SMART BRICKELL HOTEL, Miami

The hotel sits on the edge of the vibrant Brickell neighbourhood, putting you within a 5-minute walk of major shopping (Brickell City Centre), dining (Brickell Street, Miami Boulevard), and a Publix supermarket. The Brickell Metromover station is a short walk away, giving you free access to downtown Miami, while the free Miami Trolley stops nearby for connections to Little Havana, Wynwood, and Coconut Grove. Miami International Airport is 10 km away (about 25 minutes by car), and the Port of Miami is 10-15 minutes by taxi. Lummus Park is a 19-minute walk, and Bayfront Park Station is 2 km away. The area is walkable and safe at night, though the immediate surroundings include an active construction site that affects the view and morning quiet.

All rooms are apartment-style, offering 1-2 bedrooms, a separate living area, and a private bathroom with shower. Every unit has a private balcony (all rooms have one) with city views, plus air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a sofa bed. Kitchens come with a refrigerator, microwave, kettle, coffee maker, and washer/dryer - but do not include plates, cutlery, or cooking utensils, so plan to eat out or bring your own. Rooms are spacious and clean, with comfortable beds and modern fixtures. The décor is very minimalist - white walls, no artwork - which some describe as 'sterile' or 'unfinished'. Noise from the corridor and adjacent construction can be an issue, especially on lower floors and rooms facing the building site. Light sleepers should request a high floor and a room not facing the construction. Electrical outlets are limited, and there are no USB ports or in-room safes. The TV uses a smart system that requires personal login credentials for live channels.

Breakfast is not provided on the property or included in the room rate. Instead, guests receive a voucher for a cafe just a few steps from the hotel entrance, where they can select a set breakfast of a croissant (sweet or savoury), a coffee, and a small orange juice. A la carte items or alternative drinks (e.g., tea, latte) are available at an extra cost. The cafe's service can be slow during peak hours. For a wider selection, dozens of restaurants - from fast food (McDonald's, Wendy's, Dunkin') to casual dining (Sushi Sake, Poke 305, Toasted Bagelry & Deli) - are within a 0.5 km walk. Brickell City Centre and nearby streets also offer many sit-down options. The hotel's own restaurant is not yet open, and there is no on-site bar or coffee shop beyond the cafe.

The main wellness area is on the 8th floor and includes two outdoor swimming pools - one of which is heated - along with a sun terrace and a gym that is adequately equipped for a workout. A full spa & wellness centre with spa facilities, a sauna, a spa lounge, and wellness packages is available on site. The pools offer good city views, though part of the pool deck may be closed due to adjacent construction. Pool hours are until 8 PM. Towels are provided at the pool area. The fitness centre is modern and includes locker rooms. Guests report that the pool area is often quiet and a relaxing retreat from the busy city.

Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas, though each unit is supposed to have its own network; if you encounter issues, the front desk can assist. The 24-hour front desk offers services including private check-in/out, luggage storage, and lockers. The business centre, fax/photocopying, and meeting/banquet facilities are available at an additional charge. Valet parking costs $20 per day (with a $120 security deposit at check-in); note that the car might take up to 20 minutes to retrieve at busy times. Daily housekeeping is free but may require a request at the front desk; it is not automatic for all rooms. The hotel can receive packages for guests. There are no on-site ATMs, but an ATM is located on the premises. The property has lift access, family rooms, and is non-smoking throughout. The front desk team is available around the clock.