Frequent trips to large cities present unique opportunities. Prior to working with Global Traveler, the most time I’d ever spent in Atlanta was on a layover at the airport. However, working with several travel clients in the city has given me a chance to get to know ATL beyond the walls of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Most recently, I enjoyed a lovely stay at the new Signia by Hilton in Downtown Atlanta. Newly opened in mid-January, Signia is a sophisticated stay, with concepts in Orlando, San José, Atlanta and, soon, Indianapolis. All properties excel at offering a large amount of meeting and events space along with a vibrant atmosphere.

Situated on the 38th floor, my room featured clean lines; a variety of textures; and a warm, modern feel. Bonus points for the phenomenal view of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons, the SEC Championship game, Atlanta United major league soccer, and countless concerts and events. The view is crazy — because the stadium is HUGE! Snagging a room right on top of it is an experience in and of itself — and highly recommended.

On this trip I traveled with Global Traveler’s CEO and publisher, Francis X. Gallagher. Together we enjoyed dinner at Capolinea, the hotel’s authentic Italian restaurant on the fourth floor. With exceptional ambiance and more jaw-dropping views of the stadium, our evening started with requesting the martini cart be rolled to our table. We both ordered a signature Capolinea Martini and took in the tableside service. Our sommelier offered the perfect pairings for our appetizers and meal, along with a dry vermouth for dessert.

We feasted on beef carpaccio, meatballs, and burrata with beets and pomegranates to get us started; the branzino and Bolognese for our main courses; and I chose the most delicate dessert named Farfalla, or “butterfly” in Italian. It was the first day of Capolinea’s new dessert menu, and I hope this light lemon and lavender dessert makes the menu long-term. Lovely to both the eye and tongue, it was a delicious ending to our meal.

I know I’ll be back in Atlanta this summer and perhaps once again before the end of the year. With exceptional experiences like this, I can’t help but wonder what else awaits me.

— Carrie Cox, account executive