By Cortney Vaughn

I had been yearning for a road trip, somewhere close yet far enough for it to feel like a vacation. I decided on Nashville because I have childhood friends who live there and it just made sense. It happened to be CMT music awards weekend and the city was busier than I have seen it in years. If you know me at all then you know that I crave a beautiful aesthetic but also a fun vibe - sometimes hard to find both in one place! After extensive research on boutique hotels and after a short four-hour drive, I ended up at Virgin Hotels Nashville. I had been there before for cocktails but had never stepped into their rooms.

Upon arrival, I immediately sprinted over to their “Funny Library,” which they describe as “part coffee shop, part lounge, part remote office and meeting spot = 100% our go-to place to LOL (laugh out loud).” It was just that. I opted for a chai tea latte until my room was ready and I sipped it while admiring all the families, bachelorette parties, and friends who were meeting there for a vacation. Everyone appeared to be traveling from a different “home state.” There’s just something about Nashville that puts you in a good mood. Maybe it’s the Southern hospitality.

Once I was fully caffeinated I checked into my room. Let me tell you - modern and spacious. They truly thought of it all…right down to the yoga mat in the room (just in case!). The large windows made me want to join the hustle and bustle of the city but the cozy interior made me want to put on a robe, pour myself a glass of Rosè, and turn on Netflix. I did a little bit of both. The bathroom was palatial and the shower products were of a quality you would use in your own home. And for my favorite part? Not one but TWO closets. I give them an A+ on design.

I then did a little shopping - walking entirely too many steps - and ended my day at the Commons Club lobby bar where I ate my weight in parmesan truffle fries and washed them down with a tequila cocktail that was to die for. Never one to meet a stranger, I struck up conversations with new friends at the bar who were in town for various reasons but all had the same goal of fun in mind.

Although the weather was still too cool for a dip in the pool, I was invited to a VIP after-party on the rooftop for one of the bands who performed at the CMT awards. The views were truly remarkable. (The hotel sometimes transforms it into a stunning venue for luxurious wedding receptions and events). The night ended pretty late and I roamed back to my room where I perched on the window bench and once again, admired the view.

It was a quick but jam-packed trip and I made every minute of my 24 hours in Nashville count. I intend to go back for The Pool Club (I’m a sucker for a cabana-striped umbrella).

Virgin Hotel IG: @virginhotelnsh

Other notable favs:

- For shopping: Green Hills Mall

- For trendy jewelry: Uncommon James

- For the views: L.A Jackson Rooftop Lounge

- For brunch: Cafe Roze

- For steak: Jeff Ruby’s or Kayne Prime

- For oysters: Henrietta Red

- For sushi: Virago

- For live music: Losers/Winners, The Stage, Tootsies

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Southern Hospitality in Music City