W Fort Lauderdale
Address: 401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
Wow Factor: Actually, “Bow-Wow Factor” better describes one of W’s over-the-top experiences. The Dogs Are a Girl’s Best Friend package allows ladies and their furry friends to enjoy a slice of the good life. While adults are sipping chilled prosecco, your pup can lap up Pet Winery’s dog-friendly champagne. The adult sweet-treat swag bag comes with gummy bears, M&Ms and chocolate pretzels; meanwhile, your four-legged pal can savor Barking Bacon dog ice cream. The package goes with W’s “Spectacular” or “Mega” room offerings.
Looking for more of a designer experience? The “Luxury Essentials Cart” rolls into your room with an array of high-end items on loan. Think handbags, sunglasses, fragrances and styling accessories, with elevated brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tom Ford, Christian Dior and Versace in the mix.
Those are hardly the only elevated offerings at W. Guests have access to Steak 954, James Beard Award winner Stephen Starr’s destination-dining showcase; the resort’s all-encompassing Away Spa; its sprawling Living Room lounge area; and the famed fifth-floor Wet Deck, the see-and-be-seen pool area overlooking the ocean.
Isn’t That Special: Stays or five nights or longer through Sept. 30 qualify for up to a 30-percent discount. In addition, the Sea, Sun & Sand package comes with two complimentary cocktails, 50 percent off valet and 10 percent off accommodations.
Contact: marriott.com (search for W Fort Lauderdale); 954.414.8200
The Elser Hotel & Residences
Address: 398 NE Fifth St., Miami
Wow Factor: The 49-story tower does go-big-or-go-home on a daily basis with highlights like its double-level sky-high amenity deck overlooking downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay, and its 16-foot poolside LED screening wall. But a partnership with Spectre Sea has raised the bar even higher. The new package, starting at $5,000, boasts an overnight suite at The Elser, curated culinary experiences by the resort’s executive chef, Champagne breakfast in bed—and a private four-hour charter on one of Spectre’s luxury yachts.
Isn’t That Special: Extended stays are available, starting at $4,000 per month, for those interested in one of the property’s apartment-style suites. Weekly classes at the hotel’s two-story fitness center (think vinyasa yoga, or boxing classes) are complimentary for hotel guests enjoying a longer-term stay.
Contact: theelserhotel.com; 833.228.1576
