Miami Beach Resort

The staff were courteous and helpful, and the hotel's entrance looks beautifully updated or maintained. The rooms were a letdown, though, and below average. Ours was small and dated, with old, damp-feeling carpet and aged bed linen. The toilet wouldn't refill with water. For what they offer, it costs too much.

The pool was well kept, and the staff were really nice. Whenever we needed help with one of the many little things, they took care of it right away without any fuss. I especially appreciated how accommodating and kind the manager was. He did everything he could to make sure we were happy and enjoying the trip, which made a real difference. The property also has fantastic views and filling, well-prepared food. The rooms could use some sprucing up, though; they feel a bit dated.

The restaurant and bar staff were AMAZING, and they were the highlight of our one-night stay. The rest of it left me unhappy. Check-in took 10 minutes while we waited for another staff member to come to the desk, even though someone was in the concierge area with no client. We then waited almost 20 minutes for a slow elevator. The rooms weren't what I expected either. The reception was beautiful and elegant, but the rooms were outdated, and the air freshener they used was so overpowering that my beach bags still smell of it. The bed had an old-school spring mattress. I know the hotel was the Old Doral, but for what I paid for one night, I won't stay again. I can get a cheaper, bigger, more comfortable room at the Days Inn in Oceanfront.

The housekeeping was fantastic, and the room stayed clean. Service was excellent at the front desk, in the dining area, and from housekeeping, and the food was good. My room had a PHENOMENAL view, with direct access to the beach and pool. The bathroom toilet is really short and there's no fan. The carpet felt moist, though it didn't smell. There's no room service or cable TV, and the workout area looked unsafe enough that it should be closed until repairs are done. With the other hotel options around, I'll probably try another resort. I wouldn't rule out coming back, but I'd wait until updates have been made.