As a wine writer, I’m incredibly fortunate to call the world my office. Press trips take me to breathtaking places, where I meet fascinating people, uncover inspiring stories, and discover unforgettable wines. These journeys come with packed schedules — early mornings, vineyard tours, tastings, and late-night note-taking sessions — but they always leave me brimming with gratitude. Along the way, I’ve experienced truly memorable hotel stays, where comfort, charm, and hospitality turn a place to sleep into an essential part of the adventure.
Whether it’s a snug breakfast nook that fuels the day ahead, in-room slippers that feel like a gentle hug after hours on our feet, or a perfectly plumped pillow that cradles us into much-needed rest, these little luxuries make all the difference. One special tradition I’ve developed during my travels is FaceTiming my kids as soon as I check into a new hotel. It’s my way of sharing little corners of the world with them, bringing us closer and making the adventure feel less distant.
In 2024, I had the privilege of staying at 15 exceptional hotels across the globe. Each one brought something unique to the table — be it a stunning view, impeccable service, or the charming personality of its staff. These stays didn’t just enhance my travels; they became part of the stories I brought back to share with you.While I’m unable to review or rate these hotels on value due to their inclusion in press packages, I hope to share the thoughtful details that made each stay extraordinary.
This article is a love letter to the hotels that turned a busy press itinerary into a more comfortable and memorable journey. Let’s take a look at 15 of the most memorable hotel experiences from this past year!

The Villa at Hester Creek in Oliver, B.C. / Photo from winery website
The Villa at Hester Creek
My invitation to experience Hester Creek came the first week of January; it was a no-brainer to say yes to some Okanagan bliss, especially given it’s one of the few wineries in the area to offer full-service hospitality.
Best Bits of the Stay:
In March, I arrived a day earlier than the rest of the press group and got to experience some solitude among the rolling vineyards surrounding the property. My suite had a warm, rustic charm, making it cozy and comfortable.
Without a doubt, the food was exceptional and a relished highlight. Villa guests enjoy breakfast delivered to the suite to start the day. Our group dined at the on-site Terrafina restaurant for lunch, enjoying farm-to-table ingredients presented with consideration. And for dinner, we were treated to a personalized meal in the tasting room kitchen. While this isn’t available for all guests, Hester Creek regularly holds wine and food pairing events of the same calibre.
And having the estate’s tasting room steps away was the icing on the cake — no need to drive anywhere to enjoy their wines!
Considerations:
With only a handful of rooms, availability can be challenging, especially in peak season. A car is necessary to grab anything from town or visit other wineries.

Chaminade Resort and Spa in Santa Cruz, CA / Image from Wineries of Santa Cruz Mountains
Chaminade Resort and Spa
Chaminade Resort and Spa in Santa Cruz is on a striking hilltop overlooking Monterey Bay. The resort feels tucked away from the hustle and bustle, surrounded by lush greenery. At least one conference, possibly more, was happening during my stay. But its property is large enough that noise wasn’t an issue. It would be a great spot for large family getaways.
Best Bits of the Stay:
I was given an accessible room, so there was loads of space, and it was also functional to spend time doing some work before the daily itinerary began. Unfortunately, my packed schedule didn’t allow me to enjoy the on-site restaurant, pool, or spa. But the vibes were epically retreaty (those are words, right?!). I was always happy to return to the resort’s serene environment after a full day of winery visits.
Considerations:
The property is spread out, so getting to certain areas can feel like a trek. Room service was on time and delicious for breakfast, but a missed dinner order left me with hunger pangs at the end of a long day.

Saratoga Oaks Lodge in Saratoga, CA / Image from lodge website
Saratoga Oaks Lodge
I don’t have much experience in small-town California, but rolling into Saratoga Oaks Lodge, I was immediately enveloped in its charm. The lodge has a cozy, rustic feel among oak trees that immediately put me at ease.
Best Bits of the Stay:
My room was spacious, comfortable, and clean with contemporary decor. It’s a peaceful retreat, yet just a short walk from downtown Saratoga’s shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms. I loved the balance between being close to nature and having all the modern conveniences nearby. The lodge’s peaceful atmosphere made relaxing after a day of exploring easy. I also appreciated the staff’s warmth and attentiveness — they helped me package and label a case of wine for shipping without hesitation.
Considerations:
This is an updated motel-style lodge with rooms having direct access to the parking lot, so noise should be a consideration.

Hôtel de l’Horloge in Avignon, France / Photo from hotel website
Hôtel de l’Horloge
If you want to feel like you’re living your best life in an enchanting French town – Avignon should be at the top of your list. Hôtel de l’Horloge couldn’t have been in a better spot. Located right on the Place de l’Horloge, the hotel is steps away from the Palais des Papes and a vibrant square filled with cafés and street performers. The building itself is classic and charming, with a touch of old-world elegance that perfectly complements the city’s history.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The location was unbeatable — every major attraction was within walking distance, making sightseeing easier during limited free time. I loved starting my mornings with breakfast in the quaint dining room with wall-to-wall windows. The room itself was quiet and comfortable despite the lively square outside, which was a pleasant surprise.
Considerations:
Getting to the breakfast room requires going outside and then back in a neighbouring door — dress accordingly for the weather!

Hotel Domaine de Cabasse in Séguret, France / Photo from hotel website
Hotel Domaine de Cabasse
Tucked away in the picturesque village of Séguret, Hotel Domaine de Cabasse felt like stepping into a postcard. The property is surrounded by vineyards, with views that stretch out to the Dentelles de Montmirail. My room was simple, with a comfortable bed and French doors that opened to a patio. The peaceful setting made it easy to slow down and enjoy the little moments, like grabbing a morning coffee and working from bed before our busy day of winery visits began.
Best Bits of the Stay:
We dined at the on-site restaurant for our first night, and the food was impeccable. It was great to be only a few steps away from bed at the end of the evening. The same spot is where breakfast is served, where staff warmly greet us in the morning, asking how we like our eggs. The stay was during the shoulder season in April, so sitting and enjoying the outdoor dining area was a bit chilly, but it would be a memorable spot in warmer temperatures.
Considerations:
You need a vehicle to get into town, and it’s a dark drive at night.

Grand Hotel Mediterraneo in Florence, Italy / Photo from hotel website
Grand Hotel Mediterraneo
Grand Hotel Mediterraneo in Florence is the epitome of Italian elegance, combining a stunning riverside location with classic Florentine hospitality.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The hotel’s proximity to the historic centre made it perfect for exploring all that Florence offers — which was lucky since I had a few hours on my own to explore before joining our press group.
My room had a modern touch with an Italian flair, and the large windows allowed for plenty of natural light, offering a lovely view of the Arno River. The ambiance of the hotel felt sophisticated yet relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Considerations:
The hotel hosted a few bus tours while I was there, making for a very busy breakfast room; finding a table was a bit tricky in peak hours.

Hotel Granduca in Livorno, Italy / Photo from Expedia
Hotel Granduca
My overnighter at Hotel Granduca in Livorno was quick, serving the sole purpose of a place to sleep before boarding a boat to the island of Gorgona to visit the vineyards worked by inmates of the island’s penitentiary.
Ironically, the outside of the hotel looks a bit like a prison, but the inside — particularly the lobby — had its boutique charm.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The boat trip to Gorgona hosted over 200 people, most of whom stayed at the hotel. The staff were personable and attentive, considering that many people were in one place. The location was also perfect; it was a few steps away from boarding the boat and the seaside restaurant where we had dinner the previous night.
Considerations:
The hotel’s location, while convenient for exploring Livorno, is a bit removed from the main attractions of Florence or Pisa, so it may not be ideal for those looking to explore those cities in a short amount of time.

Hotel Ville Sull’Arno in Florence, Italy / Photo from hotel website
Hotel Ville Sull’Arno
Hotel Ville Sull’Arno is a tranquil haven just outside Florence. Situated along the Arno River, the property feels like a private villa with beautifully manicured gardens and a peaceful atmosphere. My room was spacious and lux, with high ceilings, rustic touches, and a private balcony overlooking the river, offering a truly ‘wow’ moment at the end of a long day.
Best Bits of the Stay:
My appreciation of this property focuses almost entirely on aesthetics and vibes — it truly is jaw-dropping with its attention to detail. The staff were incredibly warm and friendly, while our group’s experience at the on-site restaurant was next level (taking very careful consideration for my gluten allergy).
I regrettably should have booked an extra night to have time to enjoy the pool and spa facilities.
Considerations:
The hotel is on the outskirts, so prepare for a 30-minute walk to the city’s centre. A free shuttle is available but runs on a set schedule, so plan ahead.

The Ritz-Carlton in Las Colinas, Dallas / Photo from hotel website
The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas
The Ritz-Carlton in Dallas’s upscale Las Colinas area offers a sophisticated, modern take on classic luxury. From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and comfort. The lobby exudes grandeur, and the hotel’s contemporary interior design made me feel like I was entering a different world.
Best Bits of the Stay:
I was treated to a villa room overlooking the hotel’s lush golf course. It was spacious and beautiful, with plush furnishings and a luxurious bathroom. This is the kind of place where you feel pampered from check-in to check-out.
The standout feature of my stay was the exceptional service, particularly while searching for a missing courier package that was said to be delivered. Every staff member went out of their way to (eventually) find it. The club lounge’s concierge, manager, and staff were friendly and welcoming, providing a charming escape from the liveliness of bar and restaurant spaces. Although, dining at the hotel’s restaurant (Knife Kitchen) was an experience, with an impressive menu and a well-curated wine list.
The on-site spa was a real treat, offering a range of relaxing treatments that left me feeling rejuvenated. The pool was also divinely relaxing, with plenty of chairs and space to move from shade to sun or vice versa.
Considerations:
While the hotel offers plenty of luxury, it’s a bit removed from downtown Dallas, so it may not be the best choice for those looking to be in the thick of the city’s action.

Residenza Frattina in Rome, Italy / Photo from Expedia
Residenza Frattina
Residenza Frattina, located just off the bustling Via Frattina in Rome, is the perfect blend of charm and convenience. Its prime location made it easy to explore iconic landmarks like the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, all within walking distance.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The hotel feels like a peaceful oasis in the bustling city, offering a more intimate, boutique-style experience. From the busy pedestrian street, you enter through an iron gate to get to the hotel’s courtyard and elevator, immediately feeling a sense of calm. My room was spacious and provided all the essentials.
The hotel’s central location meant that I could pop back to rest during the day between sightseeing trips — perfect for recharging before heading back out to explore Rome at night.
Considerations:
While there is a common area for relaxing, there’s no onsite staff or restaurant. Check-in and check-out are done virtually, with a telephone available for direct access to assistance if needed.

Hotel Katane Plaza in Catania, Italy / Photo from hotel website
Hotel Katane Plaza
Hotel Katane Plaza in Catania offers a comfortable stay in Sicily. The hotel’s location, just a short distance from the city centre and the beautiful coastline, makes it an excellent base for exploring the area.
Best Bits of the Stay:
A few prefaces might be necessary to understand my thought process upon check-in. After travelling from a pristine area of Rome, Catania (with its graffiti walls and ash-ridden roads) put me a little off-kilter, particularly after seeing the sign in the lobby saying to be mindful of theft. However, the staff were friendly and attentive, putting me at ease throughout the stay.
Our group had two back-to-back morning seminars in the hotel’s conference room — a professional space that was a great addition to the itinerary.
The breakfast room had an elegant feel, with loads of morning light (picture above). The buffet had an impressive variety of foods that made for a great start to the day.
Considerations:
The hotel is a 10- to 15-minute walk from Catania’s city centre; I suggest grabbing a taxi at night.

Grand Hotel Sofia in Noto, Italy / Photo from Expedia
Grand Hotel Sofia
Located in Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Baroque architecture, the Grand Hotel Sofia is a perfect starting point for exploring this historic city.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The hotel is in a great spot for exploring Noto’s famous landmarks, including the Cathedral of San Nicolò, all within walking distance. My room was spacious and had all the essentials. I didn’t have time to dip in the pool, but our group did enjoy sharing a late-night tipple in the outside common area at the end of our long day.
Considerations:
While the hotel’s central location is perfect for exploring Noto, parking can be tricky in the area, and the hotel’s parking facilities are limited.

NH Hotel Catania Centro in Catania, Italy / Photo from Kayak
NH Hotel Catania Centro
After a couple of long, hot days touring wineries across Sicily, NH Hotel Catania Centro provided a contemporary finale to help usher us back to our regular lives.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The hotel’s modern and updated rooms made it a perfect place to regroup. My room was on the small side, but the bed was plush, and the bathroom was bright and pristine. The hotel’s location made walking to restaurants and key attractions like Piazza del Duomo easy.
Considerations:
The restaurant bar wasn’t open during my stay. Also, my flight was early in the morning, so I unfortunately didn’t get to experience the breakfast.

Casa Valdo Country House in Valdobbiadene, Italy / Photo from hotel website
Casa Valdo Country House
Casa Valdo Country House is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Prosecco Hills. Surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, this charming country house makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a scenic postcard.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The property exudes rustic elegance with modern comforts, and the spacious suites with large windows provide a perfect view of the surrounding vineyards. Staying here felt like a rejuvenating blend of nature, comfort, and Italian hospitality. I relished the homey feel of the property. The breakfast staff were warm and welcoming, taking coffee and egg orders to complement a delicious spread of food.
Considerations:
The location is a bit remote, which may be inconvenient for those looking for easy access to nearby towns or cities, though it’s perfect for those wanting to disconnect.

Hotel Accademia in Verona, Italy / Photo from hotel website
Hotel Accademia
Hotel Accademia, located in the middle of Verona, is a cozy hotel steps away from the iconic Arena di Verona and the beautiful Piazza Bra, making it an ideal spot for exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Best Bits of the Stay:
The standout feature of my stay was its location. Being so close to the Arena and other major attractions made it incredibly convenient for sightseeing. Our group was gifted a fair amount of free time during our stay (which is pretty unusual on a press trip), so we were grateful for the time to explore.
The staff went out of their way to provide impeccable service, including packaged breakfasts for us to take to the airport the morning of departure.
Considerations:
The rooms, while comfortable, were a little on the smaller side, so if you’re travelling with a lot of luggage, space might feel a bit tight.