Miami: Where it all Begin Cuban Food, Beaches, and Adventure

Today, I want to take you back to where it all began—the trip that sparked my love for solo travel and set me on a path of exploration and self-discovery. Let me share the story of my first journey to Miami, a weekend getaway that changed my life forever.

Arrival

I arrived in Miami early on a Friday afternoon, filled with a mix of excitement and nerves. The warm, tropical air greeted me as I stepped off the plane, and I immediately felt a sense of freedom wash over me. Lucky for me a friend of mine was visiting at the same time my plane landed so she picked me up from the airport and we had a quick lunch.

After checking into my cozy hotel that I booked last minute in South Beach (for the life of me I cant rember I which hotel I stayed. But to be fare I’m reminiscing on a decade old trip. The hotel was a small detail.) If you’re looking for the best rates on hotels and flight packages in Miami I strongly suggest using Expedia. As a solo traveler that loves to book a last minute flight, It’s my go to for the best rate for my needs.

The Journey Begins

The first thing I did was head to the beach to catch the sunset, I had no beach towel, no headphones, or a book to keep me company. Just sat in the sand and watched the sunset. And I knew at that moment, the water was where I needed to be. I made a decision to spend any free time I had possible at the beach.

Day 2

The next morning, I had a quick breakfast at the hotel and made my way back to the beach where I spent most of the morning staring at the water and getting the tan I never thought I needed. Dont be like me and use sun screen.

By the evening I made my way to Little Havana, the heart of Miami’s Cuban community. (For a STG Guide to Little Havanna Click Here)Dinner at the legendary Versailles Restaurant. The bustling atmosphere and the aroma of authentic Cuban food were intoxicating. I ordered a classic Ropa Vieja, a flavorful shredded beef dish, accompanied by black beans, rice, and fried plantains. The food was so good I started to do the shoulder dance we all do when the food is bomb. At that moment I felt a deep connection to the rich culture around me.

With my belly full and my spirits high, I headed back to South Beach to catch the sunset. I spent rest of the evening lounging on the warm sand, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The sky turned shades of pink and orange, creating a picturesque backdrop that felt almost magical. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day.

Day 3

The next morning I woke up early, eager to spend the day by the ocean. Armed with a beach towel, sunscreen, and a one of my favorite books, I found a perfect spot on South Beach. The sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun were incredibly soothing. I spent hours relaxing, dipping my toes in ocean because I can’t swim., and simply enjoying the serenity of the beach.

In the afternoon, I decided to go wandering and somehow added a bit of culture to my trip. Miami is home to several free museums, perfect for a solo traveler on a budget. My first stop was the Bass Museum of Art, where I marveled at the contemporary art collections.

Next, I wandered over to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, a lush oasis filled with tropical plants and beautiful flowers. It was a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

After my cultural excursions, I was ready for more Cuban food. This time, I headed to Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop, a local favorite known for its delicious Cuban sandwiches. The combination of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed between crispy Cuban bread was absolutely divine. Satisfied, I spent the evening strolling through the streets of Miami Beach, window shopping and soaking in the vibrant energy of the city.

Day 3

As if laying on the beach for two days wasn’t enough, my 3rd morning started with? You guessed it, the Beach. This day I had waken up early enough to watch the sun rise. I’m almost 100%b sure this was the first time I witnessed the sunned peaking its head over the horizon to get ready for the day. It looked as if the sun did that morning stretch we all do in bed in the morning when your butt clenches and your toes point and your bodies prepares for the day.

As I lay on the sand, I reflected on my journey. This solo trip had been exactly what I needed—a chance to relax, explore, and reconnect with myself. Miami had welcomed me with open arms, offering delicious food, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant culture.

Conlcusion

As the sun set on my final day, I felt a mix of sadness and gratitude. Sad to be leaving this beautiful place, but grateful for the experiences and memories I had made. This trip had shown me the joy of solo travel, and I knew it was just the beginning of many more adventures to come. So in true form instead of going out for the evening I ordered takour pizza. It was the perfect ending to a perfect trip

My first solo trip to Miami was a transformative experience. It taught me the value of taking time for myself, exploring new places, and embracing the unknown. If you’re considering a solo adventure, I encourage you to take the leap. Miami is a wonderful destination to start with—offering a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and culinary delights