If you’re planning a visit to Galveston, Texas, and have no idea of where to stay, let me make a suggestion. Check out the Wyndham Hotel Galvez, a historic property offering wonderful accommodations, a beautiful property and a friendly staff.

The hotel
Open since 1911, the Hotel Galvez stands tall, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The 226-room hotel spreads out across the street from the beach, inviting visitors to explore its many relaxing spots.

My favorite is The Loggia, the space along the front of the hotel connecting the meeting spaces, lobby, restaurant and The Veranda. It reminds me of a comfortable front porch, with plenty of seating areas offering views of the front lawn and gulf waters beyond. However, many guests also prefer the pool area, the gardens and, of course, their guest rooms.

The rooms
I certainly enjoyed my room, which was quite spacious. Outfitted with a queen bed, TV armoire and desk, it had everything I needed. The bathroom also was large, always a pleasant attribute. One of the best assets of my room was the view out the windows. It was quite relaxing to recline on my bed and gaze out at the ships passing in the distant waters.

For those looking for adventure during their stay, book Room 501 at Hotel Galvez, and maybe you’ll encounter the room’s famous ghost. Rumored to be a seaman’s fiancé who took her own life after she learned her love died at sea, the ghost is said to reveal herself quite frequently to guests. But she isn’t the only ghost rumored to reside at Hotel Galvez.

During recent construction on the hotel’s new spa, construction workers claimed to hear a little girl giggling as she bounces a rubber ball. True or false? Visit for yourself, and determine your own truth. The hotel concierge even conducts ghost tours by appointment.

The food
When it comes time to satisfy your palate, head to Bernardo’s Restaurant located off the lobby. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant features many mouthwatering selections to suit your taste. Specializing in seafood, Executive Chef Jerry Helminski creates unique and interesting entrees to tantalize your taste buds.

The hotel also offers room service, which I highly recommend for breakfast. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious meal while taking your time to get ready for the day.

The spa
If the property doesn’t sound relaxing enough, plan your visit for later this spring when the hotel’s new spa opens. The Spa at Hotel Galvez will feature seven treatment rooms, a relaxation room, a private lounge, men and women’s locker rooms with steam rooms, and a retail boutique. Obviously, the facility wasn’t open during my visit, but I did get to tour the space. It was easy to see what a gorgeous setting the hotel was creating, one I couldn’t wait to return and experience for myself.

Yes, the Hotel Galvez is quite a feather in the Wyndham crown.

www.wyndhamhotelgalvez.com