Photography: Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop
Set the scene
When staying at the Faena Hotel on Miami Beach, be prepared for an immersive, aesthetic experience. It's an art lover's paradise - from the eye-catching murals that grace its lobby to the dazzling "Gone But Not Forgotten" woolly mammoth skeleton that commands attention with its glinting 24kt gold finish. Damien Hirst's artwork itself does a volunteer job at welcoming you into the eclectic world of Faena.
But it's not just about the art! The luxe setting is awash with passionately red velvet, Roman mosaics, and Argentinian-inspired designs. High ceilings, impactful chandeliers, and an ambiance that harks back to the opulence and glamour of the Gilded Age add to the grandiosity. In contrast, the beach that lies right at the doorstep paints a picturesque balance with its azure skies and gentle lullaby of waves. The scene inside the Faena Hotel? It'll have you reaching for your camera every two steps! A visual treat, indeed!
What can we expect in our room at the Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Swathed in rich tones of turquoise and coral that mirror the surroundings, rooms are carefully curated with stunning Art Deco touches and private balconies as a nod to Miami's glamorous heritage. Imagine waking up in one of these lavishly appointed spaces, with lush velvet upholstery and the crisp sea breeze wafting in from the massive door-length windows. Now that's what you call living!
With a strong commitment to providing a luxury experience, the room is packed with premium amenities. We're talking state-of-the-art Tech, heavenly plush beds, and seriously chic bathrooms boasting divine spa-like design. Speaking of the bathroom, some even have a free-standing tub and a walk-in shower! Whether you're a high-powered exec on a business trip or a couple on a romantic getaway, you will appreciate the marriage of style and comfort. You'll never want for anything more – not that you'd need to, with in-room service just a phone call away. It's an experience that's sure to wow the most discerning jet-setter.
How about the food and drinks
Their flagship restaurant, Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann, offers a sumptuous selection of 'asado' dishes - traditional Argentine grill cuisine, cooked over a big open flame, as per the bold style of its famous chef. If you're in for an intimate night, try the freshest seafood and prime cuts at Pao by Paul Qui, an eatery that provides a mesmerizing take on modern Asian cuisine.
If you're more of a cocktail enthusiast, The Living Room, which is the main hotel bar, is sure to hit the right notes. Here you'll discover a vast array of carefully crafted cocktails served in stunning glassware. The Saxony Bar offers a distinctively darker, cozier atmosphere, perfect for late-evening relaxation, often accompanied by live jazz. But hey, if you fancy wine instead, then the Wine Cellar with its expansive selection from the New and Old World vineyards has got you covered.
What is the service like at the Miami Beach Faena Hotel
It's like walking into a tropical wonderland where attentive staff, dressed in their custom-made red and white uniforms, spring into action at your slightest whim. This really makes the Faena stand out! Sure, you've seen hospitality before, but this.... this is something else altogether! They remember your name, your preferences, heck even your favorite type of pillow, like they've got some magic crystal ball or something.
Another thing that might make you feel like you've stepped onto a movie set is the sheer professionalism of the service staff. Yes, my friend, stay here for a couple of nights, and you'll be waxing poetic about the room service, concierge, and housekeeping. Top-notch services with a casual, friendly approach, never overbearing, never too afar – just the perfect balance, like an expertly mixed margarita on a blazing summer day.
What’s the neighborhood scene like
Situated in the center of Miami Beach, the Faena Hotel finds itself in a characterful and lively neighborhood. Trust us, it's a spot that could give the big apple a run for its money. On one hand, you're surrounded by the pulsating rhythms of Cuban salsa drifting from nearby bars and on the other, the serenity of sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Strap on your most comfortable pair of sneakers because the iconic art-deco historic district is just a short stroll away! Or perhaps, you might prefer browsing glossy designer boutiques or spend the afternoon soaking up the sunshine in Lummus Park.
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What’s the backstory of the Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Long before the glitz and glamour of Miami Beach were accented by the incredible Faena Hotel, there was a man with a vision. That man was Alan Faena, an Argentinian hotelier and real estate developer with an eye for extraordinary aesthetics and a penchant for dreamy design. Migrating from Buenos Aires, Faena had a burning ambition to beautify Miami’s shoreline, while sharing his passion for Argentina's rich culture.
Excavating every bit of unused land that was the Saxony Hotel, the Faena dream took shape over a period of four years. Alan Faena and his team worked tirelessly, weaving in elements of extravagance and lavish comfort into every corner of the hotel. The hotel was a masterpiece taking form, a reflection of Faena’s larger-than-life persona and his incessant desire to create a sensory spectacle that Miami Beach deserved. The hotel, opened in 2016, is a magnificent testament to his architectural prowess and creative vision.
Price Range
Standard rooms typically start at around $500 per night, and the experiences scale up from there.
Feel like splurging a bit? Then opt for one of their lavish suites with breathtaking ocean views. Expect to shell out anywhere between $1000 to $5000 for these beauties! Naturally, prices surge upwards during peak season, holidays, and special events, so it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Amenities & Facilities
Head to the Tierra Santa Healing House, the first South American inspired spa in Miami, offering the best in wellness treatments and therapies. Wanna cool off? Dip your toes in the glistening waters of its palm-fringed pools before drying off at your personal cabana.
Let's talk food now, shall we? With an array of world-class eateries, your taste buds can globe trot without leaving the hotel. Craving Argentinian? Francis Mallmann’s Los Fuegos has got you covered. Prefer Asian? Pao by Paul Qui offers a contemporary take on Asian cuisine that's bound to hit it right. Not to mention, Faena is known for its high-end shopping - Faena Bazaar, a bespoke retail experience curated by Kelly Framel and Zachary Lynd. And hey, did we mention they have a theater that puts on nightly cabaret shows?
How to get to the Faena Hotel in Miami Beach
For those who want to catch a glimpse of the city, you can choose to hop on the public bus. The Airport Flyer Route 150 is your pal here. It goes directly from the Miami International Airport to Miami Beach and is a good option if you've got some time on your hands and a zest for new sights.
On the flip side, if what you crave is convenience and comfort, nothing can beat a good old-fashioned taxi ride. There's no shortage of yellow cabs outside the airport's arrival area, ready to whisk you away to the glitzy world of the Faena Hotel. Remember to tell the driver the address, 3201 Collins Avenue, and they'll make sure you get there safe and sound.
What Customers Have To Say
The room I chose lacks water pressure. Above it was a Junior suite with sea views.
The best is the quality of the people. Security alien or Daiana in table service and almost all the staff.
Incredible experience. Thank you.
We chose the Oceanfront suite for both the value as well as the view, plus it comes with butler service - and our butler (Viet Nam) was super friendly, did a great job from unpacking us through recommendations, as well as reservations and all our other requests. The suite’s corner view (we were in 806) with two balconies and a wrap-around view was superb. TONS of little amenities and extra touches throughout the suite, including a bidet that my wife loved.
Truly a luxurious experience, and we will be back!
The restaurants were all top-notch, certainly worthy of their 5-stars reviews. We chose to stay on resort for meals for all 5 days because of them.
The performers move with a wave like fluidity. So smooth, so elegant with such magnetic energy that you’re utterly transfixed. Each act teases and ignites. It’s a journey with a story, fun, dancing and freakishly beautiful acrobatics.
Then there is Rocky, with a voice straight from the angels. She interacts with the audience and the goes on to stun them with her voice. The sound is done so well that you can hear the whispers and the crispness no matter where you are.
Food is available throughout the show. Drinks as well. Allura is bold, daring and absolutely awesome. Absolutely unforgettable. Highly recommend as it is having its final show soon.
The design of the hotel is something to admire; Each corner is carefully decorated with an artistic and unique touch, which makes the room visually striking and welcoming at the same time. It is a place where art and hospitality meet.
The gastronomic proposal is first class, with options that satisfy even the most demanding palates. Each meal was a delight, standing out for its creativity and flavor. Additionally, weekend nights become magical at the Saxony Bar, where the atmosphere, music and signature cocktails create the perfect setting to enjoy a memorable evening.
If you are looking for a luxury experience in Miami, the Faena Hotel is without a doubt an option
Contact:
Address: 3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140, United States of America
Phone: 305 534-8800
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.