This past week I got two E-mails from two different people asking me advice on traveling to Miami. The thing is, I’ve only been to Miami twice and as much as I loved immersing myself in the culture of the 305, I wouldn’t exactly consider myself an expert. That being said, I did manage to think up 10 tips with a little help from my friends. So, are you going to Miami? Not sure what to expect? Here are 10 things you should know.
#1. Perfect Bodies
As Miami-native Pitbull says, “Ella es una bombona y su cuerpo, dos siliconas” and “Body is all great, 26 24 28, body parts fake.” That isn’t to say all or even most people in Miami have had plastic surgery to look the way they do – maybe they were born lucky, maybe they’ve worked hard for it, but whether it’s natural or not, the psychological result is the same: Being surrounded by so many perfect-looking people who appear to have walked straight out of a music video can make one feel just a little insecure.
Even the mannequin? Image source: Martin Allen
My only advice for you on this one is to be prepared for it, accept it, and try to look your best without comparing yourself to everyone else. Why spend your trip moping that you can’t bounce quarters off your ass? Serious waste of time which could be spent simply enjoying the eye candy.
#2. Cuban Culture & Español
Being in some parts of Miami is kind of like taking a trip to Latin America without ever leaving the country. Experience Cuban food, music and more – soak it up. If you don’t speak Spanish, be prepared to be in the minority. If you do speak Spanish, you might feel like you’ve died and gone to Heaven. The casual Spanglish thrown around here, the way people assume and expect you to speak it, is something pretty special.
#3. Bright Colors
Image source: Jules Gervais
From the natural bright blue of the ocean and the sky to architecture and fashion – bright colors are everywhere.
#4. City & Beach
Miami has everything from gorgeous tropical beaches to sky scrapers.
Image source: Marc Averette
#5. Humid & Sunny with a Chance of Rain
The weather is gorgeous but at times you will experience some hair-do destroying humidity. Veronica of Cid Style File says to make sure you bring your anti-frizz products – you’ll need them. (And don’t forget the sunscreen.)
#6. Expensive
Depending on where you’re visiting from, prices – particularly in South Beach, might be a little shocking. If you’re the type to buy items at your destination rather than try to fit them in your luggage, you may want to reconsider this time.
#7. Party Atmosphere
Maybe it was because both times I went to Miami I was there to attend special events, but I can’t help but think a “party atmosphere” permeates Miami year round. Get some sleep before you arrive – you’re going to need it.
#8. Rudeness
Okay, now I didn’t personally experience this to any extreme where I would say Miami is any more rude than some other places I’ve visited, but apparently the city does have a reputation. Readers of Travel + Leisure magazine apparently voted Miami the 2nd rudest city in the nation, but you can decide for yourself.
#9. Celebrities
Miami is second in something else – celebrities. I imagine only Los Angeles has a larger movie star population, although New York might be a bit of competition. Don’t believe me? A few famous faces that make their home in Miami include Gloria Estefan, Shakira, Enrique Iglesias, and Pitbull, among others. While some celebs don’t live in Miami, many keep vacation homes there or just come to party.
Be prepared for celebrity sightings wherever you go – especially Spanish-speaking celebrities. Telemundo studios is in Miami and they’ve been known to shoot on location.
#10. Fashion
Ah, the topic you’ve been waiting for. What do you wear in Miami? I’m not a fashionista so all I can tell you is, when in doubt, use fresh, clean colors. Show some skin but be classy not trashy. Here is what some of my friends have to say.
Miami style? This chick's got it.
Image source: Alejandro Amador
“Fun dresses that are lightweight and make you look put together. Dresses that can transition from day to night with the change of shoes and accessories and that can be layered with a lightweight sweater or denim jacket for the air-conditioned indoors. Don’t forget sunblock and a killer pair of shades.” – UnknownMami.com
“Colorful. Tropical. Skin. Sexy shoes. Perfume. Lipstick. And a Smile.” – Carrie / TikiTikiBlog.com
“You can wear nice jeans and a sexy top too. Miami is tropical. Or just all black.” – MiCaminar.com
“Something colorful or flashy with a simple, but very clean look. People in Miami know how to dress.” – Chantilly / BiCulturalMom.com
Bonus Tip? Have fun! Miami awaits!
SALSA everywhere, Cafesito everywhere, Spanish everywhere—I love the good and the bad about Miami. I embrace it all when Im there. In other words, I do as the Romans and take on a little of everything into my ATTITUDE when there ;) Its fun. Don’t be surprised if someone calls you “mami” :)
Yeap! You hit it right on the nail. I just came back from Miami and your 10 tips speak truth! It did leave me wondering if I should move to Miami — I loved it!
I LOVE this! Going next week. But I’ll definately be in the minority! My spanish speaking has been retired. LoL Not a lot of people here in georgia to speak it to! Thank god I can understand it! I’ll keep you posted! Both excited and nervous. My first adventure alone! #latinbillboardaward2012 week! Gracias por su consejo! probablemente me necesitare más y incluso un poco de terapia antes de salir! HA HA
Ooooh, I’d love to go to Miami! I’m scared I’d melt there though, isn’t it super humid there? My hair would look awful…LOL!