Penguin Hotel - Miami Beach, USA     

Just like most of the other reviewers, my friend and I were also subject to the 'bait-and-switch' scam. Upon arrival, we were told that there were problems with our Penguin room, but that their sister property "The President" had available space. We were walked over to The President (which is literally only steps away) and were allowed to check out our room before we agreed to anything. To our surprise, the room was great. The tile had been newly-laid, the paint was fresh, and the bedding appearered to be brand new. Within seconds, we decided that these accomodations were just fine and agreed to stay here instead. We were given free continental breakfast and late-checkout for the change. I felt that the accomodations were perfectly liveable. What's more: the location cannot be beat. Each morning, we were on the beach within one minute and restuarants along Collins and Ocean were all around us. The hotel was pretty active, too -- it was not uncommon to return at four in the morning to find other residents hanging out on the hotel patio. The biggest let-down was the 'poolside grotto', which looked like a tropical paradise in pictures, but more resembled a small backyard in a tract home. But, who needs the grotto, when the Atlantic Ocean is so nearby? I'm not sure why the owners feel the need to run this 'scam'. With most people reading reviews before they arrive, it just comes across as kind of pathetic, especially when you get two different stories from two different employees. My friend and I stood there--virtually holding back laughter--as the desk clerk fed us a pack of lies about why our Penguin room was unavailable. But, there is nothing wrong with The President and the lie is really just unnecessary.

Booked hotel rooms online which shows 2 double beds for $124 when contacting hotel to confirm they state rate is $154 and they do not have double beds in rooms. Front desk clerk would not assist and hung up call.