HotelChatter

The Location: For travelers who want to stay in Alexandria but still have easy access to D.C., the two-block walk to the Metro is pretty clutch. That said, it’s slightly less convenient for those who want to lose themselves strolling around charming Old Town, 16 blocks from the water (though it’s important to note those 16 blocks are lined with shops and cafes, and a free shuttle runs back and forth between the Metro and the waterfront).

The Suites: One word: incredible. The three terrace suites have huge terraces (up to 700 square feet), with furniture and a “terrace menu” that includes offerings like sleeping bags for tykes, dance lessons, private dinners, yoga classes, palm readers, et al. One comes with its own wet bar, which is our new Fourth of July party lust (we’re pretty sure it’ll have views of two, maybe three sets of fireworks). Seriously, someone throw a party there. And invite us.

The Spa: People seem to be pretty stoked about the Lorien’s standing both as Old Town’s first full-service hotel spa and as purveyor of organic and paraben-free Kerstin Florian products. We didn’t get a full tour because it was in use, but that seems like good enough sign to us. And the fitness room is, well, a hotel fitness room (with TVs on each treadmill).

The Restaurants: A grand opening party will be held late March, at which point the Lorien’s market — called the Butcher’s Block — should be completed and stocked with to-go sandwiches, artisanal cheeses, wine, and other picnic-ready foodstuff (perfect for pairing with the hotel’s complimentary-to-borrow bicycles). For now, it’s still under construction, but chef Robert Wiedmaier’s BRABO restaurant and BRABO Tasting Room are open for business now.

Bottom Line: Rack rates start at $329 but are running from $179 right now.