The allure of a compelling comeback story captures the attention of many travel enthusiasts. Similar to the New England Patriots’ historic Super Bowl comeback against the Atlanta Falcons or Martha Stewart’s reinvention post-incarceration, a new trend is emerging in the travel industry: salvaged stays. This trend invites travelers to experience hotels situated in buildings with rich histories, ranging from former banks to historic libraries.
Hotels.com has identified these unique accommodations as one of the most exciting travel trends for the upcoming year. Having experienced several of these properties, such as the iconic Liberty Hotel in Boston, which was once a prison, and the Union Station Nashville Yards, a beautifully transformed train station, I can attest to the fascinating blend of history and luxury.
What are salvaged stays?
Salvaged stays refer to hotels and inns repurposed from their original functions into modern accommodations. The Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, promotes properties that embrace their historical significance while providing contemporary conveniences. Each year, they highlight exemplary establishments that exemplify adaptive reuse, celebrating how these spaces maintain their architectural integrity while serving as inviting lodging.
This adaptive reuse initiative not only preserves historical buildings but also revitalizes local economies. A notable example is a Catholic boarding school that recently opened as a boutique hotel in Frederick, Maryland, representing the first new hotel in the area in fifty years. The Visitation Hotel Frederick showcases stunning architecture, retaining elements such as stained glass windows and original wood flooring, all while operating under the Marriott Tribute brand.
The unique experience of staying in a salvaged stay
What distinguishes salvaged stays is their ability to merge the charm of the past with the needs of contemporary travelers. Staying in these historic properties allows guests to enjoy modern amenities amid a backdrop reminiscent of classic films. For instance, during my visit to the Inn at Diamond Cove, a former military barracks in Maine, I could envision the routines of soldiers who once occupied the grounds. Similarly, at Le Monastère des Augustines in Quebec City, the air was thick with the spiritual essence of the centuries of nuns who lived there.
These hotels provide a refreshing alternative to generic accommodations, offering a genuine connection to their locations through rich histories. However, potential guests should consider a few factors when booking a salvaged stay.
Considerations for booking
When selecting a salvaged stay, expect certain quirks resulting from the conversion of historic buildings. Rooms may feature unique layouts, with oddly placed windows or sloping walls, and bathroom dimensions can vary significantly from standard hotel offerings. Embracing these eccentricities is part of the charm of staying in such unique spaces.
Furthermore, it is essential to communicate specific needs with reservation staff to ensure a comfortable experience. Old wooden floors may creak, and sounds from a lively lobby bar could carry through high ceilings in a former train station. Accepting these characteristics can transform your visit into a rich and memorable adventure.
Exploring historical significance
While checking in, take time to appreciate the history surrounding you. Read informational signs, view old photographs, and relish the blend of the new and the old, whether it involves a rooftop pool or a chef-driven restaurant. For those seeking inspiration for their next adventure, Hotels.com has compiled a list of salvaged stays worth exploring, while the Historic Hotels of America features an annual Best of Adaptive Reuse list highlighting these remarkable transformations.
As you plan your travels, consider adding salvaged stays to your itinerary. Imagine immersing yourself in a location steeped in history while enjoying modern comforts. Have you ever experienced a salvaged stay? What made it memorable? If given the chance, which historic building would you choose to spend a night in?
