For Dallas travelers, this is a choice time to head to one of San Antonio's gems, as another has been added to Hotel Emma's glittering crown. After being named one of the best in the world by editors at the exclusive Andrew Harper Travel, and landing the No. 10 spot for best hotel in the U.S., Hotel Emma is now checking in with a 5-star rating from AAA.
On June 6, nonprofit has bestowed upon the San Antonio property a coveted AAA Five Diamond Award, effective beginning in 2019. Anonymous AAA represenatives review more than 27,000 hotels every year, but less than 1 percent (actually 0.4 percent) actually make the list.
The Emma joins the Ritz-Carlton Dallas as the only other Texas property on the coveted list. The Dallas hotel's rating was announced in January.
Anonymous AAA represenatives review more than 27,000 hotels every year, but less than 1 percent (actually 0.4 percent) actually make the list. It's a rigorous process that includes in-person inspections, stealthy overnight stays, and review by a panel of experts.
“Five Diamond properties consistently exceed expectations to deliver a highly personalized, memorable experience far above the ordinary," explained Michael Petrone, director of AAA Inspections & Diamond Ratings, in a release.
And indeed the Emma does. Its stunning setting inside the 1894 former Pearl Brewhouse aside, the hotel's impeccable touches — custom turndown service, thoughtful tokens, luxe linens, exceptional staff — make the experience not only memorable, but dreamlike. (Also, the bathrooms alone, complete with impeccable tilework, clawfoot tubs, and vintage-inspired doors, are worth a staycation.)
Worldwide, Hotel Emma and Ritz-Carlton Dallas are among just 121 hotels with the designation.