To a frequent traveler, it often seems as if the concept of the boutique, designer hotel has become so prolific and overdone that it’s hardly a special distinction anymore. The Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland, however, stands out from the crowd in a big way. It achieves a delicate balance between chic metropolitan style and comfy, hometown lodgings, never crossing the line that sends thoughtful, conceptual design into forced hipness, or gracious service into pretentious stuffiness.

Hotel Lucia is a thoroughly comfortable, striking hotel that gets just about everything right. The minimalist black and white décor is warm and inviting, with a welcoming lobby and several secluded seating areas grouped around fireplaces. It’s the stunning museum-quality art collection, however, that makes the Lucia pop. The eclectic collection is largely that of Pulitzer-winning photographer and Portland native David Hume Kennerly. His exquisite black and white photographs of celebrities and political elites line the lobby’s walls, the hallways of each floor, guest rooms and even the elevators. Be sure to wander downstairs from the lobby, where a few surprising pieces of art await your discovery.

SWEET SUITES

Guest rooms are small but stylish, with custom leather headboards and thick duvets. Sapelle mahogany furniture and accent pieces in ebonized black oak are juxtaposed against glass stainless steel bathroom vanities, collectively presenting a modern edge. Junior Suites offer a separate sitting area with chairs and a desk set. Or, go for opulence with the indulgent Gallery Suite, featuring a separate living room with a dining table and Italian leather chairs, wet bar and 40-inch television.

PERKS/AMENITIES

All the staff members, from the doormen to those behind the front desk, are casual and friendly, and make guests feel as if they’re coming home at the end of the day. In your room, the “Make It So” button on the phone can summon anything from your choice of a dozen styles of pillows, to your religious book of preference. Rooms feature an assortment of organic coffees and teas, Aveda bath products, flat-panel televisions and iPod docking stations. The fitness center, business center and room service are all available 24-hours a day. The downtown location is excellent, steps from the free downtown trolley and light-rail and only blocks from the Pearl District. Venture outside and be at the epicenter of all Portland has to offer, including attractions, restaurants, shopping, art galleries and theatre.

CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS

Hotel Lucia is also home to the award-winning Typhoon! Restaurant, featuring innovative Thai cuisine. Lauded by Bon Appetit as one of “the hottest chefs in America,” Chef Bo Kline’s culinary signatures are crunchy, crisp freshness and distinct, bursting flavors. I had the best Tom Kha soup I have ever eaten here, and I should quantify that by saying that Thai food, and Tom Kha in particular, are favorites of mine that I dine on frequently; Typhoon! was a singular standout. You can also try their new fusion Bo Restobar for casual eats and fun cocktails.

DEALS

Visit on a Wednesday or Thursday night and receive free Wi-Fi, $10 valet parking (retail: $30) and 10% off the best available rate. With the Kiss This package, enjoy a bottle of champagne and a four-piece box of Moonstruck Chocolates. Dusting powders and massage oils are just a couple of the items in your Kama Sutra Getaway Kit to help keep the night exciting. And, of course, complimentary parking and a 2:00 PM late check-out are included, too!

THE BOTTOM LINE

Hotel Lucia
400 SW Broadway, Portland, OR
503.225.1717 or 877.225.1717
www.hotellucia.com
info@hotelLucia.com
127 Rooms from $129-699.00
Fourth floor dedicated to pet-friendly rooms

As we enjoy the last of blissful sunny days, cookouts, and playing in the sand, we want you to share a photo of your Favorite Beach Vacation with us. You might win a free $250 (USD) Visa gift card which you can use for any upcoming travel plans you might have. Click here to learn how to enter.

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Photo Credits: All photos courtesy of Hotel Lucia