Miami is a mecca for New Yorkers looking for the equivalent of NY nightlife minus the flux and cold weather. Plus there is what seems like unlimited beaches which is the best bonus.
But true luxury, serenity, and privacy can be found at the Setai South Beach. I stayed at the City View Suites which overlook Collins Avenue, home of many of the restored Art Deco buildings of Miami, including the structure of the Suites building.
The centerpiece of the hotel is this courtyard with water view. The courtyard seating is plentiful and comfortable. The Asian inspired zen theme is entwined in every aspect of the hotel from the entry way to the bar, poll area, and spa. With sprawling palm trees and a serene pond of sorts, this area goes from a calm sanctuary to get some writing done to the hottest club at night.
Stepping inside my room at the Setai literally took away any ounce of stress that could have existed in my body. The junior suite sits directly above Collins Avenue sans the street noise. The dark wood, soothing lowlights, and almost sound proof room made coming in from the hot and busy Miami streets so much easier and welcoming.
The suite decor is Asian minimalist and features a living room with a daybed/window seats around the perimeter with enclosed bedroom and bathroom.
The seating area hots Bose surround-sound CD/DVD system, espresso maker, and 22-inch flat-screen LCD TV that extends from the wall and swivels toward the seating area or towards the bed. Ignoring my messy bed, I was welcomed with a bottle of chilled wine and delicious truffles as well as a beautiful, dark brown Setai branded straw beach bag. I skipped the wine.
With a handmade Duxiana king-sized bed, I slept like a spoiled baby. Most of my time in the room was spent in the linen sheets of this bed.
walkway to the pools
Available by the temperature-controlled pools or on the beach, the day-beds provide the ultimate comfort. They also offer full service includes towels, water, magazines and iPods for use, a body spritzer. Yes, I did mention they have three temperature-controlled pool from 75-90 degrees.
And this is where I find my oasis, the beach. Easily the best of the south beaches. Clean, exclusive and nature’s luxury. I walked up to the wooden hut and ask for a chair to be set up. These huge teak wood lounge chairs with comfy cushions was easily a place to fall asleep in the sun. The gentleman who service the beach area are attentive and swift to help set up your area with umbrella and towels.
The Setai has achieved Luxury Eco Certification Standard for Hoteliers (LECS). Their primary goal is to make sure their guests maintain an luxury feel while passively participating in the eco-friendly aspects. Instillation of low flow faucets and showerheads, implementation of energy efficient additions such as LED TVs and light bulks, and installing lights sensors have significantly reduced both water and electricity consumption. Employees also participate in community events from the Beach clean ups to the Aids Walk.
The active participation for guests include opting in for linen re-use, towel re-use, and in-room recycling. There is a bedside card which explains the linen re-use policy (optional for guests to participate) and in-room recycling program. I also got a chance to sit with the head of the Setai green team and provide further implementations that would add (not hinder) a luxurious feel while providing more eco-friendly options.
Overall, the hotel hospitality from the front desk to the concierge and beach area, was incredible and super helpful. When you stay at the Setai, expect complete peace, privacy, and upscale. It is a place to be treated like the queen or king that you are and I came out feeling rejuvenated. My lesson was learned; eco can be entirely luxurious. The Setai is definitely a hotel worth returning to again and again.
Have you ever stayed at any of the Setai Hotels? What has been your experience? Leave a comment and let me know!
Disclosure: Complimentary hotel stay and services were courtesy of The Setai. I received no other compensation and no requirements that I express a particular point of view.
