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Every now and then, life calls for a reset. A chance to recharge, celebrate and disconnect from the daily grind. That’s exactly what I needed, and the InterContinental Miami delivered an experience beyond anything I could have imagined.

I was invited for a hosted stay, and from the moment I arrived, I was floored by the level of thoughtfulness and luxury that went into every detail of my visit. All reservations were seamlessly arranged for me, making the experience feel even more special. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that this was not just a stay, but that it was an unforgettable escape.

As an educator and journalist, I’m constantly balancing lesson plans, deadlines and creative projects, which makes taking time for myself incredibly rare. But on this day and night, it was all about relaxation, indulgence and fun, and I couldn’t have been offered a better place to write about and share with readers, and it came at a time that this was truly needed.

Located in the heart of Downtown Miami, this iconic hotel is equal parts elegance, energy, and comfort. The gorgeous lobby, adorned with sleek contemporary décor, warm lighting, and an air of sophistication, made for a stunning welcome. 

A Poolside Retreat: VIP Cabana Bliss

After checking in, I wasted no time heading to the pool deck, where I had reserved a private cabana. It was my own VIP oasis with an exclusive corner location offering a breathtaking, uninterrupted view of the Miami Bay. 

The InterContinental Miami’s cabanas provide the ultimate elevated pool experience, perfect for anything from a birthday celebration to a peaceful personal retreat.

There are several cabana options to choose from:

  • The Skyline Cabana – Overlooks Miami’s stunning skyline, blending city energy with poolside luxury.
  • The Bayside Cabana – Offers panoramic views of the tranquil Biscayne Bay.
  • The Serenity Cabana – Tucked away in a more secluded section for a quiet, peaceful escape.
  • The VIP Corner Cabana – This was my cabana, and it was absolute perfection!

My corner cabana came with four plush lounge chairs, allowing me to stretch out and relax while taking in the sparkling waters of the bay. The gentle breeze off the water was the perfect complement to my afternoon of pure indulgence.

The mini bar was fully stocked with beverages for every taste, from classic sodas to energy drinks, seltzers, and sparkling water. It was the little touches like this that made the experience feel seamless and luxurious.

With a glass of sparkling rosé prosecco in hand, I leaned back into my lounge chair, allowing the warm Miami sun and the soft sounds of the waves to melt my stress away. To complement the moment, I treated myself to a fresh ceviche, bursting with bright citrus and delicate seafood flavors, and crispy, golden truffle fries, which added the perfect level of indulgence.

Sipping on a classic mojito, I let the day unfold at a leisurely pace, alternating between reading, enjoying the music drifting from the poolside speakers, and soaking in the ambiance. It was one of those rare moments where everything felt just right.

If you’re looking to book your own cabana for a perfect poolside escape, please don’t hesitate from doing so at this hotel. It was a great afternoon spent reading, relaxing and taking in the soft breeze of Miami’s Downtown by the water. 

Oceanview room at the InterContinental Miami

Room with a View

As the sun began to set, I made my way to my room, and what a dream it was. My room provided a breathtaking vantage point of Biscayne Bay, with floor-to-ceiling windows that made me feel like I was floating above the water.

The room itself was incredibly spacious, with a plush king-sized bed, soft linens, and a seating area perfect for unwinding. The marble bathroom was practically a spa on its own, with a deep soaking tub and high-end amenities that made every moment of my stay feel luxurious and serene.

This was true comfort, elevated, a place where I could breathe, reset, and simply exist in a space designed for pure relaxation. I promise you that you will agree with me if you decide to book a stay and escape for a night or two.

A Relaxing mySpa Experience

Stepping into mySpa was an instant escape into serenity. I indulged in the Signature HydraFacial MD, a rejuvenating treatment that left my skin glowing and refreshed. Opting for the Murad Vitamin C Boost, my skin felt instantly brighter and smoother. The expert care, tranquil ambiance, and attention to detail made the experience unforgettable. With options like Regen GF (collagen & elastin boost) or the Glysal Peel (15% exfoliation), customization is effortless. Whether choosing 25, 50 or 80 minutes of bliss, mySpa is the ultimate retreat for relaxation and radiant skin. I left feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready to enjoy my evening dining at Toro Toro and unwinding at Freddy’s, the hotel’s exclusive speakeasy.

Exclusivity at My Club 

From the moment I stepped into Club InterContinental, I felt like a VIP. The newly redesigned space is the epitome of sophistication, offering exclusive access to luxury, comfort, and impeccable service. I started my day with a decadent breakfast, savoring every bite while enjoying the serene, private ambiance. The afternoon tea was a refined indulgence, and the exclusive happy hour was the perfect way to unwind in style. After my amazing spa experience, I changed into my sparkly dress, ready for dinner. It was the perfect place to relax and chat with my friend as we got ready to start the night.

A Culinary Journey at Toro Toro

As evening approached, I was joined by one of my teacher besties for what would be an unforgettable dining experience at Toro Toro, the hotel’s signature Pan-Latin steakhouse.

Toro Toro is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Each night, the menu celebrates the cuisine of a different Latin American country, offering diners an ever-evolving adventure of flavors. We started our meal with their famous table-side guacamole, freshly prepared right before our eyes. The mix of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and just the right amount of heat was absolute perfection.

For our main courses, we couldn’t resist indulging in their signature steaks, a bit of lamb and smoked chicken, which were perfectly grilled, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and packed with bold, smoky flavors. In fact, our server surprised us with these meats being smoked table-side, making it quite the fiery show.

Every bite was a reminder of why Toro Toro is one of Miami’s most beloved dining spots.

To finish, we shared one of their acclaimed desserts, and let’s just say it was heaven on a plate. Everything about this dining experience was thoughtfully curated and flawlessly executed, making it one of the highlights of our stay.

Freddy’s Speakeasy at the InterContinental Miami

A Night of Mystery and Classic Cocktails at Freddy’s Speakeasy

Just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better, we made our way to Freddy’s Speakeasy, which is a hidden gem tucked away inside the InterContinental Miami.

This wasn’t just another bar, it was a time capsule, transporting us straight back to the Prohibition era. Dim lighting, plush seating, vintage décor, and an air of secrecy made it feel like we had stepped into another world.

Before we could even enter, we had to know the proper knock, which only added to the thrill of the experience. As soon as we were granted access, we were greeted with a delicious small martini sip infused with cilantro, a welcome drink that set the tone for an extraordinary night.

Inside, the ambiance was sexy, intimate, and effortlessly cool. The handcrafted cocktails were masterfully curated, featuring a rum cask barrel and a selection that paid homage to the speakeasies of the past while embracing a modern twist.

Also, make sure to snag your tickets for this experience early before your visit. The cozy bar has a limit of 12 guests.

The Ultimate Miami Getaway

From poolside relaxation with sparkling rosé and gourmet bites to luxury accommodations, world-class dining, and an unforgettable speakeasy experience, my stay at the InterContinental Miami was nothing short of a dream.

Every detail, from the exceptional service to the stunning ambiance, was meticulously crafted to create an atmosphere of elegance, comfort, and celebration. Being hosted for this incredible experience made me feel truly valued and appreciated. I am so grateful for the opportunity and left feeling recharged, inspired, and already planning my next visit.

For reservations and more information visit icmiamihotel.com

Aurora Dominguez

Author Aurora Dominguez

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