We just got back from four days at the Atlantic. The property is beautiful and has a great location on the beach. The rooms are modern and our (upgraded) suite included a sitting room and a full kitchen. We had a non-ocean view room, but had a marvelous view over Ft. Lauderdale and could see much of the beach from our balcony. The pool is small, but on the 5th floor terrace overlooking the ocean, which was beautiful. We had no problem finding space or towels. The pool servers were very friendly and helpful, although the food took a while to arrive. The fitness facility is small but well laid out. The staff overall were just great--always friendly and ready to help.

A couple small drawbacks--each room comes with a Bose stereo which is a wonderful amenity; however, if your neighbors play theirs too loudly, the sound comes right through the walls. We called the front desk one night and the problem was immediately fixed. Second, if you want to be on the beach, this location is great, but other restaurants (outside the hotel) are about a 10 minute walk away. Not an issue for us, but might be for some. We would definitely stay here again.

The pros: Spacious and clean room; medium-sized well-equipped gym; nice spa.

The cons: The property is completely lacking in amenities. First, the one restaurant on site, which also provides the room service, is grossly over-priced with mediocre food at best. Similarly, the food by the pool is average with no pool-side service. Guests must walk up to the bar for service or try to flag down the one or two waiters working.

Second, there are no coffee shops, drug stores, or casual restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. I asked about food options and the doorman told me to "walk up the street to Benegan's," but there was nothing in sight for several blocks. And although the website says there is a gift shop with magazines, etc, the front desk said there is no longer anything on site and had no suggestions for a nearby drugstore.

Third, the pool area is very small with few lounge chairs. By as early as 9 am towels would be covering all the chairs with very few people actually occupying the chairs. The staff should police this and institute a policy (found at other properties like the Loews in South Beach) that if you are gone more than 2 hours you lose your chair.

Fourth, the walls are very, very thin. I heard various unpleasant noises and talking at all hours of the night from the room next door.

Lastly, even though I was quoted a rate of $509 by Starwood the rate on my bill at checkout was $589, which I had specifically declined with the Starwood agent on the phone. The service and amenities at this property do not match this kind of rate. This property should not be classified in Starwood's "luxury collection."

This hotel exceeded our expectations, the rooms have been decorated beautifully and the staff was outstanding

great hotel! great view! staff are very very nice...big rooms...wonderful pool!! they MAKE SURE you have a wonderful stay!