Jessalyn and I recently stayed over the Labor Day Holiday at Azalea Inn & Gardens Bed and Breakfast and it was probably the best overnight lodging I've ever had with the exception of staying in the cozy confines of my own home. From the moment we set foot in this place until the moment we left, we were treated like guests of honor. Our 3 nights there were lovely on so many levels that I just decided to make a bullet point list as to why you should stay in this wonderful place if you're ever in Savannah:
- The staff. Every single person here was simply fantastic. Professional, courteous, fun, personable, hospitable, accomodating and pleasant. We personally interacted with Teresa, Shannon, Madi, and Diane and each offered us insight into the area as far as places to eat and sights to see. Each were willing to help us out and make our stay personally enjoyable even though they were busy with their daily tasks involved with running the inn. The staff, by itself, makes this place worth the price of admission.
- The Inn itself. Simply gorgeous. Cozy with a homey feel. Historic yet with all the modern things you need. The pool provided a great relaxing atmosphere with the gardens and the deck in the back of the property. Such personality and character with easy walking access to all areas of Savannah you'd like to see. In fact, the Inn was so wonderful, we chose to spend 1 out of our 3 nights there just relaxing. We had never been to Savannah, so think about that one for a second.
- The food. Breakfast was so delicious and creative with amazing service. Each day we had wonderful coffee and juices with a 2 course meal and sides. I've never even heard of some of the dishes they created but they were just right and a wonderful way to start the day off on vacation.
- The Inn's extras. I'm calling these extras because I just simply didn't expect to get these things out of our stay
- Advice - because of the family feel to the Inn, the guests and staff all interact with each other about where to go (or not go) where to visit and where to eat. This is perfect if you're a first time visitor to Savannah and want to make sure you see the best of it. The night I arrived, I was hungry for a late night snack and Diane placed a phone call to a local restaurant for me to make sure they were still open. Shannon mapped us out all the best areas to eat on Tybee Island as well as around the city. Such personal service and so great.
- Food - I only expected breakfast out of our bed and breakfast but each night, they provided us with a delicious homemade dessert left out of the table for late night snacks. They had a terrific wine selection as well as sodas and water for purchase. All affordable prices. Complimentary coffee and tea were available around the clock and let's not forget the complimentary sherry as well.
- Relaxation - All around the inn are places to kick back and relax. The front porch wraps around the side and the back deck near the pool provides a great place to sit out and enjoy yourself. There is a delightful sitting room where you can enjoy your morning coffee and a newspaper or one of the many magazines or picture books about Savannah.
- My shower - It's not every day that you remember a shower that you took. But the shower in the Gentleman's Parlor was glorious. I didn't want to get out. I'm not sure if it was the delightful waterfall shower head or the fantastic products that they had (available for purchase) but I updated my FB status after I got out. That's how good it was.
- Bed - the only thing that made me want to get out of the bed was the breakfast. That might need to be the new slogan for this place.
- Complimentary books and movies - available in the main hallway, adds a lovely touch.
- Joey - If you've read reviews about this place then you've read about Joey the little Yorkie. I consider Joey to be a part of the staff. He provided us with such joy and pleasure. Such a friendly little guy, but would never bother you unless cuteness and friendliness bothers you. If you're not a dog person and you think that this is going to be an issue, then don't worry. He doesn't walk around during breakfast, he's not begging for food and is absolutely not in the way at all. The only way you could ever be bothered by this little guy is if you're not a happy person in life. I genuinely miss him already.
- Cost. At this point, I don't even know why we're having a discussion about cost. In general, BnBs cost a little more than your average hotel and it was a concern of mine so let me just put your mind at ease. This place provides so much added value that it is easily worth whatever additional price you might pay. The breakfast alone makes the cost/benefit analysis discussion a silly one. Could you go stay at the Quality Inn in the middle of downtown for cheaper? Yes. Will you choose to spend 1 of your 3 nights in Savannah just relaxing around the Quality Inn? Doubt it. Memories don't have a price tag and if you want an experience, stay here. Besides, if something is in fact quality, it doesn't have to tell you that in its name.
It is so evident that Teresa and her staff work very hard to make Azalea Inn and Gardens what it is. I kinda hate to tell everyone about it, because I'd like to keep it all to myself and I want room availability next time I'm in Savannah :-) But this place blessed our lives so much in 3 days that I wanted to spread the love to anyone who might read this post! Thank you for making our stay in Savannah so wonderful!
Like I said, your search is over. Book today and thank me when your vacation is over. Cheers!
To visit Jessalyn's blog, click here.
Like I said, your search is over. Book today and thank me when your vacation is over. Cheers!
To visit Jessalyn's blog, click here.
