Finding Zen in Miami: A Stay at The Setai

See recent posts by Jane Reynolds

A few days ago, we headed down to balmy Miami to search for the sexiest hotel bathrooms with FOX's lifestyle show, Deco Drive. Together we put together a TV segment on some of the coolest, chicest, down-right sexiest hotel bathrooms in all of Miami. We needed a place to rest our heads during our trip, so we chose The Setai South Beach, knowing that the Asian-inspired oasis -- located in the center of South Beach -- would not disappoint. And it didn't. Though our trip was short, we were reminded how much we love the over-the-top amenities and tranquil ambiance of The Setai. Below is a little bit more about why we love it so -- with photos to boot.

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Soaking Tub in the Studio Spa Suite

Soaking Tub in the Studio Spa Suite

It doesn’t get much sexier than this. The Studio Spa Suite features an open bathroom, and a large soaking tub in the middle of the room. The set-up gives the room a spacious, free-flowing feel, ideal for couples. But those looking for a little privacy can find that too: Rattan-covered doors can be pulled shut to separate the bathroom from the rest of the room (though the tub is still out in the main room).

Studio Spa Suite

Studio Spa Suite

In unison with the overall vibe of the hotel, The Setai’s rooms are all about Zen-like touches: earth tones, low lighting, and teak floors and accents create a soothing environment. And we loved looking out of our window to the ocean view.

The Courtyard

The Courtyard

For dinner we headed down to the courtyard where we noshed on delicious Tom Kha Gai, a Thai coconut soup, and Mee Goreng, a fried noodle dish. The foot was tasty, but the mood may have been the best part of the meal; on a Sunday night, the courtyard, surrounded by water and a bubbling fountain, was quiet and peaceful. At the end of a long day of travel, it was a nice spot for some posh R & R.

One of the Three Outdoor Pools

One of the Three Outdoor Pools

The next morning, we had just enough time to check two of the hotel’s highlights: the palm tree-lined pools and the white-sand beach. Each of the three pools offers its own temperature so you can dip in 75-degree, 85-degree, or 90-degree waters — whatever suits your fancy. Mellow music adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

Lounge Chairs at the Beach

Lounge Chairs at the Beach

The Setai has direct access to a beach where the water is beautiful, the sand is soft, and the service is top-notch; an army of attentive staffers will keep you refreshed with misty spritzes of Evian water, and is of course happy to deliver cocktails and snacks so that you never have to lift a finger except to venture into the surf. Other service items include towels, magazines, and even iPods.

The Lobby

The Lobby

The overall decor of The Setai wowed us. Despite being in the midst of South Beach’s lively (and sometimes rowdy) scene, the hotel achieves an authentic Zen vibe. Upon entering the lobby, you feel like you’ve been transported to an upscale Asian hotel with accents like antique gray bricks imported from Shanghai, Burmese teak latticework handmade by Chinese craftsmen, and a bronze Balinese fireplace. You’ll think you’ve traveled halfway around the world!

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