Imagine an evening in the family parlor at the Biltmore estate, surrounded by luxurious antiques, the warmth of the fire draining away the tension of a busy corporate day, stretched out in your smoking jacket or Victorian dressing gown, and that special book you've been postponing for the "right time". Each room at The Empress conveys just such a feeling in your own private sitting area. Or imagine luxuriating in the "bath of the century" (19th that is) provided by a claw foot tub and the soft glow of long ago lighting. Perhaps the lure of the "secret" watch tower in the turret intrigues you. Or imagine yourself as Scarlett, descending a magnificent double staircase made of walnut and cypress, lighted by the rainbow hues of a 64 square foot stained glass skylight. Breakfast smells beckon you to leisurely dining served from the verandah or the formal dining room, resplendent with silver service and unrushed conversation, where true Southern hospitality is served, along with English crumpets. Queen Victoria would have nodded her approval.