Mondrian South Beach

The location was fine, about a mile's walk from the beach, but the price felt like it included water access. There wasn't any beach access mentioned in what I experienced. Parking was valet only, for $50 a night, and we weren't told until we arrived. Expedia made it seem like the daily resort fee was included in what I'd paid upfront, but that turned out to be another $60 a night. For that, there was no daily room cleaning, and the pool closed at 8, sometimes earlier. One evening we arrived at 8 and were told it closed at 8:30. We asked if we could just take a quick look at the view and were refused. The next day we came at 7:30 to have an hour before closing, but the pool now closed at 8, and we still weren't allowed to look around. The mini fridge was packed with drinks for sale, so I had nowhere for leftovers. There were no pots, pans, or utensils in the kitchen despite the stove. The spa was ridiculously expensive, starting at $200 per person, and after all the surprise fees it was out of reach. The bed was uncomfortable, the TV was tiny, and the windows didn't open. They tested the fire alarms during our visit and had to enter our room. All they offered was a note saying they'd be testing them all week and "sorry." Not worth resort prices when I couldn't access the resort amenities.

We booked a studio through Airbnb, so I can only speak to that unit. For what we paid, it felt worn out: mold on the bathroom tiles, missing or loose shower tiles, a cheap bureau, just one casual chair, and a kitchen table with four chairs stained from constant use. One side of the bed has a permanent dip. Remember to include the daily resort fee when pricing it out. The staff were really nice and very helpful, and we had great views with amazing sunsets. The place is also loud. On weekends, the pool area has a strong party vibe with music, and people shout between patios late into the night. It's easy to walk to small restaurants, coffee shops, and a Whole Foods store. Unfortunately, there's a rumor it may close this year because the property owner plans something different, perhaps another condo or hotel. There's no beach access and no shopping nearby.

The pool staff were rude, and so were the people at check-in. Valet may have been the only nice part of this hotel. I stayed here five years ago, before last weekend, and it was such a disappointment to see how far downhill the place has gone. It was dirty, dirty. I had to call housekeeping when we arrived because there was sand and Tylenol pills all over the floor, and the shower hadn't been cleaned at all. There was a bad water leak and dirt buildup everywhere. When the cleaner arrived, she had one rag, a disposable-looking mop, and a spray bottle. I told her right away she needed a vacuum. She said that would work, but when it didn't, she finally asked for a vacuum to be brought up.

Nathalie “Naty” at the pool bar made my sister’s birthday feel so special. She tucked away the cake and brought it out at just the right time, and her service was thoughtful the whole day. Her food and drinks were delicious, too. We spent the day relaxing at the spa and then enjoying the pool. It was such a lovely way to celebrate, and we’ll be back soon.