Urban Retreat

Between its beaches and notable attractions, heading to Miami Beach for a staycation might seem like the obvious plan. But for those yearning for a vibrant urban getaway, a stay at the SLS LUX Brickell Hotel & Residences stands out as the superior choice.

Nestled along iconic S. Miami Avenue in the heart of the city’s thriving downtown, SLS LUX Brickell places visitors in the epicenter of the action. For starters, it is steps away from the gorgeous Brickell City Centre, which boasts three levels of high-end shopping and restaurants in a modern 500,000-square-foot space. Beyond the luxury shops and tantalizing restaurants, there’s a Saks Fifth Avenue anchor store and a CMX movie theater that takes film-viewing to a whole new level of luxury.

That is if you can bring yourself to leave the hotel. The SLS LUX Brickell, with its embracing allure, makes staying in an enticing proposition.

From the moment you arrive, the hotel’s connection with contemporary art is palpable. Take the exterior of the property, where a rainbow-colored mural by artist Fabian Burgos stands out from neighboring buildings. The hotel’s lobby transcends traditional hospitality elegance with its stunning geometric marble floor design, beautiful light fixtures and mirrors. The property is rich with artwork, including original pieces by Fernando Botero and Salvador Dalí.

The hotel’s 76 rooms (there are also residential units on the higher floors), swathed in calming shades of pale pink, white and slate, emanate relaxation. My suite included a den with a television along with a spacious room featuring a plush bed and a kitchenette outfitted with a Lavazza coffee machine. A lime green sofa offers a whimsical touch, while the balcony provides scenic downtown views. The modern bathroom comes with a rain shower and Malin+Goetz amenities. Mine, however, lacked a bathtub, which for die-hard bubble bath aficionados can be a disappointment.

Head to the ninth floor for all the fun. Here you’ll find the gym and spa and two infinity pools flanked by elegant wood cabanas with king-sized lounge beds to relax on.

A colorful mural on the adjacent high-rise serendipitously serves as the backdrop to the art-centric hotel. The relaxing Rooftop Garden, complete with a lush living wall, invites guests to unwind. The Altitude Pool Deck serves fare like avocado toast (delicious and healthy), a juicy burger and, for dessert, the Almendrados French Macaroon (an almond macaroon filled with gelato) is a perfect treat. But the real stars of the show are the cocktails. During my stay, Lazarro, an engineer-turned-bartender, crafted unforgettable drinks tailor-made for a leisurely day by the pool. My favorites included the Recovery Potion, a blend of Tito’s Vodka, strawberries, lime, basil and guava juice. The Margarita, made with Don Julio Blanco, lime juice, agave and salt is refreshing — even better, ask for the Kiwi Margarita (not on the menu) made with fresh kiwi. As an avid piña colada fan always on the hunt for the right balance of pineapple, coconut and rum, their rendition earned a top spot in my book.

For dinner, Kaori gets high marks. The modern Asian fusion restaurant offers a handsome bar downstairs with a DJ keeping the tunes going and a more intimate, sleek dining space on the second floor. While Kaori is not part of the hotel, it is conveniently located next door, making dinner here an easy choice. Everything I sampled was phenomenal, but highlights include the Wagyu & Foie Gras Gyoza, Bluefin Tuna with coconut, lime and crispy sunchoke, Spicy Udon Noodles with mushrooms and cashews, and the Duck Duck Goose, a seared duck breast with Japanese pumpkin purée, five-spice pepitas, gooseberry compote and cured duck egg yolk. Try the Ube Flan for a unique dessert. Beyond its exotic purple hue, it is paired with white chocolate ganache, yogurt sponge cake and burnt caramel for extra texture and crunch. There’s also the Caramel Namelaka which, not only looks like a work of art but is a delicious combination of chocolate and caramel flavors that serves as a luxurious way to end the meal.

A staycation at SLS LUX Brickell is a promise of indulgence. With its contemporary flair, elegant interiors, ultra-comfortable rooms and relaxing pool area, it ensures a memorable escape. Pair that with superb service, phenomenal cocktails, a sumptuous dinner and a dynamic downtown setting, and you will certainly crave a return visit.

SLS LUX Brickell is located at 805 S. Miami Ave., Miami. For more information, call 1-800-652-5438 or visit slslux.com.