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Miami
Overview
Swaying palm trees lining stylish boulevards, skyscrapers glistening in the non-stop sunshine, a pulsating nightlife and a chic beach culture all aid in making Miami the most stylish destination in Florida. Yet, it is perhaps the people who make Miami such a desired tourism hotspot. The most Latin city outside of Latin America, the Cubans have played their part in creating this vivacious city, but then again so have the Mexicans, Jewish Holocaust survivors, growing gay community, stereotypical North Americans and the A-list celebrity crowd.
Miami is perched on the south eastern coast of Florida, sandwiched between the Everglades and North Atlantic Ocean. The city’s action is split between Miami itself and Miami Beach peninsula. Mainland Miami is home to the changing faces of the city and the place to appreciate the cosmopolitan lifestyles present in the districts of Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Little Havana and Little Haiti. Cruise across Biscayne Bay to the lean stretch of Miami Beach and the ambience becomes one of celebrity hedonism set against a backdrop of the 1920s Art Deco scene. From Sunny Isles to Key Biscayne, this the area to see and be seen awash with swanky resorts, chic shopping malls and some of the most revered nightspots in the US.
The sun never stops shining in Miami, which is why, no matter what time of the year you choose to visit, there is never a dull moment. Battling it out with Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco as the coolest place to be, Miami more than hold is own. And, on the rare chance that you do become bored, you can always jump on a boat bound for Mexico or the Caribbean.
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Miami
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Miami
Beaches in Miami - The beaches of Miami provide the opportunity to relax amidst the golden sands and warm turquoise water and strut your stuff with the sun kissed beautiful crowd. SouthBeachepitomizes everything that is Miami and is the true place to see and be seen. The beach runs parallel to Ocean Drive and is across the road from many of the city’s top nightspots. If you are looking to keep fit whilst here then Brit Fitness offers excellent one on one and group activities. Away from the glamour the beach is home to a stunning array of Art Deco architecture of the 1920s and 1930s. To the north of the Miami Beach district is Halouver Beach, a superb surfing spot where clothing is optional for sunbathing. Other nice spots include VirginiaKeyPark and BillBaggsCapeFloridaState Park, both located on Key Biscayne, the city’s wealthiest area.
Miami Neighborhoods - A great asset of Miami is the changing faces of its neighbourhoods and hours can be spent wandering from one to the other and marveling at the unison of cultures. Check out Coconut Grove, one of Miami’s oldest areas blessed with a bohemian vibe brought in by Bahamians and New Englanders. With a Mediterranean air, nearby Coral Gables is as chic as it gets and home to the Miracle Mile. Head north to Little Havana to experience the colorful life of Miami’s Cuban population, complete with traditional coffee bars, cigar factories and food hawkers.
Miami Attractions - Animal lovers will be pleased to know that the wildlife and marine life of Florida are superbly represented at Zoo Miami, home to over 200 animals and 1200 plants, and Miami Seaquarium, which showcases over 10,000 aquatic species.
Miami Sports - Big sporting events in the USA are a must see for any sports fans, so be sure to check the local listings when in town. Competing for fans are NBA basketball side Miami Heat and NFL football team Miami Dolphins.
Miami Nightlife - When night falls SouthBeach is the place to be with swanky bars getting the crowds going until around 1am before handing over the stylish nightclubs that continue until the early hours. As for most places in the US, be sure to carry some for of ID and be prepared to dress sharply. Time Out Miami is a good source of event listings and club nights.
Bars in Miami
Bongons Cuban Café - Aka Larios on the Beach and owned by Gloria Estefan, this is a great spot for post dinner cocktails and smooth Cuban beats.
Churchill’s Pub - Superb British bar squeezed into Little Haiti. Come here for imported draught beers, live sports and rock music.
Purdy Lounge - Cracking beachside bar on the quieter side of SouthBeach.
Tobacco Road - Drawing in crowds since 1912, this local hangout is loved for its live R&B gigs.
Nightclubs in Miami
Club Space - When it seems like Miami is closing down for the night, welcoming Club Space does its best to keep people going until dawn.
Mansion - If you get in then you may find yourself rubbing shoulders with Paris Hilton and Usher.
Mynt Lounge - With money to burn and time to spend in the large queues, this could be your best night out in Miami.
Nikki Beach - Number 1 Ocean Drive is an icon of SouthBeach clubs attracting big name DJs and some rather attractive clientele to its outdoor dance floor.
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Miami
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Miami
Budget Hotels Miami
Deco Walk Hostel - Seafront hostel on Ocean Drive offering budget accommodation in an otherwise flashy zone. Tel 1 305 531 5511.
Ohana Hostel Miami Beach - With beds from $18 a night including breakfast, lunch and dinner, this is a bargain for backpackers and budget travellers. Tel 1 305 538 7070.
Midrange Hotels Miami
Clay Hotel - Superb hotel and hostel housed in a converted monastery on Espanola Way. Private rooms from $75. Tel 1 305 534 2988.
Luxury Hotels Miami
Acqualina Resort - Half way between Miami and Fort Lauderdale in Sunny Isles is this overly luxurious resort fashioned on a Venetian palace. Bring the credit card. Tel 1 305 918 8000.
Four Seasons - A pillar of elegance overlooking Biscayne Bay. Luxuries count spa and sports club, pool terrace bar and cocktail lounge. Tel 1 305 358 7758.
The Shore Club - Swanky SouthBeach hotel featuring a host of impressive bars and restaurants, including the poolside Sky Bar. Tel 1 305 695 3100.
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Miami
Hotel Reviews
Miami
Weather
Miami
Travel Resources
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