One of the things that also appeals to me is the legendary bartender-Cindy Dean. I understand that she is cutting back on her hours lthough. This Brit girlfriend of mine really enjoyed her sense of humor-sort of a Don Rickles southern counterpart, if you were around in 1960's, 1970's America.

We stayed at the Riverview over Christmas and found it charming and clean. Family owned hotels like this rarely exist these days. The owners were very friendly, husband and wife team. The husband seems to be a bit scattered but both were extremely friendly, and were very accommodating. If you are looking for the Ritz don't stay there. If you looking for "Americana" you have found your place. The most adorable little boy (her 5 year old grandson) will greet you at the desk and attempt to check you in. You are in a small town with locals all around. Children are riding their bikes, people fill the waterfront park, fisherman are launching their boats at the dock across the street, independent shops and eateries, etc. If you want to stay in a hotel with a concrete parking lot, this isn't for you. The hotel was built in 1916 across the street from the waterfront. If you have ever owned a historic building you must know that it is a work in progress. It is costly to upkeep, and continuous. This hotel is steeped in history and is well worth the visit. We wouldn't stay anywhere else, and we will return again and again. Cumberland Island gets under your skin and stays there every time you have a fond memory of a pleasant time. Don't be so stuffy. Let your hair down and enjoy true "Americana" on the east coast.

My husband and I visited the St. Mary's area last year as our "Christmas gift" to each other. I decided to wait to write the review because I was afraid I wouldn't be objective if I wrote the review right away. After a year, I still get confused when I think about that place.

We were a late arrival, and had made the front desk aware that we'd be checking in after midnight. The clerk (owner?) just handed us a key and told us which room was ours. We'd reserved a room with a river view, when morning came we marveled at the spectacular view of the garbage dumpster out back. (they were doing rentavations at the time) The hotel itself was great, and was like stepping back into another time...I really liked that. Even the head and footboards of the bed were old. (the bright red Georgia comforter was a bit out of place, but it was clean, and I have nothing against Georgia.)

The staff was less than friendly; if a single member of the staff spoke or so much as nodded at us during out three day stay I missed it. The part that really set me aback however was the moment of check out. The lady (I don't know if she's the owner or what) looked at me and literally chastised me because there wasn't a card made out with my name on it. She had been the person who checked me in, had handed me a key and sent me on my way, then scolded me because there wasn't a card with my name on it. Hello? It all worked out in the end, but I didn't appreciate being made to feel like I'd broken a cardinal house rule upon check out.

Anyway, the hotel itself was okay...if you like history you'll probably love it. It's like a time portal. If you're looking for elegant...look elsewhere. I was actually looking for a river view, which turned into a dumpster view. Just my luck. But we could see the river from the hallway it was nice!

I probably wouldn't ever plan another trip around the possibility to stay in this hotel again.. but.. If I was in the area, I wouldn't shy away because of my previous experience. My best advice would be to request to complete a customer card at check in regardless of the hour because you'll wish you had later!

Maybe Old & Gross should just go stay in a box hotel somewhere else. I am returning this weekend and can not wait to get there. It may not be for everyone but you should try it, if you are in St Marys, before Marriott and H I take over the World. It's a colorful piece of the past. Great crazy local bar and restaurant on premises are perfect for our stay. I did not even mind the cats. Just enjoy it for what it is different & fun.