Where to Stay in Houston: The Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria
/“When you get into a hotel room, you lock the door, and you know there is a secrecy, there is a luxury, there is a fantasy. There is comfort. There is reassurance. ”
It sounds to me like Diane von Furstenberg was talking about the Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria. I had so much fun spending the weekend at this hotel while co-hosting Comp Camp with my buddy Ginger.
Aren't these lights gorgeous?
After a late night drive from Dallas to Houston, I couldn't wait to check into the hotel and get some rest. If you plan on arriving to a hotel late, be sure to inform them of your anticipated arrival time. The last thing you want is for a hotel to think you're a no-show. I called the hotel to notify them of my arrival time and the agent kindly made a note. My room was patiently waiting for me when we made it to Houston well past midnight.
The Super Comfortable bed!
I've stayed at Sonesta properties before and my room definitely met the standards of the Sonesta brand. I seriously wish that I could buy the pillow-top mattress because I fell asleep within a matter of minutes! On Saturday night, I attempted to stay up and watch TV but fell fast asleep before 9 pm with a full face of makeup because the bed was so comfortable. Dear Sonesta, if you're reading this can you please send me one of your mattresses? Better yet, I'll settle for a few of your amazingly comfortable pillows!
The Cozy Sectional
The corner sectional was a great, relaxing, decor addition. I love it when hotel rooms have cozy furniture.
My room also came with mini-fridge, 42-inch HD flat screen TV, docking station, safe, Keuring coffee maker, and complimentary high speed Internet access. The bathroom's water pressure was great and took no time getting hot.
Yay for toiletry dispensers!
I'm a big fan of toiletry dispensers because I hate trying to squeeze product out of travel size toiletries. I was excited to see this one. The shower contained a dispenser for conditioner, shampoo, and shower gel which is always one of my favorite things about staying at Sonesta properties.
Location
The hotel's location is FANTASTIC We were able to walk to the Galleria! If you choose to walk, be sure to pay close attention to the traffic signs as the road is very busy. There's a sidewalk right in front of the hotel that you can take to the mall. The hotel is also near many fantastic restaurants and entertainment options. We were about a 5-10 minute drive from some of my favorite Houston restaurants including Dish Society, Adair, and Peli Peli Kitchen.
Walking Into Ara like...
If you don't want to leave the hotel, no worries. The property has a great onsite restaurant called Ara. I plan on checking out their breakfast the next time I'm at the hotel.
If you're in the mood for something more casual then check out Launch. This was one of my favorite spots to grab a coffee and sweet treat. I was very impressed to learn that all of the cafe's pastries are made fresh in-house daily.
Yummy, fresh, treats at Launch
Axis Lounge
I loved hanging out at Axis Lounge, which is the hotel's bar and lounge. This lounge is a great spot to meet and mingle with other hotel guests. The servers at Axis Lounge are very fast and will come by to take your order. You can also order appetizers and bites in addition to cocktails.
Chillin at the bar
Other Amenities
Fitness Center overlooking pool. (photo courtesy of Royal Sonesta Galleria Houston)
The hotel also has a fitness center and pool onsite if you'd like to get a good workout in or relax by the pool.
Additional Things to Know:
- The hotel can get extremely busy during peak periods, which means there can be a wait for the elevators. Be sure to set aside enough time to catch it.
- Hotel Parking is $22/night for self-parking or $32/night for valet with in-out privileges. If you'd like to save on parking costs, definitely opt for Uber or Lyft since there are plenty in the area.
- Be sure to open up the TV cabinet in your room. You'll find a mini-fridge inside, that's perfect for storing drinks and snacks!
Celebrating an Awesome Stay!
I had a fantastic time during my stay at this hotel and I'd definitely stay here again for future Houston visits. Special thanks so the wonderful staff and to Royal Sonesta Houston for hosting me.
