FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

The Setai Resort & Residences

by Gtrav

Jan 1, 2011
2011 / January 2011

Arrival/Check-in: Due to a delayed flight into Miami Airport, I didn’t arrive at The Setai South Beach until after midnight. There are two entrances: a discreet hotel entrance on Collins Avenue and the entrance to the residences, which is easier to access, thanks to a roundabout. The taxi driver dropped me by the residence entrance. The concierge at the tower promptly found a porter to escort me to the main desk of the Art Deco building. To a newcomer, the walk inside the property was a bit of a maze, especially at midnight, but I knew immediately I was in for a treat as I was transported from Miami into a Pan-Asian world of luxury. Once I arrived at the front desk, I was checked in and escorted to my room within minutes. (26/30)

Guest Quarters: After a long delay at the airport and the roundabout entrance, the room offered me the peaceful serenity that I needed. I liked the design of the room, which offered Asian inspiration and appeal for all the senses. Off the entrance of the room to the left and right were sink and vanities. Accompanying the vanity on one side of the room was the shower; on the other side was the separate toilet. The king-sized bed was the centerpiece of the main portion of the room, and opposite the bed was the bathtub! It took me a moment to understand the setup, and then I had to smile. It was provocative yet sophisticated and was indeed the main focal point. Around the rest of the room were large windows and couches. A small, separate desk area provided a pleasant space for work. There was only a small TV, but it was state-of-the-art and offered enough entertainment for me. The whole room — and hotel — have recessed, dim and dark lighting. I liked the trendy vibe it gave off as a place to see and be seen. It was also a nice contrast to Miami’s bright sunshine. (28/30)

Services/Amenities: The hotel offered true luxury on South Beach, which I believe is hard to find. The hotel has the amenities to brag about luxury, but I also enjoyed the pleasant and very helpful staff. I needed dry cleaning done, and my piece arrived before the expected time. I needed to rent a car, and the concierge took care of everything, including making sure it was delivered on time. As a General Hotel Management and Leading Hotels of the World property, its highly experienced staff comes from around the world.

Having arrived at the hotel on a Sunday, I could experience the beautiful pool and restaurants for the day with no stress around me. I opted for the pool to catch some sun, rather than the beach operated by the Setai. There are three side-by-side pools with full-service amenities: Lounge chairs or beds surround the pools, and the staff is ready to take food and drink orders. An attendant took me to my chair and set me up with a towel, a face spritzer and a glass of water.

I ate lunch at the pool and beach bar. I was pondering what to have when the chef suggested the special sandwich of the day. It was excellent advice, and I enjoyed every last bite. As my lunch was being served, it started to rain. The staff quickly moved me from an ocean view to the bar, under cover, where I enjoyed lunch raindrop-free. All the restaurant and bar venues were sleek, sexy and sophisticated. This atmosphere coupled with the friendly staff won me over. I didn’t have time for the spa, but I used the well-equipped fitness center. (40/40)

The Experience: The Setai was fantastic for relaxing in true luxury in South Beach. It was a great place to soak in the sun or to grab a drink and experience the nightlife without feeling like I was on spring break. Its sophistication and experienced staff transported me to Asia but with all the benefits of Miami around me. During the week, it performed as an equally proficient business hotel and suited all my needs as I raced from one meeting to the next.

Total Score: 94/100

The Setai Resort & Residences

2001 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139-1913
tel 305 520 6000
The Setai Resort & Residences

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Mar 18, 2025

Expedition Cruise Line Introduces Sami Food Ambassador

When it comes to authentic Norwegian cultural experiences, HX Expeditions is unmatched. New to the line’s offerings is the addition of Culinary Ambassador Máret Rávdná Buljo, a reindeer herder and custodian of Sami traditions who possesses a deep knowledge of Sami culinary culture.

Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach

Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.

March 2025
Mar 18, 2025

Portland , Oregon’s, Drink Culture Goes Beyond IPAs and Cold Brews

Last November, rather than ride out the endless election news cycle at home, I hopped on a plane and headed to a destination filled with verdant spaces to clear my head — and great drinks to quench my thirst, no matter the outcome.

Daily
Mar 18, 2025

5 Luxury Hotels to Consider for Sustainable Earth Day Travel

Earth Day is celebrated April 22. Plan ahead with a trip to one of these luxury properties around the world, offering sustainable and immersive experiences.

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

Daily
Mar 18, 2025

The Only Sunscreen Brand You’ll Need for 2025 Summer Travels

With so many sunscreens on the market today, snagging the right one is essential. The most common complaint of sunscreens? Clogged pores, dry skin and not enough protection. This is where Bondi Sands Sunny products come to the rescue.

Daily
Mar 14, 2025

Glamorous Flamingo Las Vegas Gets Pool Makeover

Chances are you already know the name, but what you may not have heard about the iconic Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas is the celebrated pool is undergoing a $20 million transformation of its GO Pool.

Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City

They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.

Airlines
Mar 14, 2025

Don’t Miss Out on All Nippon Airways’ Sweepstakes to Explore Japan

All Nippon Airways, Japan’s largest 5-star airline, launched a contest to give travelers a chance to win a trip to go beyond Tokyo and experience Japan’s under-the-radar destinations. One winner will receive two round-trip economy-class tickets from a U.S. ANA gateway city to a unique destination within ANA’s extensive domestic network, such as Komatsu (KMQ), Odate (ONJ), Okinawa (OKA), Oita (OIT), Sapporo (CTS) and Tottori (TTJ).