This Hotel In Florida Has The Most Cutting-Edge Technology
Just minutes from Orlando International Airport sits a 17-square-mile community known as Lake Nona. This past December, the science- and medicine-focused enclave welcomed an upscale lifestyle property that sets a new standard for what it means to be a hotel with cutting-edge technology. For starters, Lake Nona Wave Hotel is wrapped with View smart windows that dynamically tint in response to the sun and block 99 percent of UV light. And while all of the 234 accommodations are equipped with techy features like voice-automated controls and Toto smart toilets, it’s the Well+ech rooms that truly shine.
As new inventions are announced, the hotel plans to rotate new products into the Well+ech rooms to showcase the latest innovations in hospitality and wellness. Currently, there are seven amenities on display. Arguably the best item is the Restorative Bed by Bryte, which has been designed to improve sleep quality with functions tailored to each individual on either side of the mattress that includes temperature control, dynamic adjustments to firmness based on movement, and the ability to gently awaken you with low vibrations. It’s draped in Nollapelli bedding that’s made from a combination of materials that creates an optimal environment for skin, hair, and sleep. To round out the healthy sleep experience, there’s also an acupressure mat that’s ideal for pre-sleep relaxation; a sound machine; and a device that gently lifts your head when it detects snoring, all by SleepScore Labs. Going beyond a good night’s rest, bathrooms are stocked with Pour Moi skincare that have been formulated for specific climates. The hotel has appropriately chosen the brand’s Tropical Day Cream to combat Florida’s hot and humid weather. Lastly, in the minibar you’ll find cans of Mad Tasty, a CBD-infused sparkling water founded by OneRepublic’s Ryan Tedder that’ll not only keep you hydrated, but also creates a calming sensation.
Throughout the property there are other nods to technology. For example, a kinetic chandelier hangs over the reception desk; the fitness center is stocked with Technogym equipment; and Lake Nona is home to one of the world’s largest fleets of autonomous shuttles, which are created by Beep, a company that happens to be headquartered in the community.
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ByAmy DaniseEditorAside from all of the technological advancements, the hotel offers its guests plenty to do and see. In addition to the contemporary art found in the lobby, there’s a sculpture garden in the back designed by landscape architect Jeff Thompson, who previously worked at Walt Disney World. The space is dotted with exceptional pieces like a cast of Arturo Di Modica’s Charging Bull, Fernando Botero’s Leda and the Swan, and the Baks series by local artist Jefrë. For some time in the sun, there’s a pool deck lined with colorful cabanas, complete with lunch and beverage service. And if you want a full-service gym that goes beyond the on-site fitness center, guests also have access to the neighboring Lake Nona Performance Club and its extensive array of Technogym equipment, daily fitness classes, cycling studio, aquatics center, and sports courts. The performance club is also home to Dr. Deepak Chopra’s first-ever spa and Mind-Body Zone, in which Well+tech and suite guests have complimentary entry to the latter’s wellness classes. And if you happen to be a tennis lover, the USTA National Campus is just down the road and features 100 courts with private lessons available for booking. And if you’re looking for some family-friendly fun, the Nona Adventure Park has an inflatable obstacle course, cable wakeboarding, and a 60-foot climbing tower with ropes courses that’s simultaneously challenging and thrilling.
To keep you satiated throughout your stay, there are a few on-site dining options. Haven Kitchen is open for all three meals and largely features a Mediterranean menu. The lively lobby bar serves drinks throughout the day along with small plates in the evening. But for a truly exquisite dinner, make a reservation at Bacán for dishes with a Latin American influence such as ceviche-style Hamachi, charred octopus with chimichurri, steak tartare served with chicharron, smoked scsallops a la plancha, and a decadent cake with a chocolate mole sauce. Later this month the property will also debut Haven Lounge, an elevated nightlife venue where many of the cocktails will come with some form of playful presentation.
And should you want to switch things up a bit, there also several dining options outside of the hotel that are still within the Lake Nona community. A short bike—or Beep shuttle—ride away, Canvas Restaurant & Market serves up new American cuisine with water views. Just around the corner from the property there’s Chroma, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of tapas-style dishes, many of which have an East and Southeast Asian influence. And if you happen to be staying there Thursday through Sunday, make sure to head over to Boxi Park to enjoy some live music, drinks, and bites from the food truck–style outlets.
