In this part of the world when you mention Miami most people think about three things, shopping, work trip or carnival. Miami to me always meant shopping and I realized that I have never really explored what Miami had to offer beyond Sawgrass Mills and Dolphin Mall so I challenged myself to plan a Miami trip with as little focus on shopping as possible and just take in some of the sights.
Here are some of the experiences that stuck out the most for me:
I confess, I have never been to South Beach, not even for the shopping so I was determined to check this place out. South Beach was all I imagined and then some. The beach strip lined from top to bottom with bars and restaurants with loud thumping music and dancers, some in drag. It was exciting, heady and lots of fun. I bar hopped, tried several expensive cocktails, ate some great food, posed on the steps of the Versace mansion, and eventually stumbled on to the beach to watch the waves roll in. I did not explore the nightlife but there was enough activity during the day to keep me happy. There are galleries and activities you can enjoy while there as well as loads of tours, but bear in mind that you will have to spend some dollars. South Beach is not at all cheap. It may not be for everyone but if you do like a bit of a faster pace, it has everything you need. One bit of advice: be sure to look your absolute best when you visit South Beach, lots of cute beach fashion on display.
A friend of mine suggested that I should definitely check out this up and coming rival to South Beach. Wynwood Walls has a completely artsy vibe and would be heaven for any art lover. In fact, it is the stunning art that really shapes the place. You are surrounded by art almost everywhere you turn. The Walls are actually six giant walls from six buildings, which serve as the canvas for artists from around the globe. It is enough to inspire the inner creative in anyone. Wynwood itself is extremely easy to navigate as it is mainly pedestrian, so after you’ve visited the walls you can have lunch at one of the cozy restaurants or bars. There is even a free scooter service called Freebee…just download the app and book a ride to anywhere you want to go in town. There are several art galleries with roving exhibits and loads of art and culture at every corner. It is also significantly less expensive than South Beach. Loved it!
Little Havana was my hands down favorite experience from touring the cigar factories and seeing cigars made in the traditional Cuban way, to drinking mojitos with an authentic Cuban lunch. Strolling down Calle Ocho and winding down the evening at the Ball and Chain…a bar loaded with history (Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole and Louie Armstrong are reputed to have performed there back in the day) and the best live Cuban music you will hear outside of Cuba.
This is one place in which I would love to spend more time and take in one of the lively street festivals. I am definitely a fan!
There is a lot to do and experience in Miami and this trip surely opened my eyes to the possibilities. It is on my revisit list when things get back to some semblance of normalcy, until then I will relive my wonderful memories.
