Lily O'Hara

Stepping into the lobby of St. Regis Atlanta, you’re immediately struck by a sense of grandeur. From the set of sweeping staircases adorned with crystal chandeliers to the Astor Court breakfast area (where you can also enjoy afternoon tea), it’s pretty clear the property takes its commitment to opulence seriously. They also offer butler service on arrival, to really drive home the concept of quintessential luxury. For such a grand first impression, the rooms offer a more understated elegance, favoring neutral tones and minimal wall art. That said, the bathrooms are decked out in marble and have a tub with a passthrough window—for those who want to continue a conversation with a fellow guest (or just watch television!) while they lather up with Sachajuan bath products. It’s pure bubbly indulgence. Despite only being built in 2009, the hotel has a classic, old-timey vibe—which is, perhaps, unsurprising when you consider it’s inspired by the Beaux Arts architecture of The St. Regis New York. This is particularly evident when you take a seat at The St. Regis Bar, where you’re overlooked by a massive mural of a phoenix rising from the ashes. With oak paneled walls, plush carpets and dim lighting, the bar is the perfect spot for a sexy, late-night cocktail. If you don’t have to be up early the next morning, ask for the not-on-the-menu and very smokey Ashes of the Phoenix. That should get things lit—quite literally. (And, hey, if the hangover does hit, you can always return for thei

Named for the Tuscan town, the Marriott’s Autograph Collection property in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, boasts nods to the Italian city throughout. Whether it’s tapestries in the bedrooms of Siena landmarks or the wine served in Il Palio (the hotel’s restaurant with Tuscan-inspired fare), the hotel commits to the bit. Beyond the theme, the bedrooms are spacious and have plenty of natural light thanks to the French doors with Juliet balconies, but the bathrooms (though also large) have rather dated, hard-to-finagle showerheads—and that’s with the provided detailed instructions. The bed, however, is perfectly comfortable.  Roughly 10 minutes by car from downtown Chapel Hill, the Siena is conveniently located if you’re looking to explore the college town, but perhaps not be in the thick of the student scene.  Nearer to the hotel, guests can walk to local coffee spot Caffé Driade for a cold brew amongst the trees, or visit chain eateries like Bartaco (solid margs, chill outdoor seating area) and Stoney River Steakhouse, where you must order the hot chicken biscuits appetizer.  While it would take some suspension of disbelief to make you think you’re actually anywhere near northern Italy, the Siena Autograph Collection Hotel is nonetheless a cheerful and comfortable spot for a couple of days in Chapel Hill.  Nearby Carolina Coffee: Stop by for a delicious Southern brunch (be sure to order the sweet potato fries) and grab a seat outside to soak up the campus energy while you eat.

Located in Midtown Atlanta, Epicurean Hotel Atlanta knows how to commit to a theme. As soon as you walk into the lobby, you’ll start noticing the culinary nods. While you’re checking in, look down and you’ll see you’re standing at a wine fridge in lieu of a regular desk. When you reach your floor, you’ll spot light sconces shaped like decanters and walls decorated with wine crates—each floor boasts a different collection. But don’t worry, it’s not just the decor that’s tailored to epicurean desires. Whether you dine at Reverence, or poolside at Aerial, the cuisine, cocktails and extensive wine list will satiate your every need. (At Reverence, order the Bang Bang Shrimp, Pulpo Asado and Peri Peri Chicken Kebabs, and I swear you’ll still be thinking of them days later.) Modern and minimalist in its decor, Reverence also boasts an outdoor seating area with heat lamps and live music for those who prefer to dine al fresco. (If not, the band’s music is also played through speakers indoors.) Later in the evening, check out The Office Bar for a cozy nightcap, surrounded by bookshelves and a crackling fireplace (but with the AC blasting in summer, of course).  At the hotel’s poolside bar and restaurant Aerial, the shrimp ceviche, seasoned fries and a cucumber mojito spritz (or two) make for a perfect lunch. The spacious pool area has serious resort vibes: There’s private, climate-controlled cabanas complete with ceiling fans, HDTV, Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. There’s also in-water ch