May 30, 2008

What a Gem

The Joule Hotel Opens

With all the Austin lake houses booked and the almighty euro beating the dollar to a pulp, that long-awaited vacation may have to wait a bit longer.

How ’bout some R&R at home? No, not in your bare-bones studio. At The Joule, a new downtown hideaway opening today.

The boutique 129-room refuge (which is operated by the Starwood clan) is a one-stop spot for everything you’re craving right now.

Like a top-notch meal, which can be satisfied with Charlie Palmer at The Joule’s new American cuisine or via room service in front of your 42-inch plasma screen. The tenth floor’s suspending infinity pool will also hit the spot thanks to chic loungers and even cooler views.

Of course, there’s always Neiman’s down the street, which never fails to raise your spirits.

Hell, with the money you’re saving in airfare, there’s no harm in buying a little souvenir.

The Joule, 1530 Main Street (214-748-1300 or luxurycollection.com).