Like me, you've probably driven by South Beach Casino & Resort multiple times when heading up Highway 59 for a beach day trip, curious why this unique art deco building found it's way to Lake Winnipeg on Brokenhead Ojibway Nation. The hard-edged, embellished design of the six-story hotel immediately makes visitors feel like they're cruising along Ocean Drive, the famous strip along South Beach in Miami.

Inside the lobby, the cheery orange and soothing turquoise colour scheme immediately changes your mood - it's easy to slip into vacation mode upon the warm welcome. Two dolphin mascots playoff in the corner, while the art deco stars and graphics on the floor guide the way to all the fun.

Chatty resort staff are eager to make your getaway memorable and even though the resort has been around for over 15 years (it was built in 2005) everything about the property is well cared for and in impeccable condition.

Escape to: the Mediterranean

The most gorgeous feature of the resort is the indoor pool, which is flanked by large columns beautifully decorated in sparkly mosiac-like tile. The pool area has a very Mediterranean bath vibe, and when the sun sets through the large, west-facing picture windows, it's a very cool way to experience magic hour on Lake Winnipeg that's not on a beach. On the opposite end of the pool, a rain shower feature with colour-changing lights adds another hypnotic element to the space.

Even if you're not a gambler, a stay at the South Beach for access to this pool is totally worth it. Its shallow waters even make it welcoming for families, too. It was a surprise to learn this isn't an adults-only type of vacation.

Escape to: a condo in the Caribbean

The 6-storey hotel features 10 grand suites, five junior suites, eight luxury guest rooms, and 70 deluxe guest rooms...needless to say there are a lot of options to suit your budget and party size.

We splurged on the grand suite and it felt like we had been whisked away to a sun-filled condo on any Caribbean island. The spacious 780 sq. ft. corner suite was filled with natural light - thanks to its large windows. We arrived just as the sun was setting and could feel and smell the imaginary ocean breeze flowing through the sheer peach curtains.

The suite was kitted out with a king-sized bed, a living room, kitchenette and an in-room jacuzzi. These suites are a great deal for a couple celebrating an anniversary or even a family escape for those who can't afford to hop on a plane to a tropical locale.

Escape to: Las Vegas, Nevada

South Beach has an all-inclusive resort feel similar to when you vacation in Mexico. Guests don't really need to leave the property. It has everything you need in one spot: dining, relaxation and entertainment.

We ate supper at the tropical themed Mango's, the on-site dining room known for its prime rib specials on weekends and hearty portions (tip: plan to eat outside of 'high dining times' to avoid waits). Mango's decor bursts with green ferns and palm trees, while a glowing, blue water wall and flashing image wall make you feel like you're dining along the coast.

The Blue Dolphin Lounge located in the casino also has a full menu of lighter fare like burgers and pizzas and is a second dining option if Mango's is full. The South Beach Cafe in the lobby is perfect for quick snacks and takeaway breakfast the next morning.

Planning a getaway to South Beach Casino is an escape and sometimes we all need to feel like we've travelled to the tropics without breaking the bank and leaving Manitoba.