8300 Dorchester Rd Ste B, North Charleston, SC 29418
Hiring the right electrical contractor is essential whether you're selling your home and need a repair addendum, installing a new EV charger, or updating your warehouse's electrical systems. Sure, taking a DIY approach to some tasks isn't a bad idea, but when wiring and electricity are involved, it's always best to rely on licensed, insured electricians in Kiawah Island, SC. When you need a team of expert electricians with decades of combined experience, no company fills that need quite like Sievert Electrical Contractors LLC.
Here at Sievert Electrical, we've been keeping Kiawah Island and the Tri-State area powered up since 2016, providing the highest quality electrical services for residential, commercial, and industrial needs. Some of our specialties include:
Unlike other electrician companies in Kiawah Island, however, we focus on serving customers instead of trying to make an easy buck. As locals in the metro Kiawah Island community, we know how hard it is to find trustworthy electrical contractors. Like money, they don't just grow on trees. That's why we strive to be the Tri-State area's premier source for reliable electrical contractors who prioritize hard work, fair pricing, and customer service over everything else.
As a locally-owned and operated electrical company, we believe in putting our customers first. We focus on hard work, attention to detail, and stellar customer service to achieve that goal. You won't ever have to worry about unmotivated workers or unreliable service at Sievert Electrical Contractors. Our licensed, insured electricians in cityname, state, are experts in their trade and equipped with the tools to handle all your electrical projects, large or small. From home EV charger installations to upfits for industrial warehouses, we provide peace of mind when you need it most.
At the end of the day, our vision, mission, and values help remind us of what's most important in our industry: you, our customer. As our customer, you can rest easy knowing we'll take all the time needed to fully understand your electrical needs. In learning about your pain points, we can explain the best options to resolve them and provide you with the best service possible. Call us old-fashioned, but we believe in building long-lasting relationships with our customers, whether they're residential or commercial clients. Instead of tricky fine print and awkward upselling, we've built our business on integrity, respect, and customer service. It's really that simple.
By working with our team of licensed electricians, you're giving yourself and your family or employees comfort, knowing that you're getting the best workmanship around. And when you look at our reviews, our customers agree. When you hire the Sievert Electrical team, you benefit from:
It's no secret that you shouldn't play around with electricity. Whether you're building a new pool or installing an EV charging station, hiring an experienced electrical contractor is a no-brainer when your safety is on the line. Why risk your health or a family member's health when you can trust Sievert Electrical to get the job done right the first time out?
Our licensed and insured electricians bring decades of combined experience to the table, as well as:
High-Level Training: Every member of the Sievert Electrical team must undergo rigorous industry training for residential electricians.
Accuracy & Safety: Our technicians excel at attention to detail to ensure your electrical needs are met with care and precision.
Knowledge & Education: Our electricians are happy to share their knowledge with homeowners and go the extra mile to explain the procedures and techniques used to address your electrical issues.
Looking to add value to your home? Installing a spa or pool is a wonderful idea to add to your list. Plus, your backyard barbecues will be much more fun. The process of installing a pool or spa isn't something you can handle on your own, though. You will need a team of experienced electricians in Kiawah Island, SC to ensure your system is set up correctly. That way, you can enjoy your pool or spa for years to come, and it'll be in great working order when it's time to sell.
Installing a pool or spa is a very involved job that includes more than digging out space for a pool or spa. These units are very complex and have a whole host of electrical needs, from heating units and filters to color-changing lights that wow your guests. Having a professional install these parts is vital. Otherwise, you'll be swimming in a dirty, near-freezing pool or spa.
Hiring Sievert Electrical Contractors guarantees your pool or spa will be in proper working order for years and years.
Finding a reliable EV charging station when you're out and about is still a gamble in this day and age. While EV charger availability is improving, most EV owners prefer to have a charging station installed at home. But doing so is easier said than done and often requires the help of a professional electrician.
If you're like most homeowners, you don't have the proper permit to install your own EV charging station. For that reason alone, you need to rely on a pro who has the right tools and electrical know-how to handle the job. Plus, EV chargers need much more voltage than standard electrical systems you may find in your home. That makes installing these devices much more dangerous than average appliances. Hiring Sievert Electrical Contractors to install your charging station ensures it's completed quickly, correctly, and safely.
South Carolina's hurricane season is nothing to take lightly. Every year, homeowners in the Lowcountry prepare for high winds, heavy storms, and even evacuation. One of the best ways to protect your home and family in the event of a power outage is to purchase a standby or portable generator that can power your home when electricity is out.
At Sievert Electrical, we offer the equipment and electrical services needed to keep your lights on during emergency power outages. As an Authorized Generac dealer in South Carolina, our standby and portable generators can give you the power you need when it matters most. Contact our office today to discuss what type of Generac generator is best for your home or business.
It's always a safe choice to rely on professionals than yourself when electrical matters are involved. That's true for generator installation, too. At Sievert Electrical Contractors, our team uses OSHA and National Electrical Code standards when installing residential and commercial generators. We know how to properly install generators, maintain them, and recommend them depending on your needs.
Because we truly care about your property and your family, we always take great care to operate with safety and efficiency in mind. When we're done, you'll know without a doubt that you made the right choice hiring our electricians in Kiawah Island, SC
If you're searching for a trusted partner for commercial electric needs, Sievert Electrical Contractors have the tools, talent, and training to address all of your commercial electric issues. Our team has spent years helping professionals in a wide range of industries, from small offices to sizeable warehouses and every kind of commercial enterprise in between.
Without properly working electrical systems, you can't serve your customers. And when you can't serve your customers, you can't put food on the table for your family. That's why, when you own a business, you need a reliable team of electricians to keep your business up and running.
At Sievert Electrical Contractors, we know how important electricity is for your daily operations. We understand that you need every facet of your business to run smoothly so you can focus on making a profit, not working in the dark. That's where we come in.
Are you building a new storefront or physical location for your business? After your foundation is set and the frame is up, it'll start taking shape. But before you can open your doors, you've got to make sure your building is wired with a functional electrical system. Otherwise, you'll be using candles to light your office.
Sievert Electrical Contractors provides the highest quality new construction wiring for your commercial needs. Our wiring projects are always completed by licensed, insured electricians who are masters of the trade. That way, you have confidence knowing your business is in good hands.
With electrical systems, the smallest mistakes often lead to the biggest failures. In worst-case scenarios, you may have to deal with an electrical fire in your new construction building. Trusting professional electricians to handle the job correctly is the best way to keep your property safe and wired correctly.
Here at Sievert Electrical Contractors, one of our many commercial services involves turning working vehicles into vehicles that work for you. Whether you're an electrician or occupy a different profession, our commercial upfit services will help make your workday easier and more productive, so you can be more profitable.
Our commercial upfits help experts with a wide range of issues, including:
Organization: One of the most common complaints we hear from tradespeople and business owners is that their trucks or vans are an organizational mess. Our upfit services help you get organized, so you're not having to toss important tools into the back of your truck.
Efficiency: With our commercial upfits in place, you won't waste time trying to find all those items you had to toss in the back of your truck. Our upfits let you carry more gear, maximize your space, and ultimately be more productive.
Professionalism: When you travel to a client's home or business, you need to present a proper image of professionalism. You'll give the wrong impression if your work van is messy and disorganized.
Don't see the commercial electric service you need? Chances are we can still help. Give our office a call today and let us know about the challenges you're facing. In the meantime, here are some additional commercial services that we offer:
Are you fed up with spending money on new fuses? Do your employees nag you about weird electrical glitches that interrupt their workflow? If so, it's time to call Sievert Electrical. Our team of commercial electricians will diagnose and remediate your electric panel problems quickly and effectively.
Installing or updating the panels in your industrial facility protects you, your co-workers, employees, and your building from electrical fire risks. Electrical panel installation from our electricians in Kiawah Island, SC is important because it protects your other electrical systems, which prolongs the overall lifespan of your system. Safety is always our top priority at Sievert Electrical Contractors, which is why we believe the right way is the only way to install or upgrade your industrial-grade electrical panels.
Our industrial panel services include:
When it comes to electrical repair services, serving industrial needs is often more comprehensive and complex than those in the residential space.
Industrial electricians must deal with more complex electrical systems. These advanced systems often need different equipment and tools when repairs to industrial-grade elements are required. Unlike residential repairs, in industrial settings, electrical systems are usually custom-made for the facility and include unique parts with higher voltages than in the typical home. And while no electrical issue is good, industrial failures have massive repercussions that can often shut enterprises down when their temperature control, machinery, and automated PLCs are affected.
For those reasons alone, you need the best electric pros to perform industrial-level electric repairs. Fortunately, Sievert Electrical Contractors is here to help. Our industrial electricians have the experience and expertise to tackle the most complicated industrial electric repairs, whether you own a warehouse, medical center, or another type of industrial facility.
Don't leave your home or business in the hands of unqualified handymen or unlicensed contractors. With decades of combined experience, Sievert Electrical Contractors specializes in a wide variety of custom electrical services. We go the extra mile to exceed expectations, because that's how we would want our families treated. Call us today to discover the Sievert Electrical difference.
843-873-6331
If you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, two spots in South Carolina may have you covered.That’s because the high-end resort destinations now rank among the nation’s best hotels.U.S. News & World Report said the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort near Charlesto...
If you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, two spots in South Carolina may have you covered.
That’s because the high-end resort destinations now rank among the nation’s best hotels.
U.S. News & World Report said the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort near Charleston joins The Inn & Club at Harbour Town on Hilton Head Island on a list of top 10 places for vacationers to stay.
The website created the list after it studied accommodations across the country. It considered three categories for each property: past recognition, data from the travel review website Tripadvisor and “hotel class,” also known as star ratings.
“The highest-ranking hotels are typically those that both experts and users recognize for their exceptional quality,” according to the report published Tuesday, Feb. 7.
Of the two South Carolina hotels that landed near the top of the list, Kiawah Island Golf Resort ranked the highest at No. 4. The property — roughly 25 miles southeast of the tourist hot spot of Charleston — said its Sanctuary hotel boasts a spa and an oceanfront setting.
On Tripadvisor, some visitors said they were fans of the resort’s manicured lawns and nearby opportunities to spot sea creatures. The hotel building has been around for almost two decades but was built to look as if it had deeper roots.
“A casual but elegant building, reminiscent of a grand seaside mansion, the four-story hotel was designed to feel like it has been on Kiawah Island for centuries, evolving and expanding from one imaginary homeowner to the next,” the resort wrote on its website.
About 100 miles to the south, the The Inn & Club at Harbour Town on Hilton Head Island earned the No. 5 spot in the national rankings. The hotel — located at the Sea Pines Resort — said it has top-notch hospitality and decor that gives a nod to its Lowcountry setting.
On its website, the hotel said guests can stay in spaces “decorated with an inviting coastal palette that perfectly complements the island’s charm.” Several visitors took to Tripadvisor to rave about their rooms, including those with golf course views.
Overall, the nation’s top-ranking hotel was Acqualina Resort & Residences near Miami. Rounding out the top five:
In addition to being named among the nation’s best hotels, the two South Carolina properties also earned top spots on U.S. News & World Report’s resort-specific rankings.
This story was originally published February 7, 2023, 6:00 AM.
The Limestone County Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors is pleased to announce its class for the 2023 Hall of Fame. The 2023 class is comprised of ten former athletes, coaches and support personnel. The induction ceremony for this year's class will be held on May 20th at the Limestone County Event Center beginning at 6:30.The 2023 inductees include the following:David Leon Ashford - The Athens High School graduate was an athletic trainer for the University of Alabama Football team under head coach Paul 'Bear' Bryant. He lat...
The Limestone County Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors is pleased to announce its class for the 2023 Hall of Fame. The 2023 class is comprised of ten former athletes, coaches and support personnel. The induction ceremony for this year's class will be held on May 20th at the Limestone County Event Center beginning at 6:30.
The 2023 inductees include the following:
David Leon Ashford - The Athens High School graduate was an athletic trainer for the University of Alabama Football team under head coach Paul 'Bear' Bryant. He later became a lawyer and represented the University of Alabama in cases against the NCAA.
Carlos Franklin - Starred as a wide receiver, running back, return specialist and strong safety for the Athens High School football team. Averaged 15.7 yards every time he touched the football during his senior season with the Golden Eagles. He played collegiate football at the University of North Alabama.
Charlie Gover - A track star for West Limestone High School and was the 1970 Cross Country State Champion. He was a track and field standout at both Calhoun Community College and Austin Peay University.
Greg Haynes - A tremendous all-around athlete who exceled in many sports at Athens High School. He earned 10 varsity letters while participating in many sports at AHS. Earned a football scholarship to the University of Alabama where he was a member of two National Championship teams.
Chasity Campbell Legg - A former basketball and volleyball standout for West Limestone High School. She was named county Most Valuable Player in both sports while earning All-State honors in basketball. She played basketball collegiately at Belmont University and was a three-year starter for the Bruins.
Tracy Lowery - A baseball and basketball standout for Athens Bible School. Earned a dual baseball-basketball scholarship to Florida College and later transferred to Athens State College to play baseball. His batting average for the Bears was over .300.
Ollie McGee - Was a member of eight state championship teams as a member of the Athens High School football and track and field teams. Earned All-State honors in the multiple sports he participated in at AHS. Earned a football scholarship to the University of North Alabama and played defensive back for the Lions.
Bill Murrell - Legendary coach for Athens Bible School. Has led ABS to state championships in both baseball and cross country. The Alabama Sportswriters Association has named him 'Coach of the Year’ four times. A member of the Alabama High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame.
Robert Stewart - Was one of the first African American students to graduate from a segregated Limestone County High School. He was instrumental in leading Clements High School to a state championship in basketball as he was named to the All-State Tournament Team.
Stewart Whitt - Tremendous amateur golfer who prepped at Athens High School and earned All-State honors for the Golden Eagles golf team. Played collegiate golf at the University of Alabama and was member of the Crimson Tide’s 2008 SEC Championship team. Qualified for the 2014 US Amateur Tournament. He recently won the PGA National Club Championship on the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, SC.
Limestone County Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors President Jeff Hodges states this year’s induces are outstanding additions to the Hall of Fame who are all very deserving for their accomplishment both on and off the athletic field.
SOUTH CAROLINA - Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or a place to escape it all, there are scenic RV campgrounds in South Carolina that can help you do both. Whether looking for a state or county park, you can find various options to suit your needs.Camp Lake Jasper RV ResortCamp Lake Jasper RV Resort is located near Hilton Head Island and offers a relaxing vacation experience. It is next to Sergeant Jasper State Park and offers 320 acres of nature preserve.The campground of...
SOUTH CAROLINA - Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or a place to escape it all, there are scenic RV campgrounds in South Carolina that can help you do both. Whether looking for a state or county park, you can find various options to suit your needs.
Camp Lake Jasper RV Resort is located near Hilton Head Island and offers a relaxing vacation experience. It is next to Sergeant Jasper State Park and offers 320 acres of nature preserve.
The campground offers full hookups, cable TV, restrooms, and laundry facilities. It is a gated community with total security. Guests can enjoy various amenities, from swimming pools to tennis courts. Guests can also enjoy a fun game of golf at the on-site golf course.
The camp store offers a variety of supplies for guests, including firewood, gas grills, and camping equipment. There is also a fitness center with exercise equipment.
Guests can also enjoy the on-site water park, featuring an Olympic-sized pool and a splash pad. There is also a mini-golf course and arcade games. There are also fishing lakes and a boat launch.
Guests can also enjoy kayak and paddleboard rentals. This is a perfect way to get some exercise while enjoying the scenery. The resort is also close to major tourist attractions. It is also near several golf courses, theme parks, and lakes.
Located on the north end of Hilton Head Island, SC, Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina offers a variety of on-site activities. Visitors can enjoy the marina's water sports and dolphin tours or relax at the on-site swimming pool.
The Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina is open year-round. This resort features 200 full hookup RV sites. The sites are beautiful and well-maintained.
The resort also has a marina that offers boat and jet ski rentals. You can also enjoy great dining at the Sunset Grille restaurant. Guests can also enjoy discounts for extended stays. There is also an exercise room and laundry facility.
The campground also offers four pickleball courts and an onsite dog park. You can also find a basketball court, a dog wash, and free Wi-Fi. There are also two pools.
You can also enjoy the clubhouse and mini golf. You can also rent bikes to ride the trails around the campground.
The campground is conveniently located near the beach. You can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and other water activities.
Hunting Island State Park is a popular vacation destination located in the South Carolina Lowcountry and attracts nearly one million visitors a year. The park features five miles of beachfront, a saltwater lagoon, and the state's only publicly-accessible lighthouse.
Located on 5,000 acres of the barrier island, Hunting Island State Park offers a variety of activities. In addition to the beach, you can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and boating. The park also includes a visitor center, a theater, and interactive exhibits.
Hunting Island State Park campgrounds feature full hookups, water, and electricity. Some sites feature gravel pads, while others are paved. There are also cabins available. There are also restroom facilities, a shower house, a grocery store, and a dump station.
The campground has an excellent range of sites, with campsites able to accommodate RVs from 28 to 40 feet. However, a two-night minimum is required. Most sites are located near the beach and are easy to maneuver.
Hunting Island State Park also features a fishing pier. The pier extends 1120 feet into Fripp Inlet. You can fish in the saltwater lagoon, Johnson Creek, and the harbor river.
Edisto Beach State Park has various activities on the east coast of South Carolina. The park offers a beach, hiking trails, and cabins. The park is also home to a nature center, gift shop, and nature trail.
If you're interested in camping in the area, the Edisto Beach State Park offers two campgrounds: Beach Campground and Live Oak Campground. Both campgrounds offer great views of the ocean and marsh. The campgrounds also have a large lake, a popular fishing spot.
Both campgrounds offer water and electrical hookups. In addition, the campgrounds have restrooms, showers, and other amenities. A general store and coffee house/cafe is also available at the campgrounds. There are also picnic tables and fire pits.
Several trails in the park, including the Spanish Mount Trail. The trail leads to a 4,000-year-old shell midden. The trail also has informational signs about land surveying. Another trail, the Bache (Monument) Trail, leads to a granite monument that was used to measure the east coast of the United States in the mid-1800s.
Located just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, Mount Pleasant KOA is an excellent destination for outdoor lovers. Guests can enjoy fishing in a lake, playing mini golf, or catching a free wagon ride to the Oakland Plantation. Guests are also treated to a scenic nature trail and a great selection of cable channels.
The campground is also located near many shops, restaurants, and plantations. It is an excellent base camp for Charleston and offers easy access to many historical sites. It is located just past the Isle of Palms Connector and is easy to get to.
Mount Pleasant KOA is also close to the Atlantic Coast and Kiawah Island. Guests can take a free wagon ride to the Oakland Plantation to learn about its rich history. The campground also offers fishing, biking, and horseback riding. The campground also offers a splash pad for children. Guests can also enjoy weekly pancake breakfasts.
Mount Pleasant KOA is located near the town of Mount Pleasant. This area is known for its beautiful parks.
In Charleston, South Carolina, James Island County Park is a scenic RV campground with abundant amenities. The park has an excellent playground, a pet play area, bike and kayak rentals, and an 18-hole disc golf course. The campground is open year-round and popular for families and RV travelers.
James Island County Park offers full-hookup RV and primitive tent sites. The campground features an 18-hole disc golf course, a fishing pier, a playground, a dog park, and hiking trails.
James Island County Park is owned and operated by the Charleston County Parks Association. This private park offers year-round fun for the whole family. The campground boasts a scenic natural setting, open meadows, and paved trails. It also offers saltwater fishing, horseshoe pits, and picnic spots.
The campground is also well-equipped with laundry facilities and an activity center. It also has a nice bike path and a dog park. The restrooms are clean and updated.
The campground is not far from downtown Charleston. It's also near Fort Sumter National Monument, Folly Beach, and local plantations.
Located just seven miles north of Salem, South Carolina, Devils Fork State Park is an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It offers a unique blend of wildlife, natural beauty, and a scenic lakefront experience.
Devils Fork State Park offers a variety of water and boating activities, including boat rentals and tours of the lake. The park also has a campground with 59 lakeside sites and 25 walk-in tent sites. The campground also features a fire pit, restrooms, and a dump station.
Devils Fork State Park also offers boat-in primitive camping. The campground's paved roads are well-maintained and provide a safe way to travel with your boat. The campground is located along the shore of Lake Jocassee. It is also located on the eastern edge of the Sumter National Forest.
Devils Fork State Park offers several trails, including the Oconee Bell Trail. This easy one-mile loop is a spectacular site in the early spring. It crosses streams and offers a view of the lake.
Located in Lexington County, South Carolina, Dreher Island State Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The park is on Lake Murray, a 50,000-acre reservoir that the Dreher Shoals Dam forms. The park offers a boat launch ramp for those exploring the lake. There are also 12 miles of shoreline for those looking to get out and enjoy the scenery.
The Dreher Island State Recreation Area campgrounds feature paved campsites for both RVs and tents. The sites are all equipped with water and electrical hookups. There are also restrooms and hot showers available for campers. Three fishing tournament shelters are also available for those looking to participate in fishing tournaments.
The park also offers a gift shop and store for fishing supplies and fishing licenses. The store also offers snacks and souvenirs. The area is home to many species of bass and stripers, and there are also some good large-mouth bass fishing opportunities.
Written By William Zimmerman IV - Editor and Writer for The East Coast Traveler
Sources used in this article are PhillyBite Magazine and used Wikipedia and establishments websites for information about individuals and places.for fishing
Players on the LIV Golf tour scored another major victory on Wednesday.One day after the R&A announced that it wouldn’t ban players from the controversial Saudi-backed circuit from competing in this year’s British Open, the PGA of America followed suit when announcing its criteria for this year’s PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club outside Rochester.The decision comes a...
Players on the LIV Golf tour scored another major victory on Wednesday.
One day after the R&A announced that it wouldn’t ban players from the controversial Saudi-backed circuit from competing in this year’s British Open, the PGA of America followed suit when announcing its criteria for this year’s PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club outside Rochester.
The decision comes as something of an about face after PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh said during last May’s PGA Championship at Southern Hills that players banned or suspended by the PGA Tour likely would lose their PGA of America privileges, which would prevent them from playing in the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup. While Waugh on Wednesday acknowledged the ongoing civil war between the Tour and LIV, he said the goal is for a competitive PGA Championship with the best field possible.
“Our decisions are always based on what’s in the best interest of the PGA of America and conducting the best Championship possible,” Waugh said. “Sadly, the current division in the professional game is not good for the sport or the future of the game. We hope there might be some resolution soon. In the meantime, as always, our focus will be on our mission to grow the game and improve the lives of our members, who work so hard to impact millions of lives every day.”
The R&A made a similar announcement on Tuesday, declaring that players from LIV who are eligible will be allowed to tee it up at Royal Liverpool this July.
The PGA’s decision means that past winners of the PGA Championship who have bolted for LIV will be allowed to compete in this year’s tournament May 20-23. Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka and Martin Kaymer all have won the PGA previously and all currently play on LIV.
Winners of the other three majors in the last five years and winners of the Players Championship in the last three years will also get an invite.
Brendan Steele and Mito Periera, both of whom also ditched the PGA Tour for LIV, are also eligible for the PGA Championship after finishing in the top 15 at last year’s championship at Southern Hills.
Mickelson, who became golf’s oldest major champion at age 50 when he won the 2021 PGA at Kiawah Island, skipped last year’s tournament following the fallout from his controversial remarks about Saudi Arabia before he later left for LIV.
The news also means that players from LIV who are eligible will be able to tee it up in all four of golf’s majors, with Augusta National and the USGA previously stating they would not ban LIV players from this year’s Masters and U.S. Open, respectively.
When it comes to hotels, one person's must-stay can easily be another's must-avoid. After all, hotels and resorts are highly subjective by their nature, and even ideas around what constitutes luxury hospitality is a moving target these days.That doesn't prevent plenty of publications from releasing annual lists of top-rated properties. Among the latest of these rosters is a list from U.S. News & World Report, which, though better known for its high-profile list of college rankings, has been publishing a lineup of best hotels since...
When it comes to hotels, one person's must-stay can easily be another's must-avoid. After all, hotels and resorts are highly subjective by their nature, and even ideas around what constitutes luxury hospitality is a moving target these days.
That doesn't prevent plenty of publications from releasing annual lists of top-rated properties. Among the latest of these rosters is a list from U.S. News & World Report, which, though better known for its high-profile list of college rankings, has been publishing a lineup of best hotels since 2011.
Released in early February, U.S. News' best hotels of 2023 ranks luxury properties across numerous countries, regions and destinations, including the U.S., the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe.
But for travel advisors, the usefulness of such lists can be questionable.
"I look at all these lists and rankings, but I do take it with a grain of salt," said Cindy Salik, a luxury travel advisor with New York-based Embark Collective.
I asked Salik what she thought of the U.S. News list. Did a good portion of the lineup overlap with her own top picks? Were there any choices that she found puzzling? Any glaring omissions?
When it came to the No. 1 U.S. hotel, Salik agreed that the top-ranked Acqualina Resort & Residences in Miami's Sunny Isles Beach was a solid pick. Likewise, in the Caribbean, two of Salik's favorites -- Anguilla's Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel and Jumby Bay Island on Antigua, which is part of the Oetker Collection -- also topped the category for U.S. News.
Salik said that U.S. News' frontrunners for best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico -- the Grand Velas Los Cabos and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit -- were in line with Grand Velas' status as her clients' preferred brand within the luxury all-inclusive space.
But Salik did take issue with a few of the list's selections, with properties like Hawaii's Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, Jade Mountain Resort on St. Lucia and the Tortuga Bay Puntacana Resort & Club in the Dominican Republic placing far higher on the U.S. News roster than they would on her own personal list.
That the British Virgin Islands' Rosewood Little Dix Bay didn't crack the top 50 among the best Caribbean hotels was also a miss, according to Salik.
In places, Salik largely agreed with a hotel's ranking but felt there was an important caveat that should be disclosed to clients prior to booking. In the case of the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina, which ranked as the fourth-best hotel in the U.S., Salik said she thought it important to mention that some could consider the resort's accommodations overdue for a refresh.
"But every other aspect of the hotel is outstanding," Salik said. "The beach is beautiful. The pool is beautiful. The golf courses are amazing. And the service is really good. But I would want to be forthcoming [that the] hotel needs some renovation."
Another element that potentially undermines the list's utility is that U.S. News says as part of its methodology it considers "overall customer satisfaction expressed in online guest reviews of luxury hotels and resorts provided by Tripadvisor."
"Tripadvisor is a mass-market [platform], so it's probably the wrong place to be pulling luxury hotel customer satisfaction from," said Salik. "These lists might be helpful to younger people just starting to travel or to those who want to do it themselves, but for the luxury travel advisor, I don't feel these lists are too valuable to me. I like to do my own research, visit the properties myself and really do my own due diligence in ranking hotels for my clients."
