tastes&experiences
Resorting in St. Augustine by Christi Ashby
When I was recently invited to experience a newly opened resort on St. Augustine Beach, I could already smell the salt air and feel the ocean breeze. But I was more than surprised when I received some images, especially of the expansive pool deck and contemporary décor, because this property is an evolved, elevated version of an Embassy Suites. In fact, I would find out, it’s a whole different prototype for the brand.
T
he location itself — adjacent
Embassy Suites. The cool, calming neu-
plenty of amenities, including a flat-screen
to the iconic St. Augustine
tral tones, whitewashed wood accents and
TV, wet bar, refrigerator, microwave and
Pier and Anastasia State
layered textures with pops of ocean hues
complimentary WiFi. I left Rob to take a
Park — makes the Embassy
are inviting but not intimidating. Walls
little siesta while I went out to soak up a
Suites by Hilton St. Augus-
and halls have interesting art, but the big
few rays. Although I was fine pool loung-
tine Beach Oceanfront Resort hard to
picture is the unencumbered view of the
ing, you can enjoy beachside food service,
resist. I love visiting St. Augustine as it’s a
Atlantic just beyond the pool.
beach chairs and umbrellas, as well as
quick getaway that’s historic and quirky.
While waiting for our room, we made
But there are limited accommodation
our way outside, winding through the ter-
surfboard and paddleboard lessons and
options in the historic area (although Casa
race and veranda to the deck where we
Before long it was time to get dressed
Monica is a favorite).
discovered the Castaway Cantina, which
for the Rhum Bar’s complimentary evening
rentals.
When my husband, Rob, and I arrived,
offers Latin-inspired dishes and custom
reception with appetizers and beverages.
we were warmly greeted and offered com-
cocktails poolside. It was the perfect perch
In a when in Rome mode I ordered a
plimentary valet — a nice perk. As we
for some people watching.
refreshing rum-based cocktail. On the
walked inside the supersized lobby with
We found our two-room suite — private
menu are house-prepared items such as
several sitting and lounging spaces, we
bedroom and separate living room with a
flash-fried calamari with pickled shrimp
knew for sure this was not a typical
sofa bed — very comfortable and with
and steamed PEI mussels with applewood
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