Miami

To most visitors, Miami includes both the city of Miami and its across-the-bay twin, Miami Beach. Each is a separate community, and each is vibrantly different in personality. Miami is older, more settled and sophisticated. Miami Beach is youth on a fling. The city of Miami, or its downtown area, has the bustle of business, rush-hour traffic and skyscrapers. It's also a popular place for cruise-goers; the Port of Miami is the largest embarkation point for cruise ships in the world. Contrary to popular belief, Miami Beach is not the same thing as South Beach. South Beach is a tiny portion of the expansive whole of Miami Beach-the neighborhood runs from First Street to around Dade Boulevard (a few blocks north of Lincoln Road). Small it may be, but this area has enough flash to make even Vegas blush. Skimpily dressed, taut-and-tanned locals mix it up with the rich and famous inside trendy clubs, swanky boutique hotels and shops along Collins Avenue. South Beach is also home to the thickest concentration of Miami's acclaimed Art Deco buildings. A walk down Ocean Drive between Fifth and 16th streets is like taking a trip to the 1930s. And at the enclave's northern tip, you can find Lincoln Road, a pedestrianized street with shops and restaurants galore. It's exactly what you thought of Miami, only brasher, brighter, and in real-time. When it comes to what to see in Miami, many people think of only two things: sand and the sea. But there's a lot more on offer in this sunny southern city than beaches and swimming. With oodles of history, culture, arts and fashion around town, you'll be spending more time off the sand than you might think. Stroll the Art Deco district and learn how this magic city developed such a unique architectural style. Escape the midday sun and visit the Miami Art Museum to see a fine collection of contemporary works by local artists. Or head back in time to St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church, an ancient Spanish monastery dating back to the 12th century. Whatever your interest or curiosity, you're sure to find something to quell it.