Getting back to my readers after such a long gap…I’m feeling awesome actually. Life has been different and great at the same with lots of changes but traveling never took a back seat though. I moved to US almost 3 years back and life had been really busy. Needless to say, that reconnecting with my readers had always been at the back of my mind and finally after so many years I am here again to share those exhilarating experiences I had gathered over the years with you all. So, let’s start with my latest trip experience – trip to Miami in the state of Florida.
It struck us last October when
suddenly it started getting chilly signaling the onset of an early winter in
the east coast, and as most of us are pretty much aware of the harsh and
unpredictable winter scenes here, we kind of rushed into enjoying the ‘good
weather’ a bit more. Hence, we headed to enjoy some sun, sand, and sea at early
November 2018.
We checked in to Staybridge Inn
and Suites at Miami which is a 15-min-drive from the South Beach. It was a good
find at such a short notice I must say. However, parking is a concern here; there
was an overnight fee for the valet parking which was waived off for us
fortunately. Also, anywhere you go, it’s hard to find a free parking.
Anyway, the wait was finally over
as we headed straight to the South Beach after fueling ourselves up at the
sumptuous breakfast buffet at Staybridge Inn and Suites and Whoa Whoa Whoa! I
instantly felt energized the moment my feet touched its smooth white sand; I
breathed the warm, relaxing breeze, and the sound of the waves was like music
to my ears. My first feeling was, I could have stayed here all year long
instead of suffering the agony of five months of bleak winter at the New
Jersey. But, guess what! Every place has its pros and cons. It was November and
Miami was ‘the destination’ then; come summer, I swear I would have never felt
the same way considering the extreme heat and humidity. On our way, we hopped
into the Lummus Park for a while; it connects you to the South Beach. It’s a
nice sandy spot with a playground for children and an ecstatic view to the sea.
Florida beaches are known for its
white sand and clear blue water and South
Beach Miami is probably the most populated and happening amongst all. It’s
an eclectic mix of world-class boutiques, fusion fashion, beachside cuisine,
celebrity-chef eateries, and a lively ready-to-go crowd. Trust me, we spent
almost 3 days just enjoying this culture; there’s so much to it.
Popularly known as the American
Riviera and an art deco playground, South
Beach Miami is a hot spot day and night. It was a family trip after a long
time and we kept it more of a relaxing kind. While we spent most of our daytime lazing
around in the beach; post-evening, we used to take a nice stroll along the
glamorous ocean drive amidst the delightful, cuisine-themed eateries, the indie
fashion shops, and the uniquely decorated outdoor cafes. We chose to sit with
beer cans by the sea during the sunset… pure bliss.
If you are in Miami, there’s no
way you can skip the Cuban food. Cuban sandwiches to Cuban coffee shots,
everything is worth a try. Filled with a combination of ham, roasted pork,
Swiss cheese, and mustard on Cuban bread, the Miami Cuban food is one of the
gorgeous things that you would never regret. Some more cuisines I tried are
Vaca frita de Pollo at Havana 1957 Ocean Drive, lobster roll and Cuban
sandwiches at Larios on the Beach, and Cuban Cafecito
at Versailles (it was a task remembering all the names J!). Miami is the place to try Cuban cuisine and seafood
varieties and do try the jumbo Margarita in any of the ocean drive restaurants.
The local craft beers are also a must-try when in Miami. Not an avid drinker, but
did try some of them and I must say, some of them were unique.
Well, now let’s take a break from
the beach and step into the city!
Lot of us know Miami for its
mesmerizing beaches, glamorous night-life, and delectable cuisines, but there’s
more to Miami. The art district of Miami
is one thing you cannot miss here. Known for its variety of colorful murals, Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum that
has brought together some brilliant works by world’s best street artists. You
have to see it to believe it. Located just south of the Miami design district,
Wynwood walls is home to more than 70 art galleries, boutiques, and museums. You
will be amazed to see the growing arts scene in this diamond-in-the-rough place
which is surrounded by some stunningly decorated bars and lounges. You’ll often
find a hip-hop young crowd frequenting the neighborhood because of its
ambiance, décor, shopping streets, and some fabulous food joints. It was quite
hot that day and we spent almost the entire day hopping from one art gallery to
another, but nevertheless there were enough shades for our respite. We had some
delectable homemade ice-creams from an ice-cream truck there which further
cooled us down.
While you gratify your mind and
soul with the awe-inspiring works of art at the Wynwood Walls, you can also
take a quick stroll at the Miami Design
District. A posh and creative neighborhood known for its sleek modern
architecture, high-end fashion and jewelry stores, celebrity-chef restaurants,
and luxury interior design stores. It’s an excellent place for recreation and
taking photos. Besides the chic look and feel of this neighborhood, Miami Design District is also home to contemporary
art work and art events. Viewing these art galleries was a real treat to eyes,
I must say. I wonder how much each of the art pieces would cost!
Four days just whizzed by before
we could realize its time to head back home. We spent a night at The Fort
Lauderdale but didn’t do any sightseeing there. Vacations are so refreshing and
there are so many places at the east coast itself. Let’s see what tops our list
among the upcoming gateway destinations J
