ALONG COMES MARY

Hotels can be tricky spots. We rely on them to become our “home away from home” during travels. Whether you’re out of town for business or pleasure, hotels are our temporary haven. After a long day out, nothing is more satisfying than retiring to your room for a peaceful night’s sleep. If you’re in search of a few nights in a treehouse or need a posh, modern Atlanta hotel for a city vaycay, these were some of my favorite hotels to stay at this past year.

Where will 2020 take you?

Manor Haus Bed and Breakfast, Fredericksburg, Texas

If you’re a wine lover, Manor Haus B&B is the getaway for you. Nestled in the Texas Hill Country (one of the top five USA wine destinations), State favorite Messina Hof Winery opened the Manor Haus in 2011 and offers guests a rustic experience while staying on a ten-acre vineyard.

The four stand-alone cottages feature a living room, full bathroom, kitchenette, and spacious bedroom. Champagne, juice,cereal and pastries are included, which makes for a relaxing mimosa breakfast on the vineyards. The bungalows serve as the perfect place to unplug while enjoying the wine country and natural beauty of Texas Hill Country.

Since it was my first time in Texas, it worked out perfectly that Hill Country is just under 80 miles from both San Antonio and Austin.

ARRIVE Hotel, Palm Springs, California

You know you’re in for a good time when you check into ARRIVE Hotel. The pool bar acts as their “lobby” and a cart of canned libations are there to welcome you. A hotel reserved for those 21 and over, ARRIVE is nestled in desert darling Palm Springs and is an ideal choice for that girl’s trip or romantic weekend.

The bright, airy suites feature high ceilings and windows with views of the desert mountains that surround you. The furniture makes you feel right at Joshua Tree with its wood desks and leather chairs. A lively pool sits in the center of the property, and weekly DJs and frequent movie nights are the norm.

With two restaurants, the bar, a coffee and ice cream shop all within ARRIVE, it’s clear to see why it was hard to leave. As a well-known LGBTQ destination, you’ll find numerous gay bars, events and nightlife options to enjoy. If you’re traveling with Fido, you’ll be happy to know that ARRIVE is dog-friendly.

The Mohicans Treehouses, Glenmont, Ohio

If being in the Great Outdoors of Ohio’s Ashland County entices you, why not take it a step further. At The Mohicans, one of the most sought-out wedding venues in the state, guests can stay in beautiful treehouses designed by Treehouse Master, Pete Nelson, and built by the local Amish community.

If you’re like me, you might be wondering how the heck do you stay in a treehouse? While no television or wifi (but fun Disney movie DVDs), each treehouse has electricity and water, heating and a kitchenette. For those who enjoy hiking, fishing and “glamping,” this is the adventure for you. We were amazed that the water was much hotter than several 4-star hotels we’ve stayed at!

If you’re looking for an extremely unique wedding sight, The Mohicans certainly fits the bill. For a larger scale event, their Grand Barn offers room for up to 120 guests while they also have packages for smaller, more intimate ceremonies and celebrations.

Our stay in their El Castillo treehouse was easily our most unique (and peaceful) vacation yet.

The American Hotel, Downtown Atlanta

Since Atlanta is one of my favorite cities, I was thrilled to stay at the American Hotel this past summer. One of the most iconic hotels in Downtown, the American opened in 1962 as the first hotel in the city to welcome guests of all races. Recently undergoing an 18 million dollar renovation, the facelift restored its original day decor of mid-century modern style that celebrates the striking architectural details, pop art, and furnishings of a time characterized by a clean simple line.

Since the warm weather was upon us during my visit (hello, humidity), their pool overlooking downtown was especially inviting. The lobby and hallways are adorned with classic photographs of celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor, which complement the mod atmosphere.

If the Georgia Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park are on the agenda, you’ll be happy to hear they’re a ten-minute walk away. While some visitors opt for a car rental in Atlanta, I had good luck utilizing the MARTA rail line system. Since the station was five minutes from the American, it came in handy to grab from the airport and to explore the diverse neighborhoods of Atlanta.

El Monte Sagrado, Taos, New Mexico

Tranquil luxury is what you’ll find at El Monte Sagrado in beautiful Taos. The most expensive hotel built in New Mexico, El Monte Sagrado sits on 11 luscious acres in the heart of the artistic community. Just a few minutes’ walk to town, filled with galleries and boutiques, guests might find themselves partial to just sitting back at the resort and absorbing the atmosphere. 

With half a dozen suite types available, including 1100 square feet suites and casitas, El Monte Sagrado is a center for rest, relaxation and healing. From their saltwater pool to Living Spa, they offer numerous chances to get your self-care on in a truly unique space with incredible history. 

Built around a Native American ceremony site, the Sacred Circle open space, the resort does not pay tribute to its heritage as much as it lives it.  Whether you visit for ski season, or to rejuvenate, El Monte Segrado gives their guests an unforgettable experience.

The Clement Hotel, Palo Alto, California

Let’s face it: traveling is exhausting. Whether for business or pleasure, it’s nice when you know dinner is ready or that you can relax with a cocktail after a day out. The Clement Hotel in California’s prestigious Palo Alto offers its guests an all-inclusive stay with options like breakfast in bed, 24-hour pantry and an open bar. Ample one and two-bedroom suites boast full cable TV in each room, Jacuzzi bathtubs, snacks and wine in room upon arrival. 

Not only are your meals included at the Clement, but guests make their own menu in advance so the kitchen is sure to have what they need to make your favorites. Gluten-free and dietary restrictions are no problem at all, and they’re dog friendly.

While an ideal hotel for business trips, consider the Clement for visits to San Francisco. San Mateo County is under 35 miles from the city and has much to explore.

Hofsas House Hotel, Carmel, California 

Doing a road trip up the California Coast? One of my most favorite places in California is Carmel-by-the-Sea. Not only is it some of the most breathtaking stretch of beach I’ve seen in the state, but the village is so quaint and romantic. Stay in the heart of it when you book a stay at Hofsas House Hotel, the only hotel I stay at when in town.

Not only do they offer local wine and cheese in room upon arrival, but their Tail Wagging package has made it Hammy and Nova’s favorite vacation. When your BFF comes along, upgrade them to get treats, a Frisbee and more goodies to get them ready for the beach. During your stay, enjoy a continental breakfast with local pastries and coffee, pool and sauna.

A family ran business for over 70 years, owner Carrie Theis is a Carmel local and can fill you in on all of the sights to see. Nearby to the iconic Monterey Aquarium, Carrie and her Hofsas staff are extremely knowledgeable on the area and can help you in planning your best visit.

(*Disclosure: Some of the mentioned hotels were hosted visits on behalf of story purposes. All opinions are my own.)