Narrowed the search to two hotels for POM departure

[Bucket29]

After much research I have narrowed down my choice to stay at either the Hampton Inn Hallendale Beach in Aventura (between Ft. Lauderdale and Miami) or the Sofitel in Blue Laggoon (near Miami Airport).

 

Will be driving down from Jacksonville the night before the cruise and would like an easy transition both pre and post cruise. Both have parking and shuttle to Port included in price, would need a cab for return from Port back to hotel. Overall price is sliggtly higher for Hampton b/c of return cab fare but the non monetary benefit of not having to drive into Miami airport area may be worth it?

 

Any thoughts on that logic? Anyone know if one hotel is safer to leave our car? Anyone aware of "exactish" cab fare? Thanks for any insight.

[FLAHAM]

Both are decent hotels. The Sofitel is nicer. Hampton Inn is in the immediate vicinity of more interesting restaurants. Driving around Doral (Miami airport area) is no big deal.

[JohninDC]

Taxi from POM back to any Blue Lagoon hotel will be just under $30 including tip. If you choose Sofitel try to eat at Casa Juan - great and inexpensive Cuban food enjoyed by lots of locals (always a good sign). Good luck! :)