So – why the ‘madness’ title? Ever been to Miami? If not, I suggest you venture to this majestic city ASAP, you will then understand, very quickly, the madness that encompasses every inch of Miami. The good news though, it is an intoxicating madness, and if you have not been- get there. Here is a Miami-Mini-Guide for your reading pleasure. I recently ventured across the infamous Alligator Alley and landed myself in South Beach. It was a whirlwind weekend that I am excited to share with you. Luckily, I had a close friend of mine as my tour guide, showing me the spots to visit that aren’t on the typical check list of the average Miami Tourist. I am going to share a few of my favorite places and must-sees while in Miami & I will keep it short- but definitely sweet for certain. Confession: If you caught on to that little Dave Matthews Band reference in my previous sentence, you may have guessed I am a huge fan. 🙂

South Beach: where all of the action happens, you will find extravagant clubs and over the top fashion, and overly priced drinks/food/pretty much everything. But- lucky for you, I am going to share a different part of Miami that is crawling with young professional, twenty somethings, who are more in the ‘normal range’ of humanity – and much further away from the typical Miami stereo-type. Situated in downtown Miami, before you cross the causeway to enter South Beach is a little hidden gem named Brickell. Brickell has an indescribable ambiance that is unbeatable and that you rarely find. Imagine perfect weather, lots of culture, beautiful people walking the crowded streets, and illuminating lights creating the perfect glow upon the street any given Miami night. You will find a ton of unique bars & restaurants, outdoor and in, you will not even know where to begin! A personal favorite of mine is Fado Irish Pub located right at the top of an outdoor escalator next to Blue Martini.  This is a must visit place. The drinks are reasonably priced – and they have great specials! Trust me – you will not be disappointed. For those of you who are looking to get a little bit adventurous with you drinks at Fado, I challenge you to order a Pickle Back Shot. I was introduced to this shot on my last visit to Fado & was delightfully surprised! I am not going to tell you what it is – take a chance, get a bit adventurous!! 🙂 After all – you only live once, right?

On to my next favorite hidden gem: So you hit up Brickle, and hopefully Fado, and not going to lie, you may wake up feeling not quite 100% – and I don’t blame you, Miami tends to do that to people. Naturally, your body is craving a little (ok a big) pick-me-up, and guess what? I have got the perfect place for you to visit! Located a few blocks from Ocean Ave. in South Beach is this little cafe called Juice & Java. It is all organic – and truly delectable!

Juice & Java offers a wide range of smoothies that are packed full of vitamins, fruit, veggies, and most importantly they are uber nutritious & delicious! Their water is even amazing – infused with cucumbers, lemon, oranges, and limes – taking life saver to a whole new level! A personal favorite of mine is the Island Paradiso Salad paired with an Iced Green Tea, the perfect lite meal & then it is off to the beach of course! Just looking at it will make your mouth water…..

Now, you have been laying in the sun, admiring the Atlantic all day, and most likely people watching (trust me: the most interesting of people can be found on any given day on South Beach), you are probably exhausted! Before leaving – I request that you swim out to the sandbar & jump with the waves. I know – sounds a bit childish, but trust me, you will NOT regret it, also look out for this amazing American Flag Lifeguard Stand: It is awesome!

The sun is draining, and your stomach is most likely grumbling by now. Next stop: Lincoln Road. Lincoln Road is an area in South Beach that is known for its fabulous shopping and delicious restaurants with a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Personally, walking down Lincoln road made feel like I was back in the streets of Barcelona, Spain, where I visited in June of 2011 while studying abroad – I will be sure to fill you in on my Barca experience soon. Back to Lincoln Road: Imagine a gigantically wide street, but the center of the street is filled with tables outside each restaurant, and beautiful greenery. You may even witness live statues like I did while visiting – they are pretty hard to miss! Walkways and stores line the sides of Lincoln Road. Anyone will be pleased on Lincoln Road – there is upscale dining & shopping to the bargain shopping & dining! One place I definitely suggest to check out is Doraku. Love Sushi? Of course you do – who doesn’t? 😉 Love happy hour? Of course you do – now really, who doesn’t?! Then Doraku is the PERFECT place for you! From 5-7 every day Doraku has a fabulous happy hour with $5 cocktails, wine, draft beer, and my personal favorite white & red sangria. I sipped on the white sangria & it was to die for, along with the price! Doraku offers excellent food specials as well during happy hour, but make sure to get there early so you can sit outside – this place is a hot commodity!

Well, personally, I am exhausted. How about yourself? Miami will definitely do that to you. There is obviously so much more to discover & experience in Miami, but I just wanted to fill you in on a few of my must-sees. I hope you enjoyed the first class ride through my Miami Madness adventure – and looking forward to sharing my next trip with you!!

As always, thanks for staying in tune with the official blog of Alysia Pope, where you can find all things Alysia!