by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
: Our stay at the modern and jazzy Hotel Derek, billed as the first contemporary hotel in Houston , emphasized style and business guest services. Our senses were rewarded with decorative touches in unexpected places. At the same time all our business requirements such as high speed Internet access, fax/printer/copier, and meeting room space were met. Leisure time could be spent poolside, at the 24-hour fitness center, relaxing with an in-room spa treatment or at a nearby spa. For those wishing to shop, the hotel was conveniently situated in the Galleria area and a short drive from downtown Houston .
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
We enjoyed the sequin and tuxedo filled opening of Puccini’s tearjerker Madam Butterfly, one of the top ten most frequently performed operas in North America , at the Houston Grand Opera, which was housed in the large and modern Wortham Theater building.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
: A grand dame of Houston hotels and preferred accommodation of many a distinguished and famous visitor, The Houstonian Hotel Club & Spa offered classic upscale Texas style accommodations in an 18-acre compound. Guest centered staff attended to visitor needs and distinctive décor added charm to the 280-room hotel. Thanks to the location, the property’s green features and wooded views, we felt secluded though we were within easy reach of Houston ’s main business and shopping districts.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
Established in 1900 under the auspices of the Houston Public School Art League, this Houston institution was the fifth largest art exhibition space in the country when we visited it last. Housing more than 48,000 works of art and hosting more than two million visitors per year, the Museum could have been over large, over busy or overwhelming. Instead and in spite of its size it was welcoming, uncluttered and a delight to visit. There was ample space for the art and for visitors.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
: For those wishing or needing to stay in downtown Houston , the recently renovated historic Sam Houston Hotel, offered many pluses. The city’s oldest hotel restored to its original state as a luxury boutique hotel was named for General Sam Houston, Texas’ first president. We prized the character and old Texas feel combined with modern sleek elements of the décor, the prime location, the attention to detail, focus on comfort and practicality for the business traveler and the gourmet dining option it offered.
by Editor | Oct 1, 2004 | North America, Simon and Baker Travel Review, Texas, United States
: A bustling restaurant with a happening crowd, 17 offered well presented, well served, and well prepared gourmet American food in an attractive setting. The Sam Houston Hotel’s enthusiastic young chef, Jeff Amstrong, combined adventurous flavors and old favorites for a rewarding and tasty meal. He successfully emphasized local seafood with spicy accents. He also offered continental options like rich foi gras (goose or duck liver) with roast pineapple and a pink peppercorn sauce and hearty American short ribs.
