Why You Should Spend $1,000/Night Every Once-in-a-While
By Isaac French
Last week, we explored some tactics of dynamic pricing. Today, I'm shifting gears to share something equally vital but less tangible: the power of travel and inspiration on our creativity and passion.
Picture a place where architecture isn't just seen but felt. Where every detail tells a story.
Now let me snap a photo to show you where I’m seated.
That's exactly what's going on here. Welcome to Hotel Emma — a truly remarkable 146-room sanctuary nestled in San Antonio's Pearl District. I’d heard about this place before, but never paid much attention. Big mistake.
The proprietor?
An iconic Texan named Kit Goldsbury who made a fortune selling Pace Salsa to Campbell’s Soup Company twenty or so years ago. In 2001, he bought the the dillapidated 23-acre brewery site with extensive plans to create a mixed-use development that would include restaurants, shops, and a boutique hotel.
He partnered with highly-esteemed designers Roman and Williams, famous for their spirited historic-marries-modern architectural concoctions.
The results?
In their words: “An eclectic and curated juxtaposition of a whole spectrum of styles - old, new, industrial and refined - evoking a domestic yet romantic mystique throughout the hotel.”
And yet, that’s just the building, not the soul. As elegant and charming as this place is, it’s not the architecture alone that’s responsible for my intense enthusiasm. Buildings can’t smile, as my friend Bashar Wali has said. They can’t anticipate a need, or remember your name. Nope, that’s left for us humans to figure out.
And the humans (and hospitality) at Hotel Emma have figured it out. They're phenomenal.
I wrote recently about the power of first impressions and my experience at Amangiri. Well, I had a similar kind of feeling when we pulled in the circle drive away here two nights ago and were greeted by the fireplace-lit entry and hotel staff — both glowing warm.
Totally different aesthetic, experience and vibe than Amangiri, but equally totally immersive and transportive. They nailed the first impressions (along with everything else).
The entryway to Hotel Emma
Now I could go on and on about this place. The off-the-charts financial performance / occupancy (this place is full, our room wasn’t cheap, and this is the slow season). The host of adjacent chef-led world-class eateries. The amazing year-round farmer’s market in the backyard. Etc, etc.
I’m so full of inspiration, I have to get it out!
I’ve spent hours just walking around — the paver pathways, hidden nooks throughout the artfully-cluttered lobby, circuitous corridors, otherworldly library / gallery, charming brasserie storefront next door — everywhere. Silently observing. Taking notes, mostly mental.
Is this a vibe or what?
When you’re passionate about creating these kind of experiences for others, there’s nothing like treating yourself to those someone else has labored for. I’m telling you - you can feel those “ah ha” moments everywhere here! Sooo much thought and intention put into every detail.
And don’t think I’m crazy. I’m looking around, and almost everyone has that “glow” when they come through the doors. Folks of all different stripes. Some are eating, some laughing, and others just strolling through. But there’s a certain spark of awe. People feel it.
Maybe they can’t articulate it. I can’t really, either. But I know what it is. It’s the magic of experiential hospitality. We’re experiencing something rare.
You and I’ve got the chance to go out there and create these kind of experiences for billions of people. Literally. That makes me so fired up!
Nurturing your inspiration is not just an indulgence; it’s essential. I try to stay somewhere different and unique every few months. I’ve done this regularly ever since building Live Oak Lake. During those grueling 9 months, Helen and I escaped down to the Hill Country to stay at this treehouse. It was the perfect rest elixir and spark to push us over the finish line with our own project.
To put it simply, investment in travel is an investment in yourself. And in your business. Maybe the most important one, in fact.
That's a wrap.
I'm eager to hear your thoughts, questions, and the topics you want to explore next. I appreciate each of your suggestions from last week.
Have a great Monday!
—Isaac