0.3 business
Address:
1438 washington avenue, South beach, miami beach
, Miami 33139, Usa
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Lonely Planet Review
- Adam Karlin
- Lonely Planet author
This charming maze of 1920s-era buildings was originally envisioned as a Bohemian Spanish village for artists, musicians and writers. Somehow simple and artfully effusive all at once, you'll find lush courtyards, hallways covered in tropical murals and nicely decorated rooms with just the right amenities.Al Capone must have agreed since he ran a gambling ring from here; Desi Arnaz launched the rumba craze from here; and a number of films and TV shows have filmed here, including the campy TV series Miami Vice. Now a world of travelers flow through the Moorish arches to stay in the comfortable - if worn - private rooms, family rooms and villas. Each is outfitted with satellite TV, phone, air-conditioning, fridge and a tastefully tiled bathroom. Even the hostel's nice, gender-separated four- to six- bed dorm rooms come with their own bathrooms, fridges and air-con. A large, fully equipped kitchen, washers and dryers, internet kiosk and lockers are available; beach chair rental can be pricey. The staff is friendly and helpful, even when overwhelmed by volumes of visitors. One of the pleasures is the mix of international visitors, who mingle in the courtyards and on-site bar and restaurants.
