The very idea of traveling to Tampa, Florida in February is a welcome mental reprieve from the frigid temperatures one endures during winter in Chicago. So when I was asked to hop a plane and head to the ‘sunshine state’ to take photos, I jumped at the opportunity and packed my sunscreen.
The trip marked the official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa (formerly known as Bay Harbor Hotel & Conference Center). Through my work with Lynch Communications Group, I was tasked with capturing photos of the multimillion dollar renovation for future use on their social media channels. Godfrey Hotels are the brainchild of Oxford Hotels & Resorts, an award-winning full service hotel management company. This Tampa locations mark the third location in The Godfrey collection, the first two being Chicago and Boston (The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood is also in the works). From the moment I arrived I knew I’d be taking in a thoughtfully re-designed space.
The palm tree lined entrance is so perfectly Florida. Next, you’re greeted by a light and airy lobby space with nautical accents sprinkled throughout. The mix and variety of textures was especially appealing. And I would soon come to learn the same contemporary design elements are woven into the rest of the property. Although the stay was short and sweet, the experience was full of intriguing interiors, colorful food, and breathtaking sunsets.
Their website lists the following hotel highlights, and I think it does a great job of succinctly summing up the amenities that matter most. It’s hard to beat a 4.4 mile drive to and from the airport, with a free shuttle included!
Some of the hotel highlights include:
– Luxuriously appointed rooms with private balconies
– Spectacular bay-views with unforgettable sunset views
– Free WiFi throughout the hotel
– Private pier directly on Tampa Bay
– Heated outdoor family pool
– On-site waterfront restaurant and bar
– On-site fitness center
– Private dock with watersports rentals including jet skis & kayaks
– Closest waterfront hotel to Tampa International Airport (4.4 miles) with complimentary airport shuttle service
If you ever find yourself headed to Tampa, I highly recommend you check out the Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas.
