Y’all already know, Miami is a whole vibe! And so I decided to go there for my birthday this year. I yearned for sun, sand, and water. State of Emergency restrictive measures were put in place right before I left for vacation. This was due to South Beach becoming overcrowded and we are still technically in a global pandemic. An 8 pm curfew was a highlight of the restriction. What curfew? Right.. well folks I am here to tell you, people did not adhere to any restrictions. Truth be told, I saw police that did not enforce any curfew.
Airfare
I took First Class flights going and coming for my trip. I flew to Miami, Florida from Newark, New Jersey on United Airlines: my flight costs was $188.40 for First Class with United. I flew home on American Airlines; total ticket cost was $210.40. It was just cheaper to buy two one way tickets with the aforementioned airlines. I paid a total of $398.80. Not bad for two First Class flights. When I compared round trip First Class tickets with both airlines, it was roughly $800. It only made sense and cents to buy the tickets separately.
Lodging
Hotel Victor
I stayed at Hotel Victor, a well appointed, luxury hotel right on Ocean Drive. The hotel was modern and the staff were professional and courteous. But because of the hotel’s prime location, it was subjected to rowdy people all times of the morning and night. I stayed in the King Superior Room. The room was fabulous. For 5 days and 4 nights, I paid $2, 127.
Dining
Prime One Twelve
I dined at Prime One Twelve for my birthday. I have been to Prime One Twelve before in the past and opted to dine there again. Prime One Twelve is a whole vibe in itself. I had the Branzino “Francaise” with arugula, capers, and lemon butter sauce. I also had lobster bisque soup. The food was good; the cocktails were even better ha! The downside of Prime One Twelve is that even with reservations, there was a wait because the restaurant is just that good.
Dior Cafe
The Dior Cafe is located right above the Christian Dior store in the Design District. It was and is just so posh. It’s the decor for me. Between the white lawn furnishings, the Christian Dior pillows, the large Dior sign, and the garden like setting, I was immediately in awe. I had a raspberry flavored dessert along with cappuccino.
Versace Mansion
Going to the Versace Mansion was a highlight of my trip. I am telling you I am so happy I went because based on reading food reviews alone, one might be deterred to dine there. Yet and still, I went and I am so glad I did. Y’all the food was so amazing and the ambiance was/is so beautiful. And drum roll, the place was affordable. There’s a $29 prix fixe menu. I had octopus carpaccio along with spinach ravioli and coconut sorbet. The wait staff were prompt, professional, and courteous.
Nobu
The food at Nobu was good and the miso cod was the best out of all the dishes I tried. Y’all I went with two other people and the bill was pricey. I think the meal should of come with a small pot of gold but who am I?….ha!
Shopping
I went to Lincoln Road Mall twice while in Miami. This shopping center has stores ranging from Intermix to Guess. Also on Sundays, there is a flea market with different vendors that sell everything from shirts, purses to jewelry, and shoes.
All and all, I went to Miami and had a good time. If I had to compare Miami to Key West, I would say Key West is a better option for relaxation, less congestion, countless food options, and clear blue water.
