Arrival/Check-In: I arrived early after a meeting cancellation and hoped to check in or at least set up a workspace in the lobby. The hotel’s grand entrance is impressive and takes a moment to absorb. Staff greeted me warmly and directed me to the front desk, where check-in was handled quickly despite the early hour. I was promptly shown the way to my room.
Guest Quarters: My room on the 18th floor was reached via a gently winding corridor. When I opened the door, I was rewarded with a clear ocean view of Miami Beach. The room was spacious and thoughtfully arranged for work and relaxation. A generous desk faced the window and provided a productive workspace, with a comfortable lounge sofa beside it for reading or taking a break. The bed was king-sized with plush linens, and a large flat-screen television was positioned so it could be seen from the bed, desk, and sofa.
The window treatment was modern and convenient: an automatic dropdown blind with both sheer and blackout options, controlled from a wall switch next to the bed. For business travelers, the desk setup was excellent, though it was disappointing that WiFi was not complimentary. The bathroom offered a functional layout with a closet that served as a private dressing area. A separate shower featured a dual showerhead, and the toiletries—shampoo, lotion, and other amenities—were of the high quality I’ve come to expect from InterContinental properties.
Services/Amenities: The fitness center is on the same level as the spa. Although I didn’t use the spa, the adjacent space looked calm and inviting as I passed on my way to the gym. The gym entrance can be a little tricky to find early in the morning, but once located, the fitness area is spacious and well equipped. There was no waiting for machines and no pressure to shorten a workout. The hotel also features outdoor amenities, including a pool and a jogging path along the waterfront—both of which I regrettably did not have time to enjoy.
Dining options are plentiful with four on-site restaurants and a Starbucks. I sampled the lunch buffet at Toro Toro and found it satisfying. Room service is available 24 hours, and the presence of multiple dining venues makes it easy to find a meal at almost any hour.
The Experience: InterContinental hotels usually cater well to business travelers, and this Miami property continues that standard. Located in the heart of downtown with attractive sea views and a distinct Miami character, the hotel offers a strong combination of convenience, comfort, and style. Whether visiting for work or leisure, it provides amenities and service that make for a reliable, pleasant stay.
GT Checklist
Doorman/valet: yes
Less than 10 minutes for check-in: yes
Separate tub and shower: yes
Large vanity: yes
High-quality towels: yes
Powerful, unattached hair dryer: yes
High-quality bed linens: yes
Large, flat-screen television: yes
Large desk with convenient outlets: yes
Large, complimentary laptop safe: yes
Complimentary in-room WiFi: no
Complimentary bottled water: yes
Stocked minibar: yes
Ample lighting: yes
In-room coffeemaker: yes
Iron and ironing board: yes
On-site restaurant: yes
24-hour room service: yes
24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center: yes
Turn-down service: yes
InterContinental Miami
100 Chopin Plaza
Miami, FL 33131
tel 305 577 1000
ihg.com