Miami

Miami is a city that pulses with energy—from the boardwalk to Calle Ocho, every corner offers something colorful and flavorful.

Start your trip with a walk along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, a scenic stretch that hugs the coastline from South Pointe Park to North Beach. It’s perfect for a morning stroll or sunset wander, with ocean views, art deco architecture, and yes—manatee signs that remind you you’re sharing the waters with Florida’s gentle giants.

Dive into the heart of Cuban culture on Calle Ocho in Little Havana. This iconic street is alive with music, murals, and the aroma of Cuban coffee and roasted pork. I sipped mojitos at Ball & Chain, devoured a Cubano at Sanguich de Miami, and watched locals play dominoes at Domino Park. It’s a sensory overload in the best way.

Of course, you can’t talk about Miami without mentioning the beaches. The water is warm, clear, and impossibly turquoise. South Beach is the most famous, with its lively energy and pastel lifeguard stands, but quieter spots like North Beach or Crandon Park are great too.

And for a brush with pop culture history, swing by the Versace Mansion (now known as The Villa Casa Casuarina). Located on Ocean Drive, it’s the former home of fashion icon Gianni Versace—and the site of his tragic death in 1997. Today, it’s a luxury boutique hotel and restaurant, but the façade still draws visitors and fans from around the world.