The Miami Beach Edition has long been one of my favorite hotels anywhere in the world and in hometown nonetheless!!!
The property remains visually stunning, the rooms are immaculate, and several teams-including bell staff, housekeeping, spa front desk, and spa technicians-continue to deliver truly exceptional service.
That said, during my recent stay, I noticed a decline in several areas that matter at a luxury property charging premium rates, a $75 resort fee, and $80 nightly valet.
Smoking on property was the most surprising issue. Guests were openly smoking cigarettes at the pool, on the Matador Bar terrace, and even at the chairs directly beside the front entrance. The smell of an ashtray frequently drifted through shared spaces, at times making the area feel more like a Days Inn. than a flagship Marriott luxury property. I've always understood Marriott hotels to be non-smoking-including outdoor public areas—so this was both unexpected and disappointing.
Food quality at Tropicale pool bar also fell short. For the prices charged, the dishes were not at the level expected from a brand that is aligned with Ritz-Carlton standards.
Pool staffing appeared insufficient as well. Used towels piled up around us one day as the staff walked by without picking them up. Trash also accumulated around our seating area for long stretches, and without visible garbage cans, guests had no way to dispose of items themselves. If staffing levels can't support timely clearing, providing accessible waste bins would be a simple fix.
Valet service was consistently slow, with waits of around 15 minutes each time we
requested our car.
Despite these issues, the Edition's design, ambiance, and many of its employees remain world-class. I still consider it a special property, but at these price points, the inconsistencies are hard to ignore. The hotel is too good-and too expensive-to let standards slip. I hope management addresses these concerns so the Edition
can continue to be the exceptional experience it once was.