Hotels

Over the years, Miami's beaches and nightlife has attracted several visitors from all over the world, leading to an ever-increasing number of upscale hotels. Accommodations in Miami have a vast variation and are conveniently located at different parts of the city.

Lodgings are available at several places in the city from Miami Beach to downtown, from Bal Harbor to Key Biscayne, from Hialeah to Coconut Grove, there are hundreds of hotels with vacancy all through the year.

Most hotels provide spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, beaches and city life to meet different individual preferences. Depending on the type of accommodation, the rooms range from budget size basics to luxurious penthouse and suites.

Simple bed and breakfast rooms and apartment style suites are also available. Some hotels offer a personal butler and masseuse with the room. Hotels in the Art Deco District are best suited for the middle class. Others who intend to use the room only to hoard up during nap times can accommodate themselves at some of Deco District's cheap hotels.

Several hotels and motels found along the South Beach's Collins Avenue offer clean accommodation at relatively low prices. The advantage of staying at South Beach is the proximity of the beach from the hotel and accessibility of several nightlife and dining options.

Lavish hotels located in Miami's Brickell Avenue district offer quality accommodation and are extremely popular with business tycoons and camera shy celebrities.

For a more relaxed and less frenetic experience, an accommodation at any of the resorts on the Key Biscayne is the best option. Beach loving vacationers and shopping enthusiasts will find an ideal lodging at any of the hotels at North Miami Beach. For an old European flair, look for accommodations at any of the delightful hotels at Coral Gables.

A. Recommended Hotels

Mandarin Oriental, Miami

Address: 500 Brickell Key Dr

Miami, FL 33131.

Tel: 305-913-8288

This posh and ritzy hotel combines the urban energy with a unique Zen luxury. Even though the hotel is not on the beach, it is only a few minutes away. The waterfront view of the city is the hotel's best asset, both priceless and absolutely spectacular. One of the best restaurants in Miami, Azul is housed at the hotel.

The hotel also offers excellent spa treatment program using traditional Thai massages and Ayurvedic healing techniques. An outdoor pool, Jacuzzi and a beach club are other features at the hotel.

The hotel has a total of about 327 units. Expect to pay in excess of $500 per night. Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted at the hotel.

The Four Seasons

Address: 1435 Brickell Ave

Miami, FL 33131.

Tel: 305-358-3535

The Four Seasons is a lavish hotel with 221 rooms and 39 luxury suites and quality service. Most rooms at the hotel overlook the Biscayne Bay. A favorite with agoraphobic celebrities and business tycoons, its 70-story building and numerous first class facilities are almost unmatched.

The hotel boasts the 40,000 square foot Splash Spa and Sports Club LA offering world-class service to visitors. The hotel has three beautiful pools spread over 2 acres and also has a martini bar. Expect to pay close to $500 per night for a single room and a maximum price of $4000. Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted at the hotel.

Clay Hotel & International Hostel

Address: 1438 Washington Ave

Miami, FL 33139.

Tel: 305-534-2988

The Clay Hotel and International Hostel occupies a splendid 1920s style Spanish building at the corner of the Espanola Way. The hotel provides cheap and simple accommodations. Part of the International Youth Hostel Federation, the Clay Hotel is open to all ages and people from all over the world. Its sidewalk café is a great place to interact with other tourists over a can of beer.

Accommodations range from $42 to $88 for a double bed per night. MasterCard and Visa cards are accepted for payment at the hotel.

Miami River Inn

Address: 118 SW South River Dr

Miami, FL 33130.

Tel: 800-468-3589, 305-325-0045

If you are looking for a quaint countryside type accommodation the Miami River Inn is your best bet. With 40 units, each room has hardwood floors and is furnished with antiques dating from the 1910s. Visitors can use the library at the hotel, which consists of several books about Miami. A landscaped swimming pool is also present at the hotel.