From the colourful art deco buildings of Ocean Drive to the white beaches and glamour of South Beach, there’s no time to rest in this Florida hotspot
Words Hannah Hopkins
Famed for its trendsetting nightclubs and surfside hotels, there’s a whole lot more to Miami than partying. Home to the celebrated Art Basel show, packed with award-winning restaurants and bars, and a hub for all kinds of watersports, it’s no wonder trendsetters are flocking there this autumn. Tempted to book? Here are 20 reasons why Miami should be your next big trip.
1WHERE TO STAY
Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Faena is the name on everyone’s lips when it comes to luxury hotels in Miami, and it certainly meets and exceeds all expectation. Evoking Miami’s golden age of glamour, the landmark hotel’s guestrooms and suites boast signature butler service and a bespoke blend of late-Deco flair and contemporary amenities. Opulent in more ways the one, the lobby areas come bedecked in gold and murals, while the metallic Damien Hirst woolly mammoth is a serious talking point by the pool.
The Miami Beach EDITION
For a boutique hotel with a twist book into the Miami Beach EDITION, located in the historic heart of Mid-Beach. Its interlinked complex of structures harbour sumptuous suites, a luxury spa, pool with diving board, outdoor chill areas and a basement entertainment zone complete with bowling alley, ice skating rink and a nightclub, aptly named BASEMENT, where Drake and Rihanna partied not long ago. Don’t miss dinner at the on-site MARKET restaurant, which serves quite possibly the best spinach and three-cheese pizza ever.
Mandarin Oriental Miami
For pure luxury check into the Mandarin Oriental, where you might find it hard to leave your hotel room. Its sophisticated rooms come with private balconies and free-standing tubs, and upgraded suites have complimentary airport car service, bars and private chefs. Food wise, you’re spoilt for choice with Peruvian, modern American and Asian outposts. We love the poolside cafe with sweeping views of Miami.
The Setai Miami
Fronting the ocean in South Beach’s lively art deco district The Setai, just a half-mile from the upscale Lincoln Road Mall and the Miami Beach Convention Centre. Its Asian-inspired suites are the ultimate in luxury with rainfall showers, gourmet kitchens and whirlpool baths. Take your pick from no fewer than three outdoor pools or hit the private beach for sunbathing and cocktails.
W South Beach
The cool crowd flock to W South Beach for ultra chic rooms – think crocodile-skin headboards, glass balconies and contemporary wall art – combined with Chinese and seafood restaurants, a lively poolside grill and an opulent lobby nightclub. Got a few hours to spare? Relax in the trendy beauty spa or hit the rooftop basketball court.
CULTURE
