This is the second time for me to take a few days soaking in the Miami sun during Christmas. As someone who was born and raised in the north, I have been evidently spoiled by the Nashville weather, so much so that I could hardly even remember what it felt like to survive the coldest months up north. When it comes to holiday travels, it’s not surprising that I find myself gravitating to keywords like “sunshine” and “beach” over and over again. Our very first trip to Miami happened before the blog started, which is why I think it makes more sense to leverage the memories from both times for this photo diary. You might take the posts as a travel guide to Miami and Key West if you like, while the area has so much more to offer than I could ever cover thoroughly.
Where we stayed
Kimpton EPIC Hotel is right at the center of Downtown Miami. The hotel itself is sleek and modern. Within walking distance there is the breathtaking view of Biscayne Bay, trendy restaurants, plenty of shopping options, etc.
Places to visit/Things to do
South Beach
No trip to Miami is complete without a visit (or many more) to the South Beach. Not only did I enjoy the time lying on the beach, listening to the waves crashing and indulging in a long nap, even just strolling down the street was delightful because of the rich and vibrant beauty of the area.
Downtown Miami
Downtown Miami is truly a jungle of skyscrapers.
Design District
This is a neighborhood packed with modern architecture, luxury flagship stores, and art galleries. Great for taking photos.
Everglades National Park
This is “the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States”.
Vizcaya Museums and Gardens
This beautiful piece of gem used to belong to a business man James Deering, consisting of an exquisitely decorated mansion built with Mediterranean Revival style and Italian Renaissance gardens, overlooking the spectacular Biscayne Bay.
Finally, let’s talk about food, shall we?
Brunch at a chic European cafe right next to our hotel. The croissant sandwich and the avocado tartine were both hard to forget.
La Muse Cafe
Moshi Moshi South Beach
Perfect spot to satisfy your sashimi and ramen cravings without breaking the bank on South Beach.
Laduree Miami Beach
If you know me well, you know that I wouldn’t miss any chance to visit a Laduree.
Juvia
Where we spent Christmas Eve.
Byblos
