Folks were kind to me in response to my goofy question about shorts in Miami in March. I still wasn't well prepared; it was even warmer than predicted. We don't tend to wear shorts in public in North Central Texas in early March, but in Miami, that was the most some were wearing! In short, didn't take enough warm weather clothes for upper 70s and even lower 80s this week.

Had never been to Miami before and was pleasantly surprised at how beautiful the water and beach were. I went for a conference, so there was no beach time, but I did a little exploring. Lincoln Road restaurants and shops were interesting. Ocean Drive and the Art Deco buildings were spectacular at day and night. To think they were almost torn down in the name of progress.

Stayed at Loews Miami Beach in the St. Moritz tower. Contemporary, calming, low-key elegance. Very nicely renovated with beautiful views and pool. Restaurants in the immediate area were expensive to this small town resident. Breakfasts tended to be very reasonable on Ocean Drive restaurants. Had dinner at Bella Cuba and BLT Steakhouse at the Betsy. Lunch at Emeril's. All were good, with Bella Cuba the best value. Left a couple of outdoor seatings on Lincoln Road after no waitstaff attention after about 10+ minutes-very poor service.

Look forward to returning again on vacation-seems like a good option to foreign destinations.

Some of the restaurants on Lincoln Road are not impressive. They cater to tourists and the food is often so-so. Otherwise, it's fun to walk around Lincoln Road.

When you go back, drive north for about 10 minutes to the Bal Harbour Shops and eat at Carpaccio and stroll around the outdoor shops. It feels like the lush tropics. You'll know what I mean when you go there.
http://www.balharbourshops.com/

Thanks for the tip, Jaya. I agree, I was disappointed with Lincoln Road, though the people watching was entertaining. I didn't have my daughter/shopper with me, so didn't think aobut shopping.

I agree that Miami is a good alternative to going out of the country. It has a very international feel. I always stay in Miami Beach at one of the art deco hotels, and there are as many guests from Europe and Latin America as there are from the states. Lincoln Road can be hit or miss for dining, but it is fun to stroll along and people watch. There is a lot of really good dining in Miami, so its easy to skip Lincoln Road. In South Beach I really like BLT Steak at the Betsy, Sardinia on Bay Road, and Opa! is always fun.

Hi autier17, do you know the joke I love Miami it is so close to the US.... just kidding