always with a smile and wonderful attitude. We could have stayed all day, but it was time for a few more sights before we returned to the Park Hyatt bars and restaurants.

It’s difficult to find a word other than “wow” to describe the different parts of the Park Hyatt. The bar and restaurant space are phenomenal. Three floors of entertainment to explore, complete with a rooftop bar overlooking the city. I’m not sure if this is true, but I heard it was modeled after a “bachelor pad”, which makes sense given the vintage BMW motorcycle in the lobby, cigar bar upstairs, and racing memorabilia filling the bookshelves. If you didn’t want to sit outside, the cocktail bar also offers floor to ceiling views of the city from just about every spot in the room. And to make your custom cocktails that much more enjoyable, there is a house DJ who sits right above the liquor wall to give you a club experience without actually having to go to a club.

I can’t speak to the food in this particular restaurant, as we didn’t eat there, but I’m sure it’s just as amazing as everything else at this property. I am determined to make it back to the Park Hyatt Bangkok based on this trip, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting this beautiful part of the world!

 

 

Happy traveling!