Marriott’s Villas at Doral

Sitting beside a small lake -- and across a busy street from the Trump Doral Golf Resort -- the Marriott’s Villas are in the suburbs of Miami, and thus exude a serene vibe, especially when compared to the bumping scene of South Beach. Families and couples choose the mid-range property for just this reason, and while Miami’s beaches can be reached within half an hour by car, the property does boast its own outdoor pool, small lakeside beach, and cozy outdoor spaces with fire pits. However, features here aren't extensive enough to keep guests entertained for days on end, and many use their cars (which are basically a necessity) to visit nearby golf courses, restaurants, and attractions, or take day trips into the heart of Miami.

Not surprisingly, Marriott’s Villas at Doral are located in Doral, an inland suburb of Miami. The property sits beside a lovely lake, but there's not much else in the area except the luxe Trump Doral Golf Resort that offers an 18-hole course just across the road from the Marriott. A car is basically a necessity, as the property is located right off of a busy six-lane highway. The Miami International Airport is about a 15-minute drive away, and a trip to Miami’s beaches takes about 30 minutes by car.

There is only one room type at this all-condo property: a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment that comes furnished with two pullout sofas in order to accommodate up to eight guests. Decorated with attractive artwork and earth-toned furniture, all units feature fully stocked kitchens with granite countertops and modern appliances, master suite bathrooms with separate showers and deep soaking tubs, washer/dryers, living and dining areas, balconies, and high-tech amenities such as flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and free Wi-Fi. It is a bit surprising, however, that these amenity-filled apartments have not been updated with iPod docks.

Outdoor spaces are particularly nice here. The pool is large and surrounded by comfy loungers, fire pits, and a patio with cozy seating. There is also a small, sandy beach beside the lake, as well as a kiddy pool.

In addition to the children's pool, the Marriott property caters to families with other kid-friendly features. The property offers an activity center with board games and computers, an arcade room, and mini-golf. These on-site amenities, however, can’t compare to those at the more luxurious Trump resort across the street, which has an 18-hole golf course, a kids' camp, a spa, tennis courts, and several fine dining options, none of which the Marriott can claim. The sole dining option at the Marriott is a poolside bar and grill that serves lunch and an early dinner. There is an on-site mini-mart, which sells basic grocery needs.

The property's modern fitness center features a pretty view of the pool and adjacent lake, but it is a bit on the small side, offering only a handful of weight training and cardio machines (which do come equipped with personal TVs). Free weights and other workout equipment, such as balance balls, are also available.

Parking is free, as is in-room Wi-Fi.