```html
Miami & Key West: My December Trip - Honest Review!
Everyone gets hyped for summer beach trips, but for a sun-sensitive soul like me, late-year Florida is where it's at!
Disclaimer: This review is for those who aren't into the party/club scene but still want to experience Miami once.
Miami: Sunshine & City Vibes
- ☀️ Prep: Sunscreen and a hat are a MUST, even in winter! Florida sun is intense.
- ✈️ Flight: Flew Frontier from DC to Miami - smooth sailing, no delays!
- 🌡️ Weather: >70°F - perfect beach weather, no crazy AC/outdoor temp shock. Though, the last day dipped to 60°F with strong winds, so pack a light jacket.
- 🏨 Stay: Marriott for a few nights, then Airbnb near Mid Beach for ocean breezes. Avoid South Beach if you want peace and quiet!
Miami: Eats & Must-Sees
- 🍴 Eats:
- Mizumi Buffet (totally worth it! Go Sat/Sun evening, be prepared to queue after 6pm).
- Pollo Tropical (classic!).
- Joe's Stone Crab (personally, I think it's overrated).
- Whole Foods salad bar (if you're craving greens).
- 📍 Must-Sees:
- Little Havana: Go after 6pm for Cuban vibes. I couldn't find parking, so I just drove through.
- Bayside Marketplace: Sunset views!
- Miami Beach: Stroll/bike to South Pointe Park Pier. Or hop on the free Miami Trolley for a South Beach tour! Download the app for locations and schedules.
- Bal Harbour Shops
- Miami Downtown
- Drive around different neighborhoods to get a feel for the city.
Miami: Pro-Tips & Brutal Honesty
- (1) Book hotels DIRECTLY! 3rd party sites hide fees.
- (2) Miami traffic is a multi-part horror movie and parking is a nightmare (think Saigon, but bigger). Ditch the car if you don't need it. Especially in Miami Beach – trolley/bus are super convenient!
- (3) Don't expect amazing service or friendly people.
- (4) Don't go if you don't speak Spanish or aren't into Latin culture.
- (5) Seriously, skip Miami if you're on the fence. As someone said, it's a sh** show. If you're not a party person or you are traveling on a budget, this place isn't for you. Go in knowing it's a 'been there, done that' experience. Don't set your expectations high.
🏝️ Key West: A Breath of Fresh Air!
Go during the week to avoid traffic and crowds. Key West is a total 180 from Miami – friendlier people, better service!
- 🚗 Transportation: Rented a car from Miami. Check reviews for rental companies, some are shady! The Key Largo-Key West stretch has construction, so watch for nails! We got one on the way back 🥲.
- 🍴 Eats & Must-Sees:
- Key West is a small town with cute photo spots. I walked around in about 3 hours.
- Lunch at Two Friends Patio. Overrated! Lobster combo and burger were disappointing. Read reviews before choosing a restaurant if you didn't pack lunch.
- Seven Mile Bridge: The most beautiful part of the drive! Soak it in, don't just stare at your phone!
- Bahia Honda State Park: Stop for a swim and sunset on the way back! Seriously, don't miss it! Explore the park; you might see cool wildlife. I spotted a giant iguana!
- 🏨 Stay: It's a 4.5-hour drive from Miami, so I stayed overnight at a Marriott in Marathon City. It's between Key West and Key Largo - convenient, lots of restaurants, and a Publix.
The Verdict: Miami & Key West
For beaches and food, I'd pick Orlando, Clearwater, Daytona Beach, or Tampa. Miami is a one-and-done kind of place. No repeat trips for me.
```