BOTTOMS UP
MIAMI
DESTINATION
By Thom Meintel of TravelSquire. Contributions by Tommy Merolla and Felicia Foster. For more travel tips go to travelsquire.com
Famous for its pristine beaches and glamorous nightlife, Miami’s star hasn’t lost any lustre, lately; in fact it’s brighter than ever. Once equated with crime and retirement, the city is poised to reach the apex of a lengthy renaissance which began in the late nineties thanks to a planned $3 billion resort & casino complex. South Beach, the jewel in Miami’s crown, is a destination in its own right, even after the untimely demise of its long time father figure, Gianni Versace, threatened to darken its shores. Still attracting camera laden tourists by the thousands, Casa Casuarina, sits oceanfront and center along well trodden Deco Drive which today is reminiscent of Boardwalk, USA, regardless of its stunning mid-century hotels decked out in pastels and the fancy shmancy beach restaurants, one unrecognizable from the other. True, these days, well-heeled tourists have chosen to move northward to Mid-Beach and to Collins Avenue’s famous Golden Mile while further afield in Wynwood and downtown, both once gritty slums, a trendier scene has emerged. Yes, Miami has shaken off its mourning weeds and is once again forever in a party mood so bring your sexiest duds and buckets of cash. Just remember this is a beach town and as I was once reminded, ‘it’s a sunny place full of shady people.”
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CHILLED MAGAZINE
STAY
W South Beach – with super-sized rooms and a balcony on every one, you just may not want to leave. You know what? You don’t have to. You’ll be “wowed” regardless. wsouthbeach.com The National – it doesn’t hurt to hole up at a glorious South Beach landmark especially when it comes to late night drinks in your 3 level penthouse suite. Take a dip in the 205 foot infinity pool after. nationalhotel.com The Raleigh – a recent facelift to the glamorous lobby and garden cafe have made the famous black outlined pool even more spectacular. Esther Williams swam here so you know it’s gotta be good. raleighhotel.com The Tides – the grande dame of Deco Drive is serene, sexy and exclusive. Kick back with a bloody in one of the 2 cabanas poolside, then hit the adjacent Palace Bar later for some action. tidessouthbeach.com The Clinton – off the strip but not off the map, this boutique hotel will make you feel like a local and not break the bank. clintonsouthbeach.com
