Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
When you gaze at this lobby, one of the best-preserved interiors in the deco district, you're
getting a glimpse of South Beach's gangster heyday. Beyond that the Essex has helpful
staff, rooms furnished with soft, subdued colors and a side verandah filled with rattan fur-
nishings that's a particularly pleasant people-watching perch.
The Villa by Barton G
RESORT
305-576-8003;
www.thevillabybartong.com
; 1116 Ocean Dr; r from $900;
)
Formerly the Versace Mansion, it has been turned into one of South Beach's most upscale
resorts by Barton G, replete with a mosaic pool plucked from ancient Rome, marble bath-
rooms, linen spun from angel hair and rooms that resemble the guest wing of a minor
South American oligarch's personal compound.
Casa Grande Hotel
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
305-672-7003;
www.casagrandesuitehotel.com
; 834 Ocean Dr; r
$220-380; )
Fall colors and a splash of bright citrus start the show in the lobby, but the main event is
the snow white elegance of the so-chic rooms, each one an ultramodern designer's dream -
although we've got to say the big, marble Virgin Mary in the room we visited was way out
of place. Pets are welcome (and pampered!) for $50 per critter.
