I just checked out Lauderdale by the Sea. It looks like that may be my answer. THANK YOU!

We hated the Lago Mar. We checked out within hours of arriving. I think it's a hotel "good enough" for people who haven't been to a world class resort before. But if you've been to any decent hotel in Hawaii, Mexico, or the Carribbean you will be SORELY disappointed.

Our trip to Miami/Ft. Laud was kind of funny. We checked into Miami, loved the National hotel - I highly recommend it - then we drove up to Ft. Laud. to spend a few days. HATED IT. Not only hated that LAgo Mar hotel but we hated the town. Correction, we didn't hate the town, we enjoyed it for one day. But after that we checked back into the National and had a lovely rest of the trip.

So, I recommend The National for Miami. I don't recommend the Lago Mar. I do recommend the Hyatt in Ft. Lauderdale if you MUST stay there.

...and if you want upscale beach, The National fits the bill. Trust me on this one.

Sorry, I'm just not with it today. Sorry about all of these last minute posts.

realphoebes - you sound like us on our trip to Miami recently. We wanted to do everything. Miami, the Keys, Ft. Lauderdale. Honey, believe you me, we tried that, and it's not worth it. there's so much to see in Miami alone. If you've never been there, then focus on Miami alone. Maybe do a side trip to the Everglades or Ft. Lauderdale, but trust me on this one: pick one lodging and stay with it.

I agree with Patrick - your hopes might be too high. Florida's vacation spots are well marketed, but once you arrive, you'll see that it's not all perfect sandy beaches and beautiful streets with shops. It's got a rough edge to it that you must embrace.

Darvy, I'm not a fan of Ft. Lauderdale either. I do however love Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. It is so funny how night and day the two places are in every way.