Fodor's Expert Review The Nici

Located on a cliff above Bournemouth's 10-mile sandy beach (a rarity in pebbly Britain), this stylish conversion of an Edwardian grande dame takes its inspiration from the hip art deco hotels of Miami's South Beach, with lots of palm tree decor, original contemporary art in the public spaces, and airy white bedrooms. Seafront rooms—some with private sun decks, others with outdoor hot tubs—overlook the pool area and rolling lawns with the English Channel beyond. The restaurant continues the Floridian theme with dishes like whole lemon sole, Cobb salad, and a sushi roll with tempura tenderstem broccoli. A spa, rooftop bar, and heated indoor and outdoor pools are in the works, and a cinema already offers nightly screenings.