What to expect: Colorful gardens, lush foliage, and bubbling fountains welcome leisure travelers to this 300-acre, Mediterranean-style resort. A grand marble entryway, sparkling chandeliers, and ornate works of art grace the lobby. Guests discover a quiet corner for reading or conversation in front of the fireplace in the lobby bar, where the entrance is guarded by two marble lions.

Amenity highlights: The Turnberry Isle is home to two 18-hole championship golf courses and a driving range designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Tennis players can choose from 19 multi-surfaced courts. A 25,000-square-foot health spa includes 26 treatment rooms and a fitness center with weight and cardio equipment and aerobics classes. There is a courtyard splash pool, and complimentary shuttle service is provided to the private Ocean Club and the resort's 117-slip marina a mile away.

Insider tip: The resort also provides complimentary shuttles to the Aventura Mall a half-mile away, where guests will find 250 specialty shops, including Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Lord & Taylor, and Burdines.

• This nine-story hotel is set between Aventura Mall and the Turnberry Isle Resort, midway between Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
• Guestrooms feature living/sleeping areas, full kitchens, and complimentary high-speed and wireless Internet access.
• The Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Aventura Mall serves a complimentary buffet breakfast every morning.