The Morgans Hotel Group, which offers a spate of stylish, upscale properties around the world, is in the midst of some major expansion. The Mondrian London at Sea Containers is set to open September 30, followed by the Mondrian Doha, and the Mondrian Istanbul. The hotel group is also preparing to open their Delano brand in Las Vegas this fall, followed by Cesme, Turkey; Moscow; and Cartagena; then another in Karaköy, Istanbul. With all this new activity in mind, we took a step back to see how their second Mondrian property, in South Beach, Miami, which opened way back in 2008, is holding up.

The first thing to bear in mind when booking the Mondrian South Beach is its location; it's a bit of a deal breaker for some. The hotel is essentially "crosstown" from Miami Beach. This does have its advantages, though, in that it is usually (pool parties aside) quieter, and its bayside setting lends itself to some romantic sunsets.

Besides the pool, you can make use of the modern and spacious gym looking over Biscayne Bay; book an appointment at the spa (massages start at $80 for 30 minutes), or pedal around town on a complimentary bicycle. If exercise is not on the agenda, there is always the restaurant and poolside Sunset Lounge to pass the time in.

As befits a hotel belonging to the company generally credited with kicking off the boutique hotel trend, the Mondrian South Beach is notable for its contemporary design features, such as a futuristic pod-like check-in desk, oversize pillars and lamps, and a computer-generated woman's portrait in the lobby and rooms.

We stayed in the lowest room tier, a studio, which, at 523-square-feet with a kitchen area, was more spacious than expected. Rooms are designed by Marcel Wanders and feature offbeat design elements with custom-designed wall coverings, and custom-made Dutch Delft tile.

Current rates start at $209 per night, not including the $20 per night resort fee, which covers WiFi and a welcome drink. Given that it's hot and steamy in Miami right now, that is an off-season rate; come November, the starting price goes up to $287. Morgans does offer a selection of promotions that run throughout the year, including one that gives you free nights when you stay for two to three. See their special offers page for more information.