ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Located in the heart of Fishtown, Philadelphia, Hôtel Anna & Bel lies within perfect walking distance of the neighborhood’s best storefronts, restaurants and bars. When I first arrived, I was lucky to find street parking directly across from the property. The front desk also offered directions to the hotel’s off-site parking lot, about an eight-minute walk away.

I found the lobby modern, warm and luxurious. A grand, wooden staircase — the star of the show — paired well with the white, black and gray tiled floor, offering a homey feel for guests. I arrived a bit earlier than the 3 p.m. check-in time, so the desk staff held my luggage while I relaxed by the pool. I ordered a cocktail via poolside service and was eventually escorted up to my room, where my luggage awaited.

GUEST QUARTERS: Fifty rooms and counting, each unique in its own way. Nestled on the corner of the second floor, my One-Bedroom King Suite overlooked Belgrade Street and gorgeous views of the private hotel courtyard, home to the in-ground pool and cocktail lounge, Caletta.

© Emily Gladu

The suite greeted me with a spacious living room upon entrance, French doors leading to a private balcony, a king bed and a quaint breakfast nook located next to the full-sized refrigerator and premium bar cart. A nice touch was the smart TV mounted on the wall, making my favorite shows and streaming services easily accessible. When I wasn’t lounging around the room in my complimentary, custom-made Printfresh (local business) robe, I enjoyed the peace and serenity of the cozy, outdoor private balcony.

© Emily Gladu

SERVICES/AMENITIES: More than a one-night stay is crucial to taking full advantage of all the amenities offered at Hôtel Anna & Bel. While I spent my afternoon enjoying a delicious cocktail and floating in the heated pool, my next stay will include dedicated time in the infrared sauna and a visit to the yoga/meditation patio.

Come dinner, I was met with two options. At Bastia, a leisure café by day and upscale restaurant by night, seasonal flavors of Corsica and Sardinia are the main inspiration behind the dishes. On the other side of the hotel sat Caletta, a sophisticated cocktail lounge serving small Italian bites and specialty sips. Not hungry enough for a full meal, I watched the sun set on the outdoor patio of Caletta as I enjoyed a plate of sheep’s milk ricotta, topped with sweet blueberries, and chili brown butter and grilled focaccia on the side. The dish was yummy and the views were top-tier … what could be better?

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• As I obsessed over the full-sized Le Labo products offered in the bathroom, Ignacio at the front desk surprised me with a complimentary gift set of hand lotion, face mist and lip balm. How thoughtful!
• Make sure to take advantage of the Essentials Closet located on each floor. Stocked with anything you may have forgotten for your stay, you can find extra towels, toiletries, K-cups and my favorite: a filtered water station.
• Hôtel Anna & Bel hosts unique experiences for guests year-round. Check out its website and see which offer suits you.

HÔTEL ANNA & BEL
1401 E. Susquehanna Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19125
tel 267 682 8253