Boutique Bliss

A region known for its warm hospitality, delectable dishes, and rich culture — the sweet American South is just good for the soul. And if you ask me, there's no better way to experience this special part of the country than by exploring your destination of choice over a long weekend. As for your home base? Below I've highlighted four boutique luxury hotels across the South whose high design and personality perfectly complement the culture that lies beyond its doors.

Like your favorite cocktail curated just for you, it's my pleasure to craft your ideal Southern escape to your tastes and garnish your adventure with plenty of private perks. Cheers to travel that's safe and special in every way!

ESCAPE TO NEW ORLEANS

TREAT YOURSELF AT MAISON DE LA LUZ HOTEL

New Orleans is a fascinating blend of cultures and a full-on sensory experience. The birthplace of jazz, this is a city bursting with impeccable live music, architecturally rich streets, and a spectacular culinary scene with dishes so good they can soothe any soul.

Maison de la Luz is your perfect home away from home in this vibrant city, and its chic interiors with layered detail make this property truly one-of-a-kind. After enjoying your gourmet breakfast (complimentary, of course!), you're steps away from the historic French Quarter. Opportunities for exploration in the Big Easy are endless — but like its nickname, it's also a destination meant for slow discovery. However you choose to spend your day, cap it off at the hotel’s library bar and lounge with a Sazerac cocktail, the signature drink of New Orleans.

Private perks: Complimentary upgrades, early check-in/late check-out, daily breakfast for two, $100 hotel credit, wifi, and more.

INDULGE IN A TASTE OF TENNESSEE

TREAT YOURSELF AT BLACKBERRY FARM

Blackberry Farm is a destination in and of itself. Situated on a remarkable 5,200 acres in the foothills of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, this five-star property is rated amongst the world's best and is a Southern indulgence you frankly shouldn't miss.

Explore endlessly on horseback, by canoe, or on some of the country's most breathtaking nature hikes. Go fly-fishing in Hesse Creek, or simply inhale the fresh mountain air after a relaxing massage. Food and wine take no backseat to the seemingly infinite vistas. Enjoy gourmet multi-course meals from the farm's bakery, butchery, creamery, and gardens — and sample your choice of wines from the award-winning collection comprised of more than 160,000 bottles.

Private perks: Complimentary upgrades, early check-in/late check-out, daily breakfast for two, $100 spa credit, wifi, and more.

KICKBACK IN COLORFUL CHARLESTON

TREAT YOURSELF AT EMELINE HOTEL

Travelers to South Carolina enjoy beautiful scenery year round. This is especially true in colorful Charleston, where the picturesque avenues are lined with giant oak trees draped in Spanish moss. With its flourishing restaurant culture that has drawn top chefs from around the world, no trip to this southern staple is complete without sampling some of the region's best cuisine and cocktails.

I recommend checking in to Charleston's newest luxury boutique hotel, Emeline. Located in the downtown historic district surrounded by galleries and specialty shops, Emeline's warm accommodations filled with stylish, thoughtful details make it the perfect home base to explore one of America's most romantic and celebrated cities.

Private perks: Complimentary upgrades, early check-in/late check-out, daily breakfast for two, $100 hotel credit, wifi, and more.

EXPLORE SAVANNAH WITH YOUR BEST FRIEND

TREAT YOURSELF (AND YOUR PUP!) AT PERRY LANE HOTEL, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL

If you're craving a Southern escape but can't bear the thought of leaving your best friend behind, it's time to pack your bags and your pup to visit sunny Savannah. The perfect walkable city to explore with a companion, Savannah's historic downtown district is like walking into a storybook. It's said that during the Civil War, General William T. Sherman spared Savannah on his fiery march to the sea because it was too beautiful to burn. Filled with towering live oak trees, horse-drawn carriages, and antebellum mansions, its no surprise this picturesque city is so charming.

Steps from Forsyth Park, Perry Lane Hotel offers a five-star experience for guests and their four-legged friends. Enjoy the property's expansive local art collection, in-room spa treatments, and a refreshing mint julep at the rooftop pool and bar.

Private perks: Complimentary upgrades, early check-in/late check-out, daily breakfast for two, $100 hotel credit, wifi, and more.