La Posada hotel: A Winslow gem

So excited to read Sara Lessley’s weekend escape to Winslow, Ariz. (“Take It Easy; Enjoy the Retro Ambience,” March 4).

My husband and I stayed at La Posada Hotel in Winslow for two nights in spring 2016. It was recommended by a friend as a “must-see”; it is a hidden gem and not to be missed.

Its background is fascinating: Resembling a Spanish hacienda, it was built by the Santa Fe railroad in 1930 to accommodate the rich and famous as they traveled by train to and from Chicago. Sadly, it closed in 1957 when train travel had become second choice over air travel.

Fortunately, La Posada was saved from the wrecking ball in 1994, when it was purchased and brought back to life by architect Allan Affeldt and his artist-wife, Tina Mion.

Mion’s contemporary artwork is skillfully displayed throughout the hotel, alongside an extensive collection of Native American art, weavings and artifacts. The effect is a fascinating and thought-provoking juxtaposition of different peoples, cultures and eras of the Southwest.

Affeldt and Mion have succeeded in creating an inviting and captivating ambience at La Posada. Whether you choose to wander the charming gardens outside the hotel or sip wine inside the cozy Martini Lounge while listening to recordings of Frank Sinatra, La Posada will not disappoint. Chris Ishida-Matsuda Hawthorne