Author Archives: timallen

Miami Beach Starts Million Orchid Project

Miami Beach City Commissioners have announced that the city will join the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s Million Orchid Project, whose goal is to plant twenty thousand native South Florida orchids on the island city over the next three years. This is a part of an effort between other municipalities such as Coral Gables and South Miami to bring back the prominence of orchids into urban and suburban areas, with the aim to revitalize the orchid population as a whole.

The project’s objective is not just to bring back native orchids but to restore the populations of endangered orchids such as the Florida dancing lady (named because its white flower resembles a woman dancing), the more famous butterfly orchid and the increasingly rare Florida cowhorn. Florida was once filled with orchids growing on the numerous oak trees throughout the city, but the removal of these in favor for palm trees along with poaching of the plants caused their rapid decline.

Now with the Million Orchid Project, orchids finally have a chance to make a comeback, but this will be left up to landscapers and residents. To make this process a bit easier for everybody, the residents of the city will use an app developed by Florida International University to keep track of the orchid growth.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team at Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Murano Grande South Beach. If you are interested in Murano Grande condos for sale, then call one of the Murano Grande sales experts at 305-588-2451 for information on buying opportunities and rentals.

The Fate of The Fillmore

The Fillmore remains a longtime staple of Miami Beach, but it may soon become a relic if Miami Beach commissioners have their way. Plans have been in the works as far back as 2010 to turn the Fillmore into a hotel in an attempt to bring a greater amount of convention crowds to the barrier island. However, the city has been met with obstacles due to failing to receive at least sixty percent of the vote required to proceed.

As one of the busiest theaters in the Southeast, the Fillmore has a rich history which has seen famous names like “Ol’ Blue Eyes” Frank Sinatra, actor and comedian Mickey Rooney, and multitalented singer, dancer, and actress Eartha Kitt perform. The venue—which opened in 1957—also hosted a number classic shows such as Miss USA and Miss Universe, The Ed Sullivan Show, and The Jackie Gleason Show.

Despite its history and status as something of a cultural landmark, a group called the Blue Ribbon Committee spearheaded by Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine is following through with its hotel plans. Its recommendations will be evaluated by city commissioners to determine a plan of action on how to get residents to agree. The Fillmore would not be entirely gone, however. There are plans to rebuild it on the western side of the Miami Beach Convention Center.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team at Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Murano Grande South Beach. If you are interested in Murano Grande condos for sale, call one of the Murano Grande sales experts at 305-588-2451 for information on buying opportunities and rentals.

Protected Bike Lanes Emerge in Miami Beach

Biking is a popular way to get around Miami Beach but we all know that cyclists are at a significantly higher risk of danger due to less than stellar bike lane safety. If you’ve spent any time in the barrier island recently, you may have noticed something different. A couple of weeks ago, a series of white plastic poles emerged in West Avenue, marking the first protected lane to appear not only in Miami Beach but all of Miami-Dade County.

Protected bike lanes have seen rapid adoption in large cities around the country. These lanes go a tremendously long way in separating motorized traffic while helping bike riders feel safer. While Miami is significantly late to the party, these protected lanes will soon become a common sight as they proliferate throughout South Beach as well as neighboring downtown Miami and the Wynwood area. Miami, perhaps not surprisingly, is considered one of the most dangerous places in the country to ride a bike.

As West Avenue sees protected bike lanes emerge, Miami Beach will also install these lanes north and south between Eighth Street and popular Lincoln Road. For the time being, the protected lane will extend to the block south of 17^th Street.

The Rebirth of Española Way

One of Miami Beach’s oldest roadways is Española Way, located between the city’s 14^th and 15^th streets from Washington to Drexel Avenue. When it was developed, it served as a haven of sorts for anything involving art and was also known for its food and drink. Though the architecture has fallen into some disrepair since its heyday, the Mediterranean influences are still intact.

Miami Beach has been diligently working to revitalize Española Way and unveiled its extensive renovation yesterday. The eight month long project included planting new trees, installing brand new lighting, and a focus on curbless design to make the classic roadway a little friendly to pedestrians while harkening back to the European influences that made the architecture a sight to behold. With all of the new renovations, there are strong hopes that Española Way will help to draw some of the crowds that typically head to the always busy Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive.

Besides all of the new renovations to check out, the city also plans to host regular events focused around food and wine. There is also a monthly event in the works focused on families which is expected to be called Noche de Coche. Children will be able to drive mini vehicles along the revitalized roadway.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team at Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Murano Grande South Beach. If you are interested in Murano Grande condos for sale, call one of the Murano Grande sales experts at 305-588-2451 for information on buying opportunities and rentals.

Check out These Hot Summer Concerts

Summer is going to be red hot with a host of notable artists holding concerts in South Florida. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights.

U2 continues to hold onto its status as the band with the highest-grossing tour of all time. To celebrate the 30-year anniversary of their classic, fifth studio album The Joshua Tree, the Irish band will perform the album in its entirety during the appropriately titled U2: The Joshua Tree Tour. The band will perform at Hard Rock Stadium next month on the 11^th.

Critically acclaimed rapper, singer, songwriter, producer, and budding philanthropist Chance the Rapper will perform next month at the American Airlines Arena on the 13^th. Expect to hear cuts from his Grammy Award-winning mixtape Coloring Book.

Legendary singer-songwriter and composer Paul McCartney will return to South Florida for the first time in seven years on Friday, July 7 at the American Airlines Arena. If you’ve never been to one of his shows, he is well-known for his incredible energy. Expect to hear plenty of his hits as well as some Beatles classics.

Two female-fronted bands are bringing their talents to Hard Rock Live on Tuesday, August 8. Blondie & Garbage: The Rage and Rapture Tour will see frontwomen Debbie Harry and Shirley Manson perform their hits while showcasing their incredible stage presence and tremendous vocals.

Enjoy the Long Weekend at These Parties

Just a few days remain before Miamians will enjoy the three-day Memorial Day weekend. To make the most of it, plenty of places throughout Miami and beyond will be throwing exciting parties for those seeking something fun to do. Let’s explore a couple of the highlights.

On Saturday, Churchill’s Pub will switch up musical genres and host the South Florida Hip-Hop Festival featuring local band ¡Mayday!. The band will be joined by Joe Nester featuring Bobble and the festivities kick off at 8 pm.

King of Diamonds in Miami will host local favorite A Boogie on Sunday night beginning at 10 pm. This weekend, it’s all about appreciating local artists and assuming you’re familiar with A Boogie’s music, expect to hear some of the hits like “Drowning”.

If you’re willing to travel north to Fort Lauderdale, the FemAle Brew Fest is happening on Sunday at FAT Village East Space. Come and be a part of the first festival celebrating the women who work in the craft beer industry! Attendees can try drinks from more than ten different breweries while also supporting the women who run them. The two-day event begins at 1 pm on Sunday and at 2 pm on Monday. Best of all, admission is free!

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team at Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Murano Grande South Beach. If you are interested in Murano Grande condos for sale, call one of the Murano Grande sales experts at 305-588-2451 for information on buying opportunities and rentals.

Mary J. Blige Comes to Miami Beach

When you think of some of the most expressive and powerful voices in soul and R&B music, chances are you probably think of names like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, and Nina Simone, for example. Also among that list may be the singer and songwriter Mary J. Blige.

Mary J. Blige emerged in the 1990s and catapulted to fame after the release of her debut album, What’s the 411? in 1992. The album spawned hits like “Real Love” and sold over three million copies in the United States alone. Blige would go on to release thirteen studio albums and has earned numerous awards and accolades including a whopping nine Grammy Awards. She has also earned the title of “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul”.

Blige is currently promoting her latest album Strength of a Woman, released back in April. The album has once again earned Blige glowing reviews and features guest appearances by names like DJ Khaled, Kanye West, Missy Elliott, and critically acclaimed DJ and record producer Kaytranada.

If you would like to hear Ms. Blige’s incredible vocal talents for yourself, she will be performing right here in Miami Beach at the Fillmore on August 22 showcasing tracks from her latest album as well as some of her classic tunes.

This update is presented by the Miami Beach real estate team at Blackstone International Realty, specializing in the Murano Grande South Beach. If you are interested in Murano Grande condos for sale, call one of the Murano Grande sales experts at 305-588-2451 for information on buying opportunities and rentals.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Miami Beach

cincodeLetsparty-1

Happy Cinco de Mayo! Considering the big day happens to fall perfectly on a Friday this year, the Miami Beach will be packed with celebratory events where you can have some tequila, tacos, and margaritas. Let’s take a look.

Want to try something new? Lolo’s Surf Cantina is a new eatery in the barrier island. To celebrate, customers can sip on $7 dollar cocktails all day while enjoying authentic Mexican recipes. Mexican mules, quesadillas, tacos, even a pair of piñatas will become a part of the celebration.

Nikki Beach on Ocean Drive is also getting into the Cinco de Mayo spirit with an extended happy hour that doesn’t end until 11 pm! Head on over and try some of the shrimp BLT tacos, the cheese and chicken quesadillas, and wash it all down with some cucumber-jalapeño margaritas.

The recently opened Sweet Liberty in South Beach is going even further in its Cinco de Mayo celebrations. The bar will have a Tijuana donkey show consisting of drinks, entertainment, food, and yes, real live donkeys. Try the much acclaimed El Tesoro margaritas, sip on cocktails, and make sure to stay for the performance by Grammy Award-winning musician Jorge Moreno.

Two Bedroom Summer Paradise at the Murano Grande

1409

Summer is just around the corner and there are few places in the country that match the appeal of South Beach for a summer vacation. If you’re considering renting a vacation home, the Murano Grande is an easy choice. As one of the South Beach condos, it’s close to all of the attractions while remaining within walking distance to the beach itself.

To help you with finding a great rental at Murano Grande, we’re taking a closer look at Unit #1409. This elegant two bedroom, two bathroom residence comes fully furnished and provides spectacular vistas of the ocean as well as the city of Miami Beach. As you explore the interior you’ll notice upscale modern décor plus a kitchen boasting stainless steel appliances and contemporary countertops. Wake up each morning to the glorious city backdrop and easily access the balcony so you can get the day started with a fresh breath of cool air. Murano Grande itself also has plenty of amenities to enjoy. Spend a day lounging by the poolside or change into some workout gear when you get home from work and visit the fitness center.

Murano Grande is part of the South of Fifth or “SoFi” area, which arguably represents the upper echelon of the South Beach experience. Have a good time at Nikki Beach, dine at one of the many restaurants on Ocean Drive, the options are endless and they will always be readily available.

Have a Late Night Meal in Miami Beach

lateNightmeal

Chances are there’s been more than one of those moments where you’ve gone out to drink and then felt a strong urge to have something to eat during the wee hours of the morning. Depending on where you are, the options may be slim. Thankfully, Miami Beach has several options for a great late night bite.

Head north on Collins Avenue until you reach 20^th Street. Turning on this street, you’ll eventually come upon K Ramen Burger Beer inside the Townhouse Hotel. Once you’ve stepped inside you’ll be greeted by walls adorned in comics straight out of Japan, TV screens showing anime, classic video game consoles, and more. Salmon skin salad, spicy black miso ramen, there are plenty of great late night meals to choose from. K Ramen Burger Beer is open every day from 6 pm to 2 am.

Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company also located on 20^th Street is another great choice and a relatively recent addition to Miami Beach. Delicious bread, the famous fried chicken by Michelle Bernstein, cauliflower nachos, every food item has a great drink to go with it. Sweet Liberty is also open daily from 4 pm to 5 am.

Over on Collins Avenue, Talde is named after former Top Chef contestant Dale Talde. Try some samosas with sweet pea mash and yogurt dipping. If that’s not your thing, maybe you’ll like the chili garlic noodles inspired by the Chinese eateries found in New York’s Manhattan. Even the founder of the restaurant calls it “good drunk food”. Talde is open from 6 pm to 2 am on Friday and Saturday.