CARA HOTEL
I was escorted to my room (why I’m not sure, but it was a nice touch.) On the second floor, there was a breeze coming in through the open window to the balcony that looked out over the quaint courtyard. After I showered, I slipped on a Frette cotton robe and tucked my feet into slippers (it wasn’t cold enough for slippers, but who can resist the chance to wear them?)
My mouth was slightly parched so I opened the mini fridge and was greeted by local and organic offerings. Things you’d never find at even the nicest of chain hotels. I picked out a natural wine, poured the single serving into a crystal stemmed wine glass, and sat out on the balcony.
It was around 4pm, and below in the courtyard, were a few people drinking apéritifs and sitting under umbrellas next to the bubbling fountain. All the rooms surround the main courtyard, though it is surprisingly quiet inside the rooms and the sound never bothered me.
Before dinner, I enjoyed a whiskey soda at the bar. I sat in one of their red velvet stools, and set my drink down on the marble top as I mused at all the back lit bottles. This is the kind of place Elizabeth Taylor would’ve loved.
Dinner was served under the banyan tree lit up with lights. I ordered the New York strip with a side of local Weiser potatoes. The steak had a nice crust and bled with juice as I cut into it.
After a slice of warm apple pie (dare I say better than your grandmas), I took a cab to experience some of the nearby attractions, including Bar Bandini, where I shared a bottle of Rieffel Pinot Noir with a friend who was visiting.
In the morning I awoke to the slight glow of the day coming through the white curtains. After I washed away the hint of a hangover and made some notes in my journal, unable to resist wearing the Frette robe again (I admit I thought about stealing it. For some reason they don’t sell them), I made my way downstairs. Sitting at a table near the fountain, I ordered an Americano, and to follow, local berries drizzled with raw honey.
It was 7AM, but as I sipped my second cup the courtyard began to fill up with guests, and I suddenly had a sinking feeling as I realized I’d have to pack up soon and leave this wonderful place behind.
Photos provided by Cara Hotel
