A minimalistic, conscientious, pleasure-trip guide to the city of excess.
Yes honey, The Standard Miami is a sweet spot. Perfectly positioned on a barrier island along the turquoise waters of the Biscayne Bay in a quite, lush corner off the Venetian causeway- the earthly delights are on glorious display here. The interior design of the lobby never fails to charm me and between the hammam, the salt water pool, and the fire pit nestled in the sculpture garden this place has all the makings of a bonafide paradise. Beyond the aesthetic, The Standard is regularly nurturing the spirit by hosting yogic (meditation, astrology, tarot, etc) workshops and encouraging physical play (paddle board, wake board, kayak).
I also have to say, I had a transcendental massage at the spa.
P.S. the pura vida shaken piña coladas at the lido deck bar taste like heeeaven.
While we're on the the subject of deliciousness, I must quickly and enthusiastically rave about the lobster roll at Joe's Stone Crab (as well as the totopos at Taquiza Tacos on Ocean Terrace !!!!). I know everybody is after the stone crabs but their lobster roll is done right. If you go to the take-away cafe and not the restaurant bring your own plate or container because they only serve it in single-use plastic for now.
While the beach is always within reach, make a special trip to Bill Baggs State Park on the southern tip of Key Biscayne. The sunrise and sunsets there are spectacular. Make sure you climb the lighthouse which was originally constructed in 1825. The park is also a National Underground Railroad to Freedom site and was a departure site for persecuted people of color heading to freedom in the Bahamas.
The Center for Subtropical Affairs is where environmental eduction and cultural arts commingle. Events at "The Center" include pop up dinners, frangipani research lectures, and groovy music shows. The vibe is open, chill and decidedly outdoorsy. Bring your dog, leave the heels at home.
Proof that people in Miami do read! Books & Books provides a seriously cozy nook for book lovers. I adore their Coral Gables location. Books available in English and Spanish.
Libreri Mapou is bookstore and cultural center in Little Haiti. Books are availble in Creole, French and English. Creole classes are offered and various Haitian cultural events take place upstairs.
Visit the Little River Cooperative food stall at the Legion Park Farmers Market on Saturdays (November-April) for packaging-free produce, local honey, local bread, herbalism products and native plants.
Ball & Chain opened in 1935 and has a very colorful history. It is now the place to enjoy live salsa music and dance in the heart of Little Havana.
Go on a Tuesday to dance bachata!