Miami for me is a great place for escapism.

I love South Beach and the other worldly feel of the Art Deco setting with the beach and the sea, especially at night when the neon comes into its own.

It is a brilliant place for people watching, the architecture and the culture are really interesting and it is a great gateway to the Keys, the Everglades and a Florida road trip.

It also has the advantage of being a direct 8 hour flight away from the UK and certainly there are many Brits who regard it as a good short break destination, especially in the winter when the allure of that Florida sunshine is stronger than ever.

Miami Top Attractions

Ocean Drive is one of the best people watching spots anywhere. Grab a ringside seat at one of the many bars and cafes and watch the people and the sports cars go by.

Marvel at the abundance of fantastic Art Deco architecture. Take yourself on a wander to gawp and check out the lobby of the King and Grove Tides hotel.

Take some time out on Lummus Park Beach, keep an eye out for the bodies beautiful jogging and inline skating.

Head out to the Everglades to say hello to the alligators and enjoy a natural wonderland.

Soak up the ambience in Little Havana and enjoy some Cuban cuisine.

Get your head underwater and take a snorkelling trip from Key Biscayne or drive up to Red Reef Park  in Boca Raton and enjoy the artificial reef straight from the beach.

Head out on one of the classic American road trips and take a slow drive from Miami down to Key West on Highway 1.

Shop ‘til you drop. Bal Harbour is home to the upmarket shopaholics dream mall and Fort Lauderdale has one of the largest outlet malls in America. There is everything in between.

To get you in the mood……

Listen; Any of the tracks from Buena Vista Social Club
Read; “Skin Tight” by Carl Hiaasen
Watch; Goldfinger