If you don't know by now, we here at EA love to travel. (See the "Jet Set Series" - a blog series dedicated to our travels.) For work or play, we never miss an opportunity to explore a new city, taste new flavors, see new sights. As a Chicagoan, I was desperate for a getaway to escape the bitter winter weather, so I was definitely onboard for a weekend trip to sunny South Beach Miami!
One of the first things you'll notice about South Beach's character is the Art Deco influence in the architecture, specifically Tropical Deco. The symmetry of the buildings, the stepped rooflines and color blocks in neon hues are all elements of Art Deco style. Another Art Deco characteristic to look for is the ocean-liner motif - such as round porthole windows - which reinforces the image of Miami Beach as a seaside locale. Read more about Art Deco from the Miami Design Preservation League. I was especially interested in the Art Deco architecture as it is very inspiring for event decor.
It's easy to see the Art Deco influence all over South Beach - the symmetry, shapes and neon colors are all over the island.
Even the font of the hotels and business signs has a roaring '20s, great depression tone (where Art Deco emerged from).
Art Deco typography is tall and thin, like a '20s flapper!
STAY
The must-visit streets to stay, play, shop and dine are Ocean Drive, Washington Avenue, Lincoln Road, Española Way and Collins Avenue (which you should know if you are familiar with OPI's South Beach Collection). Collins Ave and Ocean Drive are the go-to streets to stay on, where you will find Art Deco-inspired boutique hotels such as Shore Club, Delano, Gansevoort, Setai, Hotel Victor and Bentley Miami. If you're looking to save a few dollars, I would recommend staying across the street from Shore Club, at Suites of Dorchester. You get the location and the outside lounging vignettes of the Shore Club for a fraction of the price. (That is until you go across the street to the Shore Club's SkyBar for drinks by the infinity pool. Amateur mistake.)
EAT
Española Way resembles an historic Spanish village (think: El Poble Espanyol in Barcelona) with shops and restaurants along the street. The Italian restaurant Cafe Nuvo has a killer creamy lobster bisque complete with sides of all the fixings you'll need: crispy pancetta, diced scallions and grilled shrimp. If you are in the mood for more authentic Cuban flavors, Yuca on Lincoln Road has incredibly fresh ceviche and perfect plantain chips. But the most entertaining part of Yuca is dining outside while watching the salsa dance lessons upstairs, above the restaurant.
PLAY
A drive up the west side of the island along N. Bay Road will let you sneak-a-peek into the lavish Miami homes you've only heard of.
Two must-stop shopping boutiques are LF and Atrium - they offer eclectic collections ranging from McQueen skull scarves to Elizabeth and James zipper ruffle pumps.
Finally, Wall Lounge is where the night will take you. The flash and glam of this lounge tucked away inside the W South Beach keeps it exclusive, so be prepared to wait in line. Once inside the W, be sure to inhale the jasmine-flavored air of the lobby. The aroma will put you at ease and peace. But in the tropical climate, why not have those cocktails al fresco? The Shore Club has an incredible infinity pool surrounded by king-size beds, pillows and hammocks for you to sip in style and enjoy the night air.
The infinity pool at the Shore Club is surrounded by cabanas and king-size beds to lounge and enjoy the sun or evening cocktails.