Summer Isn’t Over Yet — Soak Up the Sun(day Funday) at Laura Hotel

Summer Isn’t Over Yet — Soak Up the Sun(day Funday) at Laura Hotel

The rooftop pool at The Laura

FROM THE MOMENT guests scale the marble staircase to check in at the Laura Hotel, it’s clear that a staycation here is a grand affair. The still-new gem, which was previously the Hotel Alessandra, has everything needed for an end-of-summer escape — from inventive cocktails in the bar to hip vibes at the pool.


With floor-to-ceiling views of the city, the bar offers an extensive barrel-aged whiskey program with fun twists on whiskey-favs. The making of the banana old fashioned is as impressive a show as it is a cocktail: While the whiskey smokes in a barrel, bananas are caramelized on the spot as a flavorful garnish. The final product is a semi-sweet, boozy summer dream.

Meanwhile, at Hull & Oak, expect fine dining with a Texas-comfort-food twist. The hummus, for example, is made with hatch chiles and topped with jalapenos, and the country-fried chicken is plated for two, and comes with fixins like pickled peppers and collard greens.

Ready to detox? The Texas flair continues in the spa with massages utilizing oils made with local wildflowers and berries. And don’t miss the Meditative Massage, which calms the vagus nerve — responsible for the regulation of internal organ function — via steaming compresses and specialized massage therapies. All guests of the hotel also get a pass to LifeTime Fitness, located across the street.

The pool overlooking Downtown is adorned in sleek, all-white pool furniture and usually features pretty people and hip vibes. Get a late checkout and stay for the summer’s final Sunday Funday on Sept. 3, boasting a DJ and drink specials. Pro tip: no room reservation needed, as cabanas are available for rent to Houstonians, and include a bottle of bubbly. Cheers!

The Laura Hotel

Bloody Marys at Hull & Oak

Fried Chicken for two at Hull & Oak

Inside Hull & Oak

Peas in a Pod cocktail

Inside Hull & Oak

The Laura Bar

Inside The Laura Hotel

Inside The Laura Hotel

Food
In Time for 'Movember,' Top Spa Pro Offers Tips for Men Looking to Make the Most of a Spa Visit

AS WE MOVE into Movember, men’s mental health is a big topic. In fact, men can get a lot of benefit, both mentally and physically by taking advantage of everything a spa has to offer. LeBrina Jackson, owner of Escape Spa, has the answers

How does Escape Spa cater to men? We designed Escape Spa to ensure both men and women feel comfortable and welcome. From our earth tones to our luxury brown unisex robes, this is not a pampering palace but a rejuvenation destination.

Keep ReadingShow less

Breanna Blankenship, Nicholas Stuart, Zsavon Butler, Outspoken Bean

SUPPORTERS OF THE Houston Arts Alliance pulled inspiration from global art, fashion and culture for a spectacular gala at the Hobby Center. “The World’s Stage” gala, chaired by Zsavon Butler and Nicholas Stuart, raised $325,000 to benefit the Houston Arts Alliance’s public-art and artist resiliency initiatives.

Keep ReadingShow less
Parties

HOLIDAY CHEER IS coming to Bandista, the Four Seasons hotel’s swanky speakeasy, in the form of a fun collab with Nashville bar Four Walls.

Keep ReadingShow less
Food