| What to expect: A towering l7-story resort hotel with 300 rooms, the Castillo del Mar sits on busy Collins Avenue in the heart of Miami Beach. Entering the hotel, leisure travelers are met with a cool, low-lit lobby offsetting the bright Florida sunshine. Gold-framed paintings, statues, plush sofas, and chairs create quiet conversation areas. Amenity highlights: Overlooking the beach is an outdoor lap pool, children’s pool, and deck area. Lighted tennis courts are nearby. Hotel guests receive discounts at the Russian & Turkish Baths, which offers spa services (surcharge) and a fitness room. Insider tip: Several of Miami’s well-known shopping centers are nearby. Bal Harbour Mall, 3.5 miles from the hotel, is anchored by Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, and has designer boutiques including Bvlgari, Cartier, Chanel, D&G, Escada, and Salvatore Ferragamo. For South Beach designer shopping, nothing beats Lincoln Road, five miles away. |