Bahamas: Atlantis Resort

This trip didn't involve too much culture.  It was an adulterated, spoil-ourselves in pure luxury and gluttony for three days trip.  Atlantis is an over-the-top resort with huge waterslides, amazing aquariums, gorgeous beaches, a bunch of restaurants that are licensed from celebrity chefs and a big casino.

I indulged in a dolphin experience and a holiday spa package at their luxe spa.  Hubby tried every slide but returned to the water rapids ride that snaked its way over a mile around the property.  Even with all of the activities available, one of our favorites was just to gaze down at the grounds from our 17th floor balcony.  We stayed at The Cove, one of the contemporary "design" towers.  

Miami: Design, Scarface, Palm Trees

Just had 48 hours in Miami this time... We stayed in a boutique hotel on Ocean Drive that just happened to be next to the staircase where they filmed the infamous chainsaw massacre scene in Scarface... It is now a Johnny Rockets hamburger joint...

Usually when I am in Miami, I never stray off the 3 blocks around the Raleigh Hotel where the Swimwear fashion shows take place.  This time, I decided to actually check out a new neighborhood.  The Design District apparently was not a very nice neighborhood up until the last year or two.  My friend who lives in Miami was hesitant to drive me there for fear of safety.  I assured him that the newly opened Louis Vuitton, Prada and Hermes boutiques seem to indicate that we shouldn't have to worry...

They are clearly aiming for the fashion crowd, but the interior design crowd seems to be holding court first.  I had a nice time perusing the goods of Jonathan Adler, Alessi and other posh home showrooms...