|
 When
you live somewhere cold and dark, it's hard to resist throwing in a sweater while
packing for a trip, even when you're going to the halter-top capital of the country.
But resist one must. With an average winter temperature of 83° F, Miami is
the land of perpetual sunshine. If you have any space in the suitcase, bring another
pair of strappy sandals.
I've
been to Miami before so I should've known better, but still I came loaded down
with layers. I used to come here when I was a kid. I always knew we were getting
close when the air warmed up and the smell of oranges seeped into the car. Flying
in, the change is more abrupt. As soon as I walked out of the airport and my glasses
fogged up in the humidity, I knew I wouldn't need that dumb sweater. This
time, I was on a mission to check out the newest addition to the Sonesta Hotel
family-Sonesta Hotel & Suites Coconut Grove. The Sonesta properties are upscale
hotels, resorts and three Nile cruise ships. Most of the hotels cater to the business
traveler and have business traveling perks such as meeting space and office services.
There are Sonestas in Boston, New Orleans, Anguilla, Aruba, Bermuda, Egypt, Peru
and Tuscany. This latest addition in Coconut Grove, opened in April 2002. When
I got there the paint was barely dry. I
knew I wasn't going to the local roach motel as soon as I was picked up from the
airport. The Sonesta works with Cococars, a local company that offers luxury rentals
as well as rides to and from the airport. I called for a ride and wound up in
the back of a white stretch limo! Already I felt underdressed. I kept my sunglasses
on and tried to look mysterious through the tinted windows. Cococars also offer
fun rentals such as BMW and Porsche convertibles. A car would come in handy in
this neck of the woods.  When
we pulled into the half-moon driveway of the hotel, the staff immediately helped
me with my bags and I got checked in without a hitch. The lobby was open and airy,
with modern colorful leather couches and fresh flowers.
I
then rode the sleek elevator to my room on the 20th Floor, with a balcony that
overlooked Biscayne Bay on one side and downtown Miami on the other. (CONTINUE...)
| 