We’ve just returned from an Epic Canadian Road Trip, driving from our home in Kalamazoo, Michigan all the way out to St. John’s, Newfoundland (yes, a ferry was involved). Why? Well, I’m the co-founder of Writing Walking Women, and we chose St. John’s as the site of our conference this year – MUCH more on that to come! And, our daughter, Lillie (13), said that every teen should have an epic road trip. SO. 

Here's part of our journey - one of our favorite hotels in the world - and why we loved it (Rock On!)...

There are many places to stay in St John's, Newfoundland - B&Bs, major chains like the Sheraton and the Delta (which we liked, especially the enormous ships in the lobby), interesting smaller/boutique hotels - and the new kid on the block, JAG hotel (click for rates and availability). They've changed the game here, with a playful, interesting, intelligent hotel.

It all started with check-in. A helpful and pleasant staffer, who would later smile broadly every time I saw her, and answered all my queries with kindness and patience, noted that "the elevators are to the right of Ray Charles." What?

The elevators are to the right of Ray Charles

Oh yes. For the theme of JAG is rock musicians. They linger in the spacious lobby, lining the spaces with their insouciant smiles. They adorn the walls of each room, standing out from the tasteful colors and decor. Follow JAG's twitter feed to see how much they love the musicians who fill our lives. 

Amenities, fridge, desk with free wifi, huge windows letting in the clear light - yes, please.

There's a restaurant (Exile), and a gym, and valet parking. The red exterior walls of the hotel are a nod to the colorful Jellybean Row houses, and the flowers are exactly what you'd expect at a luxury hotel - creative and colorful. The JAG, well, it's got so much going for it.

Yeah. These flowers - love them!

What I love most about the JAG Hotel

The beds

Comfortable, with crisp linens and a plethora of pillows (thank you!).

The bathroom

First, let's talk about that shower. The ceiling-mounted rainforest shower is the most inviting and relaxing shower I've ever had. Second, the amenities. Our daughter is an amenities aficionado. These are her favorites, from anywhere around the world. Why? Not only because they're called JAG SWAG, but because they incorporate iceberg water, AND they smell good. She asked for extras and has them in her bathroom here at home, exclusively. 

The light

Because the rooms are so cleanly designed, the light shines. What do I mean? Well, St. John's has this amazing, crystal-clear light. I've never seen anything like it in the world. The large windows in the rooms mean more of that beautiful light, streaming in. Thank you, architects.

The in-room amenities

I'm talking a small fridge (for those 5 Brothers Artisanal Cheese Curds, and a few treats from Rocket Bakery), and Starbucks Coffee. Those who know me? Yes. Enough said. They fueled my energy during a week running a conference. 

More amenities: Let's talk chocolate    

Get this: EVERY DAY, JAG staff delivered a box of (gasp) Newfoundland Chocolate Company Chocolate to our room. It got to be a ritual we cherished - once the chocolates came, our teen would make me a Starbucks coffee, herself a tea, and then we'd sit by that gorgeous picture window and have our tea chocolate time. Of all my memories in St. John's, this is one of my favorites. Bravo to JAG for supporting local businesses - and giving guests such a lovely treat.

The site of many a coffee and chocolate party...

The art

There's nothing like art to spark a conversation. I didn't know one of the musicians on our wall (gasp!). When I took a photo of it and circulated it via email to women in our Writing Walking Women group, there ensued a great discussion, which included "What did you listen to in the 80s?" and "Prince? YOU?"  Hilarious. (Bonus 1980s points: Can you identify the musician on the wall in our hotel room, in the photo below?)

Handicap Accessibility

I was able to get my wheelchair scooter around and about throughout the hotel. The doors, whether opened by doormen or push button, were wide, as was the lobby, elevators, and our room. Thank you.

The people

My favorite part of hotels is the people. From the lovely women in housekeeping who understandingly fueled my coffee needs to the front desk staff to the smiling doormen, I was treated very well, with plenty of Newfoundland hospitality. I always felt welcomed, and loved that I had a home while traveling. As we know, this can be rare, and so when found, is treasured greatly. 

Learn more: http://www.steelehotels.com/our-hotels/jag/

All photos courtesy and copyright Wandering Educators