Ultimate Luxury: Why You Should Visit The Umstead Hotel and Spa

(Image courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa)

The Umstead Hotel and Spa is combines the natural beauty of Ralph Waldo Emerson's Walden Pond and luxurious accommodations of a 5 star Forbes property to create the ultimate getaway. When guests enter its peaceful entrance, outside worries melt away as they eat gourmet food, rejuvenate at the spa, and create life long memories. I had the chance to speak with George E. Viall III ,Director of Revenue Management & Digital Marketing, to learn about why you should stay at the property.

(Image courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa)

1. Why should someone stay The Umstead?

We are one of 12 triple five-star properties worldwide. As North Carolina's only five-star hotel and triple five-star rated property, our level of service and attention to detail are second to none. Our staff is the main reason guests return to the property. The excellent staff cares about each of our guests, which shows in their work.

(Image courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa)

2. How has the property evolved in the face of the pandemic?

When the pandemic started, we closed from March 2020 until June 2020. Upon reopening, we offered our accommodations, dining, and spa services at limited access. Additionally, we adhered to social distancing measures the CDC recommended. Since then, we have returned to more of a full-service style property more reminiscent of pre-pandemic. Our main change has been our staffing. Just like the rest of the hospitality industry, we have a smaller staff, which does not allow us to run a full house.

(Image courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa)

3. What are some most see things in the RDU area and how does staying at the hotel add to a person's experience?

The RDU area (aka The Triangle) is home to world-class culture, education, and sports. When traveling in The Triangle, a person can visit many museums such as The North Carolina Museum of Art and The Natural Science Museum. The hotel is less than thirty minutes from iconic universities such as The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and North Carolina State. Guests can walk on those campuses and see students making history. Finally, guests can see various collegiate and professional sports at the PNC arena and on different college campuses.

(Image courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa)

4. What is the future of tourism at The Umstead and in The Triangle?

Tourism is beginning its rebound this year. I don't foresee it slowing down, barring any other significant setbacks from COVID or anything else. We are seeing business returning to 2019 levels this year. After years at home, people want to explore. We will continue to see this rebound as we get into 2023 and 2024. Interestingly, we also see transient leisure guests staying during the week rather than solely on the weekend.

(Image courtesy of The Umstead Hotel and Spa)