Hotel Casa Victoria Orchid (Miami Beach, USA)

Many people seem to come back here on a regular basis and you can see why. The South Beach turmoil is nearby but, here, in this quiet little street, peace reigns! Having said that, Espanola Way is just round the corner and it’s 3 blocks to Lincoln Road Mall and to the beach. There are nice garden and lobby areas to relax and chat to other guests.

Rooms have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, cable TV, microwave, coffee pot, toaster, etc … all the usual conveniences. The kitchenette is a useful add-on and self-catering here is a great way to keep costs down. There are plenty of shops in the area, including a very handy Art deco supermarket. *Try A la Folie (French café) for great value food and drink. O' My Buns is another place for coffee and pastries.

Particularly when you take into account the really great location, the price represents very good value. The accommodation is clean throughout and the management – all-female at the last count – couldn’t be more friendly or helpful.

This is an older building and there’s no lift. Most folk, though, won’t have a problem carrying luggage upstairs to the room. There’s no free parking here and parking the car commercially can put the holiday budget in rocket mode.

Before you dismiss that climb to the top, 2nd floor, it’s worth noting that once there, you don’t have the problem with noise from the guests above you. In the lower floor rooms, it can be a bit of a pain.

The kitchen is OK but rather basic and whilst the furniture is OK, it’s getting a bit worn now.