Casablanca on The Ocean West Tower

Room 904 had a direct ocean and pool view, bright light, and crisp, clean sheets. The corner kitchen came with a full-size refrigerator and everything needed for cooking and eating, plus a table for four. There was also a nice walk-in shower, and I appreciated being able to adjust the air conditioning. We didn’t need a car. The free trolley runs from North to South Beach, and the bus from here to the airport is only $2.25. The pool was clean and very large, though not heated. Don’t waste your money on breakfast, there’s a small restaurant right across the street. Thanks, Alex. I had a fantastic time!

The room’s power went out just five minutes after we arrived. We called the front desk and waited 20 minutes, then a woman called back to say they had no one to send to fix it. The number in the email went unanswered too. When you need service or help, you’re on your own, even though they have a list of charges they can bill you for. The building walls, doors, and windows were nearly broken, the furniture looked like it was from the ’80s, and the restroom was so cramped that someone weighing 180 lbs couldn’t sit on the toilet without touching the wall. The online listing was very misleading. This isn’t really a resort, just a room rented by an owner without hotel management, maintenance, or service. Don’t spoil your trip by staying here.

I stay here six nights each month, and the new restaurant is fantastic. It’s truly affordable, and the staff are always friendly. The sunset from the rooftop lounge is breathtaking. It’s cheaper and better than the Hilton across the street, where I go for happy hour most days. I just bought one of their Sultan Suites as an investment.

The bay view is lovely, and there’s always someone at the front desk. The location is the main thing you’re paying for, with the free south /north beach trolley nearby. For the price, I expected more updates: the patio chairs were torn, the hot tub wasn’t working well until we complained, and our towels had stains. There were three of us, but when we asked for another comforter, they said they had none left.