Which Hotel

Question

Hi. Trying to decide between the Penny Lane, Alida or the Hotel Bardo. We are 5 girls in our 60's doing a girls trip. Have never been to Savanah. Can't find any reviews on the redone Bardo.

Answer

It sounds like you and your friends are in for a wonderful girls trip to Savannah! All three of the hotels you're considering—Penny Lane, The Alida, and Hotel Bardo—offer unique experiences, and I can provide some insights to help you decide. Here's a breakdown of each one:

1. Penny Lane

Penny Lane is a boutique hotel located in a charming area of Savannah. It has a cozy, vintage-inspired vibe that fits well with the city's historic charm. The hotel is small but offers great personalized service. Some highlights:

Pros: Penny Lane offers a boutique experience with a homey feel, personalized service, and a prime location near the historic district. It’s perfect for a group looking to enjoy Savannah’s quaintness.
Cons: The size of the hotel is smaller, which might feel more intimate but less luxurious than some larger hotels. Depending on your group’s preferences, you may want more amenities like a pool or spa that larger hotels offer.

If you like staying in a unique, cozy setting, Penny Lane is a great choice, but it’s more intimate and may not have as many amenities as the other options.

2. The Alida

The Alida is a more upscale and modern hotel located on the eastern edge of the historic district, offering a luxurious experience with a strong design aesthetic. It’s one of the newer hotels in Savannah, and it features stylish décor with an industrial-chic vibe.

Pros: The Alida is very stylish and offers a range of amenities, including a rooftop bar with great views, a pool, and a restaurant. It’s located a short walk away from the riverfront and some key historic landmarks, making it a great spot for exploring.
Cons: The modern design may be a bit stark for those looking for more traditional Southern charm. It’s also located on the edge of the historic district, so it’s a bit further from some of the oldest, most picturesque areas (though still walkable).

If your group enjoys contemporary, stylish hotels with plenty of amenities, The Alida could be the right choice. It’s also ideal for those looking to experience a more “trendy” side of Savannah.

3. Hotel Bardo

Hotel Bardo is a newly renovated hotel in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, and while it’s hard to find reviews on the newly redone property, it’s quickly becoming popular due to its beautiful renovations. The Bardo has a sleek, modern design while maintaining an intimate atmosphere that’s very different from more traditional Savannah hotels.

Pros: This hotel offers a chic, boutique feel with a modern aesthetic. It's in a great location, close to everything in the historic district, and the renovations have been well-received for their clean lines and sophisticated décor.
Cons: Since it's newly renovated, there might be some initial kinks to work out, such as service inconsistencies. Additionally, as it's still relatively new, there may not be as many reviews available, which can be a concern for some travelers.

If you're looking for something new, with modern flair, and want to be right in the historic district, Hotel Bardo could be a fantastic option. However, since it’s still gaining traction, you may want to keep in mind the potential for new property adjustments.

Additional Considerations:

Location: All three hotels are centrally located, but The Alida and Hotel Bardo are closer to the riverfront, while Penny Lane is a bit more tucked away but still within walking distance to key sights.
Size and Ambiance: Penny Lane is more intimate, while The Alida and Hotel Bardo are larger with more amenities and a more modern atmosphere. If you and your friends want a more relaxed, boutique vibe, Penny Lane might feel cozier, but if you’re looking for a more energetic, hotel-style stay, The Alida and Hotel Bardo are excellent choices.
Amenities: The Alida offers a rooftop bar, pool, and restaurant, making it the most amenity-rich of the three. Hotel Bardo is still new but seems to offer a more contemporary and chic atmosphere, while Penny Lane is more about the cozy, vintage feel with fewer amenities.

Final Recommendations:

If you prefer a boutique, intimate atmosphere: Penny Lane may be the best option for you, offering a cozy, charming stay in the heart of the historic district.
If you want a more luxurious, modern hotel with amenities like a rooftop bar and pool: The Alida is a great choice, offering a sleek, trendy vibe with easy access to the historic district.
If you want a sleek, modern hotel with a newly renovated interior and a central location: Hotel Bardo could be a great fit. Though reviews may be limited, it’s in a prime spot and offers a contemporary, stylish feel.

Ultimately, your choice depends on what type of atmosphere your group prefers and what amenities you value most. Savannah has a lot to offer, and any of these hotels will give you a great experience! Have a wonderful girls’ trip!