W South Beach: Mind, Body & Spirit
Hello Darlings, Like traveling to any metropolitan city the anticipation of fabulous dinners and swanky soirees calls for an advance packing of the suitcases. Unlike packing for a laid back Caribbean getaway, a big city calls for big plans and therefore takes a girl some serious thought in the wardrobe department.
South Beach is famously known as the sunshine playground for adults. In the same manner as any fashion capital, Miami in its own right has an entirely unique fashion scene. Nothing is too much or off limits and the brighter and louder, the better! In some ways, Miami is a lot like Vegas minus the lights and with addition of an ocean. It is the place to see and be seen! While we all love a good party, South Beach is the place to find a great scene regardless of which day of the week it is. Aside from a dynamic night scene, it also offer a fabulous selection of spas and wellness programs.
While not all of us need a fashion week detox, we all deserve that weekend off to spend just spoiling ourselves. For me September marks one of the busiest times of the year and during high pressure periods, I like to get away for a weekend. When 10 hour days with no weekends become a norm, the risk of burning out is high and therefore leaving your typical environment to unplug becomes a necessity. Unlike any place, I love going down south to Florida and more often South Beach. Having have spent so much time there, it has now become my home away from home. There's a certain amount of comfort of visiting a familiar place and yet finding newness every time.
I tend to lean towards W hotel properties when travelling mostly because of their exceptional service and great atmosphere. So W South Beach is one my favorite places to stay when visit South Beach. Unlike other times that I stayed at the property to have fun with the girls, this visit was all about relaxing. I just wanted to focus on mind, body and spirit!
MIND: relaxing
The hotel is located on the beach where during the day you can soak up the sun on the Atlantic Ocean or seek shade under one of the umbrellas. Wake up and fall asleep with the views of the ocean thanks to the innovative 25 degree angle of the building's architecture, as well as enjoy the view from your private balcony. My absolutely favorite feature of the property is the lush Grove garden which is modeled after the gardens of Nimes, France. This private enclave is perfect for a morning coffee or for a glass of wine at night - just sit back, sip and relax!
The obvious choice for relaxation is the beautiful Bliss Spa which also offer in-room services. If you're looking for a treatment, I would suggest one of their fabulous facials and relaxing massages. Also, be sure to arrive a bit earlier and unwind on their rooftop terrace.
BODY: fitness
Since I travel often it is very important for me to stay fit and W hotels always offer a fun environment at their FIT gyms. W South Beach not only features state-of-the-art gym but also Rooftop HOOPS and SWING courts. That's right, you can shoot some hoops or enjoy tennis with the views of Atlantic. As another one of my favorite active suggestion, is to grab one of their awesome bicycles and cruise the boardwalk, aside from a great work out it is an easy way to explore the area. Just speak to the W Insider to arrange for your two wheels :)
SPIRIT: Culinary Delights
Nothing appeals to my soul quite like great food! The Dutch is one of my favorite restaurants in South Beach. Aside from the lovely setting which overlooks the Grove, the menu is simple and healthy.
Breakfast: Greek yogurt, mixed berried and homemade granola, smoked salmon plate.
Lunch: classic shrimp cocktail, pickled watermelon & feta salad, tuna nicoise salad, heirloom tomatoes & mozzarella, Peruvian corvine ceviche, tuna tartar, slow-roasted turkey sandwich with avocado, roast chicken with quinoa.
Dinner: anything from The Oyster Room, yellowtail crudo, Florida mahi, steamed red snapper.
Throughout the day I loved sipping on the cold-pressed Juicera juices and at night enjoying one of Living Room Bar cocktails which include organic, locally sources ingredients. For off the property healthy eats suggestions check out Jugofresh in Sunset Harbour and The Café at Books & Books on Lincoln Road.
Overall, the visit is always an absolute joy and this time it was just the perfect relaxing getaway that I needed! As my last tip, I must admit that this trendy spot typically attracts a stylish crowd therefore rolling out your bed and hitting the pool may not be the best option. Instead spend a few minutes putting yourself together and throwing on a pair of cute shorts or a cover-up. You don't have to put your best sandal forward but definitely the cutest one! Save the best foot for evenings where a scene at the Living Room gets pretty attractive.
With Love...
Marta