Miami, My Amie

Hello friends! I hope that you are happy and smiling today!

Welcome to Miami – Sunshine, Beaches and Skyscrapers!

Whenever I need to top up my tan, I visit my favourite sunshine destination – Miami Beach. Miami, with its cosmopolitan mix of cultures doesn’t feel like anywhere else in the States. In fact, a friend of mine jokes, “The best thing about Miami is that it is so close to the USA!” J

Downtown Miami with its  high-rise centres of commerce, Little Havana with its authentic Cuban vibe, Coconut Grove with its cool bars and local restaurants and Coral Gables with its chic Miracle Mile are all treats to visit but crossing one of the bridges onto ‘The Beach’ is like entering an oasis of relaxation and style! Miami Beach is perfect for beach time, water sports, people watching and has some of the best nightlife on offer anywhere in the world!

Lush palm trees and walkways

Miami Beach is easy to visit. Miami International Airport is one of the best-connected airports in the world for both domestic and international flights. The airport used to be compared (unfavourably) to third-world airports but a multi-year renovation means that airport is now convenient, connected and easy to navigate. While the area’s public transport options are limited, it is easy to drive a rental car in Miami. I’m a frequent visitor and I always use ride-share options as they are readily available and come with the convenience of not having to park.

Don’t knock the watermelon till you’ve tried it!

Miami Beach is a foodie paradise. There are excellent options to tempt any palate and cater to any dietary restriction. I always have to visit my favourite haunts. Check out ‘Yardbird Southern Table & Bar’ for fantastic southern favourites including chicken, waffles and watermelon. Visit  ‘The Forge’ for seafood and steaks in a fine dining environment. Enjoy fantastic Chinese food at ‘Mr. Chow’ located in the W Hotel or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the News Café on Ocean Drive. My new favourite is Byblos on Collins where the, mostly vegetarian, Lebanese food is served family style!

Here’s a pro-tip… Miami is one of the only places in the USA where I always recommend that you make a reservation for a meal. The popular places are always packed, and you should book at least 24-hours ahead, so you are not disappointed.

The Iconic Art Deco Avalon Hotel – 1955 Oldsmobile

When you’re not baking in the sun or eating tasty treats, you may want some ‘retail therapy’. Lincoln Road is a great shopping area with a cool and relaxed feel. Aventura Mall is close and offers hundreds of stores in delightful temperature-controlled coolness. If you want to travel a little further, SawGrass Mills outlet mall has incredible prices for anything you wish to buy!

There are a myriad of different hotels and a wide range of budgets on Miami Beach. Hotel options include the mega-properties like the Fontainebleau, which has been cool since the 1950s. It was even featured in the James Bond 007 film ‘Goldfinger’! The Betsy Ross on Ocean Drive is old-school with excellent service in a perfect location. The SLS Hotel on Collins has one of the most Instagram-featured pools in the world and has a continuous beach party from Friday through Sunday. For a cool budget option, checkout Circa 39 on Collins. It is across the street from the beachfront and yet has its own beach access less than 50 meters (60 yards) away.

Here’s another pro-tip… The hotels across the street from the beachfront are great values and friendly because they lack the views of their neighbours across the street. Be careful when booking on the internet for smaller properties, however, as the very best picture is what is always shown.

Here are a few attractions that you might enjoy. The Fillmore Miami Beach is a professional theatre for concerts and frequently hosts the taping of television specials. The Versace Mansion is an art deco masterpiece right on Ocean Drive that is now a hotel and fine dining restaurant. Ask for a poolside table and count the number of guests that stumble into the water as the night progresses. Enjoy partying, dancing and a continuous evening show at Mango’s Tropical Café on Ocean Drive. Finally, for the real night-owl, stop in for a nightcap at Mac’s Club Deuce. ‘The Deuce’ is the oldest bar in Miami Beach and is open seven days per week from 08:00 – 05:00!

Modern Luxury and home of Nobu Miami – Eden Roc Miami Beach

There is fun for everyone in Miami Beach. If you end up there, think fondly of me and give my regards to Mac!

Love,

Isabella