From First Stay to Forever Fan: My Love Affair with Thompson Hotels

When it comes to finding that sweet spot between boutique cool and effortless luxury, Thompson Hotels consistently deliver — and my recent stay at the Thompson Central Park just made me a loyalist for life. Each property has its own unique personality while still nailing the signature Thompson vibe: moody, stylish and just a little bit edgy in the best way. These hotels aren’t about cookie-cutter luxury — they’re about feeling something when you walk in, from the artfully designed lobbies to the thoughtful touches waiting in your room.

One of the biggest highlights for me is how Thompson Hotels make you feel like a true insider. Locations are always spot-on — whether you're steps from Central Park, perched above the sparkling Bahia San Lucas or in the heart of DC's buzzing Navy Yard. Inside, you’ll find cozy but design-forward spaces, often with epic rooftop bars, buzzy restaurants and plenty of tucked-away corners perfect for relaxing with a cocktail or getting a little work done between adventures.

The vibe is elevated but never stiff — it’s the kind of place where you can roll in wearing your trendiest outfit or your comfiest sneakers and feel equally at home. They really nail that perfect mix of cool and genuinely caring. It’s not just a “here’s your room, good luck” situation — the staff actually make an effort to check in and see how you’re doing. During our stay, we were welcomed with chocolate truffles in our room and later got a friendly text asking if there was anything they could do to make our experience even better. It’s those little moments of thoughtfulness and genuine hospitality that make you feel like more than just another guest.

For my clients, Thompson Hotels have been a winning recommendation for travelers who want luxury without the overly formal, traditional feel of some five-star brands. They're especially great for couples, solo travelers and groups of friends looking for memorable experiences that blend great food, great energy and beautiful design.

If you’re someone who loves staying somewhere that feels just as exciting as the destination itself, Thompson Hotels should absolutely be on your radar. They make every trip feel a little more cinematic, a little more stylish and a lot more unforgettable.

Booking through a Hyatt Privé partner (like me!) takes the experience to the next level, with VIP perks like room upgrades (often confirmed before arrival), daily restaurant-quality breakfast for two, a $100 hotel credit, early check-in and late checkout priority, and thoughtful welcome amenities like romantic chocolates, birthday charcuterie boards or a celebratory bottle of wine. These extras don’t just add value — they genuinely elevate your stay, making you feel like a true insider from the moment you arrive.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our luxury travel page.