W Austin
"How did it strike you on arrival?The hotel is attached to iconic Moody Theater, in the 2nd Street District of downtown Austin, where Austin City Limits Live concerts are taped. Out front sits Austin's iconic statue of Willie Nelson. Inside, the lobby is dimly lit in soothing lavender and blue and house music is piped in by surround sound. What’s the crowd like?The W is located near some of Austin's best restaurants and shops; guests stay here for the downtown walkability and access to nightlife. You'll find a mix of trendy young professionals during the week and musicians/concert-goers on the weekend. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.As the name implies, the Cozy Room is small. It's ideal for one person or an intimately acquainted twosome. The design is stylish, with gray tones and pops of red and blue on couches and suzani throw pillows. The panoramic windows help brighten and open up the space. The hotel plays up its proximity to ACL Live, with framed photographs of the show and an Austin City Limits coffee table book of images captured by the same photographer. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The bed is comfortable and cozy, with a Sferra blanket, Egyptian cotton sheets, and down comforter. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?The espresso machine comes in handy. With trademark W Hotels edge, the Intimacy Kit is stocked with lube, condoms, and mints—you can also take a hit from a can of Oxygen Plus, if you're so inclined. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The design is clean and modern, with gray walls and white subway tile in the stand-up shower. The chain's Bliss products are available in mini bottles. The robe and slippers are cozy. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is complimentary in the lobby and common areas, but costs $15/day in-room. Room service: What should we order?I was a fan of the El Milagro tortilla chips and housemade salsa; get a can of Austin East Cider, too, if it's available. Anything stand out about other services and features?A DJ sets the tone at the lively fourth-floor pool deck; white-curtained cabanas and kasbahs can be reserved for a charge. I recommend also stopping into the Records Room for a drink; it's one of several cozy bars, but the fireplace and floor-to-ceiling shelves of vinyl are pretty cool. What was most memorable about your stay?The access to ACL Live and everything cool happening downtown. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The location of this W feels decidedly Austin. There is an emphasis on music, and locals frequent the bars, restaurant, and pool." - Allison Bagley
