Fantastic Ocean-Beach View in der Millionaire Row

We were frustrated by our stay here. We specifically booked this condo over some others because Manuel lists “Hot Tub” as an amenity. Our main beach requirement is a hot tub! So we were especially disheartened to find that there is NOT a hot tub included as part of your stay. The only hot tub is in the Turkish/Russian Spa that is located below the condo building, which is its own company not included in the condo rental. It costs $52 per person, per day!!!! So for the three of us to use the hot tub for even one day would have run us $156! I definitely would not consider this an amenity. Our frustration was further compounded when we reached out to Manuel and asked for a partial refund due to this misunderstanding which was caused by him listing “hot tub” as an amenity, since this was the entire reason we chose this condo. His response was to tell me that he also listed restaurants under the Attractions section, and obviously even though he mentioned the restaurants that does not mean they are free to condo guests. When I replied and expressed that, yes, of course restaurants and things in the Attractions section are not free but items listed as Amenities indicate to customers what is INCLUDED in their stay, he replied, “Nothing is perfect in the life ... there is a first time for each thing ... and you are the first in come up with something about amenities ... please make a review and explain that is not clear what is or not free in the amenities...“ He did not reply to my messages after this point. So basically his solution was, “Suck it up and explain it for the next renter,” rather than him even AT VERY LEAST removing the hot tub from his Amenities section.

This may seem like a petty thing to be upset about to some, but we came on this vacation to relax and recoup after some difficult family trials, and all we wanted was a hot tub. And then to not have one and further to be completely disregarded by our host was a real letdown for us.

A few other pros and cons:

Pros: BEAUTIFUL view. Stunning to wake up to. The cooking untensils are helpful. The unit itself is in good condition, and it appears Manuel replaced the beach chairs based on a previous comment, because the ones there now are nice.

Cons: There is a security guard in the pool area that requires you to put a shirt and shoes on and to dry off before going inside the condo, even when it is pouring rain. This is different from any condo we have ever stayed at and was irritating.

The unit is clean and nice. It is just very, very simple.

The dresser to put your things is plastic, the bed has no headboard. The curtains are very old fashion. Very simple space.

The property itself needs a lot of updating. This is not Manuel’s fault, but it is very old and really quite dirty. The stairs walking in are carpeted and I don’t think they have ever been cleaned. I was trying to stick to a budget and this property fit the budget. You definitely get what you pay for. It was inexpensive and the accommodations matched the price. I wished I would have spent a bit more to get a more updated less simple space but it was clean and comfortable. Manuel. Buy new beach chairs those won’t last much longer. Thanks for giving us a place to stay.

Very happy overall for the great value of this piece of paradise. Would return.

1) Very budget-friendly but accommodations are very good for 2 people, maybe 3.

2) Despite other reviews saying they got more or fresh towels, you only get the 4 bath towels and 2 beach towels and they don't get cleaned or replaced. Bring your own or plan to launder or buy towels if you like fresh ones.

3) Only 1 roll of toilet paper was provided for 4 nights. Was able to buy in the Lower Lobby Convenience Store. Or Publix is a quick Uber ride away.

4) Comforter was not washed or replaced between guests, but this is the norm for most hotels too. I just try not to touch it.

5) Some overnight noise, but nothing ridiculous. Expected noise level for condo/apartment/hotel living.

6) The free Miami trolley has a stop just across the street headed South. Very convenient and well mapepd if you don't mind waiting about 30-60 minutes to get to South Beach.

7) Uber drivers are everywhere, very convenient to get a quick ride. Even got one at 3AM to get to Ft Lauderdale airport.

8) Everything major was great. Would return.

9) CASTLE BEACH REVIEW:

--Beautiful green/blue clear water, but quite a bit of seaweed.

--Nice water temp for March.

--Not sugar white sand, but good sand nonetheless.

--Not overcrowded even during spring break.

The apartment is gorgeous beautiful views of the ocean. Manuel is an awesome host. Highly recommended for stay in Miami. Will definitely book again.

Overall this condo has everything you need for a comfortable stay. The location directly at the beach is convenient. Shops and restaurants are a little far away. The bed sheets and pillows would need some updating.

We appreciated our stay in this condo as it is perfect for 2 adults and one child. We also enjoyed the Tiki Bar at the pool.

Tzveta