Miami has a known formula of attractions such as beaches, excitement, and outlet shopping. During a recent visit to the city, the itinerary focused on distinct experiences, covering sophisticated hotels, quality drinks, and shopping outside the most traditional circuits.
The starting point was the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, a seaside resort recognized for its Art Deco architecture. After a major renovation completed at the end of 2025, with an investment of US$ 55 million, the hotel received renovated rooms with contemporary and naturally lit decor. The views of South Beach are remarkable, and the pool near the beach offers an ideal combination for enjoying both the sea and the sun.
The next morning, after breakfast, there was a drive of about 30 minutes to the Acqualina Spa, located at the renowned Acqualina Resort & Residences in Sunny Isles Beach, north of Miami Beach. The spa, spanning over 1,800 square meters, offers a complete experience that blends European day spa tradition with fitness activities, gastronomy, and holistic and Ayurvedic therapies focused on well-being and rejuvenation.
Classified as 'Five-Star' by Forbes, the venue features a modern gym, massages, facial treatments, and a thermal circuit alternating between heat and cold to energize the body. The facilities include various types of saunas (such as one with chromotherapy and another with a Himalayan Salt wall) and a cold plunge to stimulate circulation. A highlight is the private outdoor terrace with a pool, waterfall, and hydromassage, ideal for moments of self-care.
The Acqualina spa is available to non-guests by appointment. Undergoing any treatment guarantees the use of all internal facilities and the private terrace pool, but does not include access to the resort's other pools or the hotel's beach service.
Continuing at Acqualina for lunch, the presence of a branch of the Italian restaurant Il Mulino, previously known in New York, was discovered. The menu features options such as Grana Padano and Parma ham appetizers, exceptional handmade pastas, or the classic branzino, which is the whole roasted sea bass. The wine selection is also considered impeccable.
Next, Bal Harbour Shops was visited, one of the world's largest luxury retail centers, located just a 10-minute drive from Acqualina. This elegant open-air mall is adorned with tropical gardens, fountains, koi ponds, turtles, and imperial palms. Visitors can simply stroll or shop at stores such as Chanel, Gucci, Balenciaga, and other high-end brands, including the largest Saks Fifth Avenue location in Florida. The venue also offers exclusive services, such as a VIP lounge for relaxation and fitting rooms.
To conclude the day, there was a short drive of less than 30 minutes to Little Havana, a neighborhood known for the strong presence of the Cuban community. Café La Trova, despite having a discreet facade, is considered a treasure. Managed by the celebrated cantinero Julio Cabrera, the establishment transports customers to Cuba of the 1950s. The menu offers classic dishes with modern touches, such as croquettes, empanadas, and suckling pig.
In the bars, the bartenders follow the tradition of cantineros, masters of the throwing technique, executing drink preparation with impressive precision, turning the service into a spectacle. This practice follows the teachings of the Cantineros Manual, published in Cuba in 1924. Although not in Havana, the experience evokes the legendary El Floridita. However, in Miami, the peak of the night is the background shows: while a trova band plays, the cantineros, dressed in elegant blazers, present incredible performances preparing classics like the Daiquiri, just like in the old days. They conclude with a vibrant choreography, playing maracas and animating the entire room, providing an authentic and soulful finale.
Santander, the capital of Cantabria in northern Spain, is known as the 'Bride of the Sea'. This city, which has approximately 180 thousand inhabitants, presents a remarkable combination of mountainous landscapes and green fields with white sand beaches.
In the mid-19th century, Santander experienced significant growth in tourism after establishing itself as a holiday destination for the Spanish monarchy. The presence of the royal family stimulated the construction of luxurious hotels, mansions, and iconic structures, such as the Palace of Madalena, which is one of the city's most famous tourist attractions.
The following five beaches can be included in a trip itinerary in Santander.
Located between the Cape Mayor Lighthouse and the Second Beach of Sardinero, Mataleñas Beach is considered a discreet gem of the Spanish coast. Access is via a long staircase, which maintains a more reserved and charming atmosphere. Although it is an ideal spot for families seeking tranquility, people with reduced mobility should exercise caution on some steep parts.
With crystal-clear waters and golden sand, Mataleñas is suitable for free diving (snorkeling) due to its rocky bottom and diverse marine life. It is a less crowded alternative on the Santander coast.
The El Sardinero area is one of the most frequented by visitors to Santander. The First and Second Beaches of Sardinero form a vast expanse of fine, soft sand, bathed by transparent waters.
This location retains the aristocratic air that characterized the city's tourism development, with historical buildings such as the Gran Casino del Sardinero and the Hotel Real, which symbolize the period when Santander became a summer destination for the Spanish elite. The First Beach of Sardinero attracts both sunbathers during the summer and surfers year-round, offering complete infrastructure with several bars and restaurants along the waterfront.
Near the Sardinero region, 'Camello Beach' received this name due to a peculiar rock formation near the coast that resembles the silhouette of this animal. This destination is small and pleasant, combining calm waters with lush nature.
It is important to observe the tides when visiting this beach; during low tide, small natural pools appear among the rocks, which are highly appreciated by families with children.
Situated across the Bay of Santander, El Puntal can be reached by traditional vessels called pedreñeras, small red barges that leave the city at specific times. Upon arrival, visitors find a wide stretch of light sand and panoramic views of the Santander coast, the Palace of Madalena, and the entrance to the bay.
Due to stronger waves, El Puntal is an excellent option for water sports, such as stand-up paddleboarding and surfing. Local gastronomy also deserves mention, with bars and restaurants serving dishes made with fresh seafood by the beach.
On the northern coast of Santander, La Maruca exhibits a quieter and more rural aspect of the city. The beach has a small port that, in past times, held military relevance due to its strategic location near the bay entrance.
For those who enjoy hiking and adventure, the beach serves as a starting or ending point for a coastal trek of about 11 kilometers. This route traverses cliffs and natural vegetation to the Cape Mayor Lighthouse, making it ideal for exploring the Santander coast on foot.
