As I reflect on my arrival at the brand-new James Royal Palm Miami, I realize it was highly unlikely I would have a positive first impression.  

I arrived just after midnight following a half-day of meetings in Los Angeles, a five-hour flight and an hour shuttle from the airport. My second wind had long since passed. On top of that, being there on business, I could only be envious of the guests sipping swanky cocktails at that “early” South Beach hour. Instead, I was eager to get to my room, draw the blinds and get some sleep before my meetings the next day.   

I write this preface in order to emphasize just how outstanding the new James property is. As exhausted as I was, I couldn’t help but be wowed. Just opened in December 2012, the hotel exudes an indescribable freshness. After some research, I learned we have Lauren Rottet of Rottet Studio to thank for the inspired design and décor. The lobby features the original Royal Palm green glass reception desk and port holes, along with many intimate spots for sipping swanky cocktails or having tea during an afternoon rain shower. 

From the lobby to my room, I found myself snapping photos, preparing a collage of inspiration for my “some day” dream house. The whitewashed wood panel walls in the hallways; the mismatched block room numbers and the driftwood-style headboard of my bed were all captured. Beyond the manmade pleasures the James has to offer, the prestigious location also offers the opportunity to reconnect with nature. As my balcony faced the beach, I enjoyed watching the sun rise over the ocean as I prepared for my day and a storm roll through when I returned for the night.

And just when you think it would be sheer torture to stay in such an oasis while on business, I entered the lobby at 8:00 a.m. and saw swarms of “suits” catching breakfast at the Florida Cookery before attending a conference in the 2,500-square-foot Great Room. The James truly has something for everyone.   

— Danielle Hudena, executive vice president