Welcome to Gale Miami Hotel & Residences: A New Chapter in Downtown Miami’s Hospitality

Downtown Miami is set to elevate its hospitality scene with the grand opening of the Gale Miami Hotel & Residences on June 1st. This eagerly awaited development promises to enrich Miami’s dynamic urban landscape by offering a blend of luxury accommodations and top-tier amenities.

The Gale Hospitality Group, celebrated for its iconic Gale South Beach, brings this new property to life with a commitment to celebrating Miami’s rich history and bright future. The Gale Miami Hotel & Residences honors the city’s past, with nods to landmarks like The Freedom Tower. Throughout the property, guests will find photography from the Miami History Museum, paying homage to the original Gale location and inviting exploration of Miami’s captivating history.

The hotel boasts a range of accommodation options, from studios to one- and two-bedroom units, catering to both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Many units are outfitted with full kitchens and washer-dryers, ensuring all the comforts of home are at your fingertips.

Keith Menin of Gale Hospitality Group shared his excitement for the new property, stating, “With Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, we aim to redefine the benchmark for hospitality within Miami’s urban landscape. We are excited to offer an unmatched guest experience that combines the energetic ambiance of Downtown Miami with carefully curated amenities and services.”

Spanning three floors and covering 70,000 square feet, Gale Miami offers breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. Guests can indulge in the Gale Wellness program, which includes a co-ed hammam, steam room, sauna, fitness facility, yoga lounge, and spa services. High-speed internet access, a 24-hour attended lobby, valet parking, and several dining options further enhance the guest experience. Notably, Gale Miami is one of the few downtown hotels to offer exclusive beach club access to its guests.

Dining at Gale Miami is a notable experience, featuring 9,000 square feet of restaurant space on the ground floor, including an outdoor garden, an Italian concept, and a street-front restaurant. The 9th floor offers an American steakhouse and lounge, alongside a Mediterranean-style restaurant with a retractable roof and outdoor terrace.

For event planners, the Gale Miami Conference Center on the 8th floor provides over 20,000 square feet of space, including conference rooms, breakout rooms, and a grand ballroom. Additionally, three floors of exhibition space make it one of Downtown Miami’s largest conference venues.

Situated just steps from the Kaseya Center, Port of Miami, and the Brightline station, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences is set to become a cornerstone of the city’s hospitality and residential sectors.

Two Miami Hotels Named Most Romantic in the United States Just in Time For Valentine’s Day

In the realm of romance and luxury, South Florida emerges as a premier destination, boasting two of the nation’s top romantic getaways. As Valentine’s Day approaches, or for any special occasion throughout the year, these exquisite hotels offer unparalleled experiences. Let’s explore these gems as highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler.

1. 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami Beach: A Holistic Retreat Nestled in Miami Beach, 1 Hotel South Beach stands out as a holistic haven, blending luxury with an eco-conscious ethos. Condé Nast Traveler applauds its unique approach, describing it as a “holistic retox-detox Miami fantasy.” The hotel’s crowning glory is its rooftop swimming pool, the largest in Miami Beach, offering breathtaking ocean views. Guests can also enjoy the serenity of ocean-view balconies and take pride in the hotel’s commitment to 100% carbon neutrality. Adding to its allure is Tala Beach, an outdoor bar, restaurant, and beach club, open from Thursday to Sunday.

2. W South Beach, Miami Beach: Artistic Elegance Following a $30 million renovation in 2020, the W South Beach redefines luxury. Distancing itself from the typical W brand, this hotel boasts a multi-million dollar art collection in its lobby and offers an array of activities including yoga, high-interval training, and cocktail-making classes. The W’s Away Spa and the tropical outdoor bar, Irma’s, are perfect for indulging in relaxation and enjoying sunset cocktails.

Miami’s luxury hotels offer more than just a stay; they provide an experience that intertwines romance, luxury, and unique charm. Whether it’s the holistic allure of 1 Hotel South Beach or the artistic elegance of W South Beach, these destinations promise an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Strategic Real Estate Moves by Qatar’s Royal Family in Miami’s Financial District

In a significant real estate transaction that has captured the attention of the global financial community, members of Qatar’s esteemed royal family, the Al Thanis, have divested their interests in the SLS Brickell hotel, located in the heart of Miami’s bustling financial district. The property, which stands as a testament to luxury and opulence, was acquired for a sum of $55 million by the Kastrati Group, a conglomerate with Albanian roots.

The SLS Brickell, an architectural marvel situated at 1300 South Miami Avenue, encompasses 124 rooms, translating to a valuation of approximately $444,000 per room. The transaction was facilitated by Miami’s renowned broker, Jordan Karp, who represented both the Al Thanis and the Kastrati Group. Stefano Santoro, a notable figure in the disruptive real estate sector, played a pivotal role in assisting Karp from the buyer’s side. However, the brokers have maintained discretion regarding the intricate details of the buyer’s identity.

This acquisition is particularly noteworthy as it marks the Kastrati Group’s inaugural venture into the U.S. real estate market. Under the leadership of Shefqet Kastrati, the conglomerate boasts a diverse portfolio, spanning sectors such as oil, insurance, construction, and infrastructure.

The SLS Brickell’s history is as intriguing as its architecture. In 2018, an affiliate of the Al Thanis procured the hotel for $43 million from its original developer, the Coconut Grove-based Related Group. The hotel, a 54-story mixed-use edifice, was conceived by the visionary French architect Philippe Starck in collaboration with Miami’s own Arquitectonica. Its offerings include a sprawling 58,000 square feet of event space, gourmet restaurants, upscale bars, a rooftop pool terrace, and grand ballrooms. The management of the hotel is under the aegis of Accor Hotels, a global leader in the hospitality sector.

The real estate landscape of Miami continues to evolve, with the Al Thanis recently divesting an SLS Brickell restaurant space, which was acquired by Robert Rivani’s Black Lion Investment Group for $10 million. Furthermore, the Related Group, in partnership with the Allen Morris Company, has also developed the nearby SLS Lux Brickell Hotel & Residences.

In a broader context, the Miami real estate market has witnessed several noteworthy transactions. Michigan-based hoteliers Malik Abdulnoor and Sahir Malki recently invested $21 million in the Hampton Inn Fort Lauderdale/Plantation. Additionally, the Nakash family from New York, in collaboration with Michael Palmer, acquired the Beacon South Beach Hotel in Miami Beach for $23.5 million.

For hedge fund managers and investors, these transactions underscore the vitality and potential of the Miami real estate market, offering lucrative opportunities for those with a keen eye for value and growth.

Developers Compete to Open Luxury Hotel at Miami International Airport

Miami International Airport may be entering a new era as two developers compete to construct a new hotel close to the busy transportation hub. The Miami International Airport Hotel, which connects to Terminal E, may soon have a rival after more than 60 years without one. To build a new hotel close to the airport, the county is now considering 50-year lease applications from FDR Miami Hotel LLC and Parmco Airport Hospitality LLC.

According to memoranda from Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, the chosen developer will be in charge of planning, constructing, financing, running, and maintaining the new hotel. A total budget of about $265 million has been proposed by FDR Miami Hotel LLC, while a budget of about $241.7 million has been offered by Parmco Airport Hospitality LLC. Each proposal has particular benefits and strengths.

The proposed Hilton hotel by Zyscovich Architects. Parmco Airport Hospitality LLC is to be credited.

Two well-known developers have submitted opposing plans for a new hotel connected to Miami International Airport. A proposal for a 451-room Westin hotel designed by Arquitectonica has been made by FDR Miami Hotel LLC, a joint venture between Fontainebleau Development LLC, directed by Jeffrey Soffer, and The Related Companies, fronted by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross. The prestigious Westin name would be present throughout the upmarket development’s assortment of amenities, which would include meeting rooms, restaurants, and a pool. In contrast, the construction of a Hilton hotel with the famous architectural skills of Zyscovich Architects has been offered by Parmco Airport Hospitality LLC, a Miami-based development company specifically established for this project and led by developers Paul Lambert and Darryl Parmenter.

The memos estimate that during the course of the proposed 50-year lease, FDR Miami Hotel LLC will earn around $240 million in revenue for the county. The county would earn more than $20 million in rent in exchange for leasing the site to the chosen developer. The mayor’s staff emphasized the project’s potential community advantages while highlighting the financial features of FDR Miami Hotel LLC’s proposal, notably its increased rent payments.

The new hotel complex would have a pedestrian bridge connecting it to Terminal D. It would be built on a 1.8-acre property next to the Dolphin parking garage on the airport’s northeast side. The goal of this prominent position is to provide travelers with comfort and accessibility. Although the new hotel won’t take the place of the Miami International Airport Hotel, it will improve guest lodging options and expand the airport’s amenities.

The selection process for the winning plan, however, took a while. In December of last year, Mayor Levine Cava rejected all early offers and demanded a fresh round of discussions that would put the needs of employees, local employment, the environment, and the community first. After some time, the proposal from FDR Miami Hotel LLC was accepted, and on June 14 both FDR and Parmco submitted their ideas to the Aviation and Economic Development Committee of the county commission. The commission meeting set on July 18 is anticipated to produce the ultimate verdict.

To accommodate all types of travelers, from those who have lengthy layovers to business people who need conference space, the Miami International Airport has long needed more hotel rooms. There has only ever been one hotel connected to the airport, the more than 60-year-old Miami International Airport Hotel. Miami’s airport would solidify its position as a dynamic and active transportation hub with the probable addition of a new hotel.

The hotel project’s building schedule is still up in the air and dependent on funding and municipal planner permission. Unique difficulties arise when constructing an integrated hotel inside of an airport, such as strict security and safety regulations. The chosen developer will be able to design Miami’s new airport hotel, which will give tourists from all over the world access to contemporary conveniences, cozy lodgings, and first-rate service.

The opening of a new hotel at Miami International Airport will have a significant impact on the development of the airport’s economy and the hospitality industry. This project is an important step in providing travelers with the high-quality hotel options they want and in improving the overall travel experience for those taking flights into and out of Miami.

Nobu Hotel Miami Beach Made the List of the Top 100 Best Hotels in the World

A hotel in Miami Beach made the list of the 100 Best Hotels in the World just published by Travel & Leisure. Nobu Hotel Miami Beach, which came in at number 81 on the list and is styled to resemble a Japanese beach house, was hailed for its comforts.

According to the Travel + Leisure article, “The list of world-class amenities at this David Rockwell-designed beachfront hotel is impressively long: exceptional epicurean delights, a beautiful 22,000-square-foot spa, three pools, a private marina, and luxurious penthouse-level villas.”

Nobu also made the Best 15 Resorts in the Continental US coming in at #8. Faena Miami Beach also made this list at #14. These two resorts also topped the list for the 15 Best Resort in Greater Miami, followed by Ritz-Carlton South Beach, the Four Season Hotel at the Surf Club, The Setai, and the Standard Spa.

The rankings are weighed by consumer opinions and travel experiences, which are rated by the location, services provided, food services, facilities, and value.

According to Nobu’s website, Nobu Hotels create the idea of a lifestyle hotel by fusing contemporary cool luxury with modest Japanese culture. Together, Nobu Hotels, Restaurants, and Residences offer goods and services that are representative of the distinctive culinary experiences offered at Nobu.

Each offers a distinctively local experience in a space with a cutting-edge design. The Nobu Hotel idea is a tailored experience with each hotel being unique, under the direction of Nobu Matsuhisa, a well-known chef, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper.

Official Plans Submitted for Riverside Wharf

In December 2021, it was announced that a Miami Developer along with Driftwood Capital announced plans the rebuild The Wharf alongside the Miami River. Now, those plans have officially been submitted to Miami’s Urban Development Review Board.

The plans for this project include a hotel and an entertainment complex with retail, food, and beverage. The cost for the project is estimated at $185 million. The plans submitted include 174 hotel units operated by Dream Hotels and 91,733 square feet of commercial space.

A 16,000-square-foot restaurant, a 12,000-square-foot event hall, a 30,000-square-foot nightclub/rooftop day club, and 600 feet of river frontage are all planned for the 200,000-square-foot project. Garcia’s Fish Market may also set up shop on the property as a pop-up market. Its commercial fishing activity used to be located on the property.

The zoning requirements for this type of proposal would include 417 parking spaces but the developers are requesting a 50% reduction in parking by the entertainment and hotel spaces sharing parking. Once approved, the parking spaces will be offsite.

A part of the proposed development includes public used land, which will require a special election. That election is currently scheduled for August 23 and it will involve a potential lease of the public property to the developer.

The 1.5-acre Miami River property at 114 Southwest North River Drive will be developed by MV Real Estate Holdings and its partner, Coral Gables-based Driftwood Capital. Nitin Motwani, the managing partner of Merrimac Ventures and the developer of the Miami Worldcenter, is also a general partner in the project, according to Mantecon.

The Miami Urban Development Review Board is scheduled to review the development proposal on March 16, 2022.

Marriott and Westin Open a Dual-Branded Hotel in Brickell

In Miami’s Brickell Financial District, a dual-branded hotel with considerable commercial space has opened. Robert Finvarb Cos. and Tony Cho recently finished the AC Hotel by Marriott and Westin located in the heart of Brickell at 115 S.W. Eight Street.

The AC Hotel totals 264 rooms with 156 inspired by the Marriott and 108 rooms by the Westin that caters to longer-term guests. Also included in the hotel are 22,500 square feet of ground-floor retail, and 4,600 square feet of meeting space. Rosa Sky is the bar located on the rooftop.

Amenities:

• Pool
• Bar in lobby
• Fitness Center
• Ground floor retail
• Meeting space
• Rooftop lounge

Robert Finvarb, CEO of the Finvarb Cos stated, “We believe our dual-brand property and Rosa Sky concept will fit in well with this market, offering an enhanced guest experience.”

The ground-floor retail space is currently under contract with Metro 1. Other tenants include a speakeasy piano bar Il Piano, Silver Mirror, La Suiza Bakehouse, and Toro restaurant.

Arquitectonica designed the hotel and John Moriarty & Associates of Florida was the general contractor. AC Hotel is just one block west of Brickell City Center and the Brickell Metrorail Station. AC Hotels currently have 107 locations in North America, 12 in Central America, 90 in Europe, and 6 in Asia.

The Historic Deauville Beach Resort Miami Beach Set to be Demolished

The Deauville Beach Resort located in Miami Beach, will be finally be demolished after years of neglect and decay, the mayor of Miami Beach announced this week.

The order for demolition was delivered in a letter to the Miami Beach City Commission on Wednesday, after a report by the building’s owners concluding that the structure is hazardous to the public. An assessment was completed after the letter by the city that confirmed the results to the demolition order.

The hotel forced to close in 2017 due to an electrical fire, and it has been closed ever since.

The hotel was purchased in 2004 for only $4 million by Deauville Associates LLC, a business managed by Belinda and Richard Meruelo. For years, the 540-room hotel at 6701 Collins Avenue has been the subject of lawsuits and other disputes between the city and its owners.

According to a Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board meeting last week in which the board considered options for moving forward, the North Beach hotel has piled up fines totaling roughly $1.8 million since last year.

According to the Miami Beach’s deputy city manager, Eric Carpenter, said that the demolition process may take one to two months to complete once the permit is issued. Approval will come after the Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Resources Management Department determines that the site is safe for demolition, which will include the process of asbestos removal.

Some locals have stated that the property was purposely left unattended and that there was no maintenance ever completed on the hotel.

There are currently no plans for the 3.8 acre site after the hotel is demolished but the property will no longer be considered an historic site once the hotel is removed.

The Deauville features many historic components from 1957, including a large swimming pool, hairdresser, ice skating rink, ballroom and radio station.

This historic hotel housed some of the most iconic performances ever made. The Beatles’ in 1964 on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” and Frank Sinatra. The hotel was also a spot for big names like Joan Rivers and President John F. Kennedy.

Miami-Based Investors Including Alex Rodriguez Purchased a South Beach Hotel

Alex Rodriguez with a Miami-based investor group recently purchased a South Beach hotel located directly on Ocean Drive. The investors, also known as CGI Merchant Group is an international management firm that focuses on real estate investments and private equity. The purchase was officially announced Wednesday.

The Celino South Beach, located at 640 Ocean Drive was originally built in 1937 and has been named the largest hotel complex on Ocean Drive. The deal itself was financed through CGI’s Hospitality Fund of $650 million. The purchase price is still unknown.

Going forward, all CGI hotel properties will hold the Hilton brand. The Celino South Beach comprises of 132 rooms which include 26 penthouse suites.

According to the CGI founder, “We are thrilled to be part of the Miami Beach family and to partake in the reinvention of Ocean Drive. We look forward to helping the area reach its full potential and sharing how it reflects our vision for the hospitality industry. ”

The Celino South Beach was renovated in 2019 is expected to reopen in the fall of 2021. Its sister property, The Gabriel Miami located at 1100 Biscayne Blvd has recently reopened.

CGI was originally founded in 2006 and has invested in multiple Miami mixed-use properties including 3480 Main Highway, 550 Biltmore Way, and 55 Miracle Mile.

BVLGARI is Expected to Launch its First US Hotel Location in 2024 in Miami Beach

Bvlgari is known for its one-of-a-kind luxury products but that isn’t limited to its line of watches and accessories. They also have 11 branded hotels in Milan, London, and Dubai, just to name a few. With their recent expansions in Moscow and Paris, the brand has also decided to open its first location in the United States at none other than one of the hottest cities in the country, Miami Beach.

Located at 100 21st Street, the hotel will be waterfront with direct Miami beach access. The location will place Bvlgari just a few steps from the Miami Art Deco district. Bvlgari originally purchased the property for $140 million.

Because of its location, the project was recent approved by the Miami Historic Preservation Committee. Bvlgari Hotel will feature its signature Italian luxury brand while still celebrating its 1950’s style and historical significance.

The Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel will be finalizing the design and restoration of the property in the coming months. The hotel will feature 100 rooms with most of them suites, a spa, outdoor pool, fitness amenities, a restaurant by Chef Niko Romito, and a Bvlgari branded bar.

According to the CEO of Jean-Christophe Babin, “We are particularly proud to have secured such an extraordinary location for the new Bvlgari Hotel in Miami. This will be our first property in the United States which is a key market for our Brand and we are delighted to add the vibrant and glamorous Miami Beach to our Collection.”

Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts is expected to begin construction in quarter 4 of 2021 with an anticipated opening date in 2024.