This #LifestyleWednesday, we head to San Francisco with Luxury Diva herself, Maureen Martin!
The highlight of our San Francisco getaway was our stay at the Scarlet Huntington Hotel. The landmark luxury lodging is conveniently located at the top of ritzy Nob Hill. The hotel is magical and full of history. We loved exploring the halls and stairways of its pre-war architecture – which can best be described as almost like an old Hollywood movie set.
The twelve-story, Georgian-style brick building boasts 135 guest rooms and suites. The hotel closed for three months in 2014 and reopened as The Scarlet Huntington following its spectacular $15 million renovation. If you are as into home decor, as we are we know that the rooms will leave you with style-envy.
The only thing that competes with the lovely decor is the impeccable service offered by the warm staff. Within an hour of checking in the staff was referring to us by name! You can understand why dignitaries and celebs make this their personal home away from home. It’s guest list is illustrious, but the staff is so discreet and respectful that you’d never know that you may be a wall away from a bold face name. The staff’s gracious hospitality will leave you feeling like you too are a power broker.
It’s the little things that we noticed and loved. The hotel has a back staircase that leads to the spa area so you don’t have to walk through the lobby in a bathrobe or bathing suit. The relaxed feel of fellow guests makes you feel super welcomed. I have rarely seen so many peaceful looking travelers.
The well-appointed rooms are styled tastefully with an artistic edge (check out our photos and the hotel’s website). The selection of furniture and accessories in each suite is one-of-a-kind: no cookie cutter rooms here! It’s a cool departure from your typical boutique hotel experience. I can’t wait to return and stay in another suite and experience its unique style.
The hotel was once an apartment complex, so the suites have retained a residential feel but have additions like spa-like bathrooms, large open living rooms with desks, flat screen TVs and views of San Francisco’s skyline and distant hills. There is the usual complimentary coffee and wifi. The hotel offers an onsite spa and pool. The spa offers a menu list of services and a spa rooms where you and your friends can be pampered and refreshed.
Since fitness is a lifestyle we are always looking for ways to keep fit when we travel. My travel companion chose to run the hilly San Francisco streets and parks. FYI: it’s a really good workout that will leave your calves longing for a massage.
For dining on site there’s the Big 4 restaurant. The “four” is in reference to the famous and influential businessmen, philanthropists and railroad tycoons who built the Central Pacific Railroad,(C.P.R.R.) in the late 1800s. The walls of the restaurant are lined with newsprint and maps that can serve as a history lesson for young travelers.
If you are in town for entertainment and shopping, speak to the concierge and have them help you plan your stay accordingly. You will appreciate their knowledge of the city their recommendations and you’ll get the sense that they are looking out for you the way a good friend would.
The Scarlet Huntington hotel is a place your senses have to experience. The colors, textures and decor need to be seen to truly be appreciated. It’s a three-dimensional experience that words and photos can’t adequately express. If you go make sure you stay for the weekend and use the time to catch up on your rest. Our mattress was firm and welcoming and the chic yet serene atmosphere begs you to surrender to rest and relaxation, which we happily did.
You can learn more about Scarlet Huntington Hotel on its website.