Fodor's Expert Review AVIA Savannah

Editor's Note: This location is no longer in operation.

One of Savannah's newest properties, this boutique hotel made a big splash when it opened in 2008. It's now one of the city's top-rated hotels and has accommodated such big-name celebrities as Robert Redford and CNN's Anderson Cooper. The interiors are statement-making; the exposed-brick walls in the lobby are offset by posh velvet drapes. Hallways are dramatically dark and painted Spanish moss-green, with occasional bursts of pin lighting. It's somewhat of an anomaly for Savannah—contemporary decor overlaid with sumptuous Southern gracefulness. The location, overlooking the newly renovated Ellis Square and within two blocks of the river, can't be beat. The lobby restaurant serves fine breakfast, lunch, and tasty evening small plates. A small but attractive pool on a second-floor terrace is good for catching rays, cooling off, and watching the beautiful people. Some rooms have balconies and claw-foot tubs. There is no on-site spa, but those services can be arranged through the hotel's partnership with one of the nicer local day spas.