The Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach debuted its newest location in North Beach. This marks the second Conrad property to open in Florida. It boasts 290 suites, four dining and bar options, a full-service spa, fitness center, event space and a 20,000-sq. ft. oceanfront pool deck.
“While Conrad boasts a portfolio of 32 luxury hotels and resorts worldwide, Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach will be the first beachfront resort and residence for the brand in the region,” said John T.A. Vanderslice, global head, Conrad Hotels & Resorts.
Jorge Ramos is appointed executive chef and will lead the food & beverage efforts for Atlas Cocktail Lounge, Spinnaker Pool Grill, Cornucopia, Gourmet Market, in suite dining and banquet cuisine.
Once you’ve checked in, you can request a custom in-suite dining experience. Exclusive in suite options include cooking demonstration with wine pairing or chef selected dishes where the ingredients are delivered to your suite.
If you opt out of cooking in your room, you can visit the signature restaurant Terra Mare restaurant located on the corner of Terramar Street. It offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch. Brunch menu highlights include: Korean Fried Chicken N Waffles with chili peppers and a sunny side up egg ($23), Lobster Hash with sea urchin hollandaise ($32) and spicy peach jam, goat cheese and fresh jalapeno on multigrain toast ($12).
You can pair dishes with one of 11 Terramar cocktails, such as Penicillin with monkey shoulder, lemon, honey syrup, house ginger syrup and islay “spritz” or the Bourbon Smash with buffalo trace, simple syrup, lemon and fresh mint ($14). The menu also features six cold press juices, wine and craft beer.
Shopping for everyone on your list can be daunting. That’s why the Miami Crowd team lined up some hot items for women, men and children.
2017 VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™
(Starting at $799.99 for the 50” and ranging to $2,999.99 for the 75”)
The new Vizio Smart Cast is a great upgrade choice from your current display. The display is powered by XLED Plus, which provides local dimming that enhances bright levels and fine tunes the quality of 4K Ultra HD. Your black images will appear as deeper blacks and vivid contrast. You’re able to easily stream from your phone to your display, due to the thousands of Chromecast enabled-apps. The Vizio Smart Cast also pairs with Google Home, where you can use your voice to control your display. Using simple voice commands, such as “Hey Google turn down the volume.”
Google Home Mini & Smarter Coffee
photo courtesy of vendor
Google Home Mini ($49) launched in stores on October 19, 2017. It helps you with everyday routines around your home. It comes equipped with far-field microphones. This helps the Mini hear you over music that’s playing or background noise. It’s available in three color – Chalk, Charcoal and Coral. If you pair the Google Home Mini to other smart devices such as the Smarter Coffee Machine ($249.99). You can say “Hey Google, brew me a coffee.” The coffee machine will start brewing. It can also detect when you arrive home and it will automatically start brewing.
Galaxy Note 8
Galaxy Note 8 comes with an S pen on the bottom right corner of the device. S pen can be used to jot down quick notes on the home screen. You don’t even have to unlock your phone. It brings a Dual Camera with Optical Image Stabilization on both lenses. You can also multi task between apps, by using the side by side view on the Infinity Display. Additional specs include:
Internal Memory includes 64GB ROM12 , 6GB RAM. Expandable memory of up to an additional 256 GB8.
Water-resistant and dustproof based on IP68 Rating, which tests submersion up to 1.5 meter for up to 30 minutes.
Peel set out to do away with the bulkiness of phone cases. Peel produces ultra thin iphone and android cases. The cases include minimalist styles with glossy and matte finishes.
photo courtesy of vendor
Catalyst Airpod Cases
Catalyst provides the first ever case for your Apple AirPods ($24.99). The case is made of soft silicone that protects from scrapes and scratches. The case also allows for easy access to the lighting port and comes with a carabiner that’s detachable. The carabiner makes it easy to attach your AirPods to on-the-go accessories such as a book bag, purse or clothing belt loops.
It can be used for iPhone X, iPhone 8, 8 Plus and all Qi Compatible Cell Phones. It charges up to 1.5 times faster than normal wireless charging. It uses two ways to charge: Normal Charging (5V/2A) and QC Fast Charging (9V/1.8A). Its sleek and modern design makes it an elegant charger option. Additionally, its LED indicators, non-slip pad and ultra slim only 8mm make it simple and convenient.
The new GMAS130 offers a new face design, with an automatic step counter display. It displays your fitness achievements with a percentage indicator. It comes in four pastel shades including mint, pink, black and white. This versatile design makes it perfect for use at work, gym and more.
This portable cube sized audio speaker, will give you less to carry because it fits in your palm. The battery life ensures up to 12 hours of playback. Its Bluetooth capability and hands-free calling make it a useful tech device. You can use it outdoors and indoors. It’s also dust proof and splash proof. Available in seven colorful options.
A straightforward and useful gift is a box of One Fresh Cup Coffee that includes 10 or 36 serving options. You use it by setting the filter on your cup and pouring hot water over it. There are more than 7 flavors and tea options.
The Clarins Advent Calendar brings 24 days worth of skincare and makeup surprises. It’s simplifying what to buy and summing up essential travel sized items. Items include:
Beauty Flash Balm, Mascara Supra Volume, Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil, Instant Eye Make-Up Remover, One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser, Exfoliating Body Scrub for Smooth Skin, Moisture-Rich Body Lotion, Deluxe Travel-Size, Hand and Nail Treatment Cream, Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch, Bronzing Duo Mineral Powder Compact, Joli Rouge, Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector, Cleansing Milk, Gentle Refiner Exfoliating Cream, Toning Lotion, Eye Contour Gel, Extra-Firming Mask, Hydra-Essential Silky Cream, three charms to clip onto your key-chain and three gift tags for your special note.
For the children, it’s always nice to have special details during Christmas. A personalized Santa bag ($19.95) can be customized to display the child’s name. photo courtesy of vendor
Unique clothing pieces are always nice too. Children can run around in a fun, functional and hooded Trestles poncho ($57.00) from Kindhood. It’s ultra soft, dries quick and has a pocket pouch for children to keep their hands warm.
photo courtesy of vendor
If you’re raising a bilingual child, you may want to check out Vince and Soph’s online apparel shop. Its collection features sweatshirts with sayings such as “who needs santa when you have abuelos,” and onesies that display “bebe bilingue.” You can also find accessories as low as $9.99.
What if you could stop carrying your charging accesories, what if I told you the future is here and now. Would you believe me? There’s a company that brings us the future. Chargello offers rapidly-charging batteries.
In 2015, Freddy Sidi founded and based the company out of Wynwood. The company offers a global network of chargers. More than 20 countries and 4,500 venues offer Chargello, more than 100+ countries are expected to follow by the end of 2018.
What does this mean?
You can visit a partnering restaurant and have dinner, while being able to charge your phone. Even better, the portable charging stations are compatible with all smartphones. Not only that, Chargello’s devices allow smartphones to charge 3x faster than any regular outlet charger. It also charges six mobile phones simultaneously.
The next time you’re out of battery, you don’t have to go home to charge. You can visit Casa Tua, The Confidante Miami Beach by Hyatt, Rik Rak Salon and many other locations in Miami. Have a drink. Have dinner. Get your hair done. And most importantly, charge up.
There’s more! Chargello has an app that helps you determine the closest location offering the handy dandy portable charger.
On Tuesday, November 6th La Centrale held a private soiree at the home of co-managing partner, Jacopo Giustiniani. At the entrance of Key Biscayne, guests were greeted at the door by an Italian aroma of prosciutto and the sight of lemons in every corner. It was a night under the stars filled with delicious food, lavish conversation, and authentic Italian hospitality. Granting Miami just but a small taste of what is to come when La Centrale, Miami’s first food hall, unveils its grand opening at Brickell City Center. Miami goes Italian with La Centrale’s very own Executive Chef, Vincenzo Scarmiglia, gave guests an array of tastings and cocktails. From twenty-four month aged Parmigiano to grilled octopus with an Italian twist, there is no doubt the heart that goes into making these tasty combinations. Saving the best for last, the night was topped off with a dessert tasting, where guests could vote for which flavor of Granita served with pan dolce, they felt was best.
The winning flavor would give La Centrale their final pick between the obviously two difficult delicious choices, which will then be served in La Centrale’s grand opening. We didn’t need a plane to enjoy a night in Italy, La Centrale did a wonderful job of bringing the best of Italy to us. We’re anxiously awaiting the opening of Miami’s new Italian locale and all the delightful cuisine that comes with it.
The Italian Food Hall is slated to open in December of this year. You’ll be able to experience the tastes, aromas and sounds of 20 Italian regions. Fourteen eateries will be spread across three floors and 40,000 square feet. The eateries will offer cooking classes and retail shopping. Get ready for la dolce vita!
Get excited, Capital One Café is coming to Coral Gables. Capital One has been changing the way consumers use banking by providing easy to use tools to manage finances. Capital One Café will provide a laid back environment, where consumers can come charge their tech devices, grab a cup of coffee and speak to associates about digital money management tools.
We’re “ready to change the conversation,” says South Florida Market Lead, Mike Friedman. According to Friedman, the location will offer two meeting rooms for non-profit and educational organizations to book for usage. Meeting rooms hold about six to eight people and are fully equipped with HD TVs.
The first Capital One Café, launched in New York in 2001. Now, there are now more than 20 locations nationwide. The closest locations for Miami residents include West Palm Beach and Delray Beach. There are six sites selected for South Florida with Las Olas, Brickell and Lincoln Road in the works.
Consumers will be able to learn how to manage their finances through free Capital One services such as Money Coaching and Money Workshops. The Coral Gables location will also offer fee-free ATM’s and locally sourced pastries from Pastry is Art to pair with Peet’s Coffee & Tea selections. Pastries will be baked by local pastry chef Jenny Rissone. It’s another way Capital One is connecting to the community.
You scream, I scream, Miami screams for ice cream ! Miami Crowd is excited to share that this coming December will be the fourth opening of the Museum of Ice Cream. Located in the heart of Miami Beach, the Museum of Ice Cream has taken up residence in sunny South Florida giving locals a chance at a world where the imagination can run free. Museum of Ice Cream is a place where flavors, toppings, and sprinkles come to life in an environment designed to bring people together. Throughout the past 15 months, the Museum of Ice Cream has opened multiple locations nationwide, each taking on the personality of the city where it now resides in. Unique to the Museum of Ice Cream, guest can immerse their senses through physical, digital, and experiential dialogues. Offering guests not only a day of fun filled adventures, but a space where emotion and creativity can flow freely. Save the date Miami! Tickets are going on sale soon at MuseumofIceCream.com.
The Platinum Card® from American Express is the Official Card of Museum of Ice Cream. So for American Express Platinum Card Members, pre-sale begins Wednesday, November 15th at 11 am EST. For those of you who are American Express Card Members, the pre-sale will begin Thursday, November 16th at 11 AM EST. Tickets are open to the public for purchase on Friday, November 17th at 11 AM EST. Museum of Ice Cream Miami will be open Wednesday-Monday starting December 13th. Tickets include tons of delectable tastings and new in-house treats available only at the Miami location! Tickets are $38 per person and are available in advance online-only.
Extra bonus: Preview tickets during Art Basel Week go on sale Tuesday, November 14 at 11 am EST. Preview dates include December 6 through December 11.
Chances are you’ve noticed your lifestyle changes over time. For example, you understand your body better and know that you can’t hang like before. Better yet, brands are beginning to understand your lifestyle changes and are tailoring products specifically catered to you.
Companies have taken note and are tailoring its messaging and product ingredients to meet your demands. Take Kombrewcha for example, a fizzy fermented tea that brings the “chill AF” vibe according to its most recent marketing campaign.
The brand is geared toward fitting into the millennial lifestyle, by portraying a laid back feel. Its product is made with 3.2% ABV alcohol. It’s also surprisingly low in sugar and calories. Making its product a great alternative to wine, beer or cider.
You’ll have relatable captions on the brand’s Instagram account such as “let me upgrade you” and “allow me to reintroduce myself.”
On October 5, 2017, chefs faced off at the New Times’ Iron Fork 2017 for a chance to win the Iron Fork Skillet. This year chef Santiago Gomez of Tacology, was announced winner of the competition. The cooking competition featured farm-to-table plate creations. The participating chefs’ “culinary expertise and passion is unmatched in Miami,” says Chef Allen Susser. Susser scouted the very best competitors to feature at the event.
Guests who attended were able to taste their way around participating restaurants such as 180 Degrees @ the DRB, Sushi Sake, JWB Prime Steak & Seafood, Brain Freeze Nitrogen Ice Cream, Grill Argentino, Philly Grub, Meat Market, Dashi, Tacology, Rosa Mexicano, The Rusty Pelican, Beaker & Gray, River Yacht Club and Glass & Vine.
If you didn’t get a chance attend Iron Fork, Miami New Times will be hosting upcoming events such: Tacolandia on November 18, 2017 at Soho Studios and Sips & Sweets on December 14, 2017 at Dezer Auto Museum.
It’s Hispanic Heritage Month! Here are brands with original, cultural expression. These brands were created by Latinas eager to share their fun and useful products with the world.
Vince and Soph Apparel
An apparel company that infuses Hispanic cultural flare into their designs. Angelica Grunewald, founder of the apparel line, gets inspiration from her children “and my large extended family, full of cousins, tio’s and tia’s, our customs, and our traditions and the funny way we speak Spanglish,” she says. Spanglish is apparent in the variety of pieces you can purchase. Angelica has created t-shirts and onesie pieces for bilingual children with sayings such as “But First Leche,” and “Bebe Bilingue.”
Rizos Curls
2. Julissa Prado, founder of Rizos Curls, set out to make a curly hair product that works. After years of not being able to find the right solution for her curly hair, she took it upon herself to launch her own brand. Rizos Curls offers a three-step process that includes a shampoo, conditioner and curl defining cream. The Rizos Curl system includes all three products and retails for $38. The products are made with natural ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, moringa oil and sunflower oil.
Vera Mona
Leticia Cabrera Calvo, founder of Vera Mona Cosmetics, coined a useful tool for beauty fans. Leticia created the tool Color Switch while attending a summer class at Loyola Marymount. What does it do? Color Switch Solo Instant Brush Cleaner allows you to stroke your makeup brush against the sponge to completely remove eye-shadow color. Her creative product went viral on Instagram and within one month she was an established business. “Now we sell in boutiques all around the world, our website www.veramona.com and all US and Canada Sephora stores,” she says.
Feeling the itch to get out of Miami? Take a road trip to New Orleans. New Orleans is known for its cuisine, music and festivals.
Here is a list of what you can do there:
Loaded with three floors of art, the New Orleans Museum of Art will give you plenty to gaze at. Their exhibit features recent Acquisitions in Modern and Contemporary Art. You can find art work by Jim Steg, who is the most influential printmaker to be based out of New Orleans in the twentieth century. Also, Nineteenth-Century American Landscape Photography and more.
The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is conveniently located next to the New Orleans Museum of Art. This sculpture park takes up five acres of City Park. Here you will feast your eyes on sculpture artists such:
Indiana, Robert (known predominantly for his LOVE, Red Blue sculpture)
Coosje van Bruggen and Claes Oldenburg
Fernando Botero. You would recognize his work from the bust that was located outside of the American Airline Arena during the 2012 NBA Finals. Remember, the bust had a Miami HEAT jersey painted on it?
And many more.
3. Among one of the oldest parks in the nation, City Park has been around since 1854. Conveniently, the art museum and sculpture garden are located within City Park. It’s the perfect place for:
A family stroll
Paddle boating on the lake
Viewing the 12-acre botanical garden which is home to more than 2,000 plants
And more.
4. Located within the French Quarter, add Carousel Piano Bar & Lounge to your itinerary as an evening cocktail stop. The picturesque bar which is located at the Hotel Monteleone, slowly rotates. Think of it has the carousel for adults.
5. Take a walk around Woldenberg Park. If you’ve never seen the Mississippi River, this is the perfect spot to snap your pictures. It’s close to the French Quarter and easily accessible to more activities nearby.
6. After or before your walk at Woldenberg Park, grab a cup of Joe (Black or Au Lait) and an order of beignets (brings 3) at Cafe Du Monde. The coffee stand is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Make sure to bring cash as that’s the only form of payment accepted. There is indoor and outdoor seating and street musicians are often playing jazz adjacent to the stand.
7. You can find Groupons for activities such as a Ghost Tour. Check back often on the Groupon site/app to see those deals.
8. Anytime you’re a tourist in another city, there is a chance you’re spending time in an expensive part of town. Ask the locals where to eat and get out of the touristy areas. In New Orleans, you can check out Neyow’s Creole Cafe for authentic southern food.
9. When you’re ready for breakfast. Head over to Toast on Laurel street. You can grab jumbo sized cinnamon rolls, Aebleskivers (order of 3 puffed pancake balls) and different Toasts with topping such as eggs, prosciutto, and more.
10. If you’re nocturnal, check out Harrah’s. The casino offers late night bites from Fuddrucker’s.
11. If you’re in need of a cold beer, make your way to the NOLA Brewery Company. Fully equipped with various beers on draft and two floors of seating. The second floor patio is great for viewing cars driving down tchoupitoulas.
12. Shopping options are great on Magazine Street. This strip is nice to stroll down and grab a bite to eat or have a drink during happy hour.
13. If you’re looking for a hole-in-the-wall kind of atmosphere, Cunada is a good place for tacos and Micheladas. The decor is low-dimm and upbeat.
14. If you have over stayed your welcome at Cafe Du Monde, grab some beignets at the cafe inside the Musical Legends Park. Here you can also enjoy coffee or a cocktail while listening to live jazz in the evening. Cafe closes at 10 p.m.
15. A must have on your tourist list is a stop at Preservation Hall, where you experience live music shows at 6 p.m., 8 p.m., 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. The tip here is to show up early, make the line and get a seat.
