Fun fact - did you know that Miami owes its thanks to Julia Tuttle, in 1896 she was able to convince Henry Flagler to extend his railway into Miami finally giving it the means to really prosper and grow. Okay so I know you're probably wondering why this is such a big deal, I mean, 1896, old news, right, well the ?Mother of Miami? AKA M.O.M. was the only woman to found a major American city, pretty cool, right!?!
Well Miami, being the biggest city in Florida, certainly won't leave you wanting for things to do! With its rich culture, amazing ?Floribbean? cuisine, tropical weather, incredible nightlife, and picture perfect white sandy beaches there is no shortage of fun stuff to do and see.
1. The Culture
Miami stands out in terms of its culture as it is both derivative and trend setting; even though you can see a rich mix of neighboring culture's influence, it also creates its own unique twist on things. Miami's culture has been heavily influenced by its Latin American and Caribbean heritage, so it's no surprise that it is often referred to as the ?Capital of Latin America.? Yet, you might be surprised to know that the dialect has been so specialized that there is a ?Miami Accent.?
Ever want a taste of Cuba, but want to stay state-side? Well look no further than ?Little Havana?: it's remarkably authentic Cuban food, museums and theaters will leave you in a panic that you forgot your passport! Some fun fare that can be found are such local favorites as The Calle Ocho Festival, Viernes Culturales/Cultural Fridays, and Three Kings parade.
2. The Cuisine
Location, location, location: Miami's position right on the East Coast make it a favorite for seafood aficionados. But some of the best known restaurants to foodies are those that serve Latin-Florribean cuisine; mixing Cuban, Puerto-Rican, and Dominican influences to something that is just yum-yum good. But what about the drinks? Well, Miami has you covered here too! It has some unique spirits that soak up the tropical fruits of the area and turn it into wine, no grapes needed!
3. The Climate (oh, the climate)
In the entire recorded history on Miami, it has only snowed once. Which is nuts. Especially if you happened to be on vacation at the time. The average winter temperatures range from 60 to 75?F making it the warmest location in the continental United States (that's because of Hawaii and not Alaska, in case you were wondering). Need I say more?
4. The Conga Line
Miami's clubs are world renowned. ANY kind of club you can think of is here. The Basement is a club you can dance, ice skate and bowl (for you Big Lebowski types out there)! Then there is LIV, where celebrities (and their accompanied drama) visit nightly. And, of course, The Electric Pickle Company... well I'm not sure, but with a name like that you'd have to check it out, right? More in the mood for a smaller, more intimate musical experience? Don't Sit on the Furniture is your jam. But what if you don't want to leave the beach? Wouldn't it be great if there was a beach nightclub... yeah, you know it. There is one: Nikki Beach.
5. The Coast (beaches as far as the eye could see)
When you think Miami you think sandy white beaches and warm waters, and boy do they have them! Hundreds of miles of them, in fact. Whether it be Lummus Park Beach (the famous one you've seen in movies and TV shows) or as cozy as Surfside Beach (a neighborhood local spot), every manner of beach is at your toe tips.
The ?Can't Go to the Beach Today but Want Something Outdoors?
Shunning the sun? Wanting to get away from the beach crowd? Miami might be known for its beaches, but it has plenty of outdoor recreation spots to be explored. You can canoe or kayak at Oleta River State Park, you can walk, jog, or bike the nature trails Greynolds Park, or picnic with Bay front view at Alice C. Wainright Park. Snorkeling and Scuba diving ca be had at Biscayne Bay, and then of course, there is the Everglades... just watch out for gators!
The Clothes
Miami has no shortage in here as well ? both in quantity and variety. From the highest fashion (Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Versace) to wallet-friendly stores (Nikki's Beach house Boutique, MIMO Market)... you'll have to leave some space in your baggage for the treasures you shall find!
But what if you buy way too much stuff to fit in your baggage? Wouldn't it be easier to send your other stuff to Miami (and make it your new home)? Well if you need help moving your now-not-as-fashionable clothes to the Magic City, we are here to coordinate that for you! Give us a call!