First: Hotel The Faena Miami (pictured in every photo above) opened during Art Basel last year and, just a few weeks ago, was named to the Conde Nast Traveler Hot List. Rightfully so. Breathtaking, exciting and borderline gaudy, it is reminiscent of the Miami golden age. If I had to describe it in one word, I'd say it was very, very Versace. The Faena is without a doubt the best hotel in Miami and the only one guaranteed to give you that glamorous-yet-relaxed Miami experience. But, if you are curious for other recommendations, I have also enjoyed stays at the Setai, 1Hotel, and the Ritz-Carlton, all of which have also been named to the Hot List in past years.
If you do choose to splurge for the Faena, here is what you should know--
The name rhymes with Hyena. On the hotel's private beach, the staff bring free (read: included in your steep resort fee) frozen snacks every 20 minutes. The empanadas are the best thing on the room service menu. The hotel offers Pepsi products, so bring your own Diet Coke. The most stunning piece of art in Miami is behind the hotel next to the pool. It's a real wooly mammoth skeleton covered in 24-carat gold, created by British artist Damien Hirst. This is one photo-op you cannot miss.
Second: Restaurants I had the time of my life (literally, one of the best nights I have ever had) at El Tucan, a downtown Miami dinner theatre with ridiculously good food, fantastic performers and an authentic Latin atmosphere that, as a person of Latin descent, I promise you is not touristy. I felt like I was in Cuba. If you go, dress to impress and order one of those drinks that comes in the giant gold tucan. Note: the gold tucan is extremely heavy, so be careful. Ok, so maybe El Tucan is a little touristy. Go anyway.
My other favorite Miami eateries include Juvia, Komodo, Bagatelle, Seaspice and Cipriani. And fine, go ahead and have a meal or two at the Lincoln Road Mall. Even I've been known to hit up Sbarro on occasion.
