LA FERIA DE CORDOBA - SPAIN

If you are planing a vacation to Spain around the end of May, I highly recommend you to come to Cordoba. Usually celebrated at the End on May , La Feria de Cordoba happens in commemoration of the "wellness virgin" (Virgen de la salud). The Arenal holds an incredible amount of flamenco dancers, gypsies , horse riders and the like. A true display of Cordoba ancient culture and folklore. If you are passing through the south of Spain around this time of the year - this is a MUST! This event will change your life for ever, nowhere else you will have the  opportunity to "taste" true local flavor like in la Feria de Cordoba. Ole Ole....

La Feria de Cordoba offers open door metaphorically and literally speaking. Entrance is free and locals will welcome you with open arms. With most events being open to the public, it's worth finding out the schedule for the different artists and concerts ahead of time. La Feria expands in several streets, where you can take hours to explore. Most attendees really take it at heart, dressing up in colorful costumes. It almost felt like stepping into a movie! And trust me, by the end of the day you will confirm this is more like a dream.

This magical event gets divided in 2 sections:

Calle del infierno - where you can find typical fair attractions and rides such as the carousel, Ferris wheel, the swing, and much more. All of course with a little Andalusian twist. "Los Chacharrillos", as known by the locals, are  Perfect for adrenaline aficionados or families with kids. Just walking by this section will transport you to the golden years of your youth. 

Las Casetas - Although a different section, still within the complex of El Arenal. Las Casetas offer a variety of local "tablaos" where you can eat, drink and of course DANCE. Feel free to enjoy all the best dishes in Andalusian cuisine. The music and flamenco guarantee you will burn it all! Including of course the vino that will make the beats just flow better through your hips. Going from one caseta to the next, dancing with strangers, trying endless delicious wine  may get you a few new friends. But don't worry, people here make you feel at home. This may just be the perfect environment to finally become fluent in Spanish.

Moving on to the outfits - Are you in love with these dresses or what? this was the first time I got to see live the authentic Flamenco dresses you are supposed to wear to a tablao - colloquial term for tablado or floorboard where flamenco shows are performed. The extravagant dresses for the most part are hand made. Full of ruffles and colors (or polka dots). La feria de Cordoba thought me that there are 2 types of flamenco dresses - the tight ones (body hugging) for the tablao attendees and the loose ones for the dancers. Honestly, I'll take either. These dresses are just so adorable. A magical embodiment of the Andalusian (culture) folklore. Want more? Take a look at the shawls (mantilla) above the shoulders. And the flowers decorating the hair bun to complete the look. Simply one of the most exquisite fashion designs I've ever seen. I want to buy them all in every color please!

Very rarely I'm the under dressed one for the occasion 

Overall one day is just not enough. Ideally you take a second day to repeat your favorite parts or to finish the ones you didn't get to see. And if there is any energy left after all the Flamenco dancing, I highly recommend you to take the time to explore Cordoba! This beautiful city was an important Roman city and a major Islamic center in the middle ages. La Mezquita is one of the most important monuments here. A tribute to a part of history in the South of Spain. Where Muslim and Catholic styles/religions harmoniously melted to create this breathtaking master piece.

Did you know that Cordoba has the second largest Old town in Europe? And the largest urban area in the World declared World Heritage by UNESCO? Exploring these streets will make you understand why it became the capital of the Islamic Emirate and a powerful center for culture and education. Cordoba also has a Jewish quarter, Roman architecture & Fernandine Churches. All these different components come together to make it one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. But don't leave without first taking a stroll through the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. This was also one of my favorite parts of the trip. A structure that served many different purposes throughout the years, today is the perfect place to take a magical walk. It's elegant gardens, water fountains and exotic flowers will transport you to a real life fairy-tale. A fairy-tale where  I can dance Flamenco & drink my "tinto de verano", EVERYDAY! Vale?

Best Gyms in Miami

Miami's Best Gyms!

I'm no fitness guru but I sure live in the Fitness "Mecca" of the world. One driving factor for this - simple - we have 365 days of summer. Not too long ago I used to procrastinate going to the gym. Found it so boring to run on a treadmill or stay throughout a weight class. But that's all changed now. With so many creative classes and fitness activities, the magic city has pushed me to be a fitness fanatic. Miami has the best gyms anybody can ask for. Dynamic workouts, exclusive clubs, state of the art wellness facilities and heavenly bodies will motivate you to break a sweat and stay in shape.

After much personal research, I've gathered the  most popular gyms in the Magic City. From the big brands to the local favorites, even someone just starting out can find the right routine to make the booty pop. Not a fitness Diva? No problem. We also have outstanding yoga and Pilates studios, dance facilities, warehouses, outdoor social activities and much more.

Anatomy 1220

They offer proprietary fitness programming, influenced by advanced research in strength conditioning and regeneration, designed for members to excel in all aspects of their lives. By partnering with leaders in age management, chiropractic care, IV nutritional therapy and beauty, we’ve created an intimate and integrated health and wellness community, where members can sweat, enhance and recover together, all under one roof.

In other words, for a pretty penny, you can get your sweat on, network, rub shoulders with celebrities, get your zen and recover from a hangover here. Love the innovation behind this brand and design for their business model. Definitely a gym to keep in mind if you are looking for an enhanced fitness experience.

Can I just say I love their mantra too? Life is a gift, one that should not be taken for granted. Fitness is a call to take your life to a higher level. Set a goal. Follow a plan. Track results. Stay motivated. Motivate others. Repeat. To move mountains first you have to move a muscle. Change your body, change your life. REPEAT!! 

Anatomy 1220 is located in the hip neighborhood of Sunset Harbor in Miami Beach. Contact them today for a trial membership 786.213.1220.

Orange Theory

An original South Florida creation has quickly become a cult, opening locations Throughout the try-county area at a rapid speed. 

Orangetheory Fitness is a privately owned fitness franchise based in Boca Raton, Florida. It offers group personal training workouts based on high intensity interval training that blend cardiovascular and strength training. Keep burning! They offer the hottest one-hour group personal training workout that burns calories for the following 36 hours. Just incredible! 

Why so unique? Heart rate base interval training is backed by the science of Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (or EPOC), Orage Theory's heart rate monitored training is designed to mantain a target zone taht stimulates metabolism and increses energy. They call it the after burn. Our members burn an estimated 500 to 1000 calories in 60 minutes. And keep burning calories for up to 36 hours. If wiehg loss is your goal, you can expect to see an estimated loss of 3 to 5 pounds per week by attending 3 to 5 times per week. SIGN ME UP!!! Of course all these followed by proper nutrition (the strugle is real here).  Did I also mention their studios are very motivating? Love their upbeat music and friendly trainers. Hands down one of the best hour workouts out there.

FitBox Method

"Fitbox Method is a hospitality inspired group fitness studio and the original creator of the cardio boxing and resistance training boot camp experience". - Owner Avidan Edelsberg.

They also claim their "method" is backed by science and will keep you burning calories after 38 hours of the workout. Best of all, Fitbox Method makes working out fun. Your workout will become a LIFESTYLE. With a lifestyle workout, you become more committed because you will NEVER plateau. Another Miami local making a big splash in the fitness world. Go FitBox!

Fun, effective and motivating, FitBox Method wants to be the most effective lifestyle workout available. In one hour routine you will lose fat and built muscle. I must admit, my first time trying it left me breathless (but in a good way). Felt my heart beat jumping from zero to 100 in no time. Loved the discipline it inspired me by their top trainer. Definitely a memorable workout. 

Their studio is clean, modern, and fully equipped with Method-proven workout elements that will earn you the body you crave. Any of our 60-minute classes take you through a workout circuit composed of heavy boxing bags, dumbbells, medicine balls, and Schwinn Airdyn AD Pro Fan Bikes.

Take out your aggression in the most satisfying — and safe — manner there is: cardio boxing. Find your inner strength and feel the adrenaline as you push your body to new limits. Most classes incorporate 30 minutes of heavy bag training and cardio boxing routines, allowing you to get the fitness benefits of boxing without the “getting hit” aspect of the sport. While other Miami gyms offer circuit training, ours is the only one to specialize in cardio boxing mixed in with bootcamp-style resistance training or HIIT (high intensity interval training).

Soul Cycle

Do you ever itch to go into a club and just dance the night away? Well, this is the right workout for you then. Soul Cycle is literally like dancing on a bike. Their sound system, music selection and trainers are top of the line and they will make you feel like the best night out. 

Soul Cycle's will give you 45 minutes to take your journey. Change your body. Find your SOUL.This indoor cycling studio has taken the fitness world by storm and allows you to meet people with your same "vibe". Most of their studios are located in trendy areas with incredible shops, coffee places and healthy restaurants. This is really a cult! Love stepping into a studio and seeing soul searchers from all ages just spinning to one beat. They believe in the transformation of your body and soul at the same time. No matter what level you are in, this full body workout guarantees the best results. Keep your pace, push yourself and have fun.

Their innovating bikes combined with the most inspiring instructors will bring the party from within. The rocking music helps too! I get better tracks while riding their bikes than at a club or bar. One of a kind experience taking over the world. Find your soul, clear your head, feel empower, and much more.

Equinox 

This seasoned brand has been around for quite some time. With multiple locations around Miami, it's impossible not to step into their gyms (conveniently located in major shopping malls).

Their mantra - Unrivaled fitness classes. Unparalleled personal training. Studios that inspire you to perform and luxury amenities that keep you at your peak. It’s not fitness. It’s life. And this last one is never more evident then when I get to choose classes depending on my schedule. Say, in the morning I may catch the yoga class in Coral Gables, while taking a power lunch break would happen mainly in Brickell. Weekend shenanigans? I would catch their dance classes in their south beach location. Seriously, so many options to chose from. No excuse to stay home.

Equinox wants you to optimize your workout routine by a curated experience. Their heavy online marketing and community events will keep their name on your face. It's also quite convenient  to use their facilities while traveling. For instance, with prior request you may be able to use one of their gyms in New York while being a member in Miami. Just an FYI. I have personally even tried their gym in London! Just one of the many benefits of such a huge brand.

What else do I love about them? Their complete package. I can workout, shower (using their products) get a facial, eat lunch and shop the latest fashion all under one roof. This could translate into an easy day of fitness or a quick in and out situation. Again, so much to do, all under one facility. Did I mention sometimes I sty for multiple classes? Even when taking breaks in between, their strategic location always allows for some retail therapy. Their close proximity to major shops makes it a tempting alternative. Hands down, a full package deal.

No matter what workout you choose, the key to success is to have fun! Miami offers some of the best gyms in the world but with so many options it's important you pick the one the better fits your life style. Also location plays a big part. As we know, the easier it is to get to the gym, the more likely you will get to your fitness session. Most facilities will let you try one or several classes for free. I personally like to break the routine and try something new on a weekly basis (hence my favorite gyms are 5 different options I visit on a regular basis). Don't plateau, try options that work for you and get in shape!

BASEL OUT - MIAMI ART WEEK

The most exciting week of the year is almost here! 

For many, Art Basel is the BEST event in Miami. Since 1970, Art Basel has connected the world's premier galleries and their patrons and serves as a meeting point for the international art world. During this time, the vibe of the city changes. Art takes over the streets, parks, restaurants, and you can literally get inspiration from every corner in the city.

Get it right! BAH-SEL

Art Basel takes it's name from it's place of origin in Basel, Switzerland. Here, in our beautiful Magic City, we Miamians understand the importance of showing a good time to all of the international guests coming to town to see and be seen. Art Basel gives local businesses the opportunity to showcase their merchandise and up and coming artists can become mainstream sellers literally overnight if they make the right moves during Basel.

Graffiti artist working on the streets during Art Basel 

As a seasoned Art Basel attendee, I came up with my own list to better navigate the city during this fabulous week. Each area of Miami has it's charm, fair share of parties, and installations; from the VIP entrance at the Convention Center, to the opening night in Art Miami and the not-to-be-missed Wynwood, Design District and Miami Beach. Where should you begin? Which areas should you focus on? There is so much to do that it is easy to get lost in the beautiful bustle. 

Tips on how to navigate the city during ART BASEL

For a better system, it is important to divide your time between the actual art of Art Basel, the after parties, and the private events. The key here is to find the exquisite, unique events which are open to the public. These events can truly take your breath away and are a refreshing contrast to the endless dime a dozen parties. Grab your flats and BASEL ON!!!!

SUNDAY 27th

Why wait until the official opening if you can have the best pre-party in place? Start early with the most exciting event of the season - Faena Forum - Grand Opening will take place this Sunday from 3pm - 6pm. Enjoy the vision of Alan Faena - a district where culture takes center stage. A neighborhood that would serve as platform for art, music and dance. A growing movement in Miami Beach and from Miami Beach to the world. Don't miss it!

The Grand Opening of Faena Forum is open to the public

This Sunday kick off party is the beginning of many events planned by the Urban Alchemists. The Argentinian developer promised a week of magic, filled with live art installations, music, culture and a fair share of celebrities. The main event at Faena takes place Thursday December 1st for the Malawi foundation charity dinner with MADONA. Tickets starting at $5K (tax deductible).

MONDAY 28th

Besides the private receptions and silent options throughout the city, I have my eyes on Audemars Piguet preview of the Chinese artist SunXun large scale multimedia installation "Reconstruction of the universe", Created for the second Audemars Piguet Art Commission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC from 9pm - 11pm Oceanfront (between 21st & 22nd street).

Sun Xun is considered China's most talented new artist 

Sun Xun's artistic practice combines meticulous craftsmanship with stylistic experimentation not limited to any one medium. Blurring the lines between drawing, painting, animation, and installation, his work incorporates a wide array of materials. Painting, woodcuts, traditional Chinese ink and charcoal drawings are often combined to create the foundation of impressionistic. stop-motion animated films. 

Monday should also be a day to enjoy what's happening in the city before all the chaos of the main events hit the streets. This should be a relaxing, easy going day to really take it all in. Before all the traffic, endless lines and visitors take over the Magic City, you should plan to spend Monday soaking in everything Art Week has to offer.

TUESDAY 29th

So many VIP preview and kick off parties happening this day! In my opinion, plan to stay all evening in Design district. The VIP preview of Art Miami opens at 5:30pm. There are several tents included in the VIP pass. You can easily take a few hours to navigate all the best spots.

Art Miami Fairs in Design District 

If you still have some energy left and don't want to go home early - Miami Art Week Opening Night After-Party. With Psychic TV. 10 p.m. Tuesday, November 29, at ICA Miami, 4040 NE Second Ave., Miami. ICA Miami members, select art fair VIP cardholders, and invited guests only.

Wynwood never disappoints 

Or if you are looking for a more casual vibe this day, head to Wynwood for an amazing block party!

Rum & Bass Block Party. With Walshy Fire and friends. 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 29, at Coyo Taco, 2300 NW Second Ave., Miami; 305-573-8228; coyo-taco.com. Tickets cost $20 to $30 via eventbrite.com.

WEDNESDAY 30th

The madness is starting! Did I mention we also have great DJs in town?

III Points presents James Blake, Airhead, and others. 10 p.m. Wednesday, November 30, at Magic City Studios, 6301 NE Fourth Ave., Miami. Tickets cost $25 to $40 via showclix.com.

Hive Pop-Up Lounge. 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 30, at Mana Wynwood, 2250 NW Second Ave., Miami; hivewynwood.com. Admission is free. This same day at night you have a huge party in this venue. The InList anniversary bash is happening this night. Prepare for a lot of traffic and more music than art this day. Wednesday is probably a good day to just stay in one area for the rest of the day. Access in and out of Design District will be very difficult.

 The Peter Tunney Experience is a MUST

If you are looking for some serious art seeing head to the Convention Center in Miami Beach. This is the day where Art Basel officially opens to the public. Other exhibitions under the radar are: The Margulies Collection at the warehouse, De La Cruz Collection "Progressive Praxis", Rubell Family Collection "High Anxiety" & "12 Brazilians".

Nicholas Baume, Director and Chief Curator of Public Art Fund, New York, presents ‘Ground Control’, featuring outdoor and site-specific installations in Collins Park. The Public sector of Art Basel is produced in collaboration with The Bass Museum of Art and supported by MGM Resorts Art & Culture.

THURSDAY 1st

PAMM and Poplife present Cashmere Cat, Jillionaire, Uncle Luke, and others. 9 p.m. Thursday, December 1, at the Pérez Art Museum Miami, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Open to PAMM Sustaining and above level members as well as Art Basel Miami Beach, Design Miami, and Art Miami VIP cardholders.

 PAMM's exclusive Basel bash will feature Cashmere Cat, Jillionaire, and more.

By this day, all the galleries, tents and installations have officially opened. Weather you decide to stay in Miami Beach, Wynwood or Design District, you will enjoy Art Basel in full effect. There will be something happening in every corner. My advice is to grab a friend and continue Baseling throughout the weekend.

Other cool parties happening Thursday:

Seventh Annual Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series Finale. Hosted Russell Simmons and Danny Simmons. With Jermaine Dupri. 8:30 p.m. Thursday, December 1, at 1111 Lincoln Road, 7th Floor Garage, Miami Beach. By invitation only.

Moschino. 10 p.m. Thursday, December 1, Delano Beach Club; 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. By invitation only.

UNICO 20°87° Pop-Up. 12 p.m. Thursday, December 1, at Nobu Eden Roc Miami Beach, 4525 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Admission is free.

Art Basel Film Library at the convention center is also a great alternative if you are a movies fanatic. Open all day

FRIDAY 2nd

If you are a aspiring art aficionado, Friday is for Art Talks:

Aqua Art Miami - Unconscious Bias and the Art World Panel Discussion at 10am.

Context Art Miami - From object to Idea: New Ways of collecting contemporary Art at 3pm.

Context Art Miami - Korean Pop Arts vs. American Pop Art at 4pm.

Context Art Miami - Art Connect at 5pm.

Networking receptions throughout the day in the Art Miami Fairs

Something interesting happening Friday - MoMA PS1 Event. Friday December 2, Delano Beach Club; 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. By invitation only.

SATURDAY 3rd

Still have some energy left? It's not over yet...

If you already got all your art intake for the week, Saturday could be the perfect day to enjoy the endless DJs in town. Nightclubs host celebrity splashed soirees and pop-up clubs from South Beach to Wynwood. Just pick a place a party on!

During Art Week, Miami is home to more than 20 pop up festivals. Here is a complete guide for you to enjoy this weekend:

Art Basel Miami Beach

When: Dec. 1 - 4, 2016

Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive in Miami Beach

$50 day ticket; $105 permanent pass (if purchased online in advance)

Aqua Art Miami

When: Nov. 30 - Dec. 4, 2016

Where: Aqua Hotel, 1530 Collins Avenue on Miami Beach

Tickets: $20 one-day pass; $90 multi-day pass (multi-day pass includes access to Art Miami and Context)

Design Miami

When: Nov. 30 - Dec. 4, 2016

Where: Meridian Avenue and 19th Street, Miami Beach Convention Center

Tickets: $25 one-day pass; $65 combo ticket

Ink Miami Art Fair
When: Nov. 30 - Dec. 4, 2016
Where: Suites of Dorchester, 1850 Collins Avenue on Miami Beach
Tickets: Admission is free

Lingerie Francaise
When: Nov. 28 - Dec. 6, 2016
Where: The Sagamore Hotel, 1671 Collins Avenue on Miami Beach
Tickets: Admission is free

NADA Art Fair Miami Beach
When: Dec. 1 - 4, 2016
Where: Deauville Beach Resort, 6701 Collins Avenue on Miami Beach
Tickets: $20 single day; $40 run of show 

Pulse Miami Beach
When: Dec. 1 - 4, 2016
Where: Indian Beach Park, 4601 Collins Avenue on Miami Beach
Tickets: $25 one-day pass; $40 multi-day pass

Scope Miami Beach
When: Nov. 29 - Dec. 4, 2016
Where: Scope Pavilion, 801 Ocean Drive on Miami Beach
Tickets: $35 general admission; $100 VIP

Untitled Art Fair
When: Nov. 30 - Dec. 4, 2016
Where: Ocean Drive and 12th Street on Miami Beach
Tickets: $30 general admission

Miami Project
When: Dec. 1 - 4, 2016
Where: 6625 Indian Creek Drive on Miami Beach
Tickets: $20 one-day pass; $35 multi-day pass

SUNDAY 4th

By today you should have made all the right connections and found yourself an awesome closing party! I will leave this day up to your imagination. Typically, I will keep it as a low key day to avoid insane traffic and endless lines. Sunday is the prefect day to grab a relaxing brunch at Verde in the PAMM, Michael's in Design district or meet with your friends somewhere with a view. Reflect on the beautiful experience of Art Week in Miami. Basel on friends!! THE END....

Picture taken at PAMM in a calm "winter" day