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Meet Frontdesk: City Manager

For our very first Meet Frontdesk, we spoke with Chantal Doxon, Tampa and St. Petersburg City Manager. Chantal began at Frontdesk 2.5 years ago as a cleaner after moving to Tampa, FL. Since then, she has transitioned into a City Manager role after showing she embodies all of Frontdesk’s core values. Prior to Frontdesk, Chantal was getting her degree in Interior Architecture. In her free time, she enjoys doing puzzles, boxing, and being on the water. 

What do you do in your role as a City Manager?

I make sure units are clean and that maintenance and cleaners are doing what they are supposed to so we can prevent any issues with guests. I also work with property managers to make sure there are no issues with guests before or during their stay. In summary, I am there to help with the day to day issues and being there for guests for whatever they need assistance with. 

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy being able to contribute to our guest’s stays. I know how important vacationing is, so if there is any way I can make it better for a guest, I’m happy to help!

What has been your biggest learning experience since starting at Frontdesk?

Personally, since starting at Frontdesk, I’ve learned how to adapt and adapt quickly. Problem solving in a timely manner is key in everyday operations to make sure things get done and done well.

What advice would you give to others in your role?

I would tell others, that if you find yourself confused or feeling overwhelmed, not knowing what to do, reach out. Everyone is willing to help and more likely than not, we have been in the same situation and can guide you through it.

Bucket list place to visit?

I have so many! But the next place on my list to go to go is Thailand!

What is one must-do or must-try place if someone visits Tampa or St. Petersburg?

There are so many! The St. Pete Pier is a must! Or 7th Ave in Ybor City if you’re looking for a good night on the town.

Explore Savannah: Welcome to Our New City

Frontdesk is excited to show you around one of our newest cities: Savannah, GA! Savannah has endless sights to see and things to do. To help in planning your visit to this beautiful and historic city, we’ve put together a guide with all of our top recommendations!

Neighborhoods

Historic District

The Historic District is the hub of downtown and has historic landmarks around every corner. The streets are filled with museums, monuments, parks, restored 18th-century homes, shops, and dining. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets and soak up all of the history and beauty.

Starland District

This artsy, hip district was established in the late 1990s by two Savannah College of Art and Design students. The neighborhood is rooted in creativity and collaboration. The streets are bustling with galleries, boutiques, and entertainment venues. Stop into the Starland District if you’re interested in shopping for vintage clothes, vinyl records, or original art.

Tybee Island

Located only 20 minutes from downtown, many refer to Tybee Island as Savannah’s beach. This neighborhood is filled with pastel homes and oceanfront condos. Tybee Island is the place to go if you’re looking to spend time at the beach, kayak, or paddleboard.

What to Do

Forsyth Park

Dating back to the 1940s, Forsyth Park spans across 30 acres of the Historic District of Savannah. The fountain at the center of the park is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The park is home to Farmer’s markets, a concert venue, playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, and a coffee shop.

Photo Courtesy of Old Town Trolley Tours (Savannah) Facebook Page

Trolley Tours

Trolley tours in Savannah offer a complete overview of everything there is to know about the city! There are several tour options offered daily including Old Town Trolley Tours and Comedy Tours. Being America’s most haunted city, they also have Ghost Tours. These “hop-on, hop-off” tours allow you to learn the history of Savannah while seeing all the city has to offer!

Photo Courtesy of Davenport House Museum Facebook Page

House Museum Tours

With all the history behind this city, it’s no surprise that house museums are a staple for visitors. There are nearly 20 house museums that all offer something different. Some are designed to show art, while others show a look into the past. A few of the top house museums in the city include Mercer-Williams House, Davenport House, and Sorrel-Weed House.

Eats

Breakfast/Brunch

Breakfast and Brunch options in Savannah are endless. One of our favorites is Debi’s Restaurant for southern, home-style cooking. This historic restaurant has something on the menu for everyone and is open 8 am-2:30 pm daily!

Lunch

With a line waiting at the door each day, it’s no secret that lunch at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is one of the best in town! Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room offers a unique dining experience by serving family-style meals at communal tables. This historic Southern diner has been family-owned since 1943 and continues to be a popular lunch spot.

Dinner

We recommend Alligator Soul for an upscale, intimate dinner. Once a basement grain warehouse, this Southern eatery offers organic and local ingredients for a fresh, delicious menu.

Savannah Specialty: Oysters

Savannah is a city that loves oysters, so it’s no surprise that they are served at nearly every restaurant in the city. One of our favorite stops for oysters is Sorry Charlie’s. This casual seafood spot features a raw bar, southern specialties, and craft cocktails.

Drinks

Savannah, Georgia is a lively city home to many bars great for drinking, dancing, and live music. A few of our favorites in the city include Wet Willies, Alley Cat Lounge, and the Artillery Bar. Each bar has its own story and personality but they are all filled with unique cocktails and wide beer selections.

Photo Courtesy of Wet Willie’s Savannah, GA River Street Facebook Page

Best Way to Get Around

Transportation in Savannah couldn’t be easier! The DOT offers a fare-free service to get around downtown Savannah. The shuttles run every 10 minutes through 24 stops. Hop on the Savannah Belles Ferry and get a unique perspective offshore. The ferry provides transportation from downtown’s riverwalk and Hutchinson Island. Uber and Lyft are also easily accessible.

Discover New Orleans: Explore The Big Easy!

Frontdesk welcomes you to one of our newest cities: New Orleans, LA! New Orleans is a small but bustling city known for cajun and creole dishes, jazz music, history, and mysterious stories. Although it’s best known for the Mardi Gras festivities, there are plenty of things to do and see around the city year-long! We’ve gathered all of our top recommendations of what to do and where to eat to explore all this city has to offer!

Neighborhoods

French Quarter

The French Quarter is the city’s historic heart, known for its vibrant nightlife and colorful buildings with balconies overlooking the busy city. Here you will find the famous Bourbon Street, offering jazz music, cajun food, and fun cocktails.

Tremé

Tremé is the oldest African American neighborhood in the United States. Located just across Rampart Street from the French Quarter, this soulful neighborhood dates back to 1783. Tremé is renowned as the birthplace of Jazz in New Orleans and is home to many of the city’s best musicians.

Mid-City

If you’re looking for a little more low-key and laid-back vibe than the other popular areas, check out Mid-City! This part of the city is the best area to watch sporting events in the neighborhood bars.

Things to Do

Steamboat Cruise

One of the unique experiences in New Orleans is the steamboat tours. There is no better way to cruise the Mississippi River than by steamboat. The current S.S. Natchez boat offers several tours throughout the day including an evening jazz tour with dinner, a day jazz cruise, or a Sunday brunch jazz cruise. The steamboat cruises are a perfect way to take in the beauty of New Orleans from the water.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is rated one of the top aquariums in the US. The aquarium is located along the Mississippi River and features 10,000 creatures. It’s divided into 4 different areas including the Amazon rainforest, the Mississippi River, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Great Maya Reef gallery, and includes an IMAX theater.

Photo Courtesy of Audubon Aquarium of the Americas Facebook Page

Jackson Square

Jackson Square is a historic park in the French Quarter and is also considered the heart of the city. The park was declared a National Historic Landmark for its role in history as the site where Louisiana became United States territory in 1803. The site is now a place to view famous architectural works and attend street art events.

Eats

Breakfast/Brunch

There are several delicious breakfast and brunch options in NOLA but one of our favorites is Ruby Slipper. The eatery offers all-day brunch and eye-opening cocktails while preparing meals from scratch and using local ingredients when possible. The menu offers American, Cajun, and Creole dishes but is sure to have something for everyone.

Lunch

Napoleon House is located in the heart of the historical French Quarter in the heart of New Orleans. If you’re looking for a true Louisianan lunch, this is the place! They offer muffalettas, po’boys, jambalaya, seafood gumbo, and other Creole staples.

Dinner

We recommend Herbsaint, an upscale French and American restaurant with views of historic St. Charles Avenue, for a nice dinner. Herbsaint offers local and sustainably sourced seafood and meats and has an extensive wine list.

Libations

New Orleans has one of the highest bars per capita in the US so there is no shortage of bars in the city. NOLA is also the birthplace of several cocktails including the hurricane, the grasshopper, the sazerac, and more! Bourbon street is packed with lively, eclectic bars. A few of our favorites are Tropical Isle, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, and The Swamp on Bourbon Street. Not only is the city known for its bar scene, but New Orleans is also famous for its drive-thru daiquiris.

Best Way to Get Around

New Orleans has various methods of transportation that make getting around the city easy! Streetcars are a fun way to explore and they are a staple to NoLa. Uber and Lyft are also both active in the city. The flat terrain makes biking a fun way to explore. Bike rentals are available through Blue Bikes.