Guest Article by Susan Bodack: Planning a South Beach Getaway: Where to Stay and What to Pack

Planning a South Beach Getaway: Where to Stay & What to Pack
This is a guest article written by Susan Bodack, the Social Media Marketing Manager at InStyleSwimwear.com–your one-stop online shop for women’s designer swimwear and resortwear. Whether you’re a South Florida local or a reader from afar, InStyleSwimwear will help you look South Beach-chic in no time flat.

If you’re looking for a travel destination packed with sexy people, swanky night life and spicy culture, there is no other choice but South Beach. The entire city of Miami is a pretty awesome destination, but this little section of shorefront is particularly well-known for its sultry fashions and sexy nightlife. If you’re not necessarily into the wild parties and club scene, you can equally enjoy being immersed in the Little Havana atmosphere that’s just around the corner, serving up delicious foods and knock-your-socks-off coffee. South Beach really does offer something for everyone–whether you’re into relaxing on the beach, dancing the night away at the club, pigging out on delicious foods, enjoying high-end shopping or all of the above, Miami’s South Beach is the perfect winter getaway.

Where To Stay
broken shaker bar at the freehand miami hostelIf you’re looking to pinch some pennies, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations in the area. Since South Beach can draw in a ton of younger tourists, there are many low-cost hotels and hostels. Consider staying at the recently revamped Freehand Miami, a chic hostel offering rooms between $40 and $140 per night, depending on if you share space or not. Complete with a lush pool and a happening bar, this is a great place to recoup after a long day in the South Florida sun. Another affordable option is the SoBe Hostel. Always hosting several international travelers and backpackers, the SoBe Hostel is a great way to meet tons of interesting people all under one roof. Conveniently located near the local hotspots and situated on the edge of a million-dollar neighborhood, the prices are surprisingly low. Rooms can be arranged for less than $30 a night, depending on your accommodation preferences. You’ll have access to a pool, internet café and community kitchen, which can also help offset costs if you choose to prepare some of your own meals.

the setaiIf you’re not into the sharing space scene or are simply looking for lodging that’s a little more luxurious, consider checking into The Setai, an upscale art-deco resort where you’ll enjoy a refined breath of fresh air in all the South Beach hustle and bustle. Situated on the beach but also featuring a stunning pool area, you’ll have easy access to either swimming destination you choose. When you’re done soaking up the sun, you can retire to a suite of your choosing, ranging from a cozy studio to an incredible, awe-inspiring penthouse. With its swanky Asian-inspired atmosphere and ritzy accommodations, The Setai sets a high bar for its competitors. Equally impressive are South Beach’s SLS Hotel and Fontainebleau, but you really don’t have to search very hard to find luxury lodgings in the area!

What To Pack
la fama by luli fama south beachWhen it comes to South Beach style, pretty much anything goes–you can find runway-inspired high fashion, hipster and bohemian trends and skimpy club attire. Obviously you’ll want to look fabulously South Beach-chic, so make sure to pack accordingly. While you’ll definitely need plenty of sexy swimwear, make sure to take some classy “ready-to-wear” pieces as well for covering up on the journey to and from the water. Think breezy caftans with billowy sleeves, sleek maxi dresses and flowy tunics in fun prints, all of which can easily transition your look from the beach to the street. Stick to classic solids or vibrant colors and prints that work well with Miami’s Latin feel. A floppy beach hat and oversized glasses are a must to increase your poolside mystique, and they’ll also offer up valuable sun protection. In terms of shoes, pack for the activities you plan on taking advantage of–flip-flops for the beach and wedges and heels for night.

Regardless of where you stay or what you pack, you’re in for a fabulous fun-filled vacation full of swanky South Beach flair.

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