Ringing in the New Year: Charleston

This year more than ever has been filled with more ups and downs than we can count and even though amazing memories were made all through 2020 we couldn’t be more excited to start 2021 in style! Each year that passes by we try to decide on a new city to ring in the New Year and this year we decided on an East Coast classic, Charleston! A city filled with history, culture and attitude we knew that there would be no shortage of things to do or see even with the current state of travel. As always our biggest challenge was to try and fit everything we wanted to do in just a few short days on the end of our East Coast city-hopping tour!

Stay: Emeline, Charleston’s Newest Luxury Hotel

Positioned in the heart of this historic city, Emeline is the perfect place to stay to kick off the new year. Ideally situated to see the best that Charleston has to offer Emeline could not be a better place to call home while taking in all of the city’s highlights. Since we were in a time crunch the location served us quite well, as everything we had on our itinerary was just a short walk away. Weather permitting we were on the hot trail to see the city on foot and like most days in Charleston, the sun was shining. Historical buildings, dynamic restaurants, and the ocean are just a quick jaunt from the hotel.

Emeline the newest luxury hotel to establish itself in Charleston was created to bring a fresh and original approach to the current lively scene, a place where each space throughout was thoughtfully curated with warmth and style. Designed from the ground up, its parent company Rockbridge created a distinctive and independent experience where guests will be excited to return after a day of exploration. Featuring 212 all-king rooms, an eclectic dining establishment, an inviting coffee shop, multiple living rooms, and an open-air courtyard the property combines all the comforts of luxurious living. Nestled among cobblestone streets and brightly colored row houses, Emeline’s design elements were inspired by the area’s flora, fauna, and its heritage as a port city.

Upon arrival, guests are treated to a handmade cocktail created by their in-house mixology team. The recipe changes daily and highlights the bar scene from their restaurant, Frannie & The Fox. Make sure to book a reservation in advance as you do not want to miss the chance to mix and mingle with some of Charleston’s elite. Frannie & The Fox delivers a menu comprised of sharable and approachable dishes that range from wood-fired pizzas to locally inspired small bites. Enjoy a seat inside where the ambiance is energetic or opt for a seat in the outside courtyard under the stars. Allow the excellent service staff to guide you through the menu, you can not go wrong with anything on this delicious journey where every bite provides just the right amount of robust flavor.

Meet the Chef: Tim Morton, Executive Chef

Originally from Minnesota, Chef Morton’s gastronomic career started at the age of 16 when he fell in love with working in a busy kitchen. Tim earned his 20-year skillset by working with Forbes Five Star rated hotels and restaurants. Most recently, he led the opening of Mercantile and Mash in Charleston as Executive Chef. Before the Lowcountry, he was the Executive Sous Chef at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Raleigh under the leadership of Steven Greene and previously Scott Crawford. Prior to that, he spent time as Chef Tournant of Chicago’s famed Alinea restaurant. His dynamic background being mentored by some of the most notable chefs has shaped his vision as he stepped into his role with Emeline. As a native Minnesotan who has called Charleston his home now for the past five years, he has developed an appreciation for hospitality, creating special moments for guests in an atmosphere that will make you feel at home.

Rest Up

After a day filled with trekking through the city, a hearty meal and signature toast at midnight, it was time to turn in upstairs. Emeline pairs comfort and luxury to make you feel right at home with added style. Classic architecture blended with a modern flair is what you should expect in all 212 spacious guestrooms. Warming, sophisticated décor of light browns, green and blue provide guests with a confident interior design layout along with plush bedding, a Smart TV, a bedside charging cube & Minicube equipped with two outlet/USB ports and access to The Nooks, which offers complimentary sparkling, chilled and ambient water stations on each floor. The hotel also provides a fitness center featuring Fitness on Demand classes and a Peloton bike, complimentary Wi-Fi, valet service, custom Emeline house bikes to explore nearby points of interest, and much more.

Just in case you wanted to bring your furry friends, Emeline understands that some people have a very hard time leaving their pets at home. Your furry bestie will receive a warm welcome and personalized experience when booking the Pawsome Package which includes a custom-made dog treat by the in-house pastry chef, a dog mat, bowl and comfy bed. If your pet is looking for additional relaxation, you can also inquire about the addition of CBD infused pet treats they have available.

First-rate service is what one can expect during their stay at Emeline. From the moment you walk through the lobby, doors are opened, bags are assisted with and anything your heart desires becomes a priority. From the bellman to the front desk to the housekeeping service, every guest is treated with VIP care. Whether it is a New Year’s Eve celebration, a business trip, or a romantic getaway Emeline will make sure you have a trip to remember.