I flew 10 hours to “the world’s leading lifestyle destination” – this is my verdict

I first visited Miami six years ago on a short stop in South America. My two friends and I were allowed to leave the airport for her 6 hours before catching our connecting flight to Bolivia, so naturally we went to the world famous beach (even if only temporarily). (even if it was a visit).

Now, six years later, I'm back again. Shortly after the region was named one of the world's leading lifestyle destinations. Only this time, I'm not looking at the clock to get back to the airport on time.

Miami Beach was crowned the winner at last year's World Travel Awards, so I'm on a mission to find out what all the fuss is about.

Is the service in Miami comparable to the cheap, beautiful beaches of Europe near the UK? And more importantly, is it worth the 10-hour flight?

Perhaps the main takeaway is Miami Beach's overall destination appeal and how it's more than just sand and sea.

Just a stroll down Ocean Drive (the road that runs parallel to the beach) reveals Miami's strong Art Deco architectural roots.

Fine hotels from the 1930s and 1940s line the road, many of which have been protected from development and retain their original signs and facades. This was a small thing, but when we first went to The Gabriel Miami in South Beach and the front of the hotel said “Park Central Hotel” thanks to an old-fashioned sign, we were very impressed. I was confused.

But after hearing this historical detail from the hotel manager, I fell in love with Miami's famous boulevard even more. Add a bunch of characters to the area.

The main road is littered with many Art Deco calling cards: the symmetry of buildings, window bulges, portholes, and neon lighting.

But Ocean Drive also features all kinds of characters.

Take a quick walk any time and you'll find locals replenishing their iron at Muscle Beach (a dedicated outdoor gym area), passing cyclists, runners and even yoga classes on the promenade. .

And yes, the beach is pretty impressive too.

Spanning nine miles, Miami Beach is divided into several distinct parts: family-friendly North Beach, lively South Beach, and Mid Beach, which combines the two.

For me, South Beach was the clear winner. It's hard not to be captivated by the visual spectacle: white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and pastel-colored Art Deco buildings lining the edges.

Miami Beach's vibrant lifeguard towers dotted along the beach are another beacon of the city's visual identity. They come in all shapes and sizes, from Barbie pink to patriotic American flags, and many are inspired by the area's rich history.

Things to do in Miami – Beyond the Beach

Wynwood trip

The neighborhood was previously described by lifestyle reporter Alice Giddings as “the beating heart of artistic, urban Miami.”

She added: “Think of the cool, bright combination of Camden and Shoreditch.” And it was the highlight of my trip (aside from the pizza).

“From bustling food markets to Technicolor buildings to sidewalk graffiti, it's a diverse and fun neighborhood.”

Spend the night at Jaguar Sun

We had a great evening of cocktails and food at Jaguar Sun. After all, there's a reason this spot made the World's 50 Best Discoveries list.

This hip and atmospheric spot located in downtown's X Miami building has cocktails for everyone. Not only the makeup but also the presentation is creative. The fino martini ($17) made with clear passion fruit was unexpected and delicious.

Enjoy live music at Cafe La Trova

This lively spot in the heart of Little Havana comes alive in the evening with live Cuban music. A great way to spend a night in Miami. You can expect lots of dancing. Be sure to reserve a table if you want to sit close to the stage.

But Miami Beach is more than a pretty first impression. Its history and culture are even deeper.

It is a constant reminder of the region's roots not only through the eye-catching buildings that surround it, but also through its communities, including neighborhoods like Little Havana, where you can immerse yourself in Cuban culture.

Cuban exiles flocked to Miami in the 1960s, and today neighborhoods like Little Havana retain much of their heritage. Bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and live music provide this experience for visitors.

So, does Miami Beach deserve the title of “World's Premier Lifestyle Destination''?

In my opinion, European beaches are definitely better for summer travel, but Miami Beach is an unexpected winner for winter sun.

With near-guaranteed sunshine, tranquil beaches, fascinating history, buzzing restaurants and a thriving nightlife scene, Miami Beach is the perfect antidote to the British hibernation period.

However, there’s a big caveat to this…it’s pretty expensive.

Still, as lifestyle reporter Alice Giddings previously wrote, there are ways to cut down on travel costs.

But if beautiful beaches, artsy vibes, and stunning architecture are your thing, this spot in the Sunshine State is a no-brainer and deserves its title as a “premier lifestyle destination.”

destination:

south beach

The Gabriel Miami South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton

This hotel has a prime location on Ocean Drive, just meters from the beach. Although it's housed in a protected historic Art Deco building, everything inside feels modern and stylish.

The interior is a blend of mid-century modernism and quintessential Florida style, with pastel colors and tropical prints juxtaposed with classic Art Deco flourishes.

Rooms are bright, equipped with all the essentials, and offer either oceanfront views or terraces.

But one of the standouts of this hotel is its dreamy rooftop pool. A sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the boulevards below, this is a hidden gem of a hotel.

Gabriel Miami South Beach prices start from £160 per night

north beach

fontainebleau

Fontainebleau, in Miami's North Beach, is dripping with history, just like the area itself.

The hotel has hosted every U.S. president since Eisenhower (13 in total) and was a firm favorite of the late Frank Sinatra. In addition to regularly performing and staying there, many of his films were also filmed at the hotel.

This hotel is full of unique features, including the spectacular Stairs to Anywhere in the lobby. This is where women in the 1960s would drop their coats in the cloakroom on the top floor and enter in gowns.

This supersized beachfront hotel boasts a total of 1,504 rooms across three towers, and even has its own nightclub in the basement. Other locations include Mirabella, led by Michelin-starred chef Michael White, as well as nearly a dozen different pool areas, a gym, and a spa, as well as its own retail area. There is also a Moe vending machine at the front desk.

Rooms are divided into four towers, with many offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and downtown Miami.

It's hard to escape the hotel's history when staying here, and with such a vibrant past, why would you want to?

Fontainebleau Miami Beach can be booked on a British Airways holiday package with flights and hotel from £864 for 2 people for 3 nights.

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