ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: I arrived at Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, picked up my rental car and drove to The Bohemian Hotel, Savannah Riverfront to check in shortly before 3 p.m. I was slightly early, but the valet assisted me with my vehicle and my luggage, escorting me inside the hotel.

There’s no front desk at The Bohemian but rather two working desks (one on my right and one on my left). I took a seat in a leather chair and enjoyed chatting with the two employees behind their desks (more like a meet and greet than a typical hotel check-in). We spoke about the Savannah Riverfront, the rooftop bar and restaurant, and how the lobby is located on the fourth floor. They also offered assistance with things to do within walking distance while I was in town. Once our conversation was complete, I was given a Corner Historic View room overlooking downtown, and I made my way to the eighth floor.GUEST QUARTERS: The hotel’s website describes the room décor as “vintage maritime charm,” and it’s easy to see why. My king-sized bed featured a dark, wooden headboard with a similar heavy chest serving as an end table. Two wingback leather chairs in deep burgundy offered a seating area and conjured up thoughts of wealthy maritime traders doing business during the colonial era. A faux fur throw blanket and floor-to-ceiling velour drapes brought a strong sense of affluence in both their textures and hues.

Modern amenities brought the room back into the 21st century with a Bose radio alarm clock, flat-screen TV and Starbucks coffee in the room. There was a bit of street noise at night as the hotel sits next to the main road through town, but not enough to keep me from falling asleep.

The bathroom’s most striking focal point was the custom- carved vanity detailing a ship with three masts sailing across the ocean. Dual sinks, a large shower and separate water closet, marble countertops, and the hotel’s own brand of upscale toiletries completed the space.

In both the bedroom and bathroom lighted artwork adorns the walls, as do two different chandeliers covered with oyster shells. Though extremely unusual, and a little Pirates of the Caribbean-esque, the oyster shell chandeliers are the surprising elements of the room, causing it to feel rare and mysterious.

SERVICES/AMENITIES: During my stay I decided to enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Rocks on the River. I ordered a cocktail and the 8-ounce filet mignon with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and purple potato patty. The plate of food was both elegant and beautiful and tasted magnificent!

I finished my meal with my server’s recommendation of red velvet layered cake for dessert. While red velvet cake itself isn’t necessarily my favorite dessert of choice, I’m always happy to order it when layers of buttercream frosting come alongside. In this case, the amount of frosting slightly outweighed the cake, bringing creamy perfection to my meal.

The Bohemian also offers a wonderful rooftop patio called Rocks on the Roof. The views of the river and Talmage Memorial Bridge are spectacular, with the bar area offering small bites and shareables.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• Located on the north end of the Savannah Riverfront, the hotel offers an upscale choice within walking distance of many restaurants and attractions.
• Both dining areas are excellent gathering spaces and make it easy to enjoy afternoon drinks or a meal.

THE BOHEMIAN HOTEL, SAVANNAH RIVERFRONT, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
102 W. Bay St.
Savannah, GA 31401
tel 912 721 3800
marriott.com