Let’s kick off our Miami travel guide with where to stay, and we have two suggestions that are a perfect pairing when you think of opposites attract. First up, go traditional and luxury with a stay right in Miami Beach at The Setai. The chic hotel is along the main strip of Collins Ave., with access to the beach, has Asian-inspired touches and calls an old Art Deco building its home. With ocean suites and Art Deco suites, your choices for incredible views are endless, not to mention the city’s only ocean-front restaurant.

On the other hand, take a spin on the artsy side of things and book a stay at the Arlo Wynwood in the Wynwood district. The Arlo is the first hotel to open in the urban arts-centric district–where most of Miami’s street art can be found. It’s easily the city’s coolest neighbourhood–and the trendy Arlo brand of sleek, minimal, rooms with amazing common spaces fits perfectly in this area (scroll down to read more about Wynwood!).

Many say that the heartbeat of Miami is actually in Little Havana. And it’s not hard to see why. This vibrant, lively quarter of the city will have you thinking you’ve been transported to the Cuban city. The best way to experience Little Havana in a day is to book a walking tour with Miami’s Culinary Tours–you’ll make stops for empanadas, Cuban coffee, mojitos, cigars, street art, dancing and even ice cream.

Even though this Miami travel guide is all about going beyond the beach–you simply cannot go to Miami and not visit Miami Beach. Make your stay at The Setai hotel mentioned above, stroll, cycle or rollerblade on the boardwalk, do an Art Deco walking tour, people watch on Collins Ave. and hit up one of the many restaurants in the area that are classic oldies and fresh new options.