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The Liberty Hotel- Boston, MA
Completed in 1851, for most of its history Boston's imposing Charles Street Jail was definitely a building to avoid. Purchased by Mass General Hospital in 1991, the property underwent an extensive renovation, and reemerged as a luxury hotel.
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Hilton Cleveland Downtown- Cleveland, OH
I admit, it is very out of character for me to stay at a Hilton, unless it is one of their historic properties, or part of their Curio Collection. That said, a lake front hotel has its appeal, especially one with a roof top lounge.
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PGA National Resort & Spa- West Palm Beach, FL
I must admit, PGA National Resort & Spa wasn’t a good fit for me. Demographically, it was mostly parents with small children, the pool was really crowded, and it was oddly expensive for a somewhat generic property. By way of example, two absolutely mix based Pina Coladas cost almost $50, which would be obscene even if they were made with fresh fruit. Which they definitely were not. That said, the golf courses were immaculate, wildlife was abundant, and it was warm in the winter, which really goes a long way- any port in a storm. Given the other options in the area, I doubt I would return, but the courses…
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Spanish Garden Inn- Santa Barbara, CA
While I do prefer historic hotels, if a place has sufficient character I will overlook youth. After all, my problem with most modern hotels isn’t so much age, but lack of architectural details, and uninspired interior design. Indeed, uniformity is the selling point of branded hotels- you know exactly what to expect; the same template used from coast to coast. Fortunately independent hotels can still be found, and most proudly showcase their sense of place. A perfect example is the Spanish Garden Inn; though less than 20 years old, it is reminiscent of Old California. A collection of low slung buildings, set around a breezy courtyard, it is the essence…
