Picture Tuesday: Mandarin Oriental Miami, Downtown's Most Luxe Address
October 27, 2009
Usually when I head to Miami, I like to stay out at the beach. But the last time I visited, I had some business to take care of downtown, and opted for a room at the Mandarin Oriental Miami, which occupies the bulk of the tiny but tony island of Brickell Key (the Brickell area is booming with restaurants, and has more of a local feel than nearby South Beach).
My first sign that this was going to be a great experience was when I told Miami friends where I planned to stay. the Mandarin Oriental Miami has an excellent reputation, and everyone I talked to said it was one of the very classiest addresses in town. It was a cinch to convince a friend to meet me for dinner at the signature restaurant, Azul, a delicious epicurean experience that I detailed in an earlier blog.
So now for the news about the joys of actually bedding down here!
The first thing that struck me were the amazing city views from my room -- all sparkly and glittery and dream-inducing. The balcony itself was enormous. Seriously, I could have hosted a wedding reception out there. And the expansive city views brought the outside right into my room, giving me that thrilling I'm-in-a-big-city rush! The effect was something like on a cruise ship, with the gilttering bay filling in the blanks of my view. And when I peered over the balcony, I could see a section of the lovely infinity pool below and the hotel's private manmade beach, with cabanas and day beds set in a patch of sand on the bay (the hotel advises guests don't actually swim in the water, however -- stick to poolside plunges instead). A walking path encircles the island, and it's a perfect spot to go for a stroll with nonstop Biscayne Bay views.
My suite was totally decadent but not overdone, with a large soaking tub in a bathroom clad with yellow marble that opened up to the bedroom and balcony views beyond. You can soak in the tub while viewing the city, love it. The simple decor scheme mixed a warm Florida feel with the Zen Asian themes that are the signature of Mandarin Oriental properties worldwide. There was a white chair and a loveseat in a sitting area that invited entertaining. And the bed, clad in crisp white linens (all hotels should do this!), was super comfortable.
I also really appreciated the all-business but friendly manner of the Mandarin Oriental's staff, who didn't blink at any request. When I told the valet guys upon arrival that I needed to park my aging car myself (which is sometimes an issue), they were happy to ride along with me into the garage without thinking twice. It's little touches like that that I really appreciate when staying at a luxury hotel. And at the Mandarin Oriental Miami, you definitely feel that the customer is king (or queen!). I'll be back, for sure.
Mandarin Oriental Miami
500 Brickell Key, Miami
305-913-8288
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