Ava B.
Yelp
As a frequent traveler for both business and pleasure, I'm fairly particular on what I need in lodging. Comfortable, clean rooms, wifi, easy access to meeting facilities, concierge service if necessary, and the ability to work unbothered and order a glass of wine at 11:00 pm. While these features are common (and increasingly pricier) in large hotel chains, it was a remarkable find to discover them all in an immaculate and historic property in downtown Richmond. Museum District Bed and Breakfast is the luxury boutique hotel with personalized service that's actually affordable.
First, the property. An impeccably restored and decorated historic home. The rooms are elegant and large, beds and pillows very comfortable, plush robes, and clean, clean, clean! I've stayed in 3 of the rooms at the property and my favorites are the Judge Rhea Suite and the Carriage House.
The Judge Rhea Suite was like a luxury suite at any national hotel, but with the added amenities of better decor, a steam spa, and a large comfortable den with a work area. Oh, and blinds that lower from the top in the bedroom to adjust sunlight perfectly. The steam spa was relaxing and pampering on a cold winter evening.
On my last stay, I booked the Carriage House to work uninterrupted. Another perfect space. Comfortable bed, glorious claw-footed bathub/shower, loveseat, fridge, a nice-sized work/desk area and still a strong signal from the FREE wifi. There was also a small patio table and chairs just out the front door. I felt like I was in my own personalized retreat.
The house has an inviting living room and a fully stocked library. If you're in need of any reading material or local travel literature, it's there. Want the New York Times with your breakfast? It's on the credenza.
Next, food! Dining was a treat. Breakfast is fresh coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, and fresh croissants from a local bakery. There was also a wide assortment of fresh fruit, the normal continental fare (yogurt, cereal, etc), but the real star was hot meal. Fresh bacon (again local) and the dreamiest eggs imaginable (does Anna use Crème fraiche to make them so awesome? I must ask next stay). Of course, there is always fresh fruit, cheese, and wine/beverages any time of day.
With just the basics I've described, I would have happily booked a stay here, but there is one other feature that goes so far above and beyond your expectations, it has to have its own paragraph. SERVICE. Anna Currence was born to work in hospitality. She is like a machine. Personal, warm, prompt, knowledgeable (toss out a few adjectives to describe a restaurant or shopping and she can send you on your way!), unobtrusive, professional, attentive, and gracious. I can't even begin to describe the ease of which she attends to guests with such effortless grace. Need transportation or information on where to go? Arranged promptly--which is something I really value for those 8:00 am meetings down near the courthouse. Anna has you fed, happy, and pampered, and on your way. You don't want to walk out the door! Her attention to detail and intuitive service is what you will miss the most. Well, that and her cooking. And the steam spa. You get the idea. :)
On my most recent stay, my connecting flight out of NYC was delayed by a storm. Multiple times. I was frustrated, tired, and cold. I called Anna to let her know of my travel frustrations and that there was no way I could arrive at a reasonable hour (like before midnight) and my rental car would not be available at the Richmond airport. Her response? "Don't worry, I'll take care of it. You just stay warm and safe." When I finally got to Richmond, she had arranged my transportation to the property, she greeted me with a smile and helped me settle into my room. Knowing I'd been on the road so long, she had a food plate in my room, a bathrobe in my size, and hot tea. The real kicker: this was only my second stay!
I could sing the praises of Museum District B&B all day, but will stop now. In short, an amazing property, a wonderful and attentive owner, and my ONLY choice from now to stay. I look forward to my next visit.