Fall Under the Spell of Florida’s Magic City

Nestled on the south-eastern tip of Florida where the emerald waters of the Caribbean meet the Gulf of Mexico, Miami is a true American jewel.

This vibrant city is one of the most cosmopolitan in the USA, with a multicultural population (around 70% of the city’s inhabitants speak Spanish) who love to lounge on the beach by day and party in some of the country’s most glamorous clubs by night.

 No wonder the locals call it the Magic City.

South Beach, Miami, Florida, USA.

The most famous hotel in Miami is the Fontainebleau, a vision in white at the centre of ‘Millionaire’s Row’, which was recently restored to the height of its 1950s splendour.

The refurbished hotel now boasts 1,500 rooms and one of the city’s swankiest celebrity hangouts – the ultra-exclusive nightclub LIV.

For something a little different, the Standard Spa offers tranquil guest rooms and a range of relaxing activities, including massage, hydrotherapy and yoga. Their gorgeous saltwater infinity pool is the perfect spot for a relaxing swim.

The hottest place in the city is the famous South Beach, where wannabe superstars (and some genuine superstars) strut their stuff on the golden sand.

The ultimate people-watching spot, you’ll feel like Hollywood royalty as you lounge on the beach or sip a cocktail at one of the many chic bars that line the shore.

Try The Regent Cocktail Club which brings a touch of old-school glamour thanks to luxurious leather seating, a cigar lounge, and live jazz sessions.

Further afield, The Rum Line serves up exotic Cuban-inspired cocktails on its pleasant outdoor terrace.

As the name suggests they specialise in rum – with over 100 varieties available – and the deluxe versions of summery classics like the Caipirinha and Mojito will knock your socks off.

Meanwhile, smart shoppers should head to Bal Harbour at the northern end of the shore.

This classic Miami shopping destination is bursting at the seams with deluxe designer stores and lined with tranquil pools where koi carp laze the days away.

For a taste of the Caribbean, head to Little Havana – the heart of Cuban culture in Miami.

Smart travellers will start their day the local way with a Café Cubano – the strong, sweet variation on espresso that fuels the hectic pace of life..

There are plenty of cafes to choose from in the area, but you won’t find a better brew than the one served from the takeout window at Versailles on South 8th Street.

Each March, this street (known as Calle Ocho to the locals) is taken over by a gigantic open-air party which has to be seen to be believed.