5 DECEMBER 2013 | LIFESTYLE

Continuing our guides to the best Secret Spots in cities around the world, here is journalist and travel guru Sara Bliss’s tips on what to do and where to go in Miami…

Sara Bliss’s Guide to her favourite Secret Spots in Miami

I first fell in love with Miami in 2000, when my husband and I decided not to board our connecting flight back home and instead extend our honeymoon there for a couple of nights – but as this was a romantic, totally spur of the moment decision, we had absolutely no place to stay. The Delano was the only hotel I knew of and they were booked, so they recommended The National next door. The Deco hotel had teeny rooms, but the nicest pool underneath rows of palm trees, and a spectacular spot on the beach.  Being half American and half Ecuadorian, I reveled in the international culture of the city. Everyone spoke Spanish. We had amazing Latin food. Pair that with the Deco architecture, incredibly fun nightlife and a beautiful beach, and it was hard not to fall in love. I get back to Miami as often as I can. I love that it’s always changing. Every year there is a new crop of hip hotels and amazing restaurants, so lots to write about as someone who covers travel and design. Here are my must-do recommendations for a Miami weekend. For more ideas, check out site, Hotel Chic.

THE HOTEL:  Soho Beach House reigned as the Miami hotspot status a few years ago, and while that crown has since been passed to the buzzy SLS Miami, SBH is still my pick for where to stay. 10 minutes away from bustling South Beach, the quieter location feels a bit more like a real escape but the hotel maintains its cool. With two pools, a private beach, their heavenly outdoor restaurant Cicconi’s, plus a swank upstairs bar only open to club member’s or hotel guests—you have absolutely everything you need for a very hip Miami weekend. The rooms are done in a cozy Brit meets the beach style, with leather club chairs, vintage furniture, patterned floor tiles, and fun art. It all makes checking out that much harder.

THE RESTAURANT: The design district hotspot, Juvia boasts one of the most stunning views of the city from their 10,000 square foot penthouse space. Their bustling open kitchen turns out delicious French/Latin/Asian inspired dishes. But it is the glamorous design featuring purple banquettes, a vertical rainforest wall, and a floor-to-ceiling glass enclosed interior with an open kitchen that just won the James Beard Foundation’s Design award this year.

THE BAR: Whether it is to dine at the acclaimed Bazaar by Jose Andres or to grab a drink at the indoor/outdoor Hyde Lounge, or watch the South Beach scene in full swing, you have to experience the SLS when you’re in Miami. Sitting outside at Hyde under the buttonwood trees strewn with lights could not offer better people watching…or better mojitos.

THE CLUB: Nightlife trendsetter Amy Sacco is behind the intimate Rec Room at the very chic Gale Hotel.  Designed to look like a 1970s basement, the club could not be more fun. Unlike other Miami clubs, this one doesn’t take itself too seriously as DJs spin throwback tracks and everyone gets their boogie on.

THE SHOPPING: Located in a 1930s deco hotel, The Webster offers three floors of the most fabulous clothes you can imagine from designers such as Erdem, Proenza Schouler, Stella McCartney, and Carven. Plus, there is a cocktail lounge and a rooftop bar, which paired with all these great clothes, is a little bit dangerous.

THE SPA: The St. Regis at Bal Harbour feels incredibly grown up and sophisticated compared to South Beach. The hotel’s lovely Remède Spa shares the same serene and elegant vibe. Book one of the private outdoor spa cabanas to indulge in your treatment outdoors.

THE SECRET SPOT: The c. 1910 Vizcaya Estate is one of the most hauntingly beautiful places in Miami. The 18th century Italian-influenced architecture, opulent rooms, Renaissance and French inspired formal gardens, and waterfront location offer a glimpse into a very elegant and glamorous time.

For more from Sara Bliss check out her blog http://hotelchicblog.com

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