1. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Rio De Janeiro was at the top of my Bucket list once the Christ the Redeemer Statue was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. It’s a symbol of Christianity across the world as it faces the Atlantic Ocean to welcome all tourists to the city; sits at the highest mountain peak and Rio; and can be seen from any location in Rio. It’s truly a beautiful sight to see.
How to get there?
There are red-eye direct flights from Miami (MIA) to Rio De Janeiro (GIG) with American Airlines. The commute is an easy 8 hours and gives you a full first day in Rio to explore the city.
Where to stay?
Hilton Copacabana is in a prime location to the Beach and central to Sugarloaf Mountain. Any location in Copacabana is considered safe and the view of the beach is absolutely breathtaking.
Must Do’s?
Do not leave without visiting Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Escadaria Selaron and get a tour of the Favela’s. I never leave a destination without immersing myself within the local culture and customs. We were fortunate enough to secure a tour with the absolute BEST guide, Obi, from @favelabrothers_tour to check every item off of our list in a single day AND a full day boat trip around the beaches of Rio.
Greedy Tips?
No one comes to Rio without indulging in the Steakhouses. One of my favorite steakhouse was Marius Degustare.
In addition to freshly grilled steak, this restaurant offers a wide variety of seafood, sushi and desserts. We left STUFFED and satisfied. If you eat red meat, PLEASE eat the sausage. That’s the dish I will miss the most.
How to get around?
Getting around Rio is fairly easy. There are taxis and Uber’s on every corner
2. Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is a place of relaxation and adventure. It's the best of both worlds. We visited this beautiful island for my friend's 30th Birthday Celebration and it did not disappoint.
How to get there?
Once again, there is a short 1.5 hour direct flight with American Airlines from Miami, Florida.
Where to stay?
I highly recommend renting a villa and split the cost amongst friends. Most villas come with access to the beach and includes paddleboards, kayaks, etc.
Must Do's/Greedy Tips?
The most popular seafood in Turks in Caicos is Conch. It can be eaten fried, raw, baked, or boiled, and you can find it all over the island.
My favorite experience on the island was having a private boat to take us to other islands and diving into the water, getting a conch shell, and bringing it back to the boat to eat for dinner.
I'm from Miami, so diving for conch is a big deal.
How to get around?
The most affordable option is to rent a vehicle to navigate around the island.
3. Havana, Cuba
When it was announced that Americans could visit Cuba on a Tourist Visa, my friends and I were eager to plan and get tickets booked! This was by far one of my most memorable vacations. Cuba is still stuck in the 60s and 70s due to their restricted imports.
How to get there?
There are direct flights from Miami (MIA) to Havana, Cuba. Unfortunately, new travel restrictions have been made that makes it more difficult for Americans to visit.
Where to stay?
Cuba is not quite ready for tourism. I would suggest booking an Airbnb in the Havana Central Area.
Must Do’s?
Go to the Upman Cigar Factory and enjoy a Cohiba or Montecristo cigar before leaving the island. Once you have your cigar, make your way to The Floridita. It is arguably the most famous bar in Cuba because it is the birthplace of the daiquiri and it will not disappoint.
Greedy Tips?
La Guarida is a well known upscale eatery that sits on the top floor in Habana Centro. The city view alone makes it worth a visit, but every dish on the menu will be equally satisfying. I recommend the suckling pig and the papaya lasagna.
How to Get Around?
Taxi's are my favorite part of exploring Cuba. All of the taxis are old antique vehicles that are perfect for your local culture experience.
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