Arrival/Check-In: Arriving after a quick drive from meetings, bustling Collins Avenue beckoned me to get in the Miami mood. Driving down the famed avenue on approach to the retro driveway entrance of the Shelborne South Beach, I found that mood. The crisp, white exterior with a geometrically pleasing façade was just the ticket for those who admire a vintage touch with a modern twist. Upon entry to the lobby, it is clear this is a chic and tasteful atmosphere. In the roomy but inviting lobby, I found the front desk staff accommodating. Upon check-in, I made my way through the building toward the back, passing the on-site restaurant, café and trendy bar. Elevators were readily available to take me to my home away from home for a few days.
Guest Quarters: Entering my room, I was immediately struck by the fun black-and-white beach photographs on the walls. The tones of sandy beige and white linen encouraged a feeling of beach vibes right away. The room layout proved accommodating for both leisure and business travel, featuring a large desk for evening office work; a great dresser equipped with minibar, fridge and snack bar; a large lounge chair for reading; and — since I was in a corner room — a balcony overlooking the beach. The balcony offered city gazing to the far left and vast ocean views to the immediate right.
The linens and bed were quite supportive, needed after a busy day of meetings.
The bathroom met all the traditional needs one has when traveling. I’m a fan of a tub but find the shower option is better for the environment, so that was certainly a win. The vanity and lighting fixtures were modern yet elegant.
Services/Amenities: The hotel’s location is something to note. Being right on Collins Avenue, it provides the Miami restaurant and shopping amenities outside the front door. Also situated on beachfront property, the hotel hosts a perfect scenario for the aquatic aficionado; ocean or poolside, you are sure to find your spot in the Florida sun! The hotel staff are all kind and courteous. The lobby café makes an excellent spot for a morning pick-me-up, and for the after-5 crowd, the Drawing Room provides a chic and hip spot for a cocktail mixed to perfection or an entrée to savor. Planning a meeting or social event? The Shelborne boasts a multitude of event space options with seating up to 360. The property combines style with practicality, making it a great hotel for creating a Miami memory.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ Should you be too tired to venture out on the town or even down to the restaurant, the hotel boasts a great room service menu.
◆ The Shelborne offers townhome-style suites for those traveling with families or small groups, providing a spacious, flexible alternative to booking multiple rooms.
◆ The GUYandGIRL bathroom amenities smell divine, and I highly recommend trying them. Leave your traditional bath products at home!
SHELBORNE SOUTH BEACH
1801 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
tel 305 531 1271
shelborne.com
By: Stephanie Makowski
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