The mere mention Miami probably evokes visions of swaying palm trees, long stretches of beaches, effervescent nightlife and a taste of all things international.

But Miami is more than sun, sand and salsa. Often referred to as “New York City of the south,” it has become a superstar of the world’s great travel destinations…and it is a great honeymoon destination.

The sub-tropical weather and soft sandy beaches and the vibrant nightlife and trendy restaurants are just part of the draw. The combination of big city sophistication, quaint Caribbean charm and hot Latin tempos adds a unique flavor. With its world-renowned restaurants, vibrant nightlife, romantic resorts, fascinating attractions, year-round recreation and championship sports, this popular city promises something for honeymooners of all ages.

A powerful cultural kaleidoscope mirrors the diversity of peoples that comprise this fascinating metropolis. Around every corner, you can savor the sights, sounds and tastes of Miami’s myriad ethnic heritages. Like few places in the world, the destination offers a crossroads of arts and culture that has become an attraction for travelers who crave world-class theater, music, art and big-name entertainment - not to mention a year-round calendar of fun festivals and events.

Nature lovers can indulge in a slew of outdoor activities ranging from exploring wilderness mangrove creeks in a glass-bottom boat; getting up close and personal with free-roaming monkeys, gorillas and orangutans at Monkey Jungle to exploring mighty beasts at Metrozoo.

If you’re more inclined to culture, you can savor the pastel splendor of the historic Art Deco District, explore the Italian Renaissance-style Vizcaya, or stroll the halls of the 10th-century Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux.
For shoppers, there’s always the tropical treasure trove of shop-till-you-drop possibilities at places such as Bayside Marketplace, Cocowalk, Lincoln Road, and a host of mega-malls.

One of the area’s oldest and most diverse neighborhoods, Coconut Grove has long been a bohemian hangout and the launching pad for Greater Miami’s “tropical” character. Ever since the early 1900s, it has attracted artists, writers and non-conformists, and remains today an important player in Greater Miami’s cultural scene. Under a dense canopy of lush trees, the Grove is noted for its whimsical homes, busy marinas, year-round festivals and the many cafes, art galleries, restaurants and shops.

CocoWalk, a Mediterranean-style open-air mall, bustles both day and night with people of all ages gathering there for live flamenco music, comedy shows, and superb dining ranging from hamburger casual to gourmet elegance.
For gourmands on a culinary quest, the international dining possibilities peppered throughout are guaranteed to sate even the most discerning palate.

Chart House in the Grove, for instance, dishes up delectable cuisine while providing sweeping waterfront views of Dinner Key Marina and Biscayne Bay.

Nowhere else in the world can you choose from such a rich roster of places to explore, from historic to adventuresome, natural to man-made.

Make the posh Ritz Carlton on Key Biscayne your honeymoon haven. The waterfront city of Key Biscayne can only be described as an island paradise. Attached to the mainland by the Rickenbacker Causeway, it is a peaceful, well-preserved community crowned by the bucolic Bill Baggs State Park and Crandon Park, two of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. Straddling 44 acres along Biscayne Bay, the Ritz boasts a European-style health spa and fitness center, two heated pools, and a championship 12-court tennis center and romantic dining in a selection of venues – some alfresco overlooking the ocean.
Whether you’re experiencing it for the first time or you’re a return visitor, you can’t go wrong with honeymooning in Miami.

For more information about Miami, visit: http://www.miamiandbeaches.com.