Travel
Originally published on Wednesday, 2nd March 2011
Welcome to Miami
UJ makes a splash at The Delano
Spring is all well and good and we don’t know about you, but right now here at UJ we have a craving for something properly hot. So, tickets booked, we’re looking to Miami’s South Beach. It’s easy-going, the crowd is attractive and fun-loving without the rowdiness – and there’s even a few Brits who’ve shifted Stateside permanently (Biba’s Barbara Hulanicki is busily swanning around in her kaftans). Over in Miami it’s all about joie de vivre from dawn until, well, dawn.
And at the centre of the action is The Delano, a particular gem in the Morgans Hotel crown, as well as our pick for the perfect holiday hotspot. From the moment you step into the gleaming whitewashed art-deco interiors you won’t want to leave. Staff are courteous, helpful and dare we say it: hot. The all-white rooms are the perfect antidote to a day at the beach (which is literally on your doorstep), with an apple supplied per day (though we suspect more for colour than healthcare). We’d recommend an Ocean View (you are on South Beach after all so why waste it?) though party people might want to check out the poolside bungalow action close to the waves.
And of course, this being Miami last time we were here, there was P. Diddy nonchalantly propping up the pocket-sized Rose Bar while Felix the Housecat held court in the airy lobby. If you’re a guest here then entry into the downstairs Florida Room with its plexiglass grand piano for late-night partying won’t be a problem either. Don’t miss out on some fresh seafood grilled a la plancha at Blue Door Fish, and if you like to people-watch then the patio’s a prime location. Or just go cosy and do sushi at the Blue Sea in an intimate alcove off the lobby, and grab a late night supper at luxe café Plat Bleu.
But hey, this is a holiday – so you’ll need plenty of time to relax. Apart from the Agua Spa, The Delano has possibly one of UJ’s favourite swimming pools, complete with Starck-designed table and chairs in the water. Grab a lounger, order some ceviche (and maybe a bottle or two...) and kick back whilst DJs spin daytime tunes, or make the most of the plasma TV and mini fridge-equipped Water Salon Cabanas with butler service behind billowing white curtains over lunch. A great alternate to the restaurant if you’re looking to keep it casual but want that same Blue Door Fish magic, lighter bites include the Charcuterie Platter with country terrine, Seared Ahi Tuna Salad with wakame and Mahi Mahi Tacos with cole slaw as well as their famous Key lime pie. If you need a little shade the beach shack at the back provides perfect respite and a cocktail or two, as well as a handy gate that leads straight onto the sand with double daybeds.
Still need a reason to go? Miami's not a slouch when it comes to international-standard entertainment either, so take your pick. This month sees two music festivals, WMC and Ultra, battle it out for the best crowds. And if you're still there come December keep an eye out for Art Basel and the Wine and Food Festival in February. But who are we kidding? Miami’s amazing any time of the year.
So what are you waiting for?
The Florida Room WMC Highlights
Wednesday March 9th- Louie Vega 8pm-5am
Start the conference off right with Louie & friends!
Thursday March 10th- Paul Oakenfold & Zen Freeman 10PM
Unique opportunity to catch this big name in an intimate venue. We saw him here last year, rocking old school beats with his mates until the wee hours.
Friday March 11th- Red Bull presents Talib Kweli and 9th Wonder
A great live alternative to the decks fest everywhere else.
Saturday March 12th- Giant Step presenting Questlove
This is sure to be one late night FUN dance party so get those dancing shoes on.
Sunday Sunday March 13th- DJ Harvey and Aquabooty
Final night! Also always one of the best so if you are supposed to be flying Sunday- change your flight now to Monday.
INFO
The Delano, 1685 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, FL 33139.
+001 305 672 2000
