PRICE:
Frommer's Highly Recommended

This Mediterranean enclave, located smack in the middle of crazy Ocean Drive, remains somehow protected from the disarray, perhaps due to the lovely French-style courtyard, on which live jazz is often performed. The European-style hotel's 27 suites are great, with soundproofed windows, terraces facing the ocean, massive bathrooms with French toiletries, and original fireplaces that add to the coziness, even if you're not likely to use them. Funky and comfy new furniture, wood flooring, and Spanish tile bathrooms with brand new (and sublime), 20-square-foot showers are the latest additions to the hotel's rooms. Room 504 is the hotel's best-kept secret, with ocean view and private balcony for a reasonable $360 a night. The hotel's restaurant, Hosteria Romana II, is known for its superb service, rustic decor, and big plates of Italian food. The only drawback to this hotel is its lack of a pool, but since the beach is directly across the street, it really shouldn't stop you from staying at this excellent spot.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's South Florida including Miami and Keys, 5th Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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