Discover Why This Florida City Is Becoming a Luxury Hotspot with an Exceptional Hotel

iBestTravel sat down with Ian Schrager to explore how The Edition fits into Tampa’s transformation.

Historically, Tampa has been overshadowed by more popular tourist spots in Florida; however, it is finally Tampa’s time to shine. A significant wave of revitalization is repositioning the city as a not-so-hidden gem, and the message is reaching worldwide travelers. With an expanding culinary scene, remarkable museums, world-class shopping, and vibrant nightlife, The Big Guava is emerging as a sought-after destination for visitors.

Leading the way in this cultural renaissance is The Tampa Edition.

Developed by visionary hotelier Ian Schrager in collaboration with Marriott International, The Tampa Edition is the city’s first genuine luxury hotel. This boutique hotel is situated in the bustling Water Street Tampa District, a $3.5-billion mixed-use urban development intended to transform Tampa into a prime gateway for travelers visiting Central and South Florida.

A lush oasis of tropical plants greets guests in The Tampa Edition lobby, where they can appreciate the art deco-inspired design prior to check-in. The 26-story establishment features 172 guest rooms and suites, designed with the understated yet chic style that The Edition is renowned for. The hotel also boasts a stunning rooftop terrace and pool club, a state-of-the-art wellness center, and seven bars and restaurants on-site, including Lilac, a fine-dining venue led by acclaimed chef John Fraser.

In an exclusive interview with iBestTravel, Ian Schrager discussed the opening of The Tampa Edition and its significant impact on the luxury travel sector in Florida. With thoughtful nods to the Sunshine State embedded within the cocktail menu and delightful surprises delivered to guests daily, Schrager emphasized that the meticulous attention to detail at The Tampa Edition distinguishes this property from other accommodations in the region.

“Many details were taken into account for Tampa Edition, and those small touches are what set us apart from the competition,” Schrager noted. “While we may integrate certain elements from other properties, each project is distinct.”

A signature feature of The Edition experience is a vibrant nightlife scene—after all, Schrager is a co-founder of Studio 54—and the entertainment at The Tampa Edition is no exception. During the hotel’s opening weekend, Lenny Kravitz captivated guests with a private performance, and last month, Nelly hosted a lively New Year’s Eve celebration to welcome 2023. From intimate settings at the cozy Punch Room bar to dancing the night away in the glamorous Arts Club, The Tampa Edition provides ideal spaces for guests to connect with both friends and new acquaintances.

“People want to meet others! They seek fun and a bit of delightful chaos,” Schrager remarked with a laugh. “We aim to personalize the experience for Tampa, avoiding replication of what we might do in Miami or New York. Ultimately, we address the same social desires of individuals wanting to connect, which is what we strive to provide.”

The Tampa Edition is the 15th hotel in Edition’s expanding portfolio. Reflecting on the expansion (with five hotel openings planned for 2023, including locations in Rome, Tokyo, and Singapore), the boutique innovator shared his perspectives on the present state of luxury travel and his aspirations for the future of hospitality.

Schrager opposes the notion that luxury is exclusive to the affluent. He envisions a future where luxury becomes more accessible to all. “Everyone is accustomed to confining everything in a box, but my goal is to remove it from the box,” he stated. As the hotelier looks forward, he desires that Edition continues to demonstrate that luxury originates from how a property makes one feel, regardless of personal wealth.

“Indeed, it’s luxury, but it’s for everyone,” Schrager clarified. “Perhaps our aim differs slightly from that of most hotels, but this is what gives us our advantage. Witnessing people enjoy the spaces we’ve created and seeing their happiness is pure nirvana.”