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Art Deco Welcome Center Website – Miami

You do not have to be an art historian to want to experience and appreciate art and culture in the city you are visiting. If you love stories about real history, heroes and villains, then you will enjoy the Art Deco Tour conducted by local, very knowledgeable and very witty historians and architects.

Art Deco Welcome Center

To gain access to this old world of Miami, an essential stop to your South Florida vacation is the Art Deco Welcome Center (ADWC), located at 1001 Ocean Dr. Miami Beach, on the corner of 10th and Ocean Drive.

ADWC sits in the heart of the famous Art Deco Historic District contained within Miami Beach Blvd., Alton Road and Collins Canal. It highlights and helps protect 960 historic structures erected between 1923 and 1943. The three architectural styles which can be admired are Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival and Miami Modernism.

Since 1979, this historic gem has been protected from developers. In the 80s, this now colorful, clean area was a crime-ridden crumbling piece of history not to be walked in by the faint of heart.

Today, the ADWC provides great way to kick off your visit to South Beach via the informative permanent exhibit, guided walking tours, a self-guided audio tour, and a gift shop full of old-fashioned postcards and deco-style jewelry.

The guided tours are a bargain.  For the price of one entree on  Ocean Drive, you will gain VIP access to the lobbies and roof-tops, experiencing the gorgeous views from up there. Saturate your senses with the ambiance, furnishings and decor of some of the most breathtaking architectural jewels in Miami.

It is highly recommended to book the 90 minute tour offered every Wednesday thru Sunday at dusk to enjoy the spectacular neon lights highlighting these structures. One definite highlight is the Venetian Pool, an extraordinary beautiful swimming hole created in 1924. During its heyday, it hosted synchronized swimmer Esther Williams.This interactive history tour keeps the past of South Beach alive for you.

If your visit is in January, you can take in the Art Deco Weekend, an annual festival which takes place on Miami Beach.

By Nuria Almeida

South Florida provides plenty of opportunity to luxuriate in the wonderful nature available. From hiking through dense, mysterious forests, to swimming with schools of fish, kids will especially love the natural settings highlighted below. Take it from a local, these two destinations are magical relics of old South Florida.

John U. Lloyd State Park

This 251-acre barrier island, located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercoastal Waterway, is perfect for a day at the beach or a family picnic. The intercoastal waterway separates the mainland from the ocean, but in between lies Whiskey Creek. This creek, which is a a manatee sanctuary, runs about 2 miles through John U. Lloyd Park and provides an excellent fishing or paddling opportunity for kayakers and canoers. Actually, the creek would be great for beginners to learn how to canoe. The mangroves are gorgeous and tiny fish and crabs can be seen clearly and in abundance.

This park provides a myriad of recreational activities, including surf casting, fishing, canoeing, swimming, wildlife viewing, boating, kayaking and picnicking. A variety of items are available for rental, such as canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, sailboats, pontoon boats and volleyballs. Amenities include a beach, two boat ramps, an education center, a restaurant, picnic tables, grills, and seven covered gazebos. The boat ramps are just 1/4 mile from Port Everglades, and undeniably offers the easiest ocean access in the area.

The almost 3 miles of beach can be described as mostly isolated. If you want to get away from the crowds, this park offers no shopping, no buildings, no lifeguards, just natural beach. It is calm, beautiful and very relaxing. Bonfires are allowed on this beach at night. It’s a wonderful way for a family to unwind from a busy day, watching the sunset, side by side.

Located at 6503 N. Ocean Drive, Dania, 1.5 miles north of Sheridan Street off A1A. For more information, call 954-923-2833 .

Oleta River State Park

This park is an oasis of water wilderness in South Florida, a treasure for the city dweller. It is a memorable destination for both visitors and residents taking a stay-cation. You can easily spend a whole day at Oleta, because there is so much to do in this wonderfully large and open space park. Visitors can mountain bike, kayak, picnic or just lounge along the shores of the Intercoastal.

Rent a kayak or bring your own and explore all of the mangroves and hidden beaches on the surrounding islands in and around this park. Catch sight of wildlife, such as dolphins, manatees, cranes, fish and iguanas as you relax at the sandbar or walk the trails. Paddle leisurely around mangrove inlets which sometimes form a natural awning, pass under bridges, on the calmest water or take a chance on the open water.

There are air-conditioned cabins to rent for camping. Cabins have a bunk bed, a queen bed, desk, fire pit and porch swing. They are in walking distance to all the activities that make this park the destination for any vacation.

Located at 3400 NE 163rd St,North Miami Beach, FL 33160. For more information, call (305) 919-1844

By Nuria Almeida

Photo by EdoDodo

Whether you are visiting South Florida, the greater Fort Lauderdale area or taking a ‘stay’cation in Hollywood, a myriad of fun activities await you and your family. Be prepared for Hollywood to become a favorite vacation getaway, especially if you are on a budget. From the beach to dancing to movie nights, your affordable options are plenty. There are many free activities and some really inexpensive ones, so the family is able to enjoy without short-changing the budget. Following are just some ongoing options:

Arts Park at Young Circle

This green oasis is located in the middle of Downtown Hollywood. It features the Millenium Springs, a spectacular fountain created by Japanese artist Ritsuko Taho, and a unique playground your children will love to climb and play on. Artspark features the following ongoing free events weekly:

• Family Movie Nights Fridays at 8:00 p.m.
• Disco Dancing in the Park Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.
• Live Glass Blowing Demonstrations every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Classes as also available www.gbohf.com

For more information,call 954-921-3500. Artspark is located at 1 Young Cir. Hollywood, FL 33020.

Yellow Green Farmer’s Market

Part farmers market, artisan flea market, Yellow Green provides a delicious fresh foods and beautiful objects created by local artists and craftpeople. Free parking and no entrance fee. You could easily spend hours meandering through the ailes, enjoying an ice cream or some exotic delight.
Information: 954-513-3990 or www.ygfarmersmarket.com. The Yellow Green Farmer’s Market is located at 1940 N. 30th Road, Hollywood, FL 33020. Open Saturday & Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Anne Kolb Center

This 1,501-acre nature center features a coastal mangrove wetland where a multitude of native plants and animals, including some threatened and endangered species call home. Featuring several trails, boat tour and boat/ kayak rental, this is a little known treasure that is sure to make your stay extra special.

Aquarium Behind the Scenes

If you love marine life, this is an event for you! The behind the scenes at the aquarium will teach you interesting facts about the inhabitants of the aquarium. You can even observe them feeding. This is a great event for all ages. The exhibit hall admission is $1 per person.  Occurs every week on Sunday and Saturday from 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. The Anne Kolb Nature Center is located at 1200 Sheridan St. / 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, FL 33019. For more information, call 954-357-5161 or visit WestLakePark@Broward.org

Hollywood Trolley

The Hollywood Trolley offers an easy way to travel within Hollywood Beach and Historic Downtown. With more than a dozen stops, departing every 30 minutes, you can count on the trolley to take you to the most popular destinations within or near Hollywood. The trolley runs Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The ride is $1 per ride/per person and children age 5 and under ride FREE. For more information, call 954-921-3551 or visit trolley@hollywoodfl.org

By Nuria Almeida

Photo by Lina Gonzalez

Vizcaya Castle in Miami, FL

If you are lucky enough to find time to vacation with the love of your life, there are few better options than South Florida. The sweet ocean breezes, sun-kissed skin, and warm sand under the feet of any couple can rekindle the romance which strays during the day to day of ‘real’ life. There is no reason, though, that romance has to cost much. You can stroll hand in hand on the balmy beaches of South Florida, or spark the sought after passion by enjoying all or some of the below activities:

MIAMI

Cultural Fridays (Viernes Culturales)

Little Havana’s Calle Ocho morphs into an enchanting open-air gallery featuring artists, sculptors, and musicians. They take over the sidewalks with their creations and music. Every last Friday of the month from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., this free event also offers walking tours of Little Havana. For more information, please visit www.miamiandbeaches.com/visitors/little_havana.asp

Jazid

One of the longest standing locales in Miami Beach, this nightclub offers live music nightly, including cumbia, reggae, rock, and more. It’s free to enter before 11 p.m. Located at 1342 Washington Avenue Miami Beach, FL. For more information, call 305-673-9372 or visit www.jazid.net

Gables Art Walk

Along the Ponce de Leon Boulevard in Coral Gables, you can take in breathtaking art during Gallery Night. On the first Friday of every month, the majority of galleries keep their doors open from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. providing free art advice, transportation between galleries, and wine and cheese. For more information, visit www.coralgables.com/CGWeb/fineart.aspx

Biltmore Hotel

This majestic historic hotel located in Coral Gables offers free tours of its grounds on Sunday afternoons at 1:30, 2:20, and 3:30 p.m. Hold your lover’s hand as storytellers weave the magical tales of the hotel’s early years when it’s guests included celebrated old Hollywood actors such as Judy Garland and Ginger Rogers among others. Located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue – Coral Gables, FL 33134. For more information call 305-445-1926 or visit www.biltmorehotel.com.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The 50-acre Vizcaya estate opens its door for guests to enjoy performing arts, lectures, demonstrations, and tours of this historic landmark for free on the last Sunday of July, August, and September. Located at 3251 South Miami Avenue, Miami, Florida 33129. For more information, call 305-250-9133 or visit www.vizcayamuseum.org.

FORT LAUDERDALE/ HOLLYWOOD

Music and Dancing on the Boardwalk

Dance and enjoy a variety of music and performances on the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk after a day of sunshine. Every night, except Sunday, follows a theme:

Mondays: “Theatre Under the Stars”
Tuesdays: “Dancing Under the Moonlight”
Wednesdays: “On the Broadwalk”
Fridays: “Broadwalk Friday Fest”
Saturdays: “Beach Theatre Bandstand”

Takes place every week from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more information, call 954-921-3404

Art Walk

If you like art, visit the art galleries presenting artwork from all over the world during ArtWalk. If you get lucky, you may even see artists in action, creating their masterpieces before your very eyes. Takes place every 3rd Saturday of the month in Historic Downtown Hollywood from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. For information, please call 954-924-2980.

By Nuria Almeida

Photo by mattk1979

I became interested in living a greener lifestyle because I realized how much there is for us to save. There’s so much for us to experience – and we can safeguard our experiences by going green and making sure that, with a little bit of care, we can preserve natural resources for generations to come.

A Sense of Responsibility

Maybe we’ve started to realize that we don’t need to drive the car everywhere. Maybe we’re inspired by those we love – we look at our children and want to leave them the best possible world. Why green travel? Travel keeps us mentally healthy and forces us to take on the great, big world and have adventures, but green travel makes sure that we’re globetrotting (or state-trotting) in a responsible manner.

Awareness

Imagine if everyone was aware of the resources they used, not just on the road but every day. Imagine if we cleaned up after ourselves in every way possible. If we took care of our own little paths, imagine what we could accomplish. If every single person on the planet began to think critically about what they need and what they put into their bodies, we could live lifestyles that would slowly contribute to our own health and the health of the planet.

Personal Health

Responsible travel decisions can lead the way to responsible, healthy decisions. There’s a lot to be said for educating yourself about labels or the importance of organic food. Whether you’re learning what to avoid or learning what to use, awareness is half the battle. We only have one earth and we only have one body. Let’s take care of both.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo by burlington_rc

I’m a die-hard train lover. There’s something about boarding a train that gets me daydreaming about glamorous, black-and-white 1940s films. Some of the best vacations I’ve had have begun with a five-hour train trip to a nearby town (as opposed to the three hour, highway/high-stress/high-mileage version). There are several advantages to choosing to take the train and not the car.

Reduce the Footprint

Train travel is one of the greenest ways to get around. Basically, you’ve got several hundred people all reducing their carbon footprint because they are traveling together. Train travel also means less stress. You’re not going to worry about gas prices, highway confusion, or road rage. Ahhhh, bliss! Of course, if you’ve got kids, you may want to pack a considerable bag of stuff for them to do. The downside? Train travel can be slower than air or car travel, so double check delays before you book.

Inexpensive

A train ticket runs between $50- $100 on average, while airplane prices are much higher and gas prices can add up. If you’re on train ride that is a day or less, consider packing some organic snacks, sandwiches, or fruit – and don’t forget that reusable water bottle. Between the inexpensive ticket prices and the chance to bring your own food, train travel is an eco-friendly steal.

Awareness

Most trains have a recycle bin onboard, so remember to recycle your wrappers, cans, and extra paper. Also, be sure to only print out only the maps or paperwork that you need for your trip.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo by Risager

Now that you have some green cleaning car tips, it’s also important to know how to give your car eco-friendly love. There’s plenty we can do to conserve resources while still having a great family road trip.

Don’t Let the Car Sit

It’s typical of any family vacation. One of the kids forgets something and runs back to the house to get it. Maybe your son forgot a favorite magazine or your husband forgot his eco-friendly phone charger. They jump out of the car to go get it – and the car is still running. In order to reduce the amount of carbon emissions caused by this, turn off the car when someone goes on a pre-vacation dash back into the house.

Pile ‘em In

While cars overstuffed with relatives is truly the stuff of hilarious vacation stories, there’s an up side to cramming yourself into a car with Great-Aunt Edna and Cousin Charley – you’ll use less carbon emissions and the decision to carpool is kinder on the environment.

Clean it Out

Believe it or not, all that accumulated car trash from the week can add weight to your car, making it use more fuel and release more carbon emissions into the air. Want to save some gas? Toss the car trash. Keep a bag for compost (food scraps) in the car so that your fruit and veggie peels can be used to help a garden grow. Also consider keeping a bag just for recycling and empty it into a recycle bin.

Check the Tires

Car experts advise that you check your tire pressure once a week to make sure that tires are inflated properly. The more deflated your tires are, the more gas you’ll use. If your tires don’t have the right pressure, your car’s fuel consumption can feel the impact.

Offset the Trip

Check carbon offsetting sites like Terrapass in order to find ways to offset the cost of your car trips. The environment will thank you!

Photo by Wetwebwork

by Marissa Cohen

“I’m going to go clean the car,” my father said.

My cousins and I nodded at him and then exchanged worried glances. The family trip was just around the corner and we were all hoping to avoid a scene out of National Lampoon’s Vacation. In order to do that, dad had to clean the car before taking it on the road so that the kids wouldn’t throw random pieces of trash at each other. There was nothing green about me back then except the color of my face as I watched dad uproot part of someone’s ancient candy bar from the back seat. Still, in order to keep your car green and clean when preparing for a big vacation, follow these eco-friendly car-cleaning tips.

Careful with Cleanser

In order to avoid volatile organic compounds, avoid cleaning your windows with smelly, toxic, headache-causing cleansers and stick to natural cleansers, such as mixtures of vinegar and water. No more headaches and you’ll be able to see through squeaky-clean windows.

The Right Kind of Cleanser

Dr. Bronners’ Sal Suds  is fantastic for washing cars – and it’s also a great, all-purpose cleanser made from a plant base. Even better? Sal Suds is cruelty-free and biodegradable.  Friends of mine who live on the beach swear by Dr. Bronners’ Sal Suds because they can make a spray to clean the car’s insides as well. You can use this cleanser for dish washing and house cleaning as well.

Wipe Windows With Newspaper

Use old newspapers or junk mail to wipe down windows. Why? Newsprint doesn’t leave streaks and you won’t waste countless paper towels cleaning the glass.

Change the Filter

To avoid dust mites and potential mold spores, change out the air filter in your car. You’ll be able to do this in most cars manufactured in the last ten years.

Lose the Pinecone-Scented Air Freshener

At some point, we’ve all had one of those air fresheners that dangled from the rear-view mirror. A friend of mine once had a Yoda air freshener that smelled of mint. As Yoda himself might say “Get an air freshener and breathe in toxic chemicals, you will.” Avoid air fresheners, especially on long car trips, or if you’re really feeling creative, make your own. Now that’s wisdom.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo by J Wynia

September is almost here, which means it’s almost time for Womenfest (September 6-11), one of the hottest events for lesbian and bisexual women in South Florida for the last twenty years.

Go Green

The lesbian-owned and operated Venus Charters offers daily eco-friendly dolphin-watching trips, snorkeling, fishing and much more, including at-sea unions. Established in 1997 by Captain Karen Lukins (and joined by Captain Debra Butler) Venus Charters is also a pet-friendly service.

 Go Watch

On Thursday, September 8^th, at Tropic Cinema, check out the premier of Jan’s Coming Out , a feature film about one woman’s coming out journey, featuring interviews from Meredith Baxter, Cathy DeBuono, Dana Goldberg, Vickie Shaw, Julie Goldman, and musician Jennifer Coroday. On Friday, September 9^th at 7:30 pm, check out Curiously Strong Comedy with comedians Julie Goldman, Gloria Bigelow, and Jackie Monahan for an evening of hilarious standup. Goldman starred on LOGO’s “The Big Gay Sketch Show.”

Go Play

Womenfest offers a whole host of activities, including a golf tournament, pool parties, face (and body) painting. There’s also the Sunset Watersports Tea Dance and Dinner Cruise featuring music by Sister Funk on Friday the 9^th, and huge variety of music all fest long, including dance parties, a trolley tour and more.

by Marissa Cohen

Womenfest Website – Key West 2011

Many airlines actively recycle, but the U.K. airline giant Thompson has plans to fuel a flight with 50% cooking oil. Even though the test flight was grounded on July 27th with plans to re-test soon, the face of travel is rapidly changing. How can we keep up with these changes and conserve resources when we fly?

Eco-Calculations

Already greening your trip by packing light and thinking carefully about where you are going? Try plugging your flight info (including number of passengers and destination) info into this eco-calculator so you can see firsthand what your carbon footprint is for each action. Calculate everything from hotel stays to events as well. The calculator – and similar calculators – also tell you the amount of money that will offset the carbon footprint – which you can donate to a charity of your choice.

Offset Your Trip

Several airlines and hotels offer an option to offset your carbon footprint. How does this work? The hotel or airline charges a small fee to offset the amount of carbon dioxide being released in to the air because of your carbon footprint. The money is then usually donated to charities or environmentalists who work on carbon reduction. Sites like Terrapass offer many options for offsetting your trip, including the purchase of small “offset” packages, resources to learn your carbon footprint, and more. You can even get a luggage tag for your trip.

Video Chat?

Do you really need to fly to another state when video conferencing can help you cut back on trips? Skype is a free, downloadable program that allows you to chat face to face with loved ones (and also offers free phone chats as well). Many Smartphones also carry a Skype or video chat option. While that’s certainly no substitute for hugging your family and friends, it may help to tide you over between major vacations.

By Marissa Cohen