Sun, Sand and Miami Heat!

Sorry for the late posting, I have been uber busy!
The trip to Miami was fab, of course. I did not get the opportunity to take the pictures that I wanted for documentation due to numerous travel delays, but that is no worry, Miami is a hop, skip and jump and I will be going back soon!

While most of the dining experiences I had left alot to be desired, one thing that I was pleased with was my stay at the Tempo Hotel, which is a Rock Resort if anyone is familiar with the brand. Tempo is ideally located on Biscayne Blvd. downtown, and is off of 95 and right across the street from American Airlines Arena and State Road A1A exit to South Beach. There is alot in this area if one doesn't have transportation, including Bayside Marketplace, which is an outside shopping center next to the arena. Now, I think this area is perfect for the business traveler, I know that the leisure traveler may come to the area wanting to stay on the beach, but for me, this place is perfect. I prefer being away from hustle and bustle and close to major roads so that I can get to where I want to go in a short amount of time. Also, the crazy spring breakers were off the radar for us in this area, which I loved. It took us about 10 minutes to get to and from the airport.

Anyhow, back to Tempo. This boutique style hotel is posh, with a hint of intimacy. Valet parking is included in a resort fee of $30.00 a day, which is mandated to my dismay, but I believe it is worth it especially if you get a nice price for your stay. The $30.00 includes access to the fitness center, daily choice of national or local newspaper and spring water in your room, which is presented in a logo glass canister (not for you to take home, by the way ;-)).

This room type was a double queen suite, we were actually given a complimentary upgrade due to a special I got off of Expedia. This room had a large balcony with chairs and table and a nice view of Biscayne Bay. The price was excellent too, so we were able to splurge and still have a little money to be flexible and shop and dine as we wanted. It took us about 10 minutes to get to South Beach also, which was good for us too. It was a pain finding parking in that area but other than that, everything else was a breeze.

I also visited the spa on property. I was able to call in at the last minute and get in, which was perfect. Everyone was friendly, the prices are moderate and the services were good. It is a very relaxing atmosphere, beautifully decorated and tucked away from the rest of the hotel. 

Now from what I understand, this property is fairly new, having been open since about October of 2010, so there were a few kinks, what some would be angry over but I view them as annoyances, but I am sure those things will work out as time goes on, because new properties have to have time to adjust. All and all I think this is a great place to stay and I believe that once they get everything ironed out, it will be even better. As I say with everything, service is paramount and the attention we received from the staff was excellent, I have absolutely no complaints on that end. We didn't have to wait for anything and if we ever needed anything or had any questions, the staff was extremely helpful.

This property is recommended for the business traveler and those who are traveling for anniversaries, sporting events and other local events in the downtown area.