W Austin

The location is as Austin-central as you can get. Next door to the famed Austin City Limits recording studio, and in the Second Street District, a highly walkable area filled with restaurants, nightspots, shopping and sightseeing.

The Texas State Capitol, Austin Convention Center, performing arts venues, Sixth Street Entertainment District and live music venues are within a half-mile and easily accessible on foot or by public transportation or taxi. The valet parking with unlimited in-and-out privileges ($45 [£34]) makes it easy to access the rest of Austin by car.

The W Austin is very much a part of the Austin buzz, and a contemporary luxury and a trendy 'see and be seen' hotspot. Perfectly positioned windows with postcard views of the downtown skyline, the hotel has a striking, modern décor, with dark wood and stone materials coupled with vibrant red and blue textiles. Music aficionados will love the photographs of historic local music legends, memorabilia and funky artwork throughout, and the hotel’s connection to the city’s live music scene.

What is worth noting about the service at this hotel is that the staff remember you, and greet you as you as you walk through the lobby or back to the lifts. Personal attention to detail is a big part of the service here. The Whatever/Whenever concierge service is there at all times for anything a guest might need, made easier with a multilingual staff.

The W Austin is surrounded by downtown Austin’s sizzling music scene, dining and nightlife, and incorporates this into its facilities and amenities. Just off the lobby area are four lounges where guests can relax in refuges of different décor, from dark and seductive, warm and cosy to bright and breezy. The hotel is a big part of the local scene, offering their own constant happenings from DJ parties in the Living Rooms to live music and other events throughout the hotel and at the Wet Bar.

Relax and be pampered in the AWAY Spa, a retreat offering a full menu of services and next to the WET Outdoor Pool, which is heated and also features private cabanas, lounge chairs and a fireplace. Guests can also book in-room spa services, and the FIT fitness centre has 24-hour access.

The 251 guest rooms are elegantly decorated with a warm yet modern, stylish touch in cool neutrals and natural materials. A nod to the local culture is found in original photography by Austin City Limits photographer Scott Newton. Each includes the signature W bed with custom Sferra bed throws, 300-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, goose-down comforter, pillows and LED accent lights above the headboard. Fully-stocked minibars, a munchie station, and luxurious bath amenities round out the features.

Suites are urban sanctuaries with additional touches such as exposed concrete walls, designer furniture, separate living space (some with separate dining areas), and 52-inch Samsung televisions. The Wow and Extreme Wow suites also come integrated audio systems.

TRACE is the W Austin restaurant, and a local favourite. The contemporary, American farm-to-table offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a weekend brunch. It’s a sleek and sophisticated restaurant featuring the finest flavours of central Texas sourced directly from the region's surrounding farms. The à la carte breakfast menu includes shrimp and girts, brisket hash, as well as steak and eggs; quinoa bowls and Greek yogurt parfaits are healthier choices.

Outdoor patio dining is available, as well as private dining. Guests can also get small bites at the pool WET Bar, and in any of the Living Rooms which also feature a great happy hour with music, Monday to Friday.

Double rooms from $289 (£222) in low season; and from $949 (£731) in high. Breakfast $6-$21 (£5-£19). Wi-Fi $15 (£11) for high speed or $19 (£14) per day for enhanced high speed, but free for Marriott Bonvoy members. Free Wi-Fi is available in the Living Room and WET Deck.

There are 10 accessible rooms; amenities include walk-in showers or tubs with rails, lower sinks and sliding doors; shower chairs can be requested. The hotel offers a kit for the hearing impaired, as well as vibrating alarms.

The W Austin is open to families and guests of all ages. It is not, however, especially geared towards children and there are no special children’s activities or amenities. Pets weighing up to 40 lbs are welcome, and will receive the W signature P.A.W. program; this includes a custom W Pet Bed, toy and exclusive pet treats. Dog-sitting and walking services are available; the pet fee is $25 (£19) per night, plus a non-refundable $100 (£77) cleaning fee.