The Arrival.

     I’ve booked you with the car service we talked about. Alejandro will be waiting for you tomorrow in Arrivals. 

     I’ve asked him to drive you a special route.  All the details of the history and architecture of the neighborhoods you’re passing through are in your inbox: Down_By_The_River.pdf.

Your First Stop.

     Meriendas Mexicanas

     Alejandro will leave you at a lovely cantina on the water so you can have something quick before heading to your room. They know you’re coming, and that you’re just there for a mid-afternoon snack.

     Try the crawfish bisque to keep you until evening.  The restaurant will be fairly empty, so you can really enjoy their panorama of the river delta.

Your Room.

     Freshen up at beach apartment

     When you’re ready, Alejandro will take you to Mid-Beach. You’ll find more about the area in the file in your inbox: Miami_Beach.pdf.

     David will meet you at the door. He’s impossible to miss – he’s about 6’5, and very gregarious.

The building is on some of the best beach in town.  There’s a little path through the cocoplum to the water; your key with the green fob will open the gate.

Drinks Before Dinner.

     ‘The Isle’

     Shower and dress, and Alejandro will take you to a nearby island for cocktails.  The view of the sun dropping over Miami is the best in town.

Mainland Appetizers.

     Local watering hole

     Your next stop is as local as they come – even serving alligator, which is surprisingly good.  All the neighborhood residents frequent this place.  I reserved you a table, but consider going to the bar if you want to chat with some of the Miami folk.

Cucina della Nonna.

     Tiny trattoria for your main course

     You’ll be across the street for your next course.  It will be much quieter.  The owner is a charmer, and knows you’re coming.  The weather will be gorgeous, so I got you a table outside.  Watch the college students walk by and flirt with one another.  Enjoy our late-autumn breeze and the new lights on the plaza.  And don’t pass up the squid-ink ravioli when the time comes; it’s a work of art.

Old World Elegance.

     Dessert, drinks and jazz

     After dinner, Alejandro will take you to a gorgeous old hotel.  It’s one of Miami’s most beloved buildings, and has good food, good music, and good drinks.  There are some hidden gems tucked away on the grounds, which I’ll write to you about in another e-mail.  I hope you love it as much as I do.