Autograph Collection Adds Hotels In New Orleans, Miami
Marriott International’s Autograph Collection has announced the addition of 3 new properties in the USA to its growing lineup. New Orleans’ The Saint Hotel, as well as Miami’s Blue Moon Hotel and Winter Haven Hotel join the portfolio of independent luxury hotels, bolstering it to 32 properties since its launch in 2010.
The Saint Hotel
Recently refurbished (and in time for Mardi Gras) at a cost of USD 45 million, The Saint Hotel is the Autograph Collection’s first property in Louisiana. Situated in the world famous French Quarter, the hotel is built within the framework of the historic 103-year old Audubon Building, with interiors decorated with large black and white photographic murals of the early 1900s providing a haute bohemian and eclectic atmosphere appealing to even the most sophisticated traveller.
166 guestrooms offer a tranquil and casual opulence, with white and indigo blue decor contrasted with exposed brick walls. Each is furnished with luxury bedding featuring custom-mirrored headboards, marble bathroom with shower and signature bath products, 46-inch flatscreen television, complimentary high-speed internet access, workdesk and white lacquered furniture.
3 unique venues provide dining and entertainment against the backdrop of New Orleans’ jazz roots. Updated takes on southern and local cuisine from renowned chef Michael Stoltzfus at Sweet Olive is complemented by modern and antique elements for a sleek and sexy dining experience, while the aptly named Halo Rooftop Bar serves as a sunbather’s paradise by day before transforming each night into a romantic escape with flickering lanterns and tunes spun by the resident DJ. Rounding up the trio is the Burgundy Bar, where cocktails, jazz and the burgundy velvet walls come together to embrace the past, present and future of New Orleans.
The Saint Hotel’s 135 square meters of function space caters to guests seeking a venue for intimate meetings and social gatherings. A custom-made pool table in the lobby serves as a communal space for catching up in the evenings or watching the world go by.
For more information, visit www.thesainthotelneworleans.com.
Blue Moon Hotel
Tucked away on Collins Avenue, the Blue Moon Hotel is an intimate sanctuary fusing art deco and Mediterranean aesthetics coupled with modern and sophisticated touches. Listed on the US National Register of Historic Places, the property is a composite of 2 former hotels to create a modern and chic boutique lodging experience.
Elegantly furnished accommodations feature modern amenities and select city views, offering a choice of King-, Queen- or Double beds with high threadcount designer sheets. The bathrooms are lighthearted and awash with colourful terrazo back-splashes and emerald blue showers, while in-room entertainment comes from the 32-inch flatscreen television and complimentary high-speed internet access. Other amenities include art deco furniture, voicemail telephones, in-room safe, minibar and coffee-/tea-making facilities.
For dining, FIXE offers a fresh take on modern american fare in a space reflective of Miami’s energy and sophistication. Conversely, the Blue Moon Lounge serves as an enclave of sorts for guests looking to escape the frenetic pace of South Beach with its dark woods and soft lighting.
Event planners have 2 outdoor patios at their disposal for intimate functions, accommodating up to 50 guests. Recreation is provided by an outdoor swimming pool, ideal for sun worshippers to escape the sub-tropical heat.
For more information, visit www.bluemoonhotel.com.
Winter Haven Hotel
An icon of South Beach occupying an exclusive location on Ocean Drive, the Winter Haven Hotel was originally designed by acclaimed architect Albert Anis and unveiled to the public in 1939. A nautical-inspired interior pays homage to the majesty of the era’s ocean liners, together with a blend of modern touches including terrazzo flooring, glass blocks, chrome-finished railings and a grand cruise ship staircase.
The 71 guestrooms are crafted for relaxation and unrestrained enjoyment, offering views of the open ocean or the sparkling lights of Miami Beach. Rich colours greet guests as they enter, where each accommodation is well-furnished with custom wooden furniture, luxury bedding, bathroom, LCD television with iPod docking station, high-speed internet access and in-room safe.
Winter Haven Hotel’s Rock Lobster is a refined restaurant serving some of the finest Floridian seafood, including its namesake spiny lobster. The Ocean Drive Martini Bar is a throwback to a true mid-20th century martini joint, with a carefully preserved black marble top, original wood fascia and stainless foot rails.
Business travellers and meeting planners have the 59-square meter Mezzanine room at their disposal. Although the hotel does not have any onsite recreational facilities, the concierge desk can arrange for a variety of activities for leisure guests.
For more information, visit www.winterhavenhotelsobe.com and www.marriott.com.
