San Antonio.- I’ve wanted to get away for some time now. Between my TV work and my responsibilities as a small business owner, my life tends to get a little stressful from time to time.
Needless to say, I’ve been searching for the perfect opportunity to relax while still staying close to home and my business. So, when a beauty like Emily asks me to spend the entire weekend with her, how could I refuse? I’m talking about the statuesque, Emily Morgan Hotel of course!
Other than a few visits to ORO, her in-house restaurant, or the occasional “Psychic Happy Hour” with my friend Vanessa Macias, it had been almost six years since I had the chance to stay there! Recently, I heard of the significant transformation and the acquisition of Doubletree by Hilton and I was really curious to see what they would do. Besides, it’s always fun to catch up with old friends.
To say the new changes to the hotel have been great would be an understatement. The new management team had the monumental challenge of staying true to the classic charm which the hotel is known for, yet, creating a modern and sophisticated space to meet the times. Challenge accepted and met!
Listen, not every hotel in town receives the honor of being chosen as the “The Official Hotel of the Alamo.” The Emily Morgan is an iconic hotel and there certain expectations from locals as well as tourists traveling here from around the globe. For me, the changes and new additions have more than met those expectations.
While, there is a definite visual facelift which has been performed to the property, I’m glad to report that the charm and friendly atmosphere remains throughout. Staff members, ranging from the valet area to the front desk, are always smiling and ready to assist you with anything you may need. And how can you go wrong when someone hands you a delicious warm cookie before you even get the keys to your room?
My spacious room, overlooking some of the prettiest views in the city, was exactly what I needed for a weekend away from home. Stylish Texas-inspired furniture and warm color selections gave the room a cozy feel. I loved the detailed design, from the long and luxurious hallway leading to the room, to the perfect leather couch and unique post-modern lamps in the sitting area. Oh, and did I mention the hotel is pet-friendly? At Emily Morgan, the animal-loving staff goes out of their way to make sure your pet enjoys their time there as much as you and your family. They even have a specialized pet room-service menu. Yes, you heard right, it’s a pet menu so you can also pamper your four-legged friends.
Still, one of my favorite touches was the collection of rare artifacts housed in the hotel lobby. The most unique was an actual drilled core from the walls of the Alamo! I was told it is the only piece of the Alamo allowed outside its sacred grounds. It just goes to show you that the staff is truly trying to give their guests an authentic experience.
Are you a foodie? You’re in luck. Emily’s posh restaurant and bar are both award-winning and, trust me, they deserve it. ORO’s chef, Chris Cook, created a seasonal menu that will mesmerize your taste buds. While I was there, I enjoyed a Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass made to perfection just after having one of the best crab cakes I’ve ever had.
I’m not exaggerating when I tell you that Maine has nothing on the recipe Chef Cook has come up with for his crab cakes. If nothing else, drop in some time to enjoy a couple of them with a nice glass of wine. In case you didn’t know, the bar at Emily Morgan has one of the top Martini selections in the city. Not to mention, one of the most stylish looks of any bar in town. I must say, there are fewer experiences as intense and powerful as having breakfast, dinner, or drinks just feet away from the historic Alamo.
Remember, the hotel literally sits atop the former battlegrounds. This is where in 1836 a fierce fight took place; one which would shape our state and our nation forever. How cool is that? Oh, and if the phrase “Psychic Happy Hour” caught your attention earlier, I wasn’t joking. Every Thursday, the Emily Morgan holds a special happy hour which has been voted as the best in the city. It features free psychic readings, massages, and live music accompanied by great drink prices!
Overall, my date with Emily was everything I expected: fun and relaxing. Without a doubt, the Emily Morgan Hotel, with its excellent location, will continue to attract those seeking to experience a taste of the unmatched and friendly hospitality Texas is known for. As for me, I hope I get a second date soon!
For more information about their services and amenities, or to book your stay, visit www.emilymorganhotel.com
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