Sunday 5 December 2010

My new favorite hotel room

I'm been spending a bit of time in Washington, DC again of late - it's amazing how much the city has changed since I lived here seven years ago. Collections of sparkling new high rises dot formerly blighted areas everywhere, loads of new restaurants (including the second US outpost of my friends Gianni and Stefano's beloved Acqua al 2 from Florence which has replicated the amazing convivial atmosphere and delicious food of the original perfectly. Bravo to Ari and Ralph).

But the purpose of this post is to sing the praises of something that hasn't changed -- the reliablity of the St. Regis Hotel on the southwest corner of 16th and K. It is still a relatively quiet part of town. It's near the White House, and there's now a P.J. Clarke's across the street (which is good and reliable). The hotel is everything a hotel should be. It is not too big, so you never feel overwhelmed with other guests. It is elegant, the design is that of an Italian Renaissance palazzo. The Staff is extremely professional, friendly and attentive. The rooms are very well kept, cleaned and comfortable. In particular the x25 line is quite spacious and quiet. While it faces an internal courtyard, it has southern views so it gets plenty of light. The perfect room for a business trip. My new home away from home in DC.