The Palms Hotel & Spa, Miami Beach

We can’t afford to go on regular vacations. Instead, we go on mini-adventures for one night somewhere in Miami that is totally different from where we live. This time we choose The Palms Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach.

Entering the hotel was like stepping into another world, a colorful-tropical-paradise that felt like if we actually took a plane to get there.

The room was spacious and elegant with a magnificent view of the pool, the grounds and the beach. There was no time to spend in the room though. It was exploration time.

Walking around the hotel was refreshing and relaxing. It was nice to be on the beach taking pictures and inhaling the scent of the ocean. We felt happy.

The next day was reserved for sampling the culinary delights offered at Essensia Restaurant & Lounge. First breakfast, then lunch after another walk on the beach.

We were on a little vacation so why not share a lobster tail for lunch? It was served with grilled vegetables and of course I had to eat fast before Miss I. gobbled it up.

The Fish & Chips were crunchy-fresh – seasonal fish, beer battered, served with herb potatoes and slaw and a side of rémoulade.

The Palms Burger was another success, simply disappearing after taking a picture of it.

For dessert, Vacation in A Jar. This has to be one of the most unusual and delicious desserts we ever tasted – coconut panna cotta, fresh papaya, mango sauce, and passion fruit topped with micro-greens.

Essensia offers seasonal dishes so the menu changes. Everything we tasted here was exceptional. Chef Julie Frans makes sure the ingredients that go into each dish are top-quality.

I love the way The Palms Hotel & Spa describe themselves:

” Let us welcome you with genuine service and laid-back sophistication at our serene oceanfront resort, set in the heart of Miami Beach. Soul-reviving AVEDA spa experiences, natural gourmet cuisine at Essensia and newly renovated rooms, all inspired by the beautiful nature surrounding our sanctuary. Discover Miami Beach’s award-winning independent beach resort.”