Author: Karen Escalera

Thinking about a visit to Key West? Here are some of the latest and greatest unique things to do in Key West , Part 1. And even if a visit to Key West isn't in your immediate plans, you'll enjoy reading the American history that happened here, especially with former President Harry S.Truman. Stay tuned for more in Part 2 along with eating recommendations and a great stop on the way back to Miami. Where to stay will be Part 3.
The restaurant I’ve been to the most in Miami is Semilla, ever since  it opened 12 years ago, including for my birthday celebration. Judging by all the diners chef owner Frederic and Letitia Joulin greet on arrival, I’d venture to say they must have one of the highest return rates in the city. And much to his credit, this former chef of ex President Jacques Chirac and three star Michelin Guy Savoy in Paris, manages to refresh the French and American menu items in an exciting way so we always come out of there loving our evening. His latest menu is our favorite as you’ll read. And then there’s the warm hospitality, buzzy and attractive bistro atmosphere, and fair prices.  Plus, it was just named the best happy hour in Miami.
Looking for the best restaurant deals in Fort Lauderdale this summer? Dine Out Lauderdale 2026 has returned through September 30, bringing together more than ever before: chef-driven tasting menus, dining experiences,  waterfront restaurants, neighborhood favorites and some of the area's newest dining destinations.
Miami Spa Months 2026  are back from now through August 31, with more than 30 participating spas across Greater Miami and Miami Beach . Enjoy exclusive wellness treatments and beauty services for $109, $159 and $199 (a savings of up to 40%). This year also introduces Signature Experiences, an elevated collection of treatments available at select spas. Read on for the list of all participants and everything else you need to know.
What are the best bars in Miami? Of course it depends on your criteria which could be many. To me a “best bar” is classy, chic, and with some glamour, great service and special touches I dub “amenities”. It’s the kind of bar you find in some of the world’s finest landmark hotels. I’ve just found my favorite in Miami, Septimo at the Four Seasons Miami that has a lovely restaurant, Nuna,  as well with some exciting dishes. And if you want to make it a day, the hotel offers day pool passes. To find out more, look for the link in the post.
Feeling cooped up? Check out part 1 in a three part series on Miami scenic drives and walks, places ripe for exploring and welcome eye candy.  Plus, one of these suggestions is featured in the publication Great Runs for their trails and views. You'll also read about nearby places to grab a bite after the visual adventure.
Maple and Ash Miami is luxe—from the stewardship of its two-star Michelin chef/partner Danny Grant and the contemporary-meets-Old World décor, to the rich ingredients in its menus and very professional service. No surprise then that its Miami Spice 2026 dinner menu would be anything less than a feast with its WOW signature dishes and a complimentary wine sampling. And if you really want to go all out, you can have an after dinner drink in its glamorous speakeasy the Studio.
If these boots could talk, they’d have a lot more to say than just "walkin'." The Wolfsonian-FIU in South Beach kicked  off its newest exhibition, Foot Notes: Shoes, Symbolism, and Society, and it’s anything but an ordinary fashion show. Get ready to dive into the unexpected history of 20th-century footwear, featuring everything from gravity-defying heels to midcentury pogo shoes and political history told through shoes.
West Palm Beach makes an easy escape for beach days, buzzy restaurants, and a little Palm Beach glamour, but you don’t need a splurge-level hotel budget to enjoy it. There are actually plenty of hotels offering solid Tripadvisor ratings and rooms that can often be found for $250 per night or less, depending on the dates. If you go at this time of year you might catch some summer sales as well. Here are our picks for affordable hotels West Palm Beach,
The 25th edition of Miami Spice Restaurant Months  is back from August 1 through September 30, 2026. This year’s program from The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) features three-course prix-fixe menus at a minimum of 30% savings at more than 300 participating restaurants listed below, alongside new Miami Spice Reserve experiences and exclusive offerings. Read about everything you need to know,