By Dmitry Rashnitsov
Shelbourne pool overlooking the beach
This historic hotel used to host Miss America pageants in the 1960s but now its 200 redesigned rooms host the hottest partygoers in South
beach. The Shelbourne has seven different room configurations from a standard two-bed room to a two-bedroom townhouse with four beds and a private pool. Each room has flat screen TVs, a stereo sound system and mini bars; some rooms come with washers and dryers. A large pool for all patrons is a step away from the beach as well. Stop in for a meal at Terrace Café or for a cocktail at the Sun and Shape Bar.
Wows and Woes
The rooms may be the most upscale pleasant concoctions in South Beach. They are admirably decorated and ultra comfortable. With views of the ocean it's sometimes hard to leave.
The parking and traffic getting into the hotel is a huge hassle. Parking garages around the area are the best alternative, or skip the rental car and take a cab from the airport.
Insider Tips
The concierge desk has special deals with two spas in town and can get a discount on an in-room masseuse. They have also put together golf packages with transportation and a romance package with champagne, chocolates and roses that will certainly surprise your spouse.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
While most hotels I've stayed at in South Beach have terrible staff, the Shelbourne is the exception. From the time we checked in, to every time we came downstairs, every employee said or nodded hello, asked if everything was ok, wanted to send extra's to the room and overall gave us a pleasant feeling. This may be my favorite hotel in all of South Florida.
Bottom Line
The Shelbourne does not come cheap, but this lap of luxury may be worth every penny.
About the Author:
Dmitry Rashnitsov is a writer based out of Fort Lauderdale. His work has appeared in the "Sun-Sentinel" newspaper, "South Florida Blade" newspaper, "Cape Coral Daily Breeze," "411 Magazine," "South Florida CEO Magazine" and the Examiner.com web platform. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Arizona.
