Though it’s about 15 minutes from the beach, the Mandarin Oriental offers you the beach on its own turf. The 20,000-square-foot white sand beach club was recently opened and includes beds with white cushions and canopies, beach butlers, and beachside cabana treatments. Posh living has a home in the Mandarin Oriental. Dark wood furnishings and tall ceilings are just the beginning; youll also appreciate the hardwood floors and sandy-colored fabrics rich enough for a maharani. Many members of the Mandarin Oriental’s staff are from Hong Kong and Bangkok, and their presence gives guests a more authentic Asian experience. Thai massages and Ayurvedic treatments at the 15,000-square-foot spa go a long way toward enhancing that experience. Azul, the Mandarin’s award-winning restaurant, is headed by Chef Clay Conley. Although he wasn’t flown in from overseas, his cooking is an exotic blend of Mediterranean and Asian flavors. Sample truffled gnochetti in porcini brodo, grilled porcini salad, parmesan and shaved black truffles. For a real taste sensation, indulge in banana Nutella soufflé with caramel ice cream and Bailey’s crème anglaise. J-Lo has dropped by and Jacko, in all his controversial glory, has also been a guest. Living up to his reputation, he felt it necessary to autograph one of the paintings in his suite despite the fact that he was not the artist. Book a room and you may be lucky enough to see it.