AUSTIN: WHAT TO EAT

HOTEL SAINT CECILIA
112 Academy Drive
+1 512 852 2400
I had never been to Austin when we planned our annual post-New Year's domestic trip, but Marc had and he had stayed here and loved it, maybe more than any other hotel he had ever been to. I looked it up online and this is how the hotel describes itself:
"Created in honor of the patron saint of music and poetry, the Saint Cecilia takes inspiration from the great era of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s when a revolution of rock and roll and beat poetry overran the hallowed halls of established convention. We pay tribute to the great creative legacy of our revolutionary idols and to the spirit of the artist that lies within us all."
It seemed pretty clear to me that this hotel was exactly what we were looking for, and I am happy to say that it more than delivered. It's a perfect blend of early rock n' roll and modern luxury. The location is spot on - steps from the South Congress Shopping District and pretty much within walking distance to anything you might want to do, but tucked away far enough off the beaten path behind a gate and set amidst beautiful gardens and pool that is a complete oasis. The rooms themselves are perfection - the beds are the most comfortable I've ever slept on (thanks to exclusive Hastens mattresses and bedding from Cuddledown) and each room comes with a record player and the hotel has a huge selection of vinyl from which to choose, which to me, is the epitome of what Austin is all about.

Other places to stay that we have heard are great:

THE DRISKILL
604 Brazos Street
+1 512 474 5911

KIMBER MODERN
110 The Circle
+1 512 912 1046

HOTEL SAN JOSE
1316 S Congress Avenue
+1 512 444 7322

THE W HOTEL AUSTIN
200 Lavaca Street
+1 512 542 3600