If you guys read my post on Exploring LA, then you already know creating space to get away and explore new spaces is one of my absolute favorite things to do, especially when that time is spent with loved ones. For me it’s all about disconnecting to connect, to focus on the things that make life so special. Hubs and I travelled down for a very special event. Our friends were getting married, and we were honored to be part of their special day. Check out a few of the spaces we hit up while we were there.

North vs South - Battle of the Beaches

First off, let’s just address the topic of locale. When you hear someone say, “I’m going to Miami”, a certain image comes to mind right? And more than likely that image is of the well known strip along South Beach, overflowing with bikini-tops and fast cars. But, who knew that North Shore was such a hidden gem? It’s chill there, really chill, and oh so peaceful, but still overflowing with interesting sites and plenty to explore. For us, this was such a welcome discovery, as this is where we spent most of our time, and it was such an incredible change of pace.

Now, To be fair, South Beach had PLENTY to offer with its many shops and restaurants. We enjoyed ourselves, strolling the strip of Ocean Drive, and hanging out at Wet Willie’s sipping on Call A Cabs. It was a great scene for people watching, but not a space I’d want to post up day after day.

Of course, the beautiful draw of the ocean, alive with its own incredible energy was just a stone’s throw away, no matter which shore you chose. Words really don’t do justice when explaining the how magical it feels to simply stand in her alluring presence, the incessant tide, speaking a language all it’s own.

So, here’s my verdict, definitely check out South Beach, especially if you enjoy the faster pace and busyness of a more popular tourist space, BUT if you really want to get away from it all, consider a stay in North Shore.

Food Finds
Alright, I’ll make this quick, we had some good food while we were in Miami, really good. Hubs and I have been doing this pescatarian thing lately, and initially I expected to ditch it once we were on vacation, but Miami made it TOO EASY to delight in delicious seafood, so how can I not share???

1) La Sandwicherie - This was literally the very first place we ate upon our arrival. A VERY unassuming little joint, worthy of a visit from Guy Fieri himself. It was a cute little diner nestled right in the center of Collins Ave. The restaurant is small, but they served up some BIG flavors. Hubs had the Tropical, and I had the Smoked Salmon Croque. They were both incredible. I know this, because I kept stealing bites off his plate 😝

2) Burgers & Shakes - Just a few steps down Collins Ave, we stumbled on Burgers & Shakes. After spotting a Mahi-Mahi burger on the menu, we vowed to come back, little did we know, we’d be back MULTIPLE times! The Mahi did not disappoint. I can’t even lie, it was so tantalizing I forgot to snap a photo - both times, because yes, we ate there on two separate occasions. It was that good. We also made another trip back just for an afternoon shake, which also delicious. Here’s a photo, courtesy of their website, lol.

3) Poke & Ko - Have you ever had a salmon burger as big as your head??? Ok, maybe I’m exaggerating, but just a little. The picture says it all, and though I can’t take photo cred, I’m glad I found it because Hubs and I both demolished ours, sans pic. Phone DID NOT eat first on this trip! It’s a little pricey, but worth it. I must add, after seeing our food, our friends returned the next day for a lobster roll, and one of the salads and couldn’t stop raving about their food as well. Again I say, worth it.

4) I Love Pizza- I saved the best for last, intentionally. This one gets a special shout out for going above and beyond for customer service. Actually, so does hubs because he also gets the “happy wife, happy life” award, as well as photo credit. So, we walked up and down Collins Ave so much that I started confusing where I’d seen certain menu items. I was on a hunt for an affogato, and hubs was determined to make sure I got it. Finally, we settled on I Love Pizza. They had gelato, and a chalk board menu, and I swear the place I spotted the chalkboard menu the day before also sold affogatos. That said, this must be the place right? Well, long story short, I seemed to have thrown them for a loop with my request. The associate helping me was a little puzzled, but they made it happen none the less, and the result was, well - pure delight! Shout out to I Love Pizza for making this girls day bright!

Here’s to creating space to explore new spaces and deepen existing relationships. I’m feeling so incredibly blessed and honored for all the amazingness (made that word up) that this trip offered, and pray that you too get to create space for your own discovery and exploration.

Namaste…