University of Southern Maine

Centrally located in the Old Port, with views of the harbor, this was a last minute — therefore pricey — excellent find for a fall weekend getaway. Stylish, elegant rehab of 19th century granite industrial building. Whimsical decor notes referring to 19th century owner Evalina Fox. Nicely appointed kitchenette — though if you came to Portland for the foodie scene, you might end up just using it for breakfast, as we did. Only sour note was the disco music (coming in via the ventilation system?) from a nearby establishment audible during business hours. Well, if you pick a hotel in the middle of things, you get the noise and bustle that comes from being in the middle of things. That said, we’d come again, but shoot for a penthouse/upper floor unit farther from the street-level mania.

Staying at the Blind Tiger truly enhanced our experience in Portland. The hotel is thoughtfully planned with tasteful common areas. The rooms were chic and I loved the fireplace in our room.