KIMPTON EPIC MIAMI
ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: I flew from Philadelphia to Miami on one of my first trips post-pandemic. Landing at MIA proved convenient, as I was able to deliver the reader-voted awards the airport recently won, dropping them off for the new director and CEO, Ralph Cutie. Once I completed this task, I decided it would be faster to play it “old school” and went to the taxi line, where a cab was waiting. I noticed rideshare passengers seemed to be waiting as I passed them on the way to the Kimpton Epic. The hotel is located in the heart of Miami, which over the years has grown with more activities and restaurants. I noticed construction all over town, with cranes and new buildings everywhere I looked. I arrived at the hotel’s circular driveway in 15 minutes. I had been wearing a mask in the cab and kept it on when I entered the hotel. I noticed I was the only person wearing one, and another guest said, “Hey, this is Florida!” The woman at the front desk politely greeted me and asked if I needed anything. I requested a few bottles of water, and she had them delivered to my room. Keys to room 2714 in hand, I took the elevator up to the 27th floor for the spectacular view.
GUEST QUARTERS: Besides offering a beautiful balcony overlooking the Miami River where it meets the South Channel and the water beyond to Miami Beach, the room was comfortable and appealing. A king-sized bed sat at the right side of the room past the bathroom, and the opposing wall housed a credenza and flat-screen TV. To the right of the TV sat a round table and chair where I set up Global Traveler’s South HQ while I was in town. Due to COVID, meetings were more sparse than normal, so I always had time for email work. A chair and an ottoman near the balcony allowed me to turn and observe the glorious skyline. The balcony outside had two chairs and a table; I used this venue to take a few selfies for my future publisher’s letter picture. I found the quadruple electrical outlets near the table a real plus, and those by the bed useful.
The immense bathroom featured a tub on the left and a cut-out window to the room that provided a view beyond (it could be shuttered for privacy). The large shower on the left side of the tub had glass walls and included a rain showerhead. To the right of the tub, double raised-bowl sinks and a smart-looking vanity offered lots of room for travel toiletries.
SERVICES/AMENITIES: Amenities in the bathroom include grooming products by White Tea such as shampoo, conditioner, body lotion and skin cleanser. A host of other products from cotton balls to swabs are available.
The main restaurant, Area 31, is located on the water side of the hotel on the 16th floor, featuring an open-air terrace and serving local and international cuisines. The bar makes a nice hangout; I entertained there several times during my stay. Zum, ground level, also offers outside seating. It features a highly respected modern Japanese dining style called izakaya, which offers a distinct alternative to Miami cuisine.