Nelson, New Zealand
The Sails; a boutique hotel
Why this place appeals to me: The owner/operators Max and his wife Robyn are hands on; chatting as they fold towels inside the overhead door of The Sails laundry facility. Max and Robyn live on-site. The Sails is somewhat unknown as it opened new in Dec. 2012. The Sails sparkles.
Each room has full kitchen amenities, superb coffee service, full glassware and silverware, a small deck and a glass and chrome bathroom. 65 channels are provided on an LCD TV. Wi-Fi is complimentary. Max enthusiastically acts as de facto concierge at The Sails; advising on events, dining and drinks.
The Sails is a bit of a splurge at NZ $160 for thrifty travelers, but worth the price.
How Far Down the Block? Six blocks from the bus station on Bridge Street in the center of Nelson; your likely arrival point as there is no train service in/out of Nelson. From the bus station it is a 100 meter, half-block walk to Trafalgar Street, lined with a choice of pubs and restaurants. Turn the corner north and walk five blocks to The Sails.
Why you might be nearby? A) You fell into the gravitational pull of the Marlborough vineyards, B) You were cold and Nelson is reported to have consistently pleasant weather.
Two of New Zealand’s top offerings are featured in Nelson; cycling and brew pubs. And they compliment each other. Confer with the locals in choosing a ride, make sure it passes by, then ends with a proper pub. Paved bike trails run along the ocean, up the rivers leading into Nelson and into the low mountains surrounding Nelson.
From The Sails it is a quick, uncluttered ride to join the cycle trails. [mappress mapid=”5″]
Lesser Known Facts: Max worked for IBM, based in Connecticut, USA for fourteen years. Max got his start in hospitality developing pubs and restaurants; selling when the establishments achieved success. He bought the site for The Sails and oversaw construction of the hotel.
Local Recommendation: The Saturday morning market in downtown Nelson.
If you turn the wrong way where Bridge Street meets Trafalgar after leaving the bus station, you quickly arrive at The Vic, Mac’s Brewpub on Trafalgar Square in Nelson. Stop for a beer.
When traveling I take along baseball-style caps scripted with Traverse City, Michigan – my hometown. For extraordinary service, a cap is awarded. The cap does not replace tips or accolades, it is an added acknowledgement. Max was awarded a cap for his exceptional facility and guest service.
Something for Nothing The Sails provides two bikes on site for use by their guests. Not the same quality as the cycle rental options nearby, yet perfect for a 90 minute exploration of Nelson. The Sails offers laundry service for guests for $8.00 a load; an appreciated touch for frugal packers.