Until last year, Houston’s coveted Height’s neighborhood lacked the one thing a traveler needed: a hotel. In December, 49-room Hotel Daphne opened. The boutique property exudes a sophisticated yet cozy vibe with enviable amenities. The walkability factor makes exploring one of the city’s most historically preserved communities easy.
© Robert Gomez
Originally designed to be an independent “utopian suburb,” the Height’s mixes Queen Anne, Craftsman, Folk Victorian and Victorian homes. A five-story new build, Hotel Daphne harmoniously blends with its setting, and guests can admire the charming architecture merely by crossing the street.
After the valet parked our car, we stepped into the lobby where semi-circular crimson sofas sat below the golden glow of a vintage Murano chandelier. An Art Deco mirror hung between wall sconces reflecting the scene. One section of the lobby is dedicated to a retail space displaying fragrances, tote bags, books and the hotel’s signature striped robe.
© Julie Soefer
Our fourth-floor guestroom with two large windows featured a custom king-sized bed with the headboard upholstered in a botanical tapestry-like fabric. On top of the Crafts-style credenza there was a minibar and snacks. The bathroom’s generous use of Fireclay tile and onyx vanity oozes luxury.
We toured the hotel and especially enjoyed seeing the abundance of original art throughout. The library’s high-gloss teal bookcases wrap the walls, and chess tables offer a quiet spot to work. The flexible space is also used for private dining and as a cocktail salon.
© Robert Gomez
With indoor and outdoor seating, nearby Bar Daphne draws design inspiration from Prohibition-era speakeasies. Its marble counter, vintage furnishing and dark green walls create an intimate atmosphere.
The full-service restaurant and lounge, Hypsi, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour. The house-made focaccia and black truffle arancini paired nicely with a glass of wine. A Mozzarella Cart circles the tables. Heartier menu items include a crab cappelletti, rabbit cacciatore, and steak braciole. Reservations are recommended for Hypsi, helmed by executive chef Terrence Gallivan, former chef of Michelin-starred Alto in New York City.
© Julie Soefer
In the early evening we took a stroll and were elbow to elbow with residents on the Heights Bike and Hike Trail where folks walk their dogs, run and bike. As a Hotel Daphne guest, you may ask to borrow one of its complimentary bikes (available 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily). Truly a walkable area of the city, Hotel Daphne is one street from 19th Street in the Heights. From antiques and clothing to toys and ice cream, there’s an eclectic assortment of shopping, dining and live music.
Hotel Daphne’s playful atmosphere, friendly staff and lux surroundings create a comforting oasis in a sprawling city. Relaxing in the Heights neighborhood was a delight and one we would eagerly repeat.
347 West 20th St.
Houston, TX 77008
tel 346 601 1099
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 12, 2026Star Clippers Offering 4 Sailings to French, Italian Rivieras in 2027
If you’ve dreamt of sailing the high seas while sails fill with winds sweeping across the Mediterranean, you’re in luck. In 2027, Star Clippers will offer four separate seven-night sailings that take in the French and Italian Rivieras on two tall ships: magnificent Royal Clipper and Star Clipper. Featuring wide teak decks, swimming pools, tropical bars, piano lounges and relaxed dining, each ship carries from 166 to 227 guests. Featuring modern amenities, outstanding service and a chance to experience the romance of a traditional sailing experience, guests are also offered opportunities to learn to tie nautical knots, climb up to the crow’s nest, sit in the bowsprit net and watch as the crew raises the ship’s billowing sails.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Moments, Made to Keep
The Excellence Collection offers a curated collection of luxurious resorts across Mexico and the Caribbean, promising exceptional experiences for every guest and taste. From upscale suite concepts to a plethora of gourmet dining options, from wellness experiences to curated activities, The Excellence Collection guarantees all this and more.
Lifestyle / Bleisurism
Nov 12, 2026Say Oui to a Side Trip to Côte d’Azur
It is unlikely anyone would hesitate when called to travel to Paris for business. The City of Lights is a hub of entrepreneurial innovation in myriad industries including aeronautics, cybersecurity, finance, health, renewable energy and space; more than 15,000 foreign companies do business here. To that end, the city’s prime location in the heart of Europe and its robust air and high-speed rail network make it easily accessible for global travelers from destinations such as North America, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and, of course, throughout Europe.
Daily
Nov 12, 20262 Popular Steakhouses Coming to Savannah, Georgia, in 2026/2027
Next year, Savannah, Georgia, welcomes not one but two exceptional steakhouses to its already celebrated dining scene. Bowdie’s Chophouse and Oak Steakhouse are both upscale, fine-dining brands preserving and perfecting the classic steakhouse experience.
Sponsored Content
Why Japan Is Best Explored by Sea with Princess
Japan is a destination that rewards repeat visits because no two regions — or seasons — feel quite the same. One moment, you’re wandering through centuries-old geisha districts in Kanazawa. The next, you’re watching neon reflections dance across Tokyo streets long after midnight.
Airlines
Nov 11, 2026Air Canada to Begin First Non-Stop Route from Montreal to Seville, Spain, in 2027
Air Canada just announced the launch of the first-ever nonstop route in North America to Seville, Spain (SVQ). Beginning Sept. 8, 2027, the airline begins service from Montréal (YUL) to Seville. Flights will be operated via Air Canada’s new Airbus A321LXR aircraft four times a week, complete with the airline’s Glowing Hearted design. The aircraft features 14 Signature Class lie-flat seats and 168 economy seats.
Snag Explora Journeys’ Black Friday Offer
eFlyer Deals
Nov 11, 2026Destinations / Africa
Nov 10, 2026New Egypt River Ship Joins Viking Fleet
The latest river ship in Egypt to join the Viking fleet is the elegant Viking Sekhmet, purpose-built for the waters of the Nile River. Accommodating 82 guests in 41 outside staterooms, this new vessel is identical in layout to her sister river ships, featuring refined Scandinavian design and graceful spaces that include indoor-outdoor Aquavit Terrace.
Sponsored Content
Luxury Travel in Chilean Patagonia: Where Refinement Meets the Wild Edge
At the gateway to Chilean Patagonia, Los Lagos opens a landscape in constant motion. Volcanic peaks rise sharply above glacial lakes, mist moves through dense forests, and light shifts across every horizon. Here, luxury travel in Chilean Patagonia unfolds moment by moment, balancing raw energy with seamless comfort.
Daily
Nov 9, 2026Big Sky, Montana, Welcomes Luxury Vacation Rental Management
Making its Montana debut, InvitedHome, vacation rental and property management company, welcomes 10 luxury penthouses and condominiums to Big Sky. This opening marks the brand’s presence in 11 world-class mountain destinations, from Vail and Aspen, Colorado, to Park City and Alta, Utah.
ShareThis