My Favorite Hotel in Miami

Wednesday November 28, 2007

Recently I had an overnight layover in Miami before an overseas trip, and was looking for something a little more interesting than the airport hotel. I'm so glad I looked around, because what I found turned out to be one of my favorite hotels anywhere.

The Mandarin Oriental Miami had, surprisingly, among the best nightly rates of the hotels I looked at - despite the high level of service and luxury, it was the off season, and with Florida resident rates at $189 a night (regular rates were around $219), it was the perfect opportunity to check in.

There were a number of things to love about this hotel. First, it was a quick fifteen minute taxi ride from the Miami International Airport, perfect for my overnight layover. When I walked into the lobby, I was greeted by the soft sound of flowing water and the subtle scent of incense, a big departure from the unpleasant airport environment. When I commented on the scent, one of the front desk staff - who wasn't even checking me in - photocopied the box for my reference in case I wanted to track it down once I got home.

Once in the room (I stayed in a large Junior Suite), turndown service was another area where the Mandarin Oriental really stood out. I always like to have the pillows fluffed and maybe a chocolate treat on my pillow, but if it doesn't happen, it's not normally a big deal. Here, the turndown service was so detailed and thoughtful, it made my night. How detailed? The alarm clock on the nightstand was turned to face my pillow. A complimentary bottle of Voss water (not $4.50 a bottle, but complimentary) was left on my nightstand. The hotel services book was opened to the room service menu. The TV was turned to the bed, playing soft music. I even had a fresh flower waiting for me. It was heaven.

I decided to try something I don't normally do, the complimentary shoe shine service. I set my sandals outside the door in a little basket the night before. I woke up the next morning to shoes cleaned and shined and a flower in each. Even my poor overworked sandals were pampered here.

Honestly, I could go on and on about why this is my favorite hotel - an open, accessible plug next to the bed for my cell phone! A soaking tub that actually fills quietly! Sushi served poolside! A fantastic spa! A huge bathroom! Truly attentive service! Room service that didn't forget a thing! -- But I'll leave it at this: it now tops my list of Best Miami Hotels. Even at the in-season rates of $400+ a night, I can say unreservedly that this is one of the few hotels I've experienced that is worth the rate. Take a tour of the Mandarin Oriental Miami.

Pictures of the Mandarin Oriental Miami:
Exterior and Lobby
Swimming Pool and Beach
Restaurants
Guest Room
Balcony and View