The Beach at The Raleigh Miami Beach

"The Raleigh is quintessential old-school Miami Beach with a modern twist"

"Balazs moved on in 2009, but not before instilling the hotel with a cool, laid-back feeling that is rare in glitzy South Beach"

"This classy art deco gem, part of the sbe hotel group, balances the perfect amount of style, comfort, and South Beach sultriness, highlighted by the beach's sexiest pool, which was created for champion swimmer Esther Williams"

"Scenesters love free vintage bikes and a pop-up design boutique -- plus private access to South Beach, but nobody appreciates the small rooms and daily resort fees"

"Need to detox after a South Beach Friday night? Join the weekly Saturday morning yoga class at the nearby Miami Beach Botanical Garden, an oasis of flowering trees, tranquil water features, and more than 60 species of palms"

"But if you’re looking for a hotel redolent of old Miami, and hands-down the most beautiful pool—and crowd—on the beach, you’ll forgive the flaws and bask in the glow of something money can’t buy: heartfelt hospitality"

"Among the features he's showcasing are the scallop-shaped swimming pool (once graced by Esther Williams) and pool area, and the 300-foot private beach oasis (a real luxury in this overcrowded area)"

"Sporting a "romantic air", this "well-run" Miami Beach property is known to fans of Million Dollar Mermaid Esther Williams, who will recognize the iconic art deco pool ("best pool ever") that entices guests with cabanas offering fruity cocktails and cool towels; guests can dine on locally sourced fare at the Restaurant Michael Schwartz before repairing to "comfortable" rooms stocked with Ciel Spa toiletries, iPod docks and Egyptian cotton sheets -- all maintained by "positive" staffers who "proactively service all needs"

"A classic Art Deco hideaway in the heart of South Beach, The Raleigh is famous for its lovely, baroque swimming pool where movie star and synchronised swimmer Esther Williams once splashed in the 1950s"

"Twice-daily maid service and 24-hour room service speak to the hotel's status on the beach"