Miami - Mandarin Oriental
Summer 2007
Frank's view 
As we approached the Mandarin Oriental in Miami the camel had a hissy spitty fit with itself.
I had booked the hotel (naively unfamiliar with Miami) believing it to be close to South Beach. It was around a 25 minute cab ride from South Beach and the central buzz of Miami. What a disaster!
American Express Hotel and Fine Resort Programme was offering three nights for the price of two at Mandarin Oriental Hotels and this, coupled with an upgrade to a top suite, resulted in a phenomenal deal, the only problem being that the hotel is in the wrong place.
This camel really did have the hump until I noticed a brochure which made reference to Casa Casuarina, Versace’s former mansion. I have learned through experience that it really is worth flicking through the bits and pieces of literature when you arrive in a room to see what the hotel has on offer.
As the Mandarin Oriental is clearly aware of the issue it presents guests by being so far removed from the action of South Beach, it has made a “clever” move by striking a deal with the owners of Casa Casuarina, which is now a very exclusive Private Member’s Club. It’s not cheap at $150 per person, but this sum buys you limo transport to the club and one day membership. The guided tour of the mansion alone was worth the money.
Large hotels groups such as Mandarin Oriental have been historically business orientated and criticised as soulless and complacent. Our suite was slick and faultless, but was mass produced accommodation with no individual character or personality. Penhaligon toiletries were much appreciated rather than the usual Mandarin offering of those appallingly packaged Aromatherapy Associates toiletries.
The concierge was very efficient and there is no doubt that these guys do have clout when it comes to restaurant reservations. He secured us top tables at two Miami restaurants which are notoriously difficult to get into.
These large Hotel Groups are making an effort to expand beyond the business market and win wealthy clients from the booming Boutiques.
On this occasion the camel calmed down and acknowledged that all had worked out for the best.
Mandarin Oriental
Brickell Key
Miami
+1 305 913 8288
www.mandarinoriental.com/miami
Be Frank: agree or disagree? What do you think?
