You're only as strong as your weakest link. I've stayed in many hotels for both work and personal travel. The nice amenities, decent gym and friendly staff are what creates the environment for a pleasant experience. Two of these were met and the friendly staff, was mostly there. . .but one sour apple truly changed the course of our stay. Even my wife, who worked once upon a time in hospitality at Kiawah Resort, was started by the interactions from The Loutrel Hotel staff member. Long story short. The daily complimentary breakfast was served. I accidentally went to place the granola lid on the yogurt, my wife told me that was the wrong lid and I went to correct. From across the room the breakfast attendant yelled, "sir that doesn't go there." Startled, I immediately removed it and placed it accordingly. I laughed it off. Moments later I went to sit my breakfast down where my drink was located. Same attendant, "you're not even sitting at the right table with your wife." Again, my error, but don't call me out twice in one morning. It's a small lobby, so many staff members overheard the interaction. Nothing was done by other management. The next morning, I walked down to look at breakfast. I saw the same attendant and said, good morning. She looked at me but wasn't pleasant in her response. Unlike the rest of her colleagues at the restaurant who are polite and kind, the same customer service I expect and provide to my customers. Breakfast offered salmon with some type of eggs or shellfish. I can't eat shellfish, allergic. So, I went to grab a biscuit at a local coffee shop and a coffee. We came back to the hotel and sat our food down. The same rude attendant came over, nudged my wife in her back and said, "you can't have this here, cross contamination." So, I left. Allowed my wife to eat her yogurt in the area. Funny enough, my wife asked where the utensils were, because every table had them. Same attendant rudely, pointed to another table for her to get them. I should have just sat down and ate my food as I didn't see any signs for "no outside food." Either way, stay somewhere else. It's unfortunate that a hotel like this allows such rudeness from a staff member. I did report this to the manager, and online but was met with more passivity. Comped two nights of valet. Honestly, it wasn't enough. I would never stay here again and it ended the trip on such a sour note. read more

See all

This hotel lobby room is very cool. They have the massive couch swing with very decorative art hung up throughout the room. We went here as part of a dirty martini tour and had the pickle martini. Not the biggest fan of the pickle martini as I'd rather have the olives but it was cool to try something different. Ask them about the martini passport to get 50% drinks the next time you visit read more

The Loutrel - Pickle dirty martini - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Pros: Nicely appointed rooms. Great location on the edge of the French Quarter and a 1/2 block from the City Market. An intimate boutique hotel feel. A lovely rooftop patio. Lots of snacks and extras. Cons: An awkward arrival with a front desk person who gave us no lay of the land and an AWOL valet who eventually arrived and rode up the elevator with us despite us schlepping our own bags. A very strange and not-so-welcoming start. Only a handful of rooms with views. A fair amount of alley way and neighboring room noise. I'd return to the Loutrel if the price is right, but there are so many delightful accommodations of comparable quality that I'd shop rates first. read more

This hotel is beautiful and in a fabulous location! Our room was ready early, the included minibar drinks (soda, lemonade, cold brew coffee and sparkling water) were a nice touch, as well as bottled Fiji water. Local chips and cookies were also there (super yum!) we really enjoyed the included breakfast and ate this daily - the selection rotated frequently and included a variety of hot and cold items (the homemade granola to put on yogurt was amazing and I ate this every day). We had drinks at the lobby bar when we arrived and they were also delish with a very personable bartender (I feel bad that I forgot his name but he was very nice). All staff was very nice and friendly, accommodating. A nice selection of fresh water and tea was also available in the lobby daily and this was very welcome during our hot and humid stay. We loved the ambiance of this gorgeous place and highly recommend! read more

The Loutrel - Lobby swing - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

See all

What a great hotel! It's new and the rooms and public spaces are fantastic. They provide drinks and free snacks in your room plus a nice complimentary breakfast and happy hour every day. They have an amazing roof deck as well. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. Can't recommend this place highly enough. read more

I arrived to have a light bite at 4:00 pm after attending a theater event on a Sunday afternoon and was happy to see the Lounge nice and quiet. The exceptional upscale environment at The Loutrel has a sophisticated feel and is reminiscent of one of NYC's finer hotel bars. SO I assumed the menu items would be in line with the atmosphere and highly rated reputation of this hotel but unfortunately the food that was served did not make my "hit" list. Don't know why~ just fell short. I guess I was expecting higher level of food quality/presentation so sorry to report The Lounge did not deliver. Even though I was the only one dining in the room at the time the server was semi-attentive and mediocre. I would not return to The Loutrel - for the food anyway- too bad as I loved the feel of the Loutrel bar but it just didn't "cut it" for me in the palate department! I would recommend the bar for cocktails and if you are seeking a place to sit and unwind after a day of touring downtown Charleston. read more

See all

My wife and I stayed at the Loutrel from 6/17/25 - 6/21/25. From the time we arrive to the last day the staff was fantastic. They were always happy to answer any questions or recommend restaurants for dinner. There was always drinks & snacks out in the lobby as well as in our room. One thing that was different about this hotel is that all of those items were included so you were not charged at the end of your stay. Each day they have their version of happy hour where they provide drinks and an appetizer free of charge. I was pleasantly surprised with their breakfast which was awesome each day. We went to folly beach during our stay and as we waited for our car they provided a bag with beach towels, sunscreen and aloe. It was a nice touch. The only minor thing I didn't like was the shower. The pressure was very high and you couldn't adjust the shower head. Having said that I would definitely stay here again. The location was perfect to walk to almost anywhere we wanted to go. read more

This place has the perfect location and class We Truely enjoyed the amazing hospitality, everyone here went above and beyond ! We Truely enjoyed our stay read more

The Loutrel - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

The staff at The Loutrel go above and beyond. We had a wonderful stay there! It was comfortable and quiet, and also walkable. It's a gorgeous hotel with a great happy hour too. Loved our room with a balcony. Highly recommend! read more

The Loutrel - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

All staff were incredibly polite, courteous, and helpful. Made for a great experience! The facilities, room appointments, amenities, and all of the complementary offerings made this feel like a very special stay for a birthday celebration! Probably the most ideal location in the city for walking anywhere you want. Elegant and clean, simple with an elevated feeling of luxury. The beds were so comfortable! It was everything you hope for (and expect) from a luxury hotel. Exceptional bar offerings and service. Welcome happy hour is called "Charleston's Finest Hour" for a reason - snacks, drinks and service were all top-tier. In room snacks were a very nice touch! A nightcap on rooftop is a must! Very well done, we were incredibly pleased with our stay and will absolutely be back! read more

Have to put a 5 star review in here especially for Aika, who served us our tea on the rooftop. We were having an already incredible experience but we felt so looked after and taken care of by Aika. Definitely recommend the whole tea experience for those visiting Charleston. read more

The Loutrel - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Great spot to get a drink. New and beautifully decorated. Great place to stay in Charleston. read more

The Loutrel - Bar - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

John the bar tender made us some amazing drinks and his wealth of knowledge was second to none read more

The Loutrel - Old Fashion - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

See all

We loved our 3-night stay at the Loutrel Hotel recently! Boutique style appeals to us more, and this did not disappoint. Nicely appointed foyer and bar/breakfast area. Breakfast varied each day, all really good, especially their granola made in-house (just delicious)! Lots of room bar extras, all included. Additionally, we were remiss in not taking items from the safe, got a call a day or two later to inform us and they sent them via FedEx to us. We offered to pay for the shipping, but they insisted on paying, despite it being our error. Overall, very happy with this delightful hotel (also well located to walk everywhere). read more

I really, really wanted to love this place!! There's nothing better than having an amazing getaway that makes you want to come back. This is a beautiful hotel and they make you think you'll have a wonderful stay before you arrive, with their welcome email. But don't expect to receive an answer if you actually request something prior to your stay. I judge a lot of my experiences on value for the price. Like, if I have an amazing, mind blowing meal that I would have paid $200 for and it only cost $100, it will rate extremely high on my scale. Equally, if a hotel costs over $500/night and it's value is equal to a $250-$300/night hotel, it's going to get a lower rating. As was the case with the Loutrel. This hotel should not cost more than $300/$350 per night for the King Suite. So, if you're reading this and rates have changed and it's now closer to the $250-$350 range, go for it, you'll probably be happy. I can't say that it was a bad stay. The bed was comfortable, the place was clean and had a trendy aesthetic. They have a gorgeous dyson dryer in the bathroom, which I will now buy because it was so awesome! The service was just ok. The service and quality of everything was where the price tag plays in. This was your basic, polite hotel service. Nothing special, no overly welcomed feeling. The staff seemed constantly frazzled, yet nonchalant at the same time. They never told us the checkout time and it wasn't on the keycard folder. Didn't know until I woke up at 10:30am and called the front desk. They told me in a very annoyed voice that the checkout is 11am. I asked if it would be possible to push to noon and she adamantly denied my request. One of the worst things after realizing the Loutrel wasn't as great as we were hoping, was that it's right next door to our favorite hotel in Charleston, The Spectator. So, we had to pass it every time we left the Loutrel. Like looking at an ex that you're not completely over, while walking with a wannabe version of your ex. The Loutrel is the 8th hotel we have stayed at in Charleston, we come to the city every year. We love to try different hotels and find our favorite. If you're coming to Charleston, here's my list of hotels I've stayed in from best to worst. 1. The Spectator 2. Charleston Place 3. Wentworth Mansion 4. Wild Dunes Resort (technically in Isle of Palms) 5. The Restoration 6. The Loutrel 7. French Quarter Inn 8. Andrew Pinckney Inn read more

The Loutrel - The lobby entrance - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

The Loutrel is my go-to spot when I go to Charleston. I was there last week. I felt cared for and seen. The icing on the cake that Chase the Valet remembered me from a year ago. We had a lovely conversation. I love the rooms. The staff is courteous and kind. I was just in for the day. I received my wine spritzer went straight to my room. Worked a spell. Then, waltzed over to the park for the reading. It is in such a convenient location. I had a poetry reading at Washington Square and book-signing at Buxton Books. This poet loves the Loutrel. I wish they did residencies, I could write from this room. Poet Laureate, of Greenville, SC. read more

This we found this as being much in the center of the historic district. We also found this a very comfortable motel with very comfortable bedding. From the valet, to the bar, on to customer service was top of the mark. The breakfast each morning was different and not at all skimpy... it was very good each morning, especially loved the chef made breakfast caserole. The four of us rate this with all thumbs up and would stay here again and again. read more

I feel compelled to leave an unbiased review as I feel you don't get an unbiased opinion much anymore! We can't say enough about our stay at The Loutrel! Even down to the smallest detail! The hotel is beautiful and smells amazing when you walk in the door! The lobby is perfectly decorated with a lobby bar that is fully stocked and the bartenders are the sweetest (with a heavy pour hand) and knowledgeable enough to surprise you with something delicious that you wouldn't have even thought to ask for! They also offer a complimentary cocktail hour(s). We have stayed at previous hotels that offer fruit infused water upon check-in but this one gives it to you in a legit glass. Anywhere else we've been to was just a plastic cup, which didn't matter then but glass just makes it feel more elegant. Coming into our room, the ambiance was very fresh and clean. Still that amazing scent we had coming into the lobby and the decor was still on point. They offer complimentary snacks, beverages, and robes with slippers. They left us a personalized handwritten note to greet us and they were super clean and efficient. With the small details I mentioned, I have to also say that not only did they offer the infused water in beautiful glasses, the orchids in the room are real plants, the "hair dryer" provided is a Dyson, the snacks were amazing, and the lobby bathrooms were clean and offered actual hand towels to dry your hands with! And lastly, (maybe my favorite part) the coasters we were given at the lobby bar were 100% cotton, not disposable napkins that any other bar I've ever been to gives you! And a close second favorite was the straws, they weren't the gross paper straws or the harmful plastic straws. They were a nice straw made of wheat that was perfectly biodegradable but didn't disintegrate quickly like the paper straws. This place truly goes above and beyond and we learned today (at the end of our stay) that they were nominated one of the top 10 of Travel and Leisure 2023 World's Best Awards for the 2nd year in a row...THEY HAVE ONLY BEEN OPEN FOR 2 YEARS!!!! Hats off to them, we will definitely be back and we will definitely recommend them to anyone we can! This is the 3rd hotel we've stayed at in Charleston and we're so glad we found this place!! read more

The Loutrel - The lobby bar - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

I almost never leave reviews but this place is awesome. I paid for a corner king and for the little cake at check in so I was expecting nice but wow. They have a super comfy porch swing couch in the lobby and a little snack bar with gummies and nuts. A signature cocktail at check in!! The room was gorgeous and the tub that I thought was going to be a shower tub combo was actually a little free standing deep tub. There's an espresso machine in the room. Local snacks and good ones, like I might for real hunt out these pimento potato chips. It's like 2min walking distance from the market shopping thing with all the vendors, maybe 3min from the carriage tours. And the breakfast that I thought was going to be muffins and fruit had eggs Benedict that was actually delicious. It was pricy but honestly so worth it, one night felt like a vacation. read more

I meant to write this review awhile ago on here! I took my baby sister here for her 30th birthday and we were completely blown away! The Loutrel had basically just opened and they had a wonderful low price! I honestly thought there was a catch but I guess it was still pretty new was the only one. From the entrance to the excellent customer service, amenities, location, and THE ROOM! We were welcomed with drinks and snacks and the room was simply amazing!! (See photos below) I have NOT ONE negative thing to say! I just wished I stayed longer and came back sooner before everyone else found out about the place!! Now the prices have changed substantially due to their popularity and demand but it's still worth it to me! I'll be staying here every time I'm in Charleston, SC. Hands down one of the best hotels I've ever been too! read more

See all

My first visit to Charleston! The Loutrel was an oasis right in the middle of everything on state street. Walk out the front doors and you're on a cobblestone street with access to history and fine dining. The staff was welcoming and friendly. Rooms were spacious quiet and comfortable. Breakfast in the morning started the day out right. Best in my opinion? Riley the bartender. The man knows how to mix a cocktail! We had a great visit and would highly recommend the loutrel. read more

There's a few reasons why the Loutrel is the number 1 hotel in Charleston (according to Travel and Leisure). It's new. It has a great location. More importantly, it's a great boutique hotel that felt like home. The staff was personable and we always felt welcome. For our first trip to Charleston, we hotel hopped for a week (picked all of the hyped hotels) and stayed here a couple of nights in the Premier King suite, which is their largest room, situated adjacent to their rooftop lounge on the 4th floor, which was AMAZING. We stepped out the room balcony and had access to the same sweeping views of Charleston. I really appreciated that they don't nickel and dime you like other hotels - everything in the minibar was included (Fiji water, lavazza cold brew, chips, and cookies!). They provided small gifts too. Upon checkout, they even gave my daughter a Louie, pelican stuffed animal - what a great souvenir! While I did not formally order from the Veranda lounge, the breakfast spreads in the morning were excellent. I also really appreciated the cocktails and mocktails during the Finest Hour each evening. Overall, A+++. We'll be sure to extend our duration at the Loutrel next time. read more

See all

We booked the Loutrel on a very popular weekend -- the king suite was $1,200 or so a night. It just wasn't worth it. The suite wasn't very large; the decor is fine -- nothing that would justify the cost. They seemed a little understaffed; there seemed to be only one person running the valet so you often have to wait for assistance with your car. The hotel is directly across from a minimart, so don't expect views! read more

What can we say about this hotel!? From the second we steeped out of the car at valet, the service was impeccable!! Smiling faces and warm welcomes are a sign of their hospitality. A welcome beverage while checking was a nice treat. The hotel offers complimentary drinks and snacks in your room as well as breakfast in the morning. When was the last time you had a hand written note in your room welcoming you the hotel? Although there's not a pool or a full dining, there's a great rooftop to enjoy the evening and great small bites for nibbling. There's a beautiful bar with craft cocktails to enjoy. The service offered is top notch at The Loutrel!!! read more

See all

Gorgeous hotel, excellent customer service, super central location. Extras throughout the hotel are a nice touch, rooftop is cute, breakfast is delicious. Can't wait to return! read more

The whole experience at the loutrel is 10 star in my book. This is the most amazing hotel I've ever stayed at. From the moment u walk in the door till u get to your room. The staff is amazing going above and beyond. To make u feel welcomed and to give you the best costumer experience ever. The Hotel is full of surprises that will make u smile and make u blown away. Can't give it away but u must come check this place out. The things they do for you make u feel really special and make u feel like royalty. All i can say is this is the place to stay in Charelston. You wont regret it. If u dont stay here u will. Ive stayed many upscale hotels and nothing comes close to this Hotel its hands down the best Hotel experience ive ever had. Thank u so mich to all the Loutrel staff and the owners u have done an amazing job. You have made our vacation the best. There isnt one negative thing about this wonderful Hotel. The rooms are amazing the beds are super comfy the view is spectacular. Walking distance to everything. I review every place i go to and this is a must go to Hotel I promise u all u won't be disappointed. God bless u all and have a wonderful life. Enjoy every moment life is to short. read more

Drinks and snacks at the bar. Very nice, upper class, great mix drinks, good wine selection. Slightly on the expensive side. Great place to stop in for drinks. A must on you stop if in the area. Charcuterie, to die for. Frank G read more

My wife and I were very excited to spend a long weekend at The Loutrel, the newest hotel in downtown Charleston. This will be one of the most popular hotels in the city before long! We absolutely loved every minute of our time there! The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful in every way possible. Everyone from the welcome desk members, valets, bartenders, managers, and other staff members made us feel at home immediately. We were handed umbrellas to use when it was raining, offered free welcome drinks at the bar upon arrival, and given fantastic local recommendations throughout our time at the hotel. The staff went above and beyond its responsibilities to make us feel special. We've been to a lot of nice hotels recently, and I have to say that the service we received at The Loutrel was as good as anywhere we've been. The theme of the hotel is captured from the moment you walk in when you see the stunning painting in the reception area. There's even a neat swing in the middle of the lobby that fits right in. The rooms are fantastic as well. We had a huge bed that was very comfortable, and we were extremely impressed by the decor of the room way stayed in. Our favorite bartender told us to take a look at the rooftop area, too, which I know the hotel plans to do a lot with moving forward. It was a great view of the city from there. There's also a room you can go into that had numerous tasty rotating snacks and drinks that are available most of the day for free including coffee-soaked almonds, Kalamata olives, and dill pickle chips. The breakfast was solid, too. We loved all of it. The staff was very welcome to feedback from its guests as well. It was fantastic to see that this new hotel was continuously adapting to meet everyone's needs at the highest level possible. There is no doubt in my mind that The Loutrel will be a huge success. Book now before it becomes the hottest hotel in town and rooms are harder to come by! We highly recommend it! read more

See all

Lipstick on a pig. This hotel wishes they were high end. Over priced for what you're getting. Its lack luster, rude staff and everyone keeps boasting about the blow dryer. I'm sorry but if all it takes to appease you is a Dyson, you need to get out more. read more

Exceptional service from Jessica! I enjoyed the atmosphere of the first floor bar and the astounding views of the rooftop. I highly recommend trying some of the zero proof cocktails as-well. I enjoyed my trip here and will be back! read more

Not enough adjectives to describe this lovely hotel. From check in to check out, there was not a single thing that was not thought of! The attention to detail of the staff is unmatched. My favorite hotel ever! I can not wait to return to Charleston just to stay at the Loutrel! read more

See all

I stayed for 2 nights and Sommerset made us feel so at home. She was so professional and kind. The hotel was clean and welcoming and I very much so recommend! read more

I decided to treat my husband to an overnight hotel stay downtown Charleston for his birthday. I chose the Loutrel Hotel on State Street. This location is central to everything downtown. It is located in front of a convenience store on State Street. Valet parking provided for $35/night. Once you enter the hotel there is an immediate feeling of a calm boutique ambience. The place is beautiful and decorated with a hip beachy feel. It is chic, spacious and airy. The staff are super friendly and helpful. During the check in process, we were given a courtesy delicious cocktail which I thought was a lovely gesture. The whole experience from check in to check out exceeded our expectations. From the personal handwritten note in our room to the bar staff to the gentleman that got me a coffee, exceptional. We really felt that we had escaped the humdrum of work, drama stress. Thank you Loutrel for making this girl very happy. I will definitely return again. Do not miss out on staying here if you are visiting Charleston or just want to stay downtown one night. It truly is exceptional. read more

See all

Don't miss a wonderful opportunity to indulge in Southern hospitality and refined luxury at the Loutrel. It's a one of a kind boutique hotel. From the housekeeping staff to manager, everyone is committed to making your stay exceptional. The rooms are immaculate and beautifully decorated. The most comfortable bed I've had in all my travels. Double vanity sinks in the bathroom, large thick, fluffy towels, Dyson hair dryer, thick robes, complimentary snacks, no detail has been overlooked. The complimentary breakfast is not your average buffet. Fresh fruit plate, croissants, homemade granola, eggs, bacon, salmon, fruit juices and Illy coffee. All that plus you get to enjoy your fabulous breakfast in the beautiful sunlit lobby with floor to ceiling windows. The Clubroom is peaceful and relaxing. It has a well stocked library and games to pass the time. It's stocked with complimentary nectars, sodas, coffee and snacks. The rooftop has great views of the city and comfortable lounge chairs on which to enjoy an evening cocktail. The staff arranged for a private walking tour of the city with guide Dana. It was a highlight of our trip. The tour offers so much more than the carriage tours and definitely was worthwhile. Loutrel's location is walking distance to everything, the Market is just a few steps from the door. Truly my stay at the Loutrel was unforgettable and I hope to return again to enjoy their outstanding hospitality. read more

The Loutrel - Lobby of the Loutrel - Hotels Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

See all

Charming little luxury hotel reminiscent of a very high end B&B. Upon check in, you are asked to sit (YES NOT STAND IN LINE) at their check in desk while someone will handle your bags and a bartender will offer a freshly crafted cocktail. Every morning at around 630am, I woke to the sweet smelling hickory smoked bacon through the vents reminding of the free breakfast Loutrel offers its guests. The rest of the day, they'll fuse their signature scent in the vents invoking a sense of calm and serenity throughout your stay. Loutrel is decorated with southern charm with mid century furniture elevating its classy architecture. Come for a life of luxury, leave feeling like you never want to go back home after being catered to for a whole week. I'm one for always trying new experiences, but if I ever get the pleasure of coming back to Charleston, I'd rebook Loutrel again over any other hotel. read more

Beautiful place! Rooms are large, luxuriously decorated, nice beds & the absolute BEST smelling toiletries. Don't miss the nighttime treats that come with turndown service or the wonderful breakfast each morning in the lobby. Granola is spectacular! read more

The Loutrel on State Street in Charleston is a cool place to stay that is in the middle of everything and has much to offer. I really like the atmosphere and vibe that created here that is unique. The staff here is very friendly and accommodating to make sure that you have everything that you need for the best stay. read more

See all

Beautiful hotel with excellent amenities. A wonderful welcome cocktail, complimentary snacks and beverages galore in the room. A wonderful complimentary hot breakfast and evening cocktails and hor d'oeuvres. Complimentary bicycles to enjoy the wonderful surrounding area. Beautiful hotel rooms with very comfortable beds and well appointed bathrooms with Dyson hairdryers. Excellent staff that makes sure that your stay is not just good, but exceeding all expectations. Excellent location! My favorite place to stay in Charleston! read more

I did a ton of research to plan our first trip to Charleston for my birthday and The Loutrel did not disappoint! I was tempted to stay in a historic B & B but, this new hotel is gorgeous inside, with a Instagram worthy lobby, new comfortable beds, luxe towels and linens, a Dyson hair dryer AND has an excellent lobby bar. Most importantly, it's in a prime central location - you can walk to all the best restaurants and top tourist sites. The front desk staff is professional and friendly (thanks Summerset.) The bar tenders Worship, Maurice and Kash are serious mad scientist mixologists who make some of the best cocktails we've ever had - and we are in the spirits business! Our room (316) was large, nicely designed with a corner couch and a pretty balcony with two chairs. We appreciated the tasty and free snacks and the rooftop cocktail hour. Craig the valet was our first impression and he was super informative, fun and helpful! The $40 a night valet charge seems excessive but, everything else was A+. Stay here! read more

See all

Loved the lobby area ... really nice decor but yet a comfortable, welcoming feel to it. Room was nice and spacious. Bathroom was a good size. Balcony was a nice treat. Service was ok. For the quality of all other aspects of the Loutrel, the service at the front desk should be improved. Nothing bad happened but the extra niceness was missing. Nice hotel in a good location. read more