Tips on Traveling Like a Pro

Family

Published 4/2/18

“Live in the moment”, “Go with the flow”, and a bunch of other Facebook pearls of wisdom have convinced people that life needs a slogan in order to be experienced. The truth of the matter is that being spontaneous can be difficult when you have no idea how to get to your hotel or how to take the bus. Being overly adventurous can ironically prevent you from making the most of your escapade and cost you many of those precious moments, not to mention dollars.Learning some basic words and phrases in the local language can separate you from the packs of ignorant tourists locals are often sick of. Opening up with something like “Excuse me. Can I ask you a question, please?” in a broken language is an endearing attempt that brings down barriers – not so much language ones, because you’ll still need an answer in English, but at least the human and cultural ones. It’s the gesture the counts.Whether you like planning or not, history is definitely the fun kind of holiday …

Key West’s Subtropical Botanical Garden

Family

Published 4/2/18

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is the only "subtropical, frost-free" botanical garden in the continental United States, a tropical environment with ample rain that allows most trees to retain their leaves in the dry season (December through late May). It is home to many endangered and threatened flora and fauna. Unlike traditional botanical gardens, this garden advocates the education and protection of native plants and wildlife species in a natural conservation habitat. Tropical forests of the world hold at least half of all the variety of life on Earth. Moreover, the species found within the Caribbean are among the richest in plant and animal life on the planet. Celebrating 82 years in 2018, this garden is a special place where you can appreciate biodiversity and learn more about its importance. For instance, the forest has two of the last remaining fresh water ponds in the Keys and is a major migratory stopping point for neo-tropical birds from places as …

Out of Your Comfort Zone: INTERNATIONAL FESTIVALS That are Definitely Worth the Trip

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Published 12/28/17

Where: Venice, ItalyWhen: January - February Known by locals as the Carnevale di Venezia (sounds much more romantic!), this is hands down one of the most famous carnivals on earth, featuring sumptuous costumes and exotic Venetian masks that give the city a fairytale quality. It’s like stepping into a time machine to a world of lavish suits and gowns. Attracting approximately 3 million visitors each year, this event could be considered a series of historical re-enactments and celebrations, showcasing water parades, masked costume competitions, spectacular fireworks and a series of lavish masquerade balls, including our fave, the Grand Masquerade Ball. The special 25th edition of this dazzling ball takes place on Saturday, February 10th, 2018 at the Palazzo Moretta (Yep, a real life palace on the beautiful Grand Canal!). Enjoy a magical night of cocktails, fine wine, performances, elegant silver service dinner while you experience the air of mystery, surrounded …

Art Basilando Hits the Home Show

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Published 8/25/17

September 1 - 4“Art Basilando” depicts the colorful souls of twelve Little Havana artist who, through different styles and textures, create a cohesive trajectory of heritage, history and artistic expression. The viewer is bedazzled by color and bold imagery, but should look deeper into the artist’s canvas. Unfold the dichotomy of an artist’s soul: worlds past and present; elation and deep sadness; surreal and real; darkness and light.Participating artists include: Katey Penner, Santos Mendez, Didi Marchi, Gonzalo Borges, Annie M., Diana Contreras, Phil Avello, Mildrey Guillot, Eliott Prada, Giselle Fajardo, Mayomelz (Mel Pichardo), Omar Corrales Mora. The showcase is curated by Pati Vargas, Director of Viernes Culturales.“We are very proud to have participated in At Home with Art since its launch in 2015,” states Pati Vargas. “Basilando is of course, a play on words. However, it defines what I think makes Miami’s art community very unique: we are out on the streets …

FLORIDA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL CELEBRATES MILESTONE 25TH SEASON IN 2017

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Published 1/10/17

February 11 – March 26, 2017 …

Winter Brings a TOUR de Force to South Florida

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Published 10/28/16

But there are also plenty of great tours in the area that are not only educational and culturally enriching, but a lot of fun to share with friends, family, and that special someone. Whether you’re interested in biking, cruising down celebrated waterways, or strolling through historic districts, AroundTown has you covered on land and sea. So take a look at the tour highlights we’ve selected and experience culture your way by planning that perfect outing for a gorgeous day! …

Summer Camps: They’re Not Just for Outdoors Anymore

Family

Published 4/4/16

The question then becomes, how do you continue stimulating young minds while still providing them with a fun escape away from the classroom environment? Summer camps have been a staple for keeping kids occupied during the school break. But these camps don’t just have to be mindless filler until the new school year begins. Nowadays, there are so many available options that promote creativity, education and foster a love for the arts, while at the same time serving as an enjoyable pastime for youngsters eager to embark on new adventures. Whether it’s theater, film, science, dance, art, sports, etc., we’ve compiled a list of South Florida’s hottest summer camps your kids will definitely fall for! …

2016 is the year of the butterfly

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Published 2/4/16

Butterfly World is prepped for the Spring Season as a “Floral Fantasy” for 2016. Nearly 1000 new flowering plants have been added to the gardens! Although there are always flowers blooming at the park, spring is the penultimate time for an ever-changing palate of colors throughout the park. Some of the species, such as the brilliant pink New Guinea Trumpet Vine, only bloom at this time of year. …