e Foundry Hotel, Asheville

The Foundry Hotel, Asheville, NC

BACKGROUND The Foundry Hotel Asheville, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is located in a former steel forge that turned out steel for some of the city’s most prominent buildings, including popular Biltmore Estate. Its industrial history is evident in the framed photographs around the lobby, but these days, it’s all about luxury and southern charm.

WHERE IS IT? Within walking distance of downtown Asheville’s shops, cafes, bars and breweries, and close to some of this delightful city’s stellar attractions, both historic and hip.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? With COVID-19 restrictions in place, some facilities were not open, but I was still able to get a feeling for what the hotel is like in normal times. I really loved the high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and large windows everywhere. In the center of the hotel’s four buildings is a grassy courtyard, which was a great place to relax for an impromptu picnic.

ROOMS The room keys here are actually playing cards with di„ erent icons of industry like John D. Rockefeller and J.P. Morgan on them; repeat guests can collect the full set. Hilton’s CleanStay programme was in full force with the room door sealed with a sticker indicating it had been thoroughly cleaned. The entire hotel demonstrated great attention to the details of the latest coronavirus precautions. The room’s hardwood floors and brick surfaces lend a rustic, yet urbane, feel to the place. Tall, cushioned headboards have built-in reading lights and I appreciated having both power and USB outlets by the bed. Views are of the neighbourhood, courtyard, or of the rolling hills behind the hotel. I was really impressed that the curtains were electronically controlled. Bathrooms have excellent lighting, including bright lights built into the mirror, and fragrant Beekman 1802 products. The glass-enclosed shower

BEST FOR Downtown location in a unique historic building, great dining and an active bar scene

DON’T MISS A ride on one of the building’s original pulley elevators that guests can use

P R I C E Online rates for a traditional room start at US$169

CONTACT 51 South Market St., Asheville, NC 28801, Tel +1 828-552-8545 foundryasheville.com

had excellent water pressure with controls positioned to the side so you don’t get sprayed with cold water when turning it on. My Corner King Suite had a small sitting area that was great for working with a cup of Nespresso.

FOOD AND DRINK Benne on Eagle is the hotel’s main restaurant serving a modern take on Southern cuisine. During my visit, they were operating on a takeoutonly system. I ordered the vegetable purloo and creamy macaroni and cheese with a side of collard greens, which were out of this world. The Workshop Lounge is the hotel’s lobby lounge and bar, which was closed during my visit. That’s too bad

because many nights a week the hotel sta„ tells me there are local bands that draw a sizeable crowd.

LEISURE A fitness centre is available to guests, but I took a brisk walk through downtown instead. The hotel has a Tesla car service to take guests anywhere downtown or around the River Arts District.

MEETINGS The ballroom has natural light; there is also a boardroom next to reception. Free wireless Internet works exceptionally well including outside in the courtyard.

VERDICT Opened in December 2018, the hotel’s prime location, historic architecture, and southern charm deliver a memorable experience in downtown Asheville. Ramsey Qubein

Wyndham Grand Rio Mar, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

Editor’s Note: We visited the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort in early 2020. This review is meant to share our experience so you can plan future travel when you feel safe to do so. The resort closed due to travel restrictions, but has since reopened with ample precautions for guests and sta . Its famous views and hospitality are as enticing as ever.

BACKGROUND Wyndham Grand Rio Mar is the longest running hotel name on the island showcasing its popularity over the decades with visitors.

WHERE IS IT? Nearly 25 minutes from San Juan, this resort enjoys beachfront access, two championship golf courses and incredible views without city tra ic, noise and crowds.

WHAT 'S IT LIKE? The sta here has an unbreakable spirit. Hurricane Maria caused damage to much of the island forcing the resort to close. During this tumultuous time, the hotel stayed open for relief workers, which was one of the many ways that management was able to support its sta . Also during that period of time, the resort underwent a substantial, multi-million dollar renovation that has left it gleaming with modern amenities.

ROOMS The 400 guestrooms and suites sparkle with tiled floors, island-spirited artwork and colours and oversized beds with plush pillows and duvets. Refrigerators, bottled water and co eemakers with Puerto Rican co ee beans are in all rooms. Bathrooms have enormous lighted mirrors, ample vanity space, and Institut Karité Paris toiletries. Furnished balconies overlook the manicured grounds, pools, two miles of beach, or El Yunque rainforest. Wireless Internet is impressively speedy, which highlights the resort’s focus on balancing

the needs of leisure travellers with those of corporate groups.

FOOD AND DRINK With nine restaurants and bars, there are options for every taste. Palio Seafood & Steakhouse prepares elaborate meals with Caribbean flair for dinner. Roots Coastal Kitchen continues the island theme with a menu crafted in collaboration with Top Chef finalists. The farm-to-table dishes use a lot of local ingredients; the coconut curry rice is a must, in my opinion. It also has a

BEST FOR Ocean-facing swimming pools, high-end dining, and Puerto Rican hospitality

DON’T MISS Trying your luck at the onsite casino

P R I C E Internet rates for a traditional room start at $199

CONTACT 6000 Rio Mar Blvd., Rio Grande, PR 00745, Tel +1 787-888-6000. wyndhamriomar.com

takeaway counter with sandwiches, pizza, salads, co ee and homemade ice cream (the oatmeal flavour was my favourite). Puerto Rican fare is the focus at Iguanas Cocina serving tasty island mofongo and chicken with rice by the golf course. Poolside servers deliver tasty sandwiches, salads and cocktails all day long from the waterfront Tiki Hut.

LEISURE Three pools are ringed with lounge chairs beneath swaying palms. It’s worth paying for one of the cabanas that come with greater privacy and refreshments. Besides the sizeable Mandara Spa and fitness center, there are numerous resort activities like rum tastings, salsa lessons, cigar rolling and nature walks. The two championship golf courses draw golfers from around the world to play too.

MEETINGS The property hosts conventions and incentive groups yearround. Just as important are weddings thanks to a beachfront platform and beautiful garden spaces for outdoor functions (now more popular than ever). Some groups opt for the resort’s allinclusive plan option.

VERDICT Island paradise, no passport required, is only a few hours away by plane from the East Coast. Wyndham Grand sits at the top of the Wyndham family of brands and this resort o ers something for everyone. Ramsey Qubein