Traveling to Savannah, I was excited to have the opportunity to see a new boutique-style hotel in the heart of the city, the Andaz Savannah. I have a few clients who have scheduled future stays in Andaz properties, and as there are currently only seven in the United States, the Andaz Savannah was a must-see!
Andaz hotels are a boutique-inspired brand of hotels, and are generally smaller, with less than 300 rooms on average. Currently they are located in leisure and destination locations worldwide.
The Andaz Savannah is located in Barnard Street – overlooking Ellis Square – in the heart of the Historic District; a great location. The hotel was easy to find and on a sweltering summer day, the full glass entry doors ushered me into a cool oasis! Entering the Andaz Savannah, you’re immediately struck by the high ceilings, the poured & polished concrete floor, the lack of a traditional “check-in” desk, and the decor – This is urban chic at it’s best!
I was met at the hotel by Ann Mashburn, the Catering Sales Manager. Ann took the time to give me a very 
thorough tour of the Andaz Savannah. First, we talked about the unique Andaz concept. Her words echoed my initial reaction – this is different – it”feels” different. The hotel was modern, somewhat minimalist, chic, contemporary, stylish, but still maintained a South sophistication. It felt relaxed & comfortable, and although catering to many corporate travelers, it did not feel like a “business” hotel.
The hotel was 151 ultra-modern guestrooms and suites. I was able to see all the room options. The rooms have large soundproof windows, stylish decor, and impressive bathrooms with walk-in showers. Again, These rooms DID NOT feel like a typical hotel. They were more comfortable, more spacious, and seemed … well, restful. This welcoming atmosphere was supplemented by all the modern features you’d expect – like 42” flat screen TVs and free WiFi.
For business travelers, it’s a casual corporate experience. Yes, there are meeting rooms, a restaurant and bar on-site, hi-tech meeting and event spaces, AV equipment available… but it’s not a stuffy, business hotel. Like Savannah, the hotel has a different, Southern charm.
What I enjoyed most when seeing the hotel were the rooms. When you entered a room, you felt you were immersed in quiet solitude. The soundproof windows and new modern construction created a peaceful, oasis feel. When you closed the door of the room, it felt solid. The rooms varied in size and style, but I think Ann and I agreed, we liked the Andaz Loft rooms best – Great layout and HUGE bathroom! Some of the rooms even have balconies overlooking Ellis Square.
The Andaz Savannah is different – and it tries to be different. It does not feel like a chain hotel. You are greeted not at a traditional desk but with a host holding an iPad; Snacks and non alcoholic beverages in your room are complimentary and refilled daily, you can select your preference of newspaper each morning, FREE wired or wireless internet access, a Terrace Pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center with Matrix training gear, and a restaurant serving seasonal Southern fare. All these amenities make this hotel a tremendous value if you plan to stay in the Historic District of Savannah.
I enjoyed my experience at the Andaz Savannah. as my first Andaz visit, this hotel makes me want to go visit the other locations… and that’s certainly a compliment. Kudos to Ann and the staff at the Andaz Savannah! Contact Ron Phillips Travel to secure a reservation.
14 Barnard Street
Savannah, Georgia, USA, 31401
Andaz Hotels in the USA
CALIFORNIA Andaz Napa, Andaz San Diego, Andaz West Hollywood
GEORGIA Andaz Savannah
HAWAII Andaz Maui at Wailea
NEW YORK Andaz 5th Avenue, Andaz Wall Street
copyright (c) 2013 by Ron Phillips Travel LLC – luxury travel and consultancy. All rights reserved. If you have comments on this column, or questions about booking travel, Contact Ron Phillips Travel
