HAS anyone stayed at the casablanca in miami beach? we've booked a room there and wanted to kow what we are in for.

Anyone?

I stayed there. It's a nice large all suite hotel that has kitchenettes and full refridgerater, microwave and a small dining area. They all have balconies and a private beach. The pool is large but nothing special. When we went, it was during early summer and there were a lot of europeans there. The hotel is about a 10 min cab ride to south beach and walking distance to grocery and liquor stores. Parking was $8 per day in their garage which was valet. It's a good choice if you have a family and want some quiet beach time but its not walking distance to the hype of So Beach.

I just got back from staying further down at Seacoast Suites (5101 Collins) and on my first day took a look at Casablanca.

It looked pretty nice to me but don't expect any real luxury and I got the impression that the service likely could use some improvement. I looked at a few rooms, all were pretty clean and in decent condition but be warned of two things at the outset:

1. All of the rooms do NOT have balconies

2. "ocean-view" may mean that if you press your nose against the window and strain your eyes you'll catch a glimpse of the ocean.

It's a pretty large hotel and had at least one restaurant and a gift shop. There is also a small synagagoue in the lobby, as many Jews stay there.

Also:

1. The balconies I saw did not seem so private as they were on a rooftop.

2. Casablanca is listed as participating in the Entertainment program for a 50% discount off the rack-rates.

In any event, be sure to insist on the best possible rate and I would say, don't be afraid to bargain w/ them a little.

SAMMY! If you're still out there, I am considering staying at the Seacoast Suites in Miami BEach. What did you think of it? Thanks!