For most of us, especially like me living on the east cost, going to Miami for a weekend is not considered a vacation. It has become a party destination for younger people and something of a quick sun tan kick with a glimpse of Caribbean waters for the ones, who’s, on the opposite, dying to getaway from the noisy city stress (me!). But what if you after getting much needed rest actually crave for something more than a drink in a fancy lobby of the Mondrian Hotel followed by the skyline view over Biscayne Bay? Not that it’s unsatisfying… but still. Well, let’s get in the car then!
And not just any car. You need a convertible vehicle, baby, to experience that unique Miami vibe and let the rush go into your veins.
First, stop by at the Sugar Factory on the South Beach, Miami for a full breakfast , because not only your mustang needs a fuel. It is one of my most favorite places for good eats, including their famous desserts.
Now we can, finally, hit the road. Out of the city, you can enjoy drive fully. With your favorite playlist on our adventure begins. There are few interesting places you can visit that will show you that there is more in Miami than just pool parties. When travelling with kids stop by at the Monkey Jungle for it’s so entertaining. You will be provided with dry cranberries to feed those tiny animals and you will be amused how the cute creatures pull the feeding containers that chained to the cells with their little hands to eat the treats.
Are you gardening by any chance? Well, there is a bonsai tree farm on our route especially for you to add another piece in your collection for much-much less then if you buy it in the city you live in.
Next, we stop by the Castle. Everything made of corals there in the name of love by the man, who took the secret of its building into his grave.
If you already hungry don’t miss the Roberts Is Here famous market. They make the freshest smoothies and it’s also nice to stuck up your room fridge with some fruit snacks when you return.
And for the drink… You can finally leave your car for a little longer to enjoy some fine spirits at the Schnebly Redland’s Winery. They make wine of fruits, so prepare for a taste of avocado, passion fruit, mango, guava, carambola, lychee and even coconut in your wine glass, which by the way, you can keep after tasting. I always get a bottle of Boo-Boo Reserved to go, for I can’t drink too much cause I’m driving. For those who prefer beer, you will be pleased to find out that the winery brews beers too.
The winery side itself is so picturesque that it has become a popular venue for weddings and other events. Take your glass outside, get some cheese and crackers and enjoy the moment with every little sip with breathtaking view bonus.
After all of this you’ve already seen, it’s so tempting to continue driving all the way to Keys, however we must return to the hotel, where the white crisp bedding is waiting to hug your tired body. But if there is any juice left, don’t skip a session of an evening swim. I hope you brought a collection of Miami worthy bikinis with you, cause swimwear culture is different everywhere you go. I’ve got mine at www.shop-salamander.com where it made easy to shop swimsuits on occasion, including the Miami vibrant scene.
Voila! Your Miami weekend has just turned into experience.