The Drayton Hotel
"Why did this hotel catch your attention? You'll feel the history and grandeur immediately as you approach The Drayton Hotel, at the corner of Drayton and Bay streets on the cusp of Savannah’s Historic District. The large, stately, gray bricks are part of the building's original 19th century facade, but as you enter the lobby, you're hit with a tide of modernity. Bright blue sofas and light wood paneling create a whimsical space that’s as welcoming as it is colorful. What's the backstory? The Drayton is part of a new wave of hotels springing up in Savannah’s historic district and, like many of its peers, it duly pays homage to its history. Independently owned by developer Raghav Sapra, the hotel was created in collaboration with Nemaworkshop, a hip New York City–based design firm. Tell us about the rooms. They all either face the surrounding historic neighborhood or the Savannah River. Our Chamber Double felt bright and breezy from the get-go, with greens and blues packing an aesthetic punch and reclaimed-wood floors adding a contemporary feel. There were also playful details like a mirrored wooden minibar, a vintage telephone, and a stand-alone tub in the monochrome-tiled bathroom. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? The Wi-Fi was free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? Saint Neo’s Brasserie is a typically Southern seafood restaurant and oyster bar that shows off local ingredients to great effect, not least with their tasty Spell Island clams. Soak in the neighborhood's beautiful low-rise buildings from the Rooftop Bar, where lime-green wicker chairs and striped sofas lend a retro classiness. The Downstairs Cocktail Lounge does craft cocktails galore, and a small coffee stand is poised to offer a morning jolt. How was the service? Service is warm but not machine-like. Expect some cheeky banter at check-in. What type of travelers will you find here? Well-dressed in a range of delightful Southern looks like suits and cocktail dresses, the crowd is relaxed, culturally diverse, and generally young. Guests appreciate the hotel's individuality and aren't afraid to show their own. Any other hotel features worth noting? The lower-level public space corridors are bedecked in striking turquoise tiling. Bottom line: Why will we love the Drayton? As one of the newer hotels in the city, The Drayton is already making waves with its aesthetics." - Paul Oswell
