My train from Orlando was horrendously late getting into Miami and I didn't reach my destination until 01:00am. The 9 hour journey had knocked me out, so i just jumped in a cab and headed for the hostel. Fortunately they had room at the Inn and I was in bed for 02:00, asleep by 02:01. It wasn't until the morning that i realised how horrible the hostel was and that I was in a dorm with 5 other people! It was noisy, dirty and a much lower standard than other hostels that I had stayed in. I wasn't too pleased. I headed out to explore the area, map in hand, and have to say that I was quite impressed. There were lots of fabulous clothes shops, restaurants, bars and the beach was very clean with clear blue water. The most striking feature of Miami is the Art Deco architecture, which s straight out of Miami Vice. The hostel was ideally located for getting anywhere in South Beach as it was half way up Washington Avenue, so I was only a short walk to where ever I wanted to go. Without boring you too much of the day to day activities, I spent my 3 full days going to the beach one day, visiting a Gator park in the everglades and riding around in one of those cool boats with the fan oon the back, saw Farenheight 9/11 (movie) and explored a bit of the local cuisine. I didn't go to any bars or clubs as I knew that I would be back to Miami for a weekend (after Key West) so thought that I would save my money for then, as it would be a little bit busier. All in all, Miami seems like a cool place and I would definitely come back here. The weather is far nicer than Orlando, i.e. it doesn't rain EVERY day, but there were a coupleof tropical showers while I was there. They only lasted minutes though. One observation I did make though is that every one, especially the men are very body conscious. It began to make me feel a little bit fat and out of shape, which of course I am not, but by comparison... It really hit home when I saw two homeless people doing push up's in the doorway of a closed shop at about midnight!! I couldn't believe it - even the tramps are body conscious too!! I didn't really meet anyone of any importance in Miami this time around to tell you all about. There were definitely some colourful people there, but the sort you admire from afar, rather than wnat to allow into your life (if you know what I mean!!) Maybe when I return to Miami, I will have a few more stories to tell. My next adventure will be in Key West, so keep posted. Loads of love, Stephen xxx