A Weekend in Miami

Miami is perfect for a sun-soaked luxury long-weekend filled with good food, beautiful scenery and great times. I love Miami and discover something new every time I visit, the trick being to stay in a different area each time, below are my top 3.

South Beach - the most well-know area, South Beach is actually a city in itself. Renowned for it‘s Art Deco buildings, spectacular sands and luxury hotels, this really is the playground of the rich and famous - and the wild and wonderful! If you love people watching, high-end shops, water-sports and the true "Miami-Vice" vibe, this is the place to be. Stay at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, perfectly situated with beach-front access and ocean view rooms, it‘s around 5 minutes walk from Ocean Drive in one direction, or Lincoln Road Mall in the other. Alternatively, there are ample apartment-hotels or condos, perfect for slightly longer stays.

Coconut Grove - one of Miami's oldest neighbourhoods, Coconut Gove is simply beautiful and, for me, is everything I love about Miami. It's lush and tropical, with palm-lined streets and a mix of boutique shops and restaurants, an oasis of calm in comparison to South Beach. It sits on Biscayne Bay, so whether you are looking for waterside cocktails, sailing adventures or just a peaceful stroll, there will be an option for you. For the height of luxury, stay at Mr C Miami Coconut Grove (although you may never want to leave the hotel), or to take advantage of all of the amazing restaurants in the neighbourhood, the Courtyard Miami Coconut Grove is in a fantastic location.

Coral Gables - very similar in vibe to Coconut Grove, but the architecture is very different - Coral Gables feels like Miami, but it's buildings are distinctly European. In this neighbourhood you will find the historic Biltmore Hotel, where you can stay, but even if you don't, you must definitely visit. The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is beautiful and very welcoming after a day of sightseeing in the Miami heat! There are tropical gardens, parks, plazas, shops and restaurants aplenty here, you could spend the entire weekend exploring Coral Gables alone. Stay at the Biltmore for a luxurious slice of history, or for centrally-located luxury, Hotel Colonnade is located on Miracle Mile.

Must dos in Miami:

Visit Little Havana, this neighbourhood is like no other, watch the players at Domino Park, eat authentic Cuban food and just listen...the music is everywhere!

Go downtown, particularly to the harbourside, the marina area is great for strolling, MORE people watching, and grabbing a bite to eat.

Visit Wynwood for murals, breweries and art galleries, it's just north of downtown and full of energy.