My Miami
My first trip to South Florida was about ten years ago, and I knew as soon as I arrived that this would be my new home away from home. Since then, I have lost count of how many times I have visited this special place and it truly has become my second home.
I just got back from a much needed escape to Miami and managed to bring back a tan that has unfortunately already started to fade. The trip was perfect- mostly because I stayed at my two favorite hotels: Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach and The Carillon Hotel & Spa.
Like any destination, your experience can be whatever you want it to be in Miami. Whether you are looking for some relaxing beach time or a fun party scene, Miami offers it all. Miami Airport is just a 3-hour flight from New York with year-round warm weather. My favorite times to go are in the spring and the fall. Not too humid but also still warm enough to catch some rays.
After arriving from warm New York to warmer Miami this past week, I checked into my ocean front classic suite at Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach. The hotel is located in Sunny Isles which is just a 25 minute car ride to South Beach. I've stayed here at least 5 times before and I am always so impressed by the amazing product and service the hotel offers. The hotel boasts 4 swimming pools, ESPA Spa and Il Mulino New York Restaurant just to name a few of the highlights. Upon check-in the front desk insists you enjoy a welcome cocktail. I usually request a Bellini. The hotel recently re-designed all 98 of their rooms & suites and I must say they are more beautiful than ever.
Hotel #2 of the trip was The Carillon Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach (formally known as Canyon Ranch.) This hotel has also become one of my favorite spots to stay when visiting Miami. Just a 10 minute car ride to South Beach - although sometimes difficult to even consider leaving the property and its 70,000 square foot spa (the largest in Florida.) Unwinding at the hotel’s spa after a day at the beach has become tradition for me when staying here. The facilities are so amazing, that you will leave completely relaxed and refreshed without even needing to reserve a spa service. The 110 all-suite hotel offers hundreds of wellness activities each week including Yoga, Zumba and Kick boxing. The hotel even has a two-story (rock) climbing wall.
With so many incredible restaurants to choose from in South Beach, it is difficult to provide a short list of my favorites. Great spots for dining can be found on Lincoln Road, Ocean Drive and Espanola Way. I find myself frequently visiting Larios, Nexxt Café, Palace Bar and Havana 1957 for dining and cocktails.
I think why I love Miami so much is because of the people. They are full of life and always so vibrant. Like New York City, South Beach is the city that never sleeps. Although when I am ready to turn in, I look forward to returning to a beautiful hotel…