Aloft SFO Opens in “Style at a Steal”

By Emma Krasov,photography by Yuri KrasovIntroduced by StarwoodHotels & Resorts Worldwide a few years ago, Aloft brand now has more than 60 properties in the U.S., Canada, U.K.,China, India, and other countries around the globe. It continues to gain guestloyalty by means of “style at a steal” with its sleek colorful design and affordability.

Since its inception, Aloft launched several modern-dayinitiatives: the first keyless check-in program, online talent search “ProjectAloft Star,” the industry’s largest live music series, “Live at Aloft Hotels,”and some inventive signature cocktails.All guestrooms are equipped with Aloft’s standard plush platformbeds, plug-n-play docking stations and LCD TV, spa showers with rainfallshowerheads, and other conveniences for a 21^st century traveler. The new Starwood strategy implements conversion of existing beneficially-locatedhotels in need of renovation or re-branding. That was the case with the newlyopened Aloft San Francisco Airport inMillbrae, California. A former Clarion property underwent a significant renovation,and opened as Aloft last week, with a dazzling lobby area furnished with mod sofas,rocking chairs and pillows; a sparkling indoor swimming pool with outdoor restarea and handicapped loading chair; a fully-equipped re:charge gym, a pooltable, and 253 beautifully appointed rooms.  The hotel opening party featured a panel of Starwoodrepresentatives greeted by the Millbrae mayor, who announced the citygovernment’s decision to celebrate September 5 as Aloft Hotel Day. Live music, Speakeasy brews, and Aloft’s special cocktailswere presented at the party. Lead bartender Jason D. White at w xyzbar shared with me his own recipe of emerald-colored “Sassy” – Beefeater gin,Midori, Lemon juice, and ginger beer – delish! Aloft’s food service re:fuel treated the guests tomushroom tartlets, turkey sliders with cole slaw, beef sliders with lettuce,and cheese plates – just a preview of the many tasty things offered by thehotel.  In tune with contemporary trends, a couple of neighborhoodfood trucks were invited to bring in their wonderful wares – The Chairman,serving steamed buns stuffed with pork belly, spicy chicken, pulled pork, ortofu with Asian pickles, and the PacificPuffs, serving chocolate or sugarpowder-coated cream puffs. What not to like? Aloft SFO is located at 401 E. Millbrae Ave., Millbrae, CA. Moreinformation at: www.starwoodhotels.com.