Originally Posted by
dominick
Just booked a 4-night stay as an HH Gold in Mid-December.
The OCEANFRONT BALCONY CORNER SUITE room was $159 on a MVP rate ($199 w/o). I figured that this was a great deal, especially in light of people saying how expensive this property was - is that in line with what people have been paying?
Will be staying with wife and 2.5 year old - I'm not familiar with this specific area - how is the actual beach right by the property, and what other beaches may be suitable for the little guy?
In the immediate area - is there anywhere else to park or I'll have to bite the bullet of $25/night? I figure that I'll need a car for the area to check out different things (unless there are good (and quick) bus options etc.
Any restaurants nearby worth checking out beside the property's?
Thanks.
The rate is excellent - especially for oceanfront, which is a fabulous view. You should have a large wrap-around balcony; ask for south tower and upper floor, so you don't face another building on the side elevation.
You will be close to both Aventura Mall
http://www.aventuramall.com/directory/dining.html
and The Village at Gulfstream Park
http://www.thevillageatgulfstreampark.com/dine
for dining options. Both are about 10-12 minute ride by car. However, Aventura traffic can be terrible, during holiday shopping season...beware. There is a Panera's not far away, just over the bridge, for casual dining. Trip Advisor offers some good suggestions for neighboring Hallandale Beach, which is five minutes from the Diplomat
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restauran...h_Florida.html.
You will find out that eating at the Diplomat can be expensive, if you are on budget. The sports bar across the pedestrian overpass, Rivals Waterfront Sports Bar, is probably your best bet, on-site, for moderately priced options.
There is a "Kids' Club" onsite for your 2-1/2 year old, where they would have activities.
As for the beach area...there is an outside vendor running the chair and umbrella concession on the actual beach; people have complained about the cost of renting. However, the beach is open access to everyone. I have seen people bringing their own beach towels, though, and just using those.
The pool area is very nice, with plenty of lounge chairs and towels for guests.
There is a Wal-Mart just over the bridge in Hallandale, as well as a Publix Market and Walgreen's store, if you want to purchase food, beverages, beach toys, etc., so your car will come in handy.
Hope you enjoy your visit!