One of the newest upscale hotels in San Antonio, Éilan is turning heads. A Marriott brand and a member of the Leading Hotels of the World collection of luxury properties, this elegant little boutique hotel looks palatial from the outside. That's actually an illusion, brought about by the high-end residential and retail spaces that surround it and make it appear part of a large, colorful Italian city on a hill, complete with a broad piazza and a clanging trolley at the center. Actually, Éilan has only 165 rooms and suites, all of which are masterfully appointed. Many of the rooms feature private terraces and jetted spas, floor-to-ceiling arched windows, marble bathrooms, and Simmons Beautyrest pillow-top mattresses, make staying here a lavish treat. Dallas celebrity chef Stephan Pyles brings his distinct culinary style to Sustenio, the hotel's flagship farm-to-table restaurant. Although its close proximity to the Shops at La Cantera, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Sea World, and the airport make it a potential draw for families, this hotel is actually better suited to a romantic getaway. About 20 minutes from downtown San Antonio, it's a straight shot east on Interstate 10, so there's easy access to the center of the city and its attractions, as long as traffic is moving. The Éilan is not budget-friendly, perhaps, but it's definitely a nice splurge.