Winterhaven A Great Gem of a hotel
By A Yahoo! Contributor, 9/2/09
I was searching for a hotel on South Beach, one that offered a nice room in a nice location for a good price. There were several that matched my criteria, but given the fantastic service that I recieved from Lisa in reservations, the way she handled my many questions, concerns was exemplary. It was because of this non-judgmental assistance to what others surely would have considered a difficult customer that I decided to stay at the Winterhaven.
Many other hotels I called were rude, indifferent, didn't really seem to want to take the time to answer my questions, but from Thomas at the Front Desk, to every single person that I encountered at the Winterhaven, the experience was friendly and welcoming.
It amazes me why so many that work in the hotel industry, retail and restaurant industries in South Beach are so unpleasant.
The hotel is situated right on Ocean Blvd. Can't be a better location. Near Lincoln Road, near all bars and steps from the beach.
While many complain about the rooms, ours was a beautiful ocean front, spacious and comfortable. I did see a few rooms that were much smaller, but considering the amount of time I actually spent in my room, it would hardly have mattered. The bed was very very comfortable, the TV was a flat screen with many channels, good closet space. The only complaints I have are the size of the shower in the bathroom, which made a shower a bit tricky, and the dingy carpet. It was clean, but stained, and I think that is what people mention in earlier ads. It did ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to take away from my enjoyment and should not be considered as a negative. Servicing the room was done daily and very well. IN the room are beach chairs to take to the beach, robe, iron, and a very big safe.
We were on the RELAX package and didn't have to pay the resort fee, but if we did, as other reviewers have mentioned, it includes a lot and is a minor inconvenience. The breakfast included muffins, make-your-own waffles, apples, bananas, strawberries, yogurt, cereal, bagels and a toaster, OJ, milk, coffee. The drink coupon for $5 could be used once per day on drinks that ranged from $8-13, typical prices for South Beach. Beach towels are available at the front desk.
There is a rooftop sitting area, which was great at night, but hot during the day. There is a great porch on the hotel's front, and a very comfy lobby to sit and lounge in.
All in all, this is a great place to stay if you don't need lots of luxury, but want a comfortable, pleasant hotel located well in South Beach. I'll be back.