Miami is heating up as the new year’s top travel destination

Miami, the new home to Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, should be your next top travel destination. Here are nine reasons why this Florida destination is hot.

Miami has always been a favorite travel designation for all types of travelers. From the miles of sandy beaches to the all-night parties, this South Florida destination is popular with celebrities, celebrity-watchers and even regular people. Whether you travel in the middle of winter or the height of summer, this hot destination will deliver on big travel memories.

Before the big Kardashian/West condo purchase, Lonely Planet ranked Miami as one of its 10 best cities to visit in 2019. While this publication referenced beaches, culture and nightlife, those three topics aren’t the only reasons to book a trip this year.

If you are looking to plan a trip to Miami, here are nine reasons that make this Florida destination a must visit for 2019.

Weather

Florida is the Sunshine State, and the southern city is basking in glorious sunshine. Some people say that there are more than 3,200 hours of sunshine a year. Pair that sun with a warm, beach breeze and the weather is almost always perfect. From taking a stroll down Ocean Drive to relaxing on the beach, the weather is usually the perfect backdrop.

The main entrance to South Beach on interstate 195 has an Art Deco welcoming sign that is illuminated by colorful lights during the night October 1, 2000 Miami Florida. (Photo by Robert King/Newsmakers)

Arts

While Art Basel brings the elite art community and celebrities, the vibrant art scene is always exciting. From local art galleries to the stunning Art Deco buildings in South Beach, the city is a great place to explore the arts. Since many of the art galleries are more laid back, it is a great way to explore experimental artists and art. While you might not be able to afford some of the artwork on display, you can gain a little more appreciation for the finer things in life.

Be active

Being active on vacation is a huge travel trend. While some people might prefer to relax on the beach, water sports are a huge draw in Southern Florida. From windsurfing to kayaking, there are so many watersports activities in the area. Plus, that extra exercising can make you feel less guilty about another cocktail.

Wildlife

From the Everglades to Jungle Island, the animals are wild in Southern Florida. Some companies offer tours or experiences of the local wildlife. Whether it is the American crocodile in the Everglades or the Monkey Jungle in Jungle Island, the wildlife might have you thinking twice about using that plastic straw in your drink.

MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 08: A view of the venue during the American Express Platinum House At The 1 Hotel South Beach at 1 Hotel South Beach on December 6, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for American Express)

Nightlife

If you caught up with your favorite celebrity’s New Year’s Eve celebration, you might have noticed that many people were celebrating in one of Miami’s hottest nightclubs. While the winter escape might have been part of the appeal, the nightlife in this area is always bustling. With both laid back and fancy options, there is a party that fits everyone’s mood.

Foodie delights

For many people, food is an integral part of any travel planning. In South Florida, the food scene is amazing. Whether you travel specifically for South Beach Wine and Food Festival or explore local restaurants, something new will definitely tempt your palate.

Cuban culture

While traveling to Cuba might not be in the cards for everyone, a trip to Little Havana is definitely a cultural experience. From a perfectly brewed cup of Cuban coffee to sightseeing down Calle Ocho, there is so much to explore in this area.

MIAMI, FL – DECEMBER 05: A view of work by artist Tavar Zawacki at Wynwood Walls Presents: humanKIND 2017 at Wynwood Walls on December 5, 2017 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Goldman Properties)

Perfect Instagram picture

While many people obsess about the Instagrammable Walt Disney World walls, Miami has the most amazing wall art display. The Wynwood Walls are the city’s only outdoor street art park. This public art display changes every year during Art Basel. With over 40 creations, these backdrops could be your next best pic.

The Florida Keys

A couple of hours south are the Florida Keys. While it takes a good day to visit Key West, the Florida Keys are a fun day trip. Whether you want to dive to the Christ Statue off of Key Largo or hit the southernmost point in the U.S. in Key West, the Keys offer a very different perspective from the cosmopolitan Miami-area.

Do you agree that Miami is heating up as a top travel destination this year? What places are on your must-visit list for 2019?