A1A, South Beach

I'm not sure how many times I heard "A1A" while in Miami during an event last month. And of course I couldn't help but respond with "Beachfront Avenue" with a deep, raspy voice and somewhat yelling. Just like Vanilla Ice! :)

This year our sales incentive program was held in Miami. In year's past we have gone to Riviera Maya, Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Costa Rica and Puerta Vallerta. So this was our first year keeping it domestic and boy could we tell the difference. I'm not sure if it was the Americans or just Miami but service was
lack-ing! They weren't very responsive on the pre-planning side, they made agreements/promises they didn't keep, everything was possible during the sales process, and onsite it took over 3 hours to provide one six-foot table.

We were at the Fontainebleau, which was very different from what we were used to. It was definitely very Miami. It's a very large property, several restaurants and shopping. The pool area is only ok, lots of seating but not much water. The property also has nightlife and I mean lots of it. Talk about great people watching! If you couldn't find something to do at this property it was your own fault.

We had the threat of rain for both of our outdoor events so we had to bring them inside, which was disappointing but the best decision.

Awards Banquet Decor

Awards Banquet Entertainment

We offered excursions to all guests which included; Rib Adventures, Go Car Tour, Spa, Sailing Regatta, and Golf.   

We had a night in South Beach and got to check out Miami Ink and Dash. We also stopped by the W South Beach to see if we could spot any celebs - with no such luck. :(  We did manage to get into Arkadia Night Club.

Now for the ironic part....my friend, Laura, was also planning an event in April at the Fontainebleau. AND it just happened to be during the SAME TIME as my event. Now how often does that ever happen, a planner in New York City and a planner in Nashville, who are friends, end up at the same hotel, in the same city, at the same time!?!!?!?  Since we were both working we did manage to get in a little time together. I hadn't seen her since Christmas so it was a short but fun time. She's preggers too so it was fun to see her wittle baby mama belly.

I think Miami gives New York a run for it's money on being named The City that Never Sleeps - whew, Miami is hard core! I've definitely had enough! I hadn't been there since a trip in college and man, it was just the same as I remember.