Bienvenidos a Miami

On Thursday, I flew from Orlando to Miami to inspect the hotel where we will host our annual Collaboration Summit in November. After a long week cooped inside the Gaylord resort and convention center, it was great to get away and visit a new venue. Plus, I happen to really like Miami!

Fountainebleau Miami

I had a few minutes of free time after arriving, so I snuck downstairs to visit the beach. My ankle was still injured which meant I couldn’t walk far, but I could sit and enjoy the scenery. I inhaled the fresh air, listened to the waves, and felt the stress melt away. It was a few minutes in heaven.

Miami Beach

Bird Perch

View from the balconies

Downtown Miami

On Thursday evening the hotel staff treated us to dinner, allowing us to sample their menu selections. The site visit is one of the better parts of hosting events. When you are considering a venue, the staff gives you the VIP treatment, and rolls out the red carpet for you. It’s easy to get spoiled.

The following morning, we toured the hotel, conference center, restaurants, and meeting space. The Fountainebleau is a magnificent property. It has all of the flair of Miami South Beach — the decor, attitude, location and environment are perfect. I wish my stay had been longer. I can’t wait to go back later this year. The hotel even had a special guest arriving on Friday evening. President Obama was going to be staying at the property. It was very interesting to see all of the security staff and police getting ready for his visit. I had to leave before he arrived, but it was cool nonetheless.

Hotel Lobby

Quick meeting before wrapping up the site visit

Before heading to the airport for my trip home, I stopped by the JW Marriott Marquis hotel in Miami to check out their property. They have installed the many of my company’s collaboration solutions — virtual concierge, public Telepresence, digital surveillance, wifi, and touchscreen phones — it’s very cool. The hotel is brand new. It opened in November. The Marriott is very different than the Fountainebleau, but equally amazing. They also feature a virtual bowling alley, 3D theatre room, full size basketball court, billiards room, and virtual golf. It’s definitely another hotel you should consider if you are staying in Miami. You won’t be disappointed!

Standard room at the JW — featuring three Cisco phones, wireless, deskphone and bathroom phone — yes, my nerd factor is showing

TV screens integrated into the bathroom mirror — pretty cool

Virtual bowling alley

After all of the excitement in Miami, I boarded a flight to return home. With 12 straight days of work, I was ready for a break — and a weekend! I arrived late on Friday night. It felt good to be home and great to finally see my husband again.

Now, it’s time for some rest!