The Delano almost single-handedly brought the hip quotient back to Miami’s South Beach. This Art Deco-cum-contemporary hotel opened in the mid-1990s to much fanfare and has been on the speed dial of virtually every A-lister ever since. It is no wonder, with its seductively cool indoor/outdoor lobby and beautiful people-watching. The guest rooms and suites are the last word in minimalism, with clean lines and simple furnishings in all white. The poolside cabanas remain the place to see and be seen, and the pool area has an Alice in Wonderland quality to it, with unique sculptures turning up in the unlikeliest of spots—such as at the shallow end of the pool. The Delano plays up to its chic clientele with its happening restaurants and bars and luxe spa.

Delano Amenities:

• 195 rooms, 15 story. Check-in 3 pm, check-out noon. High-speed Internet access, wireless Internet access. Three restaurants, two bars. Children's activity center. Fitness room, fitness classes available, spa. Beach. Outdoor pool. Airport transportation available. Business center.