They’re here. The holidays, that is – and maybe your family members are visiting you soon, too. And during this time of year, occasionally you may want to run away … or at least disappear for a night or two. You know: a short break that feels like a real getaway even when there’s no time (or money) to actually get away. There are options in and around the Houston area where you can check into a beautiful room, escape from routine and not spend a day traveling. A few suggestions:
THE SAN LUIS, Galveston (www.sanluisresort.com)
It may not be the island escape you save up for all year, but with beautiful views of tropical gardens and the lush H2O pool lounge area beckoning, you have a dreamy spot to enjoy the not-uncommon 80° Texas winter days. You should eat well, too: Phil Bouza is the new executive chef. He’s a CIA grad, as well as Four Seasons and Barton Creek alum. Choose from The Steakhouse, Blake’s Bistro or Grotto for dinner. Photo above.
Want to make plans for New Year’s Eve? Galveston is hosting several upcoming events (including Mardi Gras in February) – so make your reservations now.
DEER LAKE LODGE, Montgomery (www.deerlakelodge.com)
If you’re daydreaming about a few days of detoxing and recharging during the most stressful time of the year, this holistic 50-acre gem about an hour north of Houston boasts luxurious suites and cabins along with an extensive menu of spa services and an organic fasting/cleansing program, as well as a heated saltwater pool and onsite yoga. You’ll forget you’re just a stone’s throw from home. An added bonus for anyone interested in getting a real fighting chance at accomplishing their resolutions for the new year, there are also complimentary classes on how to shop, cook and dine out for a healthier you upon your return to civilization.
HYATT MARKET STREET, The Woodlands (www.marketstreetthewoodlands.hyatt.com)
The brand new 70-room boutique property overlooks the waterway and bustling Market Street shopping and dining district in The Woodlands and is within walking distance of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. (A few days away from home and a concert you don’t have to fight traffic for? Yes, please.) The rooms are modern but not cold, and there’s an intimate rooftop pool. Chef Andrew Kramer oversees the hotel’s Market Street Kitchen and Market Street Bar, which focus on small plates and boasts an extensive wine selection as well as craft beers. Photo below.
HOTEL ICON, Downtown Houston (www.hotelicon.com)
The historic landmark was originally built in 1912 as the Union National Bank. In its current purpose as a pet-friendly hotel, the Icon gives visitors a lot of bang for its bark: The new pet park at Market Square just across the street means you and your pooch can get away together. With its beautiful lobby bar and close proximity to so much within walking distance or a short rail or Uber ride including the Theater District and downtown’s recently sprouted restaurants and bars (such as The Springbok, Public Services, Moving Sidewalk and The Honeymoon), hotel guests can make a night of it and try all those downtown spots they’ve been wanting to check out. Photo below.
ROYAL SONESTA, The Galleria Area (www.sonesta.com/royalhouston)
Last year’s $25 million renovation of the former InterContinental Hotel on Loop 610 near The Galleria (still shopping?) transformed this hotel in all ways, including a lovely emphasis on service. The sleek new Axis lounge serves sophisticated cocktails, and you should inquire about booking the chef’s table in the kitchen and let executive chef Peter Laufer feed you and a few special friends. The penthouse suite made us swoon with its deliciously decadent bathrooms (there are two – one the size of your first apartment for you, and another for your two dozen guests) and chic interior design by Hayley Morgan of Looney & Associates.
HOTEL GRANDUCA, Uptown Park (www.granducaHouston.com)
Wish you could go incognito and disappear off to a Mediterranean villa? Hotel Granduca’s and its pool-side bungalows are calling you. The boutique luxury hotel is, after all, inspired by The Palace of the Grand Duke, the 16th-century home of Adalberto Malatesta, the Granduca of Monfallito. In keeping things truly Italian, chef John Michael Lynch recently took the position of head chef at Ristorante Cavour, the hotel’s restaurant known for focusing on Northern Italian cuisine. Besides revamping the dinner and lunch menu, Lynch has also tweaked the tea service menu (served daily) and bakes the restaurant’s breads in-house.