Having lived all over the place and made friends in each port, I am always finding myself missing someone. Travelling to see friends used to be a fantastic way to take advantage of a great last-minute flight deal but these days, with child and hubby thrown into the mix it is simply no longer feasible—London for the weekend with toddler in tow isn’t an enticing prospect no matter which way you look at it.
So, instead, I rely on my friends wanting to see me and purchasing the necessary plane tickets to South Florida. (Of course, the great climate, private pool and close proximity to the beach are an additional enticer!) Thank goodness, it is rare for more than a couple of months to pass without the descent of a very friendly face. And praise the L-rd, I have a husband who understands our necessity of a spare room.
Recently, two of my oldest and dearest girlfriends, Lauren and Natalie, arrived at Casa Shapiro to celebrate Lauren’s 30th birthday. Now, I have always been a bit of a home-body but these days, more than ever, a good night with friends translates to a delicious at-home supper accompanied by dear friends and washed down with gorgeous wines... oh, and bed by midnight (at the latest) if I can politely get away with it!
But as wonderful as that is, and there were sure to be plenty of such evenings in the mix, it just wasn’t going to cut it for this friend’s birthday. I was determined to dust off my dancing shoes and plan a night to remember...
Sleep
The Sagamore Hotel
1671 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
T: (305) 535-8088 F: (305) 535-8185
www.sagamorehotel.com
The Sagamore Hotel (also known as The Art Hotel, thanks to its impressive private collection of contemporary works) on Miami’s South Beach is quintessentially Miami Art Deco, and boasts just 93 one-and-two-bedroom suites, including 15 two-story penthouses and bungalows. The rooms are both spacious and airy and, if rear-facing as our room was, boast terrific views of both the beautiful pool and infamous beach. Every room comprises a separate bedroom, living room (with sofa bed), dining area, wet bar and bathroom facilities, each with a whirlpool and separate W.C. so is perfectly comfortable for three or four girls sharing. The contemporary, high-end furnishings and 100% Egyptian cotton sheets combine to nurture your inner principessa. What’s more, this is an ideal place to escape to, as it is not overrun with guests so lends itself to quality pre-party girl time. It would equally be a fabulous spot for a weekend getaway without the children. (Hint, hint.)
Eat
NOBU @ The Shore Club
T: (305) 695 3232
www.shoreclub.com
NOBU has become synonymous with fabulous, cutting-edge food and it does not disappoint at its Shore Club location. Here, Chef Nobu Matsuhista serves up his signature dishes, such as Yellowtail with jalapeno and Rock Shrimp with Ponzu, to his throngs of adoring fans, which include Miami scenesters and tourists, and everyone in between. Reservations are suggested for parties of six or more or, alternatively, get on a first-name basis with the doormen. Otherwise, be prepared to wait.
Party
SET
320 Lincoln Road
T: (305) 531 2800 E: info@setmiami.com
For tables: (786) 303 5872
www.setmiami.com
This is currently the place to see and be seen in Miami’s South Beach. Be warned: dress to impress or your place on the guest list means nothing to the most obnoxious doormen you have ever met. However, worth putting up with to get inside. Burlesque go-go girls and luxurious décor add supreme glamour to this VIP venue, not to mention the strong girl: guy ration, which makes it superb for girls’ night out.
Party on…
Nikki Beach
1 Ocean Drive
T: 305.538.1111
www.nikkibeach.com/miami
Simply put: This is Miami at its best. Nikki Beach is an ideal place to conclude your girls’ night out on South Beach, whether direct from the club or for the infamously good weekend brunch after a few hours’ post-party shut-eye. Minimum attire is de rigeur, whether it be day or night, as is a European luxury car in which to pull up.
The morning after the night before
News Café
800 Ocean Drive
www.newscafe.com
This 24-hour café-cum-bar-cum-newsstand is a South Beach mecca for celebrities, locals and tourists alike. No trip to SoBe is complete without brunch at the News Café: it’s a great spot to eat, people watch and soak in the daytime essence of South Beach.
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