The city of Miami, commonly known as Little Havana, is best known for its art-decor structures, Cuban influenced cafes that line the streets, and of course, the palm fringed beaches where sun worshipers flock by the hundreds for a golden tan. The city’s pleasant climate and vibrant energy make it a favorite holiday destination for holiday seekers in the region, especially the trendy neighborhood of South Beach Miami. Hotel accommodation varies from small motels to the more modern, designer complexes, such as the COMO Hotels & Resorts, for example.
Aside from the endless stretch of stunning beaches, just outside the city lies the everglades national park, which is best known for its unique ecosystem and inhabitants, namely alligators. Another noteworthy location to visit is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Situated right on the edge of the Biscayne Bay, is a 28-acre estate with landscaped gardens and a European styled mansion, once owned by the famed industrialist, James Deering, which will carry you back to an era when Miami was once more woodland than concrete jungle.
Built in 1916 as a winter holiday home for Deering, the stunning Italian Renaissance designed mansion features 34 rooms, artfully arranged around a central courtyard. The house itself is filled with luxurious European furniture and art pieces dating back to the 15th and 19th century. The surrounding 10-acres of carefully landscaped gardens feature several Italian and French inspired fountains, pool and statues. The main “formal garden” is said to be a replica of the manicured gardens of Versailles, France.
The showpiece, however, is the massive breakwater that leads right into the bay. Intricately carved out of limestone in the shape of a barge, it features several kinds of decorative sculptures. The elaborate architecture, the landscaped gardens, and beautiful artwork it contains, are all certainly worth a trip to this stately home.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
