As a Richmond local, I had never stayed at The Graduate by Hilton Richmond until recently. I finally booked a staycation, and I went in curious about whether a boutique VCU hotel could deliver a proper local getaway. It turns out, it can. From the eclectic blend of preppy Americana and mid-century modern design in the rooms to Byrd House, the rooftop bar with 360-degree views over downtown, this felt like RVA distilled into one building. Here's my honest take on the property, where to eat nearby, and a couple things to do with your weekend.

Tagged as “Sophisticated Design Meets Historic Culture,” the 4-star St. Gregory Hotel is an incredibly chic stay perfectly situated between Dupont Circle, the West End, and Georgetown. With convenient access to local restaurants and shops, a gorgeous restaurant and bar space inside the hotel, full fitness center and more, the St. Gregory is one of the best stays you'll find in Washington D.C.

My therapist challenged me to do a solo getaway in 2019 and I chose Washington D.C. as a staycation, this time solo. From Richmond, Virginia, it’s only about a two hour drive so it’s very possible to fit many activities into one short trip; however, my goal was to relax, so I’ll share the few things I did.

A “staycation” is different from a vacation in that you remain in your home city or somewhere nearby that is usually accessed within a day or even better, a couple hours. Here’s why you might consider planning one.

Yours Truly DC is modern in design, eclectic in decor, and soulful in feel. Not only can you dine downstairs at Mercy Me Restaurant, there’s space to work remotely in the lounge, a bar to grab a drink, and even a record shop, which is certainly nothing I’ve ever seen before in a hotel.