LISA LOK

Everything's in the Details
Nestled just up the hill from bustling Congress Avenue sits Hotel Saint Cecilia. A serene oasis ensconced in foliage. Originally built in 1888, it is one of five remaining Victorian houses still occupying this stretch along the Colorado River. Walking through the main entrance feels like a scene from a Lewis CArroll story. You navigate the sprawling garden by a window, chevron-tile path. Bunkhouse has since evolved and updated the estate, with 20 rooms in total, spread out between suites, bungalows, and studios. Design inspiration is taken from the '60s and '70s, and each room features a unique mix of antique accents and a modern mood. Named after the patron saint of music and poetry, the entire property exudes a lyrical beauty. Follow the path, which now feels a bit more like giant piano keys, to the main office, where you can browse an extensive collection of vinyl records and rock biographies from their lending library. I couldn't resist grabbing some Curtis Mayfield and Foo Fighters (who recorded an album here) for a late-night listen. One of the best nights of sleep I've had was thanks in part to the Hästens mattress. As the final tracks crackled and hissed through the sound system like a cozy fire, I found it harder and harder to keep my eyes open, wrapped in the hotel's kimono robe. Perfectly at peace.

Rooms With a View
I've strolled through Central Park countless times — north to south, east to west, rain and shine. Yet, it still contains an enduring wonder, even when I'm, quite literally, retracing my steps. The ground view, however, barely compares to the breathtaking vistas on offer from the lofty heights of a Park Lane hotel room. Upon entering the room, I was immediately captivated by the wall-to-wall windows that offered panoramic views of the park and endless people-watching: the crowds skating at Wollman Rink, the couples enjoying a carriage ride... In contrast, a light nature soundtrack of chirping birds, playing alongside the room's animated mural, lent the interior an entirely soothing quality and highlighted how Park Lane's hospitality philosophy differs from that of its storied Central Park South neighbors: The Plaza Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park. Along with its considered modern amenities, Park Lane boasts a distinctly downtown character, in part thanks to its outdoor rooftop lounge, Darling, which transforms into a breakfast buffet by morning. Yabu Pushelberg helped the property strike this balance of past and present by placing the historic building's original chandeliers, sconces, and fixtures alongside modern murals by En Viu. The result is a superlative environment that is both elevated and approachable. Plus, I'll be savoring the sunset views from my room until my next stay.

On the Dock of the Bay
My last days of summer before fall set in could not have been spent at a more idyllic place than the Inn at Perry Cabin, a breathtaking waterfront resort tucked away in St. Michaels, Maryland. Built after the War of 1812, the property features 78 unique rooms, with much of the original architecture still present in the main house. Along the picturesque drive, you'll find the Har-Tru tennis courts, zero-edge pool, and spa. Stunning pathways lead right up to the water, where you can enjoy drinks of the property's Adirondack chairs. I was lucky enough to be among the first guests invited on board the Stanley Norman, a 120-year old skipjack, to enjoy light oyster bites and claws from the Chesapeake Bay. The seasonal menu is part of the exquisite program curated by executive chef Gregory James, who has put a focus on sustainability along the Eastern Shore. In addition to cultivating the on-site garden, he has been working closely with local fisherman to highlight the beauty of Chesapeake Bay cuisine. I spent an afternoon with him and the team at Wittman Wharf to experience the crabbing process firsthand. Our endeavors ended up being part of that evening's dinner. Every detail at the resort is so thoughtfully considered that it's easy to find a sense of peace here. I've always found myself rejuvenated after spending time by the water. Maybe the proximity to the tides helps rebalance my rhythm — and ending the nights with cozy fireside chats is hard to beat.

48 Hours of Italian Sun
My journey to Costa Smeralda will forever by the most glorious 48 hours of exploring abroad. Now some of you may be thinking that that's not enough time, but I assure you that I made the most of every minute in the Italian sun. This summer, I was able to stay and celebrate the launch of Assouline's new book dedicated to Hotel Cala di Volpe. Inside the iconic '60s resort, I found myself marveling at the stunning craftsmanship of the rooms. From the organic forms and terra-cotta exteriors to the pastel accents design by Jacques Couëlle. Much like the gentle tides outside, you cascade easily through the arches. Playful touches such as small colored glass hidden within the walls and a handprint courtesy of Couëlle himself make this truly a one-of-a-kind place. I could spend days simply sitting by the bay taking in the pristine turquoise waters or relaxing by the saltwater pool, but a bit more adventure was in store. A quick boat ride across the Cala Petra Ruja took me to Nikki Beach for some sushi. From out on the water, it's easy to see how the secluded beauty of Costa Smeralda attracts a roster of famous guests: Princess Diana, and Queen B and Jay-Z among them. Despite my short time here, I felt at peace. A moment of escape that I can't wait to return. 

On the Money
The mood of any trip I take is often determined by my choice of accommodations. Do I look for traditional charm, sleek modern amenities, or a place that feels like home? My stay at The Quoin satisfied those competing desires and then some. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, the hotel (pronounced "coin") is nestled in the former Security Trust & Safe Deposit Company building, originally designed by renowned Victorian-era architect Frank Furness. Today, the 24-room boutique property is thoughtfully curated by Method Co. — a Philadelphia-based hospitality firm, which has embraced many of the building's historic details — and boasts three distinct dining experiences. The Rooftop at The Quoin, the city's first rooftop bar, serves light bites alongside beautiful, sun-soaked views. The Quoin Restaurant offers tempting cuisine from Southern France and Northern Italy prepared in an open-concept kitchen complete with a wood-fired oven and binchotan grill. My husband and I eagerly dined there two nights in a row, making sure to save room for desser. The most captivating space, however, is the hotel's cocktail lounge, Simmer Down. Located in an old vault once known as "The Money Room," it presents delicious libations in an evocative setting that captures the glamor and magic of a bygone era.

California Dreaming
Southern California is all about indoor-outdoor living, and the Proper Hotel in Santa Monica delivers that ethos in the best way, with many of the hotel's walkways open to the ocean breeze. The SoCal aesthetic extends to the stunning Kelly Wearstler-designed lobby. At the Surya Spa, you can find Eastern-inspired wellness, at the fitness center, dubbed Helios, offers top-of-the-line equipment as well as a serene outdoor space. You can also use the hotel as a jumping-off point to explore the area: My husband and I took the hotel's bikes to visit the Third Street Promenade farmers' market before continuing on to Venice Beach. Back at the hotel, near the rooftop's zero-edge, heated pool, you'll find Calabra, one of two on-site eateries, where the new spring menu spotlights Mediterranean cuisine. Nestled among the cozy foliage, we sampled the baba ghanoush with housemade laffa, the falafel, and the tenderloin kebab. As the sun set, I savored my Washed Ashore (one of their signature cocktails), content to ride this wave all the way home.

Celestial Interiors
Minutes away from D.C.'s Union Station, you'll find The Morrow Hotel. The interiors feature sleek, luminous curves and celestial themes. Each space has its own mood designed around a time of day. My room's lighting recalled the glowing moon. Upon arrival, I was greeted by an immaculate soaking tub, the warm bath already drawn. As the sun was setting, I enjoyed a Deck Side Spritz at the sunset-themed rooftop bar and lounge, Upstairs at The Morrow. Vesper, the hotel's exclusive lounge, is draped in a dusty midnight blues and smoky velvet with all the moody atmosphere of a speakeasy. While the overall look and feel is very modern with an eye on the future, the building hasn't forgotten its roots as the former Central Armatures Works, a motor-repair shop. The main eatery Le Clou (French for "The Nail") is Nicholas Stefanelli's excellent take of the French brasserie. The piéce de résistance was their cheese cart, served table-side. The Morrow's creative feel is matched by the atmosphere of the NoMa neighborhood. A place yearning to be called home, even if only for a little while.