I seldom mention housing when I write about my travels. I am looking for a quiet, safe space where I can drop off my luggage, and head out the door. The two amenities that I require are a private bedroom and bathroom. And no pets or smoking so four requirements! I knew my West Alabama weekend would consist of early mornings and late nights so The Woolworth Lofts in Selma was perfect for my needs and worth writing about.

My first hostel stay alarmed some of my friends but I’ve never seen those movies so I wasn’t concerned. It was actually in an older hotel in Paris and I had my own room and a small bathroom with the tiniest shower I’ve ever seen. It was about two blocks from the metro, in a residential area, and perfect for my needs. My next hostel stay was in Ireland and, again, I had my own bedroom and this time a bathroom that was larger than the bedroom!! My first Airbnb was in Dublin in a beautiful historical home within walking distance to museums and restaurants. It had a shared bathroom but my host and I never ran into each other since I was up and out of the house all day.

I had planned to stay at the newly renovated St. James Hotel in Selma but needed some place larger in case friends came to visit, so I looked for alternative housing. I found a listing for an Airbnb in a historical building and jumped on it. 

Suite B of the Woolworth lofts is light, bright, and charming. Check out the video here. I met my host, Ac, and she was full of enthusiasm and recommendations for things to do. My itinerary was set, but I appreciated the offer. Ac also runs a Selma tour company and is a library of information about the town.

Although the loft faces the Main Street, there isn’t much traffic noise. The bedrooms are on the side and back of the loft and provide the solace I needed for a good night’s rest. Street parking is available in front or on the side. I thought it might get too hot for me with those large windows, but the combination of fans and air conditioning kept me cool. Ac did a magnificent job of transforming the space into a livable apartment. 

Ac and I met again at the Food for Thought event in Newbern and it turns out she knows everyone! I’m confident it’s not just a “small town” thing but a result of her generosity of spirit. I’m confident that I’ll be returning to West Alabama next year for more adventures and hope this loft is available again. 

I loved watching the sun rise, hearing the sounds of trains passing, and seeing the Edmund Pettus bridge from my window. I loved imagining the history those windows have seen. And I love seeing the The Queen City’s continued revival and resurrection.

If you are planning a trip to West Alabama and need a unique place to stay, you should book the Woolworth Lofts. Ac has several additional units available if Suite B isn’t. Thanks Ac for a great time. We’ll definitely see each other again.

Are you planning a trip to West Alabama? Would you consider staying at the Woolworth Lofts? Of course you are, book it here.

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