HOTEL VESPER, HOUSTON, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO HOTEL, Houston

Set behind other hotels near the Post Oak area, the hotel is a 5-minute walk from The Galleria Houston and a 14-minute walk from Waterwall Park. William P. Hobby Airport is 26 km away. The area is densely packed with dining and shopping, but the hotel itself feels tucked away and quiet. Driving in Galleria traffic can be heavy, but the walkability makes up for it. Several restaurants are within a 5-minute walk, including Alexander the Great, Nordstrom Ebar Artisan Coffee, Casa Do Brasil and Sage 400 Japanese Cuisine.

Rooms are air-conditioned with parquet floors, a work desk and a flat-screen TV. Tea and coffee facilities are standard. Suites add a separate seating area and dining table; some offer a quiet street view or a sofa nook. Several room types are available, including a large double with a single bed, a quadruple with two beds, and spacious suites with a separate living area and kitchenette. The beds are comfortable. Suites are particularly large - some with full-size fridges - making them a strong option for longer stays. Some rooms face the parking lot, which helps keep them quiet at night.

The on-site Vesper Cafe Houston serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu of American and French dishes. Breakfast is available à la carte or as part of Marriott Platinum Elite benefits (one entree and one drink). The cafe has a charming, modern atmosphere and staff are noted for being particularly attentive. The Cache bar offers a strong cocktail programme - the gin gimlet and the 'Lady in Pink' are standouts - and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere in the evenings. An in-room breakfast option is also available.

The fitness centre is open 24 hours and is compact but well-maintained, with new machines, towels and a filtered water dispenser with glass cups. Live music performances take place on site at no extra charge. There is no pool, but the location next to the Galleria and quiet neighbourhood streets are good for walking.

Wi-Fi is available in rooms for an additional charge; the standard internet services are paid. The hotel offers a 24-hour reception with express check-in/check-out, private check-in/check-out, luggage storage (free), safety deposit boxes and daily housekeeping. Dry cleaning is available for an additional fee. Business facilities include fax/photocopying and meeting/banquet rooms (both at extra cost). Accessibility features include lower bathroom sinks, raised toilets, grab rails, braille signage and wheelchair access - the property has a lift and accessible parking. Pets are allowed with possible charges.