Royal Palm South Beach Miami, a Tribute Portfolio Resort

I've stayed here twice and do like the hotel, mostly for its great location and friendly staff. A few room details could use attention, though. The bed is old and creaks whenever I move, and the tub is so high that even at 6'1 and relatively fit, I worried I'd trip getting in. The mini fridge is stocked with small bar items, leaving no room for your own food or water. They should provide an empty fridge for guests. A beach chair and towel are included with the reservation at the hotel's beach area, but an umbrella isn't. It cost $10 for a day on my first visit, then $30 the next year. Rates have varied from $147 to $329 per night for me, even on weeks and weekends without events. Maybe it's an algorithm, but they should look into it. I'm not usually a picky guest, but these things stood out.

The building could use a refresh, and the hotel is kept so cold by the AC that saving some energy there might help pay for renovations. Even so, the location is great, right by the beach and close to Lincoln road's shops and restaurants. The staff and service were excellent. Christopher deserves a special mention: when I had to change rooms, he brought my new key down to me at the beach without being asked, among other things he did to make the stay better. I'd rate the hotel five stars if more of it didn't need renovation.

The people working here made our one-night South Beach stay special. We were traveling for business, and Cameron at the front desk was professional, kind, and helpful. At breakfast, Linelle made amazing omlets, and Edwin looked after us so well that he even remembered our drink preferences the next morning. Jeff and Orlando set up the beach umbrella and chairs, with towels arranged just right for us. Everyone went out of their way to help. The hotel itself was clean and nice, in a safe beachfront area, and I'd highly recommend it.

The staff are great, and the location puts you on the beach near Lincoln avenue. But the hotel's condition is poor: the bathroom ceiling is damp, cabinets are broken, there are cracks in the ceiling, and the bathroom smells old. The TV's internet doesn't work, and there are more problems beyond those. I've been loyal to Marriott for over 20 years, and this is probably the first time they've underperformed for me. Marriott may fill the hotel because of its location and lower cost than nearby Loews and the Ritz-Carlton, but at some point it needs to consider its reputation. If this had been my first Marriott stay, or my first year with the brand, I might have switched to Hilton.