For one reason or another, I’ve had Miami on my mind. Not for the nightlife, but because it seems to be one of the easiest destinations to travel to from Nashville. Seeking a relaxing mini-break, I was unsure if a city where dinner served before 10 p.m. is considered early was the location for me. But, once I discovered The Setai—a resort promising guests the best of South Beach with the private serenity of a beach vacation—I was ready to book my weekend getaway.
The Arrival
Southwest Airlines has a direct flight into Fort Lauderdale and American flies into Miami from Nashville. I highly suggest booking a driver—Anywhere Anytime Transportation is the sedan service we used. Only a few more dollars than a cab, and it was well worth it.
The Ambiance
The Setai South Beach was built to emphasize luxury and service, both of which were executed perfectly. The ambiance and the care with which the staff treats guests make The Setai extraordinary—and Miami’s most luxurious hotel. Tribute to the state fruit is made throughout the hotel: oranges are used as decoration, filling candleholders in the day, then replaced in the evening with candles that burn late into the night, creating a constant warm glow. The Setai’s décor and design is clean and fresh, with modern flare. Highlights from Shanghai’s Art Deco period, tie in with Miami’s own Deco aesthetic.
The Room
We stayed in a studio—the smallest type of the 130 rooms and suites, but I must admit my favorite and the most intimate. A heavenly tub was in the room, surrounded by a couch-lined living area with the bed floating between the living space and the bathrooms. The rain shower was the best I’ve experienced, accompanied by warm and not-too-bright lighting, and the bath products by Laura Tonatto were equally inviting. We were lucky enough to tour other rooms, including the 10,000-square-foot penthouse, complete with multiple elevators opening into the space, as well as a rooftop pool.
The Beach, Pool and Spa
Set in sultry gardens, three gleaming pools, heated to different temperatures, lead down to a delicious stretch of white sand beach. The Setai Spa Menu is served poolside with offerings like “The Setai Surya,” a head, neck and shoulder massage. Close by is The Spa where treatments are provided in personalized suites.
The Recording Studio
Also unique to the hotel is The Setai Recording Studio. This state-of-the-art digital and analog recording facility is located in a two-floor penthouse suite. The 2,500-square-foot musical haven is split level, with 1,400 square feet in studio space, including a control room and office space. Clients not only have a place to record, but a place to unwind—there’s a lounge and 500 square feet of private balcony with ocean views to keep guests relaxed. Past celebrities using the Setai Recording Studio include Timbaland, Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z. (Country recording artists are welcome, too.)
The Bar and Courtyard
The Bar is the perfect place to begin an evening or complete it. The cocktails are eclectic, but not unusual to the palate. Mixologist Paul Sevigny infuses the spirits himself, so nothing you drink is filled with additives and preservatives. My favorite was the Soju Lutus—made with cucumber infused soju, gin, yuzu juice, lavender syrup and cucumber caviar, this concoction is refreshing and not too sweet. Sophisticated variations on Asian stall-vendor foods are also served at the Bar & Courtyard. Try the Dim Sum sampler.
The Restaurant
I was directed by friends in every direction when it came to dining. After popping in a few places the first night, we decided the food elsewhere couldn’t possibly top that in our luxurious surroundings. Curious if The Setai’s cuisine matched its accommodations, we decided to dine at The Restaurant. Tastes from China, Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia create the Asian-themed menu offered here. We took advantage of the seasonal BottleShock menu, a three-course dinner paired with the wine cellar’s best at a discounted 40 percent off made for an amazing meal. My boyfriend chose a guest favorite from the list, Pork Belly. Braised then crisp fried, this house favorite delicacy was quick to become his. I dined off of the main menu, choosing The Restaurant’s signature dish, the Black Cod. Miso-roasted in black truffle broth, this was the best fish I’ve ever eaten. Note: Dine late. That’s just how they roll in Miami.
Brunch
Sunday jazz brunch might have been the highlight of our holiday. Designed like an Asian marketplace, this room full of taste sensations from all over the world will satisfy any craving. The culinary feast serves Indian curries, brick oven pizzas, a seafood bar and Thai specialties, along with American and European classics, all accompanied by endless champagne. Our table favorite was the chicken tenders from the kids table and the naan made fresh to order.
Special
The most pleasurable months for Miami weather are December-April, and The Setai South Beach is now offering fall and winter savings with their Early Booking promotion. The promotion awards travelers 15 percent off the best available rate when booking 30 days in advance or 20 percent off when booking 60 days in advance. So the earlier you book, the greater the savings.
Most seek South Beach for the beach, the sun and the nightlife. We just wanted the first two, and The Setai’s intimate setting was the perfect backdrop.
The Setai, South Beach
2001 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, Fl 33139
(305) 520-6000
www.setai.com
To reserve a stay under the Early Booking rates, call (305) 520-6110 or email setaireservations@ghmamericas.com at least 30 days prior to travel.
Transportation
Anywhere Anytime Transportation Service, a South Florida-based transportation service company
Anywhere-anytime.com or (877) 528-4431.
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau: MiamiandBeaches.com