Miami Vice & A Whole Lotta Potential: My Days in Miami
okay, so i just got back from miami. and honestly? it was… a lot. the air hangs thick with the scent of salt and something vaguely floral, like someone spilled a whole garden in the street. the humidity? don’t even get me started. i just checked and it’s… there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. it’s like a warm, persistent hug that kinda clings to you all day.
my whole trip felt like a massive, slightly chaotic adventure. i’m a freelance photographer now, so that’s kind of my life - chasing light and stories. and miami? it’s a visual feast. everywhere you look there’s someone doing something - a street artist tagging a wall (i heard that the one near Wynwood Market is a hot spot), a couple of guys breakdancing in a park, someone zipping by on a scooter. it's seriously a city that never sleeps.
*gear list (because, duh):
a really good wide-angle lens (you’ll need it).
polarized sunglasses (the sun is fierce).
lightweight, breathable clothing (essential).
a portable charger (seriously, your phone will die).
good walking shoes (you’ll be doing a LOT of walking).
what i really loved was just wandering around. i spent a day just getting lost in Little Havana, listening to the domino players and trying to decipher the rapid-fire Spanish. i also stumbled upon some incredible art galleries in the Design District - seriously, some wow moments. and the beaches? they're beautiful, but be prepared for some serious crowds, especially on weekends.
someone told me that the best Cuban coffee in Miami is at a little roastery on Calle Ocho, but it’s always packed. apparently, you have to elbow your way to the front.
one of the things that struck me was how diverse the city is. you’ve got sprawling art deco architecture, vibrant Latin American culture, and a whole lot of cool vibes. it’s a real melting pot, and it shows.
*local advice*: if you get bored, florida's beaches are just a short drive away. seriously, you can spend a whole day soaking up the sun and people-watching. i also heard that the Key Biscayne area has some really lovely parks and trails. i’m going to check that out next time i’m in the area.
i also overheard that it’s a bit tricky to find parking in some areas, so maybe plan ahead. someone warned me about the parking situation in Brickell - it’s a nightmare. if you’re planning on renting a car, make sure you do your research.
seriously, miami is an experience. it’s loud, it’s bright, it’s overwhelming, and it’s totally captivating. i’m already planning my next trip. maybe this time i’ll try to find that legendary Cuban coffee spot. you can check out some more cool things to do in Miami on TripAdvisor or see some local events on Miami Beach Observer. and hey, if you’re looking for a good Yelp review of a particular restaurant, you’ll find plenty on Yelp Miami. it's a city that just keeps surprising you around every corner.