Trip Reports - Mandarin Oriental Miami, anyone?

Headed down to Miami for the Orange Bowl next week (go Terps!) and staying at the Mandarin Oriental on Brickell Key. Anyone stayed there before? I'm familiar with the chain from my travels in Asia, but I gather that this is a relatively new hotel. Seen some very good press, but haven't found any guest comments either here or at Fodors.com. I know it's not in Miami Beach, and a somewhat secluded location, but it should be a great hotel?

I'll have a trip report after I get back...

I stayed there a few months ago was somewhat disappointed. Ocean views are not really ocean views. And there is no wall between the bathroom and the bedroom -- just a retractible curtain. I found that tacky, not luxurious.

I think M-O hotels are overrated in general. IMHO. The one in Singapore in decent though. The Oriental Bangkok has to one of them ost overrated hotels in the world.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Moon Moon:
I stayed there a few months ago was somewhat disappointed. Ocean views are not really ocean views. And there is no wall between the bathroom and the bedroom -- just a retractible curtain. I found that tacky, not luxurious.

I think M-O hotels are overrated in general. IMHO. The one in Singapore in decent though. The Oriental Bangkok has to one of them ost overrated hotels in the world.</font>

Have to disagree...thought the M-O was terrific, better than any Ritz-Carlton or Shangri-La that I've stayed at. The hotel is sophisticated, elegant and modern in an understated way. I loved the dramatic lobby and its furnishings. The pool, though not large, was relaxing and a great setting with the infinity edge almost next to the water. Service was terrific without being snobby, from the front desk to concierge to the valet.

I actually really enjoyed the room. We had one on the 10th floor with views of parts of downtown and then Biscayne Bay, with a great sunset view. Beds were surpremely comfortable, and the bathroom was great. The retractable curtain between the bath and the rest of the room lets you soak in the tub while looking over the water...something we enjoyed.

The location, on Brickell Key just off downtown is a little out of the way if you want to hit South Beach ($20 cab ride or about a 15 minute drive), but sometimes it's nice to be a little removed from the action. Plus, close to downtown for the business traveler.

In my mind, this hotel certainly lived up to the high standard that Mandarin Oriental has set. The clientele looked to be fairly young, with a large Latin American contingent. Can't wait for their NY hotel.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Can't wait for their NY hotel.</font>

The Mark, at E. 77th and Madison has been a MO hotel for some time now, though I haven't stayed there since MO assumed management.