THE SPA AND SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA

Fly into: Miami International Airport (MIA)

Check out: Bal Harbour, Miami Beach

The lure: High-end designer shopping and lots and lots of spa time. This ritzy neighborhood on the north end of Miami Beach is home to gated luxury condos and a Beverly Hills-gone-east atmosphere

The experience: The Regent Bal Harbour opened in March 2008, the first luxury hotel in this tony little beachside enclave. Bal Harbour has never cared to attract tourists, instead preferring to minister to the fussy needs of free-spending locals and snowbirds. It's perhaps best known for its glamorous open-air mall on Collins Avenue, home of heavyweights such as Chanel and Hermès as well as smaller boutiques like Agent Provocateur and Anne Fontaine. After exploring this year's summer trends (Lemon-yellow sundresses? Ballet flats? T-strap sandals?), work off that shopping stress with a day at the Regent's Guerlain Spa (pictured). Consider a decadent trio: A body polish to make your skin soft, a classic French facial to make your face glow, and an indulgent four-hand massage. The locals may rely heavily on plastic surgery for that youthful, fresh look, but it's amazing what a day at the spa can do for your appearance.

Oh, and: If you love the nightlife and simply must have one big night out in SoBe, book one at the Setai. It's also got a great spa, but it puts you closer to the see-and-be-seen scene.

Regent Bal Harbour
Tel: 305 455 5400
Doubles from $375

The Setai
Tel: 305 520 6000
Doubles from $520

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