EAST, Miami

Situated on top of the Brickell City Centre, this hip and modern upscale hotel features trendy, eye-catching design. A variety of textures converge in the minimalist lobby, where gleaming tile floors are met by rough stone walls, a wooden slatted ceiling, and simple seating as well as a sleek reception desk, all bathed in neutral hues. The neutral color palette is echoed throughout, from the handsome, wood-filled Quinto La Huella restaurant, to the stylish lobby cafe. The lovely rooftop bar and garden is filled with greenery and has an oasis-like feel amid the high-rises and bustle of Miami's downtown -- as does the pool, a lush area dotted with palm trees and chic sunbeds shaded by orange umbrellas. Since EAST is located in the Financial District, the hotel is a popular choice with business travelers, which make up the majority of the clientele here -- but the convenient location attached to a large shopping and dining complex is also suitable for leisure travelers.

The hotel is situated on top of the Brickell City Centre, a large shopping, dining, and entertainment complex in Miami's Financial District. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops in the immediate area. The Eighth Street Metromover Station, Miami's free public transit option, is right by the hotel and provides access to other parts of the city. The Design District is about a 15-minute drive away or 35 minutes via public transportation, while South Beach is a 20-minute drive or 50 minutes on public transit. Other attractions, like Jungle Island, the AmericanAirlines Arena, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, can be reached in around 10 minutes by car. The Port of Miami is about a 10-minute drive away. Miami International Airport is 15 to 30 minutes away, depending on traffic -- or 35 minutes via public transportation. Note that the hotel is an area prone to traffic and congestion.

Rooms are stylish and modern, with a minimalist decor sensibility that's seen throughout the property. Wooden floors melt into the sleek, clean-lined wooden furniture that includes wall units with plenty of storage space and headboards with built-in nightstands. Eye-catching accent walls depicting natural textures, like water, add a dose of color to the neutral hues, as do accent pillows here and there. All rooms have seating and tables, while floor-to-ceiling windows let in ample natural light and private balconies overlook Miami's cityscape. Suites feature separate living rooms. One-, two-, and three-bedroom residence suites are also available, and come equipped with full kitchens and laundry facilities.Standard amenities include 50-inch flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, tea/coffee-making facilities, minibars, electronic safes, and free Wi-Fi, while room controls can be accessed via the hotel's app. Sleek, stylish bathrooms are outfitted with walk-in rainfall showers, while higher-category rooms also have separate soaking tubs. Hairdryers, individual APPELLES Apothecary toiletries, and bathrobes are provided.

One of the hotel's highlights is its attractive outdoor pool, which offers a palm-dotted oasis set amid an urban backdrop of high-rises. The pool area includes a hot tub, spa pool, and cold plunge pool. Chic loungers shaded by orange umbrellas offer seating, and there's plenty of other stylish outdoor seating throughout the space. Other wellness facilities include a large and well-equipped TechnoGym fitness center that's open 24 hours, but there is no spa on-site.The hotel offers several dining options, including the Uruguayan Quinto La Huella, which specializes in wood-fired meats, as well as an attractive rooftop bar and garden that serves Asian bites. There's also a lobby bar/cafe, plus drinks and snacks are available on the pool deck. Continental breakfast is included in rates. Note that food and drinks here are pricey. Other features include a variety of meeting and event space, from boardrooms to a ballroom overlooking the city. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.