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As a souvenir that will pass the test of time, you can’t beat permanent body art. Many more people are choosing to use their bodies as an art medium. Every place you visit will have different offering from old and new artists. A tattoo is something for life (unless you can afford laser removal) so you want to make sure that it is done right. There are safety precautions at the end of this article but first check out three of the best tattoo parlors South Florida has to offer.

Tattoos By Lou

Located in North Miami Beach, Tattoos By Lou is the oldest tattoo shop in Dade County. Featuring tested and proven experience, lots of varied and unique artwork, this parlor will also work with you to turn your ideas into a gorgeous and really great tat. Helpful and friendly staff complete the package.

Funhouse Tattoos

Funhouse Tattoos is located in Pompano Beach and as the name implies, clients will experience fun and truly share in the joy of the art of tattooing. An eclectic mix of artists bring creativeness to life. Featuring a great selection, this joint is a crowd favorite.

CoolCat

Ft. Lauderdale’s own premier body art parlor. CoolCat is classic and modern all in one establishment. The artist know and understand body art often carries a personal meaning for clients bringing about a deep respect and a commitment to quality. Using only the latest inks and equipment, the large and clean environment feels like professional sanctuary for fans of body art.

Safety Precautions

If you decide to get a tattoo on vacation, research all your options beforehand. Check out websites and Facebook pages. The artwork will tell you all you want to know- about quality, creativity, available art etc. Check out a few places and visit the contenders before settling on a place.

Keep in mind sometimes the best places will be the least modern. Newfangled techniques don’t mean a whole lot if the artists are not good. Speak to the artist and figure out if you have the same perspective about the art. If they are unwilling to have a conversation, they are not the place for you. Check out the artist individual portfolios.

Always ensure the very best sterile practices are in place.

Call ahead to make sure the artist you want doesn’t have a waiting list. Popular locations are sometimes unavailable.

Since sun exposure and water can be harmful to a new tat, avoid swimming in the pool, ocean or even the bathtub for 2 weeks. Since this is Florida after all, you may want to get your tat souvenir upon departure or close to it.

By Nuria Almeida

Photo By Jarek Jarosz

On Wednesday, May 16 at 8 pm, South Florida audiences have a chance to hear the raspy voice and poetic lyrics of rock star Melissa Etheridge in her Fearless Love tour. Etheridge is best known for chart-toppers such as “I Need to Wake Up,” “Come to My Window,” “I Want to Come Over,” “The Weakness in Me,” and “Angels Would Fall.” Her latest, Fearless Love, is her tenth studio album, the original title of which was Songs of Love and Fear. Fearless Love was inspired by her children and was produced by longtime friend John Shanks, who also produced Sheryl Crow and Michelle Branch.

Changes for a Rock Icon

Etheridge’s recent past has been marked by turning points. 2011 saw Etheridge, 50, receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the year before, she split from her wife of nine years, Tammy Lynn Michaels. In 2004, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and responded to her hair loss with trademark bravery, singing a cover of India Arie’s “I Am Not My Hair” while at the Grammy’s. In 2007, she performed at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, along with several other artists. Before that, she won two Grammy awards – one for 1989’s song “Ain’t It Heavy,” and one for “Come to My Window” off her groundbreaking 1993 album Yes I Am, which playfully hinted at questions then being asked about her sexual orientation. Etheridge is known for her confessional lyrics, classic-rock style, and passionate delivery. She is also a committed LGBT activist since her own public coming out in 1992 and often supports gay rights issues. In spite of her long history as an LGBT activist, she will appear at her very first Pride event in 2012. 

Green Activist

In the last several years, Etheridge has been involved in the environmental movement, most notably offering support to Al Gore and contributing the Academy-award winning song “I Need to Wake Up” to his documentary An Inconvenient Truth. Her website offers tips on green living. In 2006, she toured America and Canada using biodiesel and has a long track record of support for environmental and green issues.

If You Go

Melissa Etheridge will be at Hard Rock Live on May 16, 2012 at 8 pm. For more information, including ticket prices and availability, go here.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By rockzoom_de

Mother’s Day is on Sunday, May 13, 2012. Show mom how special she is by taking advantage of all that gorgeous South Florida has to offer. From green bookstores and oceanside picnics to natural treats and relaxing massages, there’s plenty of gift ideas to choose from.

Books and Leisure

Is mom a reader? Out of South Florida’s many used bookstores, perhaps no bookstore is more green and stylish than my beloved Second Edition Book Shop. Better yet, if mom loves popular fiction, check out the book bundles at Second Edition. The book bundles consist of gently used books that are packaged together and sold as a set. Not only are they cost-effective, but they’re also green and perfect for Mother’s Day.

Treat mom like the queen she is and give her a tour of Villa Viscaya, Miami’s breathtaking Italian villa. Built in 1916 by industrialist James Deering, this spectacular house has been featured on Martha Stewart’s website and is considered one of the most beautiful homes in the country. If you want to pamper mom, South Florida has several green and local spas, including the organic, eco-friendly (and very chic) Uhma Organic Spa.

Picnics

South Florida has many gorgeous, natural places to celebrate Mother’s Day. Enjoy the outdoors with mom by arranging a small, beachside picnic. You can sit right on the sand with her, watch the waves, and have some organic treats. Moms and families can also take a stroll along Hollywood’s famous 2.5 mile Broadwalk, just a short walk from The Desoto.

Farmer’s Market Gifts

Get mom some fresh-cut flowers or some garden supplies at Flamingo  Road Nursery and Farmer’s Market. The local farmer’s market has many earth-friendly options for Mother’s Day, including a variety of plants and flowers. The bamboo wind chimes at the Flamingo Road Nursery and Farmer’s Market are one of my favorite items. The sound adds a sense of tranquility to any indoor or outdoor setting.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By Unique Hotels Group

It’s finally time to graduate. No more teachers, no more books, and more recycled presents and green networking ideas for the South Florida grad in your life. They’ve worked hard, studied for countless tests, and paved the way for a bright future. Support their green lifestyle with these meaningful green networking ideas and gifts.

Gifts for High School Grads

This plantable journal is made from 100% recyclable paper and wildflower seeds. When your grad is done planning the future, he or she can plant the journal in the garden and watch flowers grow from their plans. Take advantage of South Florida’s many water sports and treat your grad to snorkeling lessons or a meal at South Florida’s Sublime.

Networking for High School Grads

Checking out a Broward-based Sierra Club group might be fun for just-graduated teens looking to make a difference. Young adults curious about eco-involvement at their future alma matter can search schools and types of networking/school clubs here. Florida schools are all listed here, as are national and international colleges and universities. Your high school grad can also choose from different kinds of eco-based activism and explore the kinds of clubs or groups hosted by each school.

Gifts for College Grads

Gifts for South Florida college grads can vary from a trip to the Keys to a glamour-filled day checking out what’s hot on South Beach.

Networking for College Grads

Networking for South Florida college grads is the next step in building a career they’ll be passionate about. Networking with like-minded people is a key way to create business connections. Direct them to South Florida Green Drinks. SFGD is a thriving network of young professionals who meet once a month in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, or West Palm Beach. Their mission is simple – to provide a way for green/eco-aware professionals to connect in a laid-back, informal setting. This group would be perfect for the new grad looking to make business connections. The president is internationally recognized public speaker and entrepreneur Marci Zaroff. Zaroff serves on several industry boards, such as the Organic Exchange. She is the recipient of several awards for green business, including the Natural Product Industry’s Socially Responsible Business Award. South Florida Green Drink sponsors include Whole Foods and Aubrey Organics. Click here to find a South Florida Green Drink meetup.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By Donostweets

Agricultural industrialist James Deering built this gorgeous, sprawling Miami estate in 1916. Deering spent his winters on Viscaya for the next nine years until his death in 1925. Deering’s estate was inspired by centuries old European villas and of its 34 rooms; several are decorated with antiques and furnishings from the 15th to the 19th centuries. In 1994, Viscaya became a National Historical Landmark.

James Deering’s Vision

Decorated in the style of a grand European estate, Deering’s Viscaya exists as a tribute to art and nature. Deering himself was a passionate environmentalist who made a number of architectural decisions that supported his appreciation of the environment. Deering’s decision to build Viscaya facing Biscayne Bay was only one example of his love of nature. He chose to build his winter retreat in Miami in part because of his appreciation of the native hardwood hammock. Even throughout the grand main house, Deering’s love of nature can be seen in his choice of paintings. Even the decor occasionally reflects the wonder of the South Florida landscape – and the beauty of Viscaya’s grottos and gardens didn’t escape the notice of Martha Stewart herself, in this slideshow.

Nature and Beauty

Featured in many films, Viscaya’s unique beauty makes it one of the most noted and beautiful historic homes in America. The gardens are one of the most extradionary features of Viscaya, taking up ten acres of the estate’s fifty acres. At the time of its construction, Deering hired an estimated 1/3 of Miami’s population to build the grand house and the gardens. Stepping into Viscaya’s lush Italian-inspired gardens is like stepping back in time to the 16th century: water fountains, rich foliage, and hidden caves all make this an exotic and timeless hideaway. In keeping with Deering’s vision, Viscaya is a place where the beauty of Florida’s natural landscape meets the mosaic of the past.

If You Go

To learn more about Viscaya’s programs for children and adults, call 305-250-9133 or go here.  Viscaya is open daily except for Tuesdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Hours are from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Adults are $15, students and seniors are $10, kids 6 and older are $6, kids 5 and younger are free.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By sherrivokey

South Florida natives often seem to be a little bit blase´ about all the beauty that surrounds us. Maybe we’re used to it. Some of us can’t imagine why the words “snow” and “plow” would ever need to be next to each other in a sentence, and if we’ve always called South Florida home, we can’t conceive of ever being more than forty minutes from the beach. The idea of people having to board planes to enjoy the beauty and serenity of our tropical state can be, admittedly, a little hard to grasp. But when people come from all over the world to visit South Florida’s beaches, there are many, many health and wellness benefits to be had.

Relaxation

Experts believe that listening to the sounds of the ocean can greatly decrease your stress levels. So, the next time you visit one of these beaches, take a moment to close your eyes and relax by hearing the lapping of the waves. Plus, the blue-green shades of the ocean will naturally allow you to relax, letting the stress of the day flow right into the sand.

Wellness

Ample chances for exercise surround South Florida beachgoers. Why not take a jog or walk on the sand? If you visit the famous Hollywood Boardwalk, you’ll be able to rent a bike or go roller blading along the 2.5-mile stretch of this paved promenade. (And people watching may not actually support physical wellness, but it could be considered a sport here.) Want a more spiritual side to your wellness? Consider taking a peaceful beachside yoga class and calm your mind while taking care of your body.

Beauty

If you’re a daytime beachgoer, take a moment to really notice the shifting colors of the Atlantic against the bright blue South Florida sky. However, there’s nothing more breathtaking than the fiery red and orange of a South Florida sunset to make you appreciate all that these beaches have to offer. The sunsets on Hollywood Beach or Fort Lauderdale beach (just a short ride from the Desoto) are truly awe-inspiring.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By epitomized1

If naturism is your way of life or you just want to go someplace where you can be in harmony with nature, look no further than Baker’s Haulover Beach’s communal nudist area. Visitors to Baker’s Haulover Beach can legally remove all clothing, avoid tan lines and enjoy the impeccably maintained half-mile stretch of sand in Miami named after a local fisherman, Baker, who hauled his sponge boat from Biscayne Bay through the almost unsurpassable dunes to the ocean on that very spot.

Baker’s Haulover Beach

Baker’s Haulover beach is one of a kind in the state of Florida. Thanks to a Dade County ordinance, visitors are allowed to expose their naked bodies without fear of persecution on the specially marked part of the beach. In 1991, the naturist organization, South Florida Free Beaches, worked towards making the nudist beach a reality. Naturists or nudists believe in the unashamed acceptance of the human body as natural. Though many locals opposed this and the idea of a nude beach, Baker’s Haulover Beach was an instant hit, especially with tourists.

Safety

It may be this reason that this beach, unlike others in the United States, is an official tax-supported public nude beach. This safe and clean beach boasts lifeguards, police patrols, parking, shower facilities, clean bathrooms, concessions such as beach chair and umbrella rentals, snacks among others. Unofficial beaches around the country leave visitors to the mercy of police patrols, and prey to dangerous surroundings.

Since naturists traverse all of society, Baker’s Haulover beach goers include the very young, the very old and everything in between. Locals, national and international visitors abound. Because the area is clothing optional, some visitors stay in their swimsuits. This is a good option for first timers who just want to try it out!

In July, the beach comes alive during National Nude Week. The festival features events including live music, parades and dancing.

If You Go

Baker’s Haulover beach is located within the 10800 block of Collins Avenue in North Miami Beach. Sun worshippers can stay from sunrise to sunset. The north lot is the parking lot closest to the beach, costs upwards of $6 and it is full to capacity by noon on weekends and holidays. A tunnel connects the north lot to the beach so you do not have brave the busy rte. A1A. There are other lots surrounding the area as well. Though not set in stone, many visitors say that the area north of the main lifeguard tower is mainly gay and lesbian while the south end is straight. Lewd behavior is not tolerated and gawking is considered rude. Dogs and glass containers are prohibited.

By Nuria Almeida

Photo By osseous

Since the start of March, I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect juice recipe, thanks to my new obsession with juicing. Even some of my favorite farmer’s markets were getting a little bit pricy, so when a friend of mine tipped me off about Stiles Farmer’s Market in Pembroke Pines (209 North Hiatus Road) I went over to check it out.

I was delighted. As a Floridian, I’ve started to despair that truly fresh produce will always cost an arm and a leg. Whether I’m going to standard grocery stores or organic health food stores, even most farmers markets seem to cause me to dig a little deeper into my wallet then I’m comfortable. However, Stiles is amazing. It’s tucked away in the Home Depot shopping center on Hiatus just before Pines (if you’re coming from the North), and only a short drive from the Desoto.

Locally Grown

While there were several organic and locally grown veggies and fruits, the majority of their stock seemed to be locally grown, as opposed to organic and locally grown, even though there were a few organic veggies and fruits here and there. Even for those who eat strictly organic produce, Stiles is worth a drive.

Produce and Prices

My personal indicator of whether or not I’ll like a farmer’s market is the price of ginger. In traditional grocery stores, I’ve seen ginger as high as $4 a pound. At Stiles, you can load up a plastic bag with ginger and one pound is only $1. Plus, there were rosemary stalks as big as my forearm. Not to draw a tight comparison, but in traditional grocery stores, herbs may be a low price but they are rarely if ever this large or this fresh.

A Lot For a Little

The veggie glee continued. I purchased huge cucumbers as large as my forearm for a fraction of the cost elsewhere, about three for a dollar.By the time I finally left Stiles, I had a mountain of produce for a mere $25. If I’d gone to a high end organic store, I probably would have spent twice that on vegetables.

Homemade Bread

Plus, on the weekends, Stiles sells homemade bread. There are several different kinds of loaves, from olive to wheat, all at a very reasonable price. Bring cash if you plan on taking the bread home with you.

If You Go

This place is a gem if you’re looking for farmer’s markets with a wide range of produce at reasonable prices. Find them at 209 North Hiatus Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33026 or call 954-437-4852.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By Strikkelise

Treat your body, mind and soul to a fun and relaxing ride on top of one of the world’s most noble creatures. Though most visitors spend their Florida vacation sunning, swimming and sailing, horse trail riding can provide the escape you had in mind when you decided to go on vacation. On your horseback journey, you can allow your mind to wander while your eyes explore the awe inspiring nature, your lungs take in the fresh air and your spirit finds peace in letting go, if just for a little while. You need not be an expert rider, as most ranches will provide a guide, whose lead and instructions make it an easy going experience. Your physical body will thank you, for though riding may appear passive, you will utilize balance, muscle strength and deep respiration while riding. It can truly be a zen and holistic experience.

Most horseback riding activities are a slow amble through trails, however for more experienced riders, heart-thumping, wind on your face, thundering hooves beneath you options are available- just ask your guide! Check out these two horse back riding venues, known for their great customer care and wonderful, respectful treatment of their horses:

Tree Tops

The lush and very green Tree Tops park in Davie is home to very old and tall live oaks filled with ferns and air plants. Featuring a great lookout tower for birdwatching, picnic areas, a myriad of natural walking trails, 1,000 foot boardwalk beside a freshwater marsh, 23 acres of waterways, playgrounds, bike paths, a marina for fishing and canoe and paddle boat rental, and historical areas where the Tequesta Indians inhabited, this park spans more than 350 acres. However, the most memorable pastime by far at this beautiful park is the equestrian activities. Developed in cooperation with the South Florida Trail Riders Association, a gorgeous network of scenic trails are devoted entirely to horseback riding and go on for more than seven miles.

Visitors may use horses provided by the private company on site, AA-D Horse Adventures. Trail rides are guided and pony rides are also available. The outfit operates on Saturdays, Sundays, and some holidays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guided trail rides are $35 for one hour or $25 for a half-hour. Pony rides are $1.50 for one turn or $5 for four times around. If you would like a weekday ride, contact AA-D for an appointment and you will be sure to have the place almost to yourself.

Bar-B-Ranch

Known as the largest, most experienced riding stable in South Florida, Bar-B-Ranch premier ranch offers various activities, including horseback riding lessons in both Western and English styles and its very popular scenic guided trail rides. They boast horses for every level of riding experience, so the whole family is covered. Guided trail rides take place on the breathtaking Robbins Open Space Preserve, which is public land and a true representation of old Florida. Only ten minutes away and surrounding the ranch, this 160 acre preserve affords visitors the rare visit into what is the last remaining oak hammocks in this part of the state. The guided trail rides are $50 for one half hour. Longer tours are available. The ranch operates between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Keep in mind all riders must wear closed-toe shoes, long pants are recommended, and a cowboy hat completes the look, if you packed one.

By Nuria Almeida

Photo By incanus

The 42nd Annual Earth Day is almost here! Get ready for some fun family celebrations during the weekend of April 21. Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day in 1970 at a time of extreme over-consumption. What began 42 years ago as a grassroots celebration has now become an internationally recognized day to honor the environment. Earth Day has become instrumental in many laws, including the passage of the Clean Air Act.

Celebrate sustainability and nature with two local festivals. They’re both on the same day, and both promise to be a blast. Why not be a green party animal and go to both festivals?

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park : Make Earth Day Every Day!

The first Earth Day festival is at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park on Saturday, April 21 from 10 am to 5pm. Be sure to bring little ones for this celebration. They’ll be activities offered for kids by organizations such as the Girl Scouts of America, Trash to Treasure, Camp Live Oak, the fantastic Kids’ Ecology Corps, and Lori’s Beakers and Bugs Company. For adults, they’ll be chances to volunteer (including a sea turtle rescue), ecology-focused workshops, organic and vegan food, and live music. Activities will also include free giveaways and live entertainment, including a drum circle.

Marando Farms: Earth Day Celebration

Come out to Fort Lauderdale’s Marando Farms on Saturday, April 21 from 10am to 2 pm. Kids can enjoy face painting and a bounce house. Adults will enjoy the many varieties of organic food available. There will also be live music and a guest speaker from GMO Free Florida, Trish Sheldon.

If You Go

The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Make Earth Day Every Day celebration is located at 3109 East Sunrise Blvd in Fort Lauderdale. Go here for more information.

The Earth Day Celebration at Marando Farms is located at 1401 Southwest 1st Ave in Fort Lauderdale. Call Marando Farms at 954-294-2331 or go here.

By Marissa Cohen

Photo By dougww