Ritz-Carlton Hotels of Miami

Technically, this is not a Ritz-Carlton hotel, but it does participate in STARS (see description below) and it is affiliated through the brands’ mutual relationship with Marriott hotels. Located in Miami Beach, the EDITION serves as a perfect retreat from the party-scene of South Beach with a fun and energetic vibe all to itself. The hotel opened in 2014 to rave reviews and our clients have all returned home happy! There’s a bowling ally, an ice-skating rink, a nightclub, an interactive food hall, a serene spa, two pools… there is something for everyone here! This hotel perfectly walks the line between a buzzy city hotel and a resort-like retreat.

While the space was clearly designed for the “cool kids” but just as welcoming and comfortable for us regular folk; the relaxed vibe means that nobody feels (or looks) out of place here. Ian Schrager, founder of the EDITION brand, lends his famously impeccable attention to detail to every corner of the hotel’s design, layout, personality, and ambiance and the hotel guest is the true benefactor; every need is anticipated and and every desire is indulged upon. Rooms are open and airy with light wood tones and a creamy color pallet; large sliding doors around the bathroom allow you to open up the entire space or create extra privacy when it is needed. Every bathroom features a double vanity, but you won’t find any bathtubs in these rooms.

For me, the real highlight at the Miami Beach EDITION was the Matador Room restaurant by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. The space features a unique, original light fixture and a sunken dining room similar to a retro conversation-pit. The menu is a superb mix of Spanish and South American flavors served tapas-style so you don’t have to decide on just one dish. The flavors do lean on the spicy side, which was fine with me, and the cocktails are well worth the higher range price-tags. Matador Room is a must for anyone visiting Miami!

For me, the highlights at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne are the quiet beach, the beachfront club lounge, the grab-and-go cafe in the lobby, and the famous cocktails at Dunes beachfront bar! Gino the bartender and his famous blended mojitos are a local treasure! The large spa and smart separation from quiet adult spaces and more energetic kid-friendly spaces is also appreciated.

While my room was comfortable and I loved my view, I did feel that it was time for a refresh and, just in time, the hotel is embarking on a room renovation project beginning this summer! Rooms will be taken out of inventory floor by floor for renovations, but they expect to have newly renovated rooms available to guests by fall of 2016.

Again, I highly recommend springing for a room with club access for the best value. Key Biscayne has introduced a beachfront extension to the club lounge. They don’t offer alcoholic beverages at the beach lounge, but they do offer convenient access to complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and snacks – perfect for families!

My time at Key Biscayne was short, but sweet. Of all of the Ritz-Carlton Hotels of Miami that I toured, this was the one where I really wish I had more time. I would have loved some extra time to rent a bike and explore the nearby state park and historic lighthouse and I look forward to a return trip!

This hotel is part of Virtuoso and our guests receive the following amenities during their stay (when booking the BAR rate):

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily Buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests
• $100 USD Equivalent Resort or Hotel credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

You may remember this hotel as One Bal Harbour; it underwent some minor soft-good updates when it was added it to the Ritz-Carlton Hotels of Miami portfolio , but the layout of the property and the selling points remain the same. Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour guests choose this hotel when they want space and privacy. Additionally, the on-site Exhale Spa and easy proximity to high-end shopping are nice-to-have. My favorite feature is the marina views from the bathtub!

With space galore, this hotel is a perfect match for families. Many of the suites feature full kitchens and connecting room options; every room in the hotel has a balcony. The large pool area and lawn also provides ample space for families to spread out and the private cabanas with TVs and private hot tubs make an excellent “home-base” for family gatherings. Similarly, the large rooms and pool cabanas along with an excellent spa and nearby shopping and cultural centers make this a great option for girls’ getaway weekends!