Miami Beach Pride  returns from April 2-12, filling the destination with a vibrant celebration of love, identity and community. From colorful parades and cultural events to stylish hotels and standout dining, here’s where to stay, play and dine during one of the most joyful weeks of the year. GMCVB Miami Beach Pride Where the Celebration Happens Miami Beach Pride  transforms into a citywide celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and community. The festivities begin with the annual Pride Flag Raising at Miami Beach City Hall and continue with beloved events like the Family Picnic at Pride Park , the Queer Art Showcase at the Moxy South Beach, and the Mr. and Miss Miami Beach Pride Pageant. One of the week’s most anticipated moments, “Drag Me to Pride” at Lummus Park , brings show-stopping performances from stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race  to the beachfront stage. The celebration culminates with the two-day Miami Beach Pride Festival and Parade, where Ocean Drive and Lummus Park transform into a vibrant hub of music, art and visibility along the Atlantic Ocean. Celebrate Miami Beach Pride with a special Sofar Sounds  experience at Hotel Continental  on Friday, April 10 . This one-night-only show puts a festive twist on Sofar’s signature intimate show format, featuring a dynamic lineup of a drag queen, a DJ and a live music artist, all celebrating LGBTQ+ voices. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., with the show starting at 8:00 p.m. Food and drinks, including alcoholic options, will be available for purchase. Reserve your spot HERE . Beyond the official events, nearby destinations across Miami Beach become natural gathering places throughout Pride week. Lincoln Road , the city’s iconic pedestrian promenade, hosts Pride on the Road  on April 2 from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Euclid Oval, featuring live entertainment and community programming surrounded by some of the area’s most popular restaurants and shops. Getting around the festivities is also part of the experience. Freebee , Miami Beach’s complimentary electric ride service, makes it easy to hop between Pride events, hotels and nightlife hot spots. With just a few taps in the app, riders can glide between Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road and nearby neighborhoods without worrying about parking. Lincoln Road Where to Stay Close to the Celebration During Pride week, Miami Beach’s hotels become extensions of the festivities, offering stylish stays within easy reach of the parade route and festival grounds. The Betsy - South Beach  sits directly at the end of the Pride parade route on Ocean Drive, making it one of the most sought-after places to stay during the celebration. The Michelin Key  boutique resort is known for its deep commitment to the arts, featuring installations like “The Betsy Poetry Rail” and works by LGBTQ+ artists and advocates, including presidential inaugural poet Richard Blanco . The Betsy Poetry Rail South Beach’s lively social scene comes alive at The Goodtime Hotel , a pastel-hued boutique property spanning an entire city block. Known for its high-energy pool club and signature weekend DJ sets, the hotel’s colorful design and vibrant atmosphere make it a natural hub during Pride celebrations. Nearby, Hotel Continental , part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, embraces the spirit of the week with festive Pride touches, including complimentary branded bandanas, colorful pool floats and a candy bar inside the hotel’s Mixer lounge. Guests can also lounge beside the Miami Modern-inspired pool, sip cocktails at the retro Divebar, or cruise around South Beach on complimentary bikes. In the South of Fifth neighborhood, Balfour Miami Beach  blends historic art deco architecture with contemporary design while offering a relaxed boutique atmosphere just steps from the beach. For those seeking beachfront relaxation between celebrations, Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club  in Mid-Beach pairs preserved art deco elegance with oceanfront luxury, offering two pools, private cabanas and direct access to the Miami Beach boardwalk. Just a short ride away, The Gates Hotel South Beach  provides a scenic canal-side retreat while remaining within easy reach of the Pride festivities. Hotel Continental Where to Refuel Between Celebrations Between parades, beachside events and late-night parties, Miami Beach’s dining scene offers plenty of places to recharge. For a quick bite, Kung Fu Chicken , one of Miami Beach’s newest dining destinations, serves Asian street-food favorites, including crispy marinated chicken, oversized sandwiches and tropical smoothies topped with boba. Strawberry Moon  at The Goodtime Hotel brings vibrant energy to Pride week with its signature indoor dining room, full bar and covered patio overlooking the hotel’s lively pool deck. The all-day menu features elevated comfort food favorites such as Honey Pepperoni Flatbread, Crispy Baja Tacos and the Frita Burger alongside signature cocktails like the Purple Reign with Maestro Dobel Diamante tequila, shochu, butterfly pea, lavender and yuzu. With daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m. and weekend brunch service, it’s an ideal stop between Miami Beach Pride celebrations. In the South of Fifth neighborhood, SoFi Coffee  is a stylish café serving locally roasted brews from Imperial Moto  alongside matcha lattes, wellness shots, fresh juices and pastries from Bettant Bakery . Next door, Laurel Miami Beach  provides a welcoming setting for lunch, happy hour or dinner with a seasonal New American menu strongly influenced by Mediterranean flavors. For an elevated dinner experience, Uchiko  Miami Beach from James Beard Award-winning Chef Tyson Cole delivers inventive Japanese cuisine centered around smoke and char. Guests can explore yakitori-grilled dishes, pristine nigiri and imaginative small plates alongside Japanese-inspired cocktails. Italian flavors also shine during Pride week. Donatella Restaurant , located inside the Donatella Boutique Hotel, serves house-made pastas, bright antipasti, and signature entrées like coal-seared branzino and crispy bone-in veal cutlet, making it a romantic destination for celebratory dinners. In Mid-Beach, Donna Mare Italian Chophouse  delivers an elevated Italian dining experience featuring house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, premium steaks and sustainably sourced seafood.  Nearby, Bungalow Beach Bar & Grill  at Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club offers one of the few true beachfront dining experiences in Miami Beach. Guests can stop by for fresh juices and light bites during the day or toast the sunset with rosé and craft cocktails overlooking the Atlantic. Along the Pride parade route, LT South Beach  at The Betsy offers refined New American cuisine from acclaimed Chef Laurent Tourondel, blending global influences from Latin America, Asia and France. Next door, The Piano Bar  provides a lively setting for craft cocktails and live jazz performances throughout the week. The space also features photography by Miami Beach native Andy Sweet , whose iconic images from the 1970s and ’80s document Ocean Drive’s vibrant communities, including the LGBTQ+ population that helped shape the neighborhood’s cultural identity. For a more casual bite, The Alley , tucked discreetly behind The Betsy, serves Roman-style pizzas, fresh salads and house-made gelato in a relaxed trattoria setting. R House Wynwood Beyond Miami Beach, R House Wynwood  remains a cornerstone of Miami’s LGBTQ+ nightlife and dining scene. Known for its chef-driven Latin-inspired cuisine and high-energy drag performances, the restaurant’s iconic drag brunch and late-night shows continue to make it one of Miami’s most beloved gathering places during Pride celebrations. By ML Staff.

In the evolving landscape of upholstered furniture, modular seating has become a defining category for modern living spaces. Industry data indicates that large sectionals remain a dominant force in the U.S. market, driven by demand for comfort-focused layouts suited to both family use and home entertaining. Within this segment, Soulfa, a U.S.-based company founded in 2015, has positioned itself as a direct-to-consumer brand focused on modular cloud couches that combine durability, material safety, and configurability. The company operates in a niche that sits between traditional luxury furniture retailers and lower-cost mass-market alternatives. According to the brand, its approach centers on delivering premium construction standards while reducing retail overhead through online distribution. This model reflects broader shifts in furniture retail, where e-commerce and direct shipping continue to influence pricing structures and consumer expectations. U.S. Craftsmanship and Direct-to-Consumer Manufacturing Soulfa reports that its sofas are designed and assembled in the United States, using kiln-dried hardwood frames and precision construction techniques. This domestic production model aligns with growing consumer interest in supply chain transparency and product longevity. In an industry shaped by global sourcing and tariff fluctuations, localized manufacturing can provide more predictable quality control and delivery timelines. The brand’s operational base in Las Vegas supports fulfillment across all 50 U.S. states, as well as internationally. Local orders are typically delivered within 7 to 10 days, a timeframe that contrasts with longer lead times often associated with custom or luxury furniture.  Soulfa’s construction approach also eliminates the need for assembly. Each unit is built as a single, structured piece, which reduces reliance on tools or modular connectors that can degrade over time. This design decision addresses a common consumer concern around long-term durability in modular furniture systems. Non-Toxic Materials and Washable Fabric Design Material safety has become a central consideration in furniture purchasing, particularly among households with children and pets. Soulfa states that its fabrics exceed OEKO-TEX standards by excluding substances such as formaldehyde, flame retardants, PFAS, PFOA, and lead. The company describes its products as hypoallergenic and free from off-gassing, aligning with broader consumer demand for low-emission indoor materials. In addition to safety, the brand emphasizes practicality through removable and machine-washable covers. Market research consistently shows that washable fabrics are no longer a niche feature but a baseline expectation in modular seating, especially for high-use environments. This shift reflects changing lifestyles, where furniture must accommodate frequent use without compromising appearance. Customer feedback supports this positioning. Reviewer Gabriela Villacorta noted that her sectional “still looks brand new, even with pets and guests,” highlighting the role of easy maintenance in long-term satisfaction. These attributes address a key gap in traditional upholstery, where cleaning often requires professional services or specialized care. Stain Resistance and Performance Fabric Engineering Performance fabrics have become a critical innovation in upholstered furniture. Soulfa reports that its stain-resistant materials are engineered to repel spills before they penetrate the surface. This feature is particularly relevant in households with children or frequent entertaining, where accidental spills are common. Industry coverage of modular and sectional sofas often identifies performance textiles as a standard requirement rather than a premium add-on. The ability to maintain appearance over time directly influences perceived value, especially in higher price brackets. Soulfa’s approach combines softness with durability, aiming to address the trade-off that has historically existed between comfort and resilience. Customer testimonials reinforce this balance. Brandon Stoll reported that after two years of use, the sofa “still looks and feels brand new,” suggesting that performance fabrics contribute to both aesthetic longevity and structural integrity. Memory Foam Cushioning and Structural Support Comfort remains a primary driver in the popularity of cloud-style seating. Soulfa incorporates 1.5-inch high-density memory foam inserts within its seat cushions, a feature the company identifies as unique within its category. These inserts are combined with feather down and structured foam layers, creating a hybrid cushioning system. Design experts have noted that modular sectionals succeed when they balance softness with consistent support. “A sofa is one of the most important investments in a home because it’s where people gather, relax, and spend time together,” said Nate Berkus, an American interior designer, in media interviews discussing living room design. The inclusion of memory foam addresses a common issue in traditional cloud couches, where overly soft cushions can lose structure over time. By integrating multiple materials, Soulfa aims to maintain both comfort and form, which is critical for long-term usability. Modular Flexibility, Longevity, and Warranty Coverage Adaptability is one of the defining characteristics of modular furniture. Research from the 3D Cloud Furniture Shopping Trends Study (2025) highlights that consumers increasingly value the ability to configure and reconfigure seating based on changing needs. This includes accommodating different room layouts, household sizes, and lifestyle shifts. Soulfa’s modular system allows customers to choose configurations such as four-seat layouts or seven-cube sectionals. The ability to expand or rearrange components aligns with the “jobs-to-be-done” framework often cited in furniture research, where adaptability and space efficiency drive purchasing decisions. The company also offers a 20-year warranty, positioning its products within a long-term ownership model rather than a disposable furniture cycle. Founder Vitória has described this approach as part of a broader effort to reduce landfill waste associated with lower-quality furniture. This perspective aligns with sustainability discussions across the industry, where durability is increasingly viewed as a key environmental factor. Consumers can explore specific configurations, including the six-cube sectional, through the company’s product page at https://www.soulfa.com/ , where modular options are presented alongside material and construction details. Positioning Within a Changing Furniture Market Since its founding in 2015, Soulfa has operated alongside established luxury brands while targeting a segment of consumers seeking comparable quality at lower price points. The company reports starting prices around $6,700, compared to $10,000 or more for similar configurations from traditional retailers. This pricing strategy reflects broader changes in the furniture industry, where direct-to-consumer brands are challenging legacy pricing models. According to IBISWorld’s 2025 analysis of online household furniture sales, e-commerce channels continue to gain share, particularly among younger and urban consumers who prioritize convenience and transparency. At the same time, supply chain dynamics remain a significant factor. The U.S. upholstered furniture market continues to rely heavily on imports, with shifts toward suppliers in countries such as Vietnam. These changes, combined with tariff variability, have influenced pricing and availability across the sector. Brands that maintain domestic production may offer more stable cost structures, though often at a higher baseline price. Soulfa’s positioning reflects an attempt to balance these forces. By combining domestic assembly, modular design, and performance materials, the company addresses several of the key trends shaping the category. As consumer expectations continue to evolve, modular seating is likely to remain a central feature of modern interiors. Brands that integrate durability, adaptability, and material transparency may find sustained demand, particularly among households seeking long-term value. Soulfa’s approach illustrates how these factors can be combined within a single product category, offering insight into the direction of the premium modular furniture market. References Berkus, N. (n.d.). Statements on living room design and sofa investment. Reported in various interior design interviews and media features. Centre for Industrial Studies (CSIL). (2025). The world upholstered furniture industry . IBISWorld. (2025a, July). Online household furniture sales industry report (U.S.) . IBISWorld. (2025b, August). Furniture stores industry report (U.S.) . Mordor Intelligence. (n.d.). U.S. upholstered furniture market: Growth, trends, forecasts . OEKO-TEX®. (n.d.). Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification guidelines . Soulfa. (n.d.-a). 6-cube modular sectional couch https://www.soulfa.com/products/6-cube-soulfa-modular-sectional-couch Soulfa. (n.d.-b). Company website . https://www.soulfa.com/ Soulfa. (n.d.-c). Customer testimonials and product reviews . 3D Cloud. (2025). Furniture shopping trends study . By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Soulfa

As part of Miami Living’s  annual tennis interview series, we spoke with Miami Open 2026 champion Jannik Sinner  in a city that has become central to his rise—fresh off a historic ‘Sunshine Double,’ where he captured both Indian Wells and Miami without dropping a single set, a rare and commanding achievement that underscores his dominance on hard courts. Here, the world No. 2 reflects on his early beginnings, his disciplined approach to recovery, and why the Miami Open stands out as one of the most meaningful tournaments on the tour at the Miami Open. BY MARKIN ABRAS | PHOTOS JANNIK SINNER/INSTAGRAM Jannik Sinner  was born in San Candido , Italy, a small town in the South Tyrol region near the Austrian border. His parents, Johann Sinner  and Siglinde Sinner , worked at a ski lodge, and his early years were divided between school, skiing, and tennis. A talented junior skier, he was one of the best in his age group in Italy before choosing tennis as his full focus. At 13, he left home and moved to Bordighera  to train under coach Riccardo Piatti , beginning a path that would quickly separate him from his peers.  Despite his rapid rise, his life away from the court has remained simple. He describes it plainly, saying, “I like to sleep in if I have the time. This is something I really like. I do play PlayStation. I like to go to good restaurants. And, you know, it’s actually a very, very normal life.” His progression into the professional ranks was immediate. After turning pro in 2018, he gained attention with his composure and shot-making, and in 2019 he won the Next Gen ATP Finals  in Milan , becoming the youngest Italian to win the event. He followed with his first ATP title at the Sofia Open  in 2020 and continued building consistency at the highest level.  Recovery and routine became essential as his schedule intensified. “The most important thing is to switch off mentally to sleep well,” he says. “Sleeping is the best recovery we can have. So for me, sleep is maybe the most important recovery. And usually I never struggle. I love to sleep.” That discipline supported his breakthrough at the Grand Slam level, including his victory at the Australian Open  in 2024, where he defeated Daniil Medvedev  to win his first major title. Later that season, he also won the ATP Finals  in Turin  and helped Italy  capture the Davis Cup , milestones that confirmed his position among the top players in the world. Miami has been one of the most important stops in his career. He reached the final of the Miami Open  in 2021 and again in 2023 before winning the title in 2024 with a victory over Grigor Dimitrov . His connection to the city is both professional and personal. “On the court, I usually always played very well there, making three finals and having great, great memories of that court,” he says. “I feel like it’s a beautiful place, maybe my favorite place in the U.S. You have everything. You have the beach, you have the city. It’s a very, very nice place.”  The physical demands of the tournament require careful preparation, especially in the heat and humidity. “You need to drink, obviously, a lot of water. I’m eating a lot of fruits and vegetables, because there is a lot of humidity and you lose a lot of water. So it’s really important to be as hydrated as possible.”  Jannik Sinner stats: Age: 24 (16 August 2001) Birth place: San Candido, Italy Career high: World No. 1 Singles titles: 26 Miami Open Best: Champion in 2024, 2026 Prize Money: US$ $61,191,211 (as of March 2026) www.instagram.com/janniksin OTHER MIAMI LIVING INTERVIEWS Alex de Minaur Amanda Anisimova Ben Shelton Coco Gauff Flavio Cobolli Frances Tiafoe Jakub Menšík Jannik Sinner Karen Khachanov Paula Badosa Tatjana Maria Taylor Fritz Read our Miami Open Guide: Tickets, Schedule & More Second photo courtesy of IMG/Miami Open. Photos courtesy of Jannik Sinner/Instagram.

New World Symphony in Miami is presenting a Baroque-themed program this week and will debut immersive Neon Nights chamber concerts at New World Center next month. Baroque Program Features Bach and Rarely Heard Composers On March 31, Fellows of New World Symphony will curate and perform an evening of Baroque and Baroque-influenced music inspired by Bach’s coffeehouse performances in Leipzig. The program includes works by Baroque composers Barbara Strozzi and Caterina Assandra alongside Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos No. 5 and 6. Admission follows a pay-what-you-wish model, with a suggested price of $10. Audience members can purchase tickets through New World Symphony’s website. Neon Nights Brings Multisensory Chamber Music to New World Center Neon Nights, scheduled for April 10 and 11 with performances at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., will transform the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center into a neon-lit environment for a multisensory journey through 250 years of chamber music from Bach to Bernstein. Relaxed seating and private tables will surround the stage so audiences can experience the music in close proximity to the musicians, while a luminous neon installation above the hall evolves with the performance. Seating is limited to 180 guests per performance, and tickets start at $100. For Neon Nights, attendees can buy tickets via the New World Symphony website. Weekend Performances Highlight Stravinsky and American Percussion Over the previous weekend, New World Symphony Fellows performed side-by-side with The Cleveland Orchestra at the Adrienne Arsht Center in downtown Miami in concerts conducted by Rafael Payare that featured Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. On Sunday, Percussion Fellows presented a program focused on the American sound, including the work Pulse, pieces by Julia Perry and Alejandro Viñao, Steve Reich’s Quartet and a concluding Suite of Rags. More information about upcoming events is available on the New World Symphony website . By ML. Photo(s)/New World Symphony

Jannik Sinner secured his second Miami Open title on Sunday with a straight-set win over Jiri Lehecka, winning 6-4, 6-4 in the ATP singles final. The victory places Sinner among an elite group as the eighth man to complete the Sunshine Double, winning both Indian Wells and Miami in the same season. He is the first to achieve the feat without dropping a set throughout the two tournaments. It also marks the first time since 2016 that both singles champions swept Indian Wells and Miami. You can see Miami Living's interview with Jannik Sinner here . Aryna Sabalenka won the women’s title on Saturday, defeating Coco Gauff in the final. In the WTA doubles final, the No. 2 seeds Katerina Siniakova and Taylor Townsend defeated top seeds Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini 7-6(0), 6-1. The result secured the doubles Sunshine Double for Siniakova and Townsend. ATP Singles Final [2] Jannik Sinner (Italy) d [21] Jiri Lehecka (Czechia) 64 64 WTA Doubles Final [2] Katerina Siniakova (Czechia) / Taylor Townsend (USA) d [1] Sara Errani (Italy) / Jasmine Paolini (Italy) 76(0) 61 By ML Staff. Photo/IMG/Miami Open

Prada has unveiled a new selection of men’s accessories in its Re-Nylon range, focusing on pieces that combine functionality and distinctive design for contemporary wardrobes. The latest offering features hats, charms and nécessaires crafted in Re-Nylon, designed to add personality and individuality to everyday looks while maintaining a practical, structured aesthetic. Shoppers can explore the full selection of Re-Nylon accessories in the brand’s men’s leather goods section online store and view related new arrivals across the men’s and women’s collections. The launch is supported by dedicated sections for women’s new arrivals and men’s new arrivals , alongside online tools to contact customer service and locate physical stores. By ML. Photo(s)/Prada

Major qualifying races for the Kentucky Derby (G1) and Kentucky Oaks (G1) will anchor the Road to the Kentucky Derby schedule on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with key events in the United States, Japan and the United Arab Emirates. Arkansas Derby Highlights Oaklawn Card The $1.5 million Arkansas Derby (G1) at Oaklawn Park will serve as a critical Kentucky Derby qualifier, offering 100 qualifying points to the winner on a 100-50-25-15-10 scale. Renegade, trained by Todd Pletcher, is expected to start as the 3-2 favorite after winning the Sam F. Davis and enters as the only horse in the field with prior experience at the 1 1/8-mile distance. Jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. retains the mount, having opted to skip a potential Florida Derby ride to stay aboard. Florida Derby Offers High-Stakes Rematch At Gulfstream Park, the $1 million Florida Derby (G1) headlines a 14-race program and awards 100 Kentucky Derby qualifying points to the winner on the same 100-50-25-15-10 scale. The 1 1/8-mile race features a prominent rematch between Commandment, who brings a three-race winning streak for trainer Brad Cox, and Chief Wallabee, runner-up by a neck in the Fountain of Youth (G2). Commandment recently passed a two-turn test in convincing fashion and logged a fast workout at Payson Park in preparation, and he will be ridden for the first time by Flavien Prat. Fukuryu Stakes and UAE Derby Shape International Picture In Japan, the Fukuryu Stakes at Nakayama will conclude the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby and offers the richest points schedule of that series, distributing 40-20-12-8-4 to the top five finishers. The allowance event is run at about 1 1/8 miles and is the only Japanese qualifier held over a right-handed track. At Meydan Racecourse, the $1 million UAE Derby (G2) will close out the Euro and Middle East segment of the Road to the Kentucky Derby, granting 100 qualifying points to the winner on a 100-60-30-15-10 scale. The field is expected to bring together local contenders, Japanese runners and a leading filly in a race that often influences the international presence in the Kentucky Derby. Oaks Trail Adjusts After Scratching of Explora On the Kentucky Oaks trail, even-money Fantasy Stakes favorite Explora will be scratched due to a fever, with trainer Bob Baffert planning to regroup with her ahead of a possible Kentucky Oaks start. At Gulfstream Park, She Be Smooth has moved into Oaks consideration after a last-to-first victory in the Davona Dale (G2), a performance that strengthened her credentials for upcoming Oaks preps. The early 200-point prep races on the Road to the Kentucky Derby and Oaks have so far produced new winners in each division, and the upcoming Florida Derby, Arkansas Derby and associated Oaks preps at Oaklawn Park and Gulfstream Park are expected to further reshape the qualification standings. By ML. Photo(s)/Churchill Downs

The Miami Heat are promoting their upcoming home game on March 30, encouraging fans to secure tickets and explore special gameday offerings tied to the matchup. Tickets for the March 30 game are available through Ticketmaster, giving fans access to seats at Kaseya Center for the late season contest. Fans can buy tickets online ahead of tipoff. The team is also promoting gameday upgrades, which offer fans options to enhance their in arena experience with premium seating and other add ons during the Vice themed night. In addition, the Heat are featuring the Vice Nights Collection by Court Culture, a merchandise line tied to the Vice branding available for purchase through the team’s retail channels. By ML. Photo(s)/Miami Heat

Miami Children’s Museum has opened Playful Putters, a new hands-on exhibit that invites visitors to explore the world of miniature golf through play. The exhibit features a nine-hole mini golf course where guests can test their putting skills and encounter interactive displays that share historical insights about miniature golf in a colorful, family-friendly setting. Playful Putters is accompanied by an original production from the museum’s in-house Theater Troupe, “Anyways, Golf!” , which follows Casey, a child encouraged to put down her tablet and use her imagination as she embarks on a journey to the World Championship Mini Golf Tournament. Families can plan a visit and learn more about the exhibit on the museum’s website, including how to purchase tickets for Playful Putters. By ML. Photo(s)/Miami Children’s Museum

Florida is a state known for its diverse range of bird species, which thrive in the state's varied ecosystems, including swamps, forests, beaches, and wetlands. The warm, humid climate, combined with the state's strategic location, makes Florida a perfect habitat for many bird species. Here, we bring you 10 common native birds found in Florida: Photo by Unsplash Bald Eagle The national bird of the United States, the Bald Eagle, can be found throughout Florida, particularly near bodies of water. Bald Eagles are easily recognized by their distinctive white head and tail feathers, contrasting with dark brown body feathers. These majestic birds are not endangered but are protected by federal law. The best way to spot a Bald Eagle in nature is to look for it perched high in a tree or flying overhead. Interestingly, Bald Eagles can fly up to 10,000 feet high and have a wingspan of up to 7 feet. Photo by Joshua J. Cotten on Unsplash Northern Cardinal The Northern Cardinal is a common bird found throughout Florida, known for its bright red plumage and distinctive crest on its head. Cardinals are often found in urban areas as well as wooded habitats. They are not endangered, but habitat loss and fragmentation can pose threats to their populations. Cardinals are easy to spot due to their bright red color, and can often be seen perched on branches or feeding on the ground. A fun fact about Cardinals is that only the male birds have the bright red plumage, while females are a more muted brown color. Photo by Trac Vu on Unsplash American Flamingo Known for its stunning pink feathers, the American Flamingo can be found in Florida's southern coastal regions. These birds are tall and slender, with long legs and a long, curved beak. American Flamingos are not considered endangered, but their populations are vulnerable due to habitat loss and pollution. To spot an American Flamingo, look for them wading in shallow waters or flying in flocks overhead. Interestingly, the pink color of their feathers comes from the carotenoid pigments in their diet of algae and small crustaceans. Photo by Dulcey Lima on Unsplash Brown Pelican A common sight along Florida's coastlines, the Brown Pelican is a large bird with a distinctive pouched bill. These birds are brown and gray in color, with white feathers on their head and neck. Brown Pelicans are not endangered, but their populations were greatly impacted by pesticide use in the 20th century. To spot a Brown Pelican, look for them flying low over the water or diving into the water to catch fish. Fun fact: Brown Pelicans can store up to 3 gallons of water in their bill pouches! Photo by Jongsun Lee on Unsplash Osprey Another bird commonly found near water, the Osprey is a large bird of prey with a distinctive white head and dark brown body. These birds can be found throughout Florida, often nesting on platforms near bodies of water. Ospreys are not endangered, but are sometimes impacted by habitat loss and degradation. To spot an Osprey, look for them perched on a high platform or flying overhead carrying a fish in their talons. Fun fact: Ospreys have reversible outer toes that help them grasp onto prey, making them efficient hunters. Photo by Joshua J. Cotten on Unsplash Reddish Egret The Reddish Egret is a medium-sized wading bird with a distinctive shaggy appearance. These birds have a long neck and long, thin legs, and are grayish-blue in color with a reddish-brown head and neck. Reddish Egrets are not endangered, but their populations are threatened by habitat loss and degradation. To spot a Reddish Egret, look for them wading Photo by Paul Crook on Unsplash Roseate Spoonbill A striking bird with bright pink feathers, the Roseate Spoonbill can be found in wetland areas throughout Florida. These birds have a unique spoon-shaped bill, which they use to sift through the mud to find food. Roseate Spoonbills are not considered endangered, but their populations are threatened by habitat loss and degradation. To spot a Roseate Spoonbill, look for them wading in shallow waters with their heads down as they hunt for food. Photo by Chris Briggs on Unsplash Sandhill Crane The Sandhill Crane is a large, gray bird with a distinctive red patch on its head. These birds can be found in a variety of habitats throughout Florida, from wetlands to agricultural fields. Sandhill Cranes are not considered endangered, but their populations are threatened by habitat loss and hunting. To spot a Sandhill Crane, look for them walking through fields or wetlands, often in pairs or small groups. Fun fact: Sandhill Cranes have a unique, trumpeting call that can be heard from up to two miles away. Photo by Joshua J. Cotten on Unsplash Snowy Egret A small white wading bird with black legs and a yellow bill, the Snowy Egret can be found in wetland areas throughout Florida. These birds are known for their beautiful white plumage and delicate appearance. Snowy Egrets are not considered endangered, but their populations are threatened by habitat loss and degradation. To spot a Snowy Egret, look for them wading in shallow waters and using their bright yellow feet to stir up prey. Photo by Emily Morris on Unsplash Wood Stork The Wood Stork is a large wading bird with a distinctive bald head and long, curved beak. These birds can be found in wetland areas throughout Florida, where they hunt for fish and other small prey. Wood Storks are considered endangered, with their populations declining due to habitat loss and degradation. To spot a Wood Stork, look for them wading in shallow waters or perched in trees near wetlands. Fun fact: Wood Storks are the only stork species that breeds in the United States. Get Involved & Support Florida's Birds While Florida is home to many species of birds, their populations are threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and other human-caused threats. Fortunately, there are several non-profit organizations in Miami and South Florida that work to protect and conserve these birds and their habitats. Here are some of Miami Living's favorites: Tropical Audubon Society Phone: (305) 667-7337 Website Founded in 1947, the Tropical Audubon Society is a local chapter of the National Audubon Society that focuses on protecting and preserving South Florida's birds and their habitats. The organization offers educational programs, birding trips, and volunteer opportunities to promote bird conservation. South Florida Audubon Society Phone: (305) 371-6399 Website The South Florida Audubon Society is another local chapter of the National Audubon Society that is dedicated to protecting birds and their habitats in South Florida. The organization offers a variety of programs and events, including bird walks, lectures, and conservation projects. Pelican Harbor Seabird Station Phone: (305) 751-9840 Website Located in Miami, the Pelican Harbor Seabird Station is a non-profit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and orphaned birds. The organization also offers educational programs and works to promote the conservation of South Florida's birds and their habitats. Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue Phone: (305) 451-4774 Website While not located in Miami or South Florida specifically, the Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue is a non-profit organization that provides rescue and rehabilitation services for injured and orphaned birds throughout the Florida Keys. The organization also works to educate the public about the importance of bird conservation. By ML Staff. Special thanks to all photo contributors for the bird images featured on this story. Top gif/animation by Iris Helen Silvy/Pixabay

In an era of elaborate skincare routines and endless beauty trends, Zareefa Ahmed has captured global attention by returning to something far simpler: the timeless wisdom of homegrown beauty rituals. The New York-based content creator and founder of Ammu Beauty first went viral for sharing natural remedies inspired by her Bangladeshi upbringing, including a humble banana peel mask video that reached more than 23 million viewers. But behind the viral moments lies a deeper story – one rooted in family, resilience, and a desire to help others reconnect with beauty as a form of self-care and emotional well-being. In this interview with Miami Living Magazine , Ahmed opens up about honoring her late mother’s legacy, navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship, and building a brand that celebrates authenticity, balance, and radiant confidence at every stage of life. Miami Living: Your skincare brand Ammu Beauty was inspired by your late mother and her holistic beauty rituals. Can you share a memory of her that continues to influence the way you approach beauty, wellness, and even entrepreneurship today? Zareefa: I always say my first exposure to beauty was not in a store, it was in my mother’s kitchen. I remember watching her take simple ingredients like turmeric, yogurt, and oils and turn them into something that felt sacred. It was never rushed or excessive. It was intentional. After she passed, I realized those moments were not just about beauty. They were about trust. She trusted what she knew, what she had, and what had been passed down to her. Somewhere along the way, I think we have lost that. We have started outsourcing that trust to products, trends, and other people telling us what we need. That memory continues to guide me now. Ammu Beauty is not about adding more, it is about returning to what you already have and learning to trust it again. ML:   Many of your followers were introduced to your philosophy through your now-viral banana peel mask video, which reached over 23 million views. What do you think people are truly searching for today when they gravitate toward simple, natural beauty rituals like these? Zareefa: I do not think people are just looking for something “natural.” I think they are looking for something they can trust again. We have been taught that the answer is always outside of us: another product, another step, another solution. So when people see something as simple as a banana peel, it disrupts that idea. It reminds them that beauty can be accessible, intuitive, and even obvious. I think people are craving a sense of control again, something that feels like theirs. Because when everything is outsourced, you begin to feel disconnected, and these kinds of rituals bring you back. ML:   Your Bangladeshi upbringing plays a strong role in your approach to skincare and self-care. Which generational rituals or ingredients from your childhood have become the heart of Ammu Beauty’s philosophy? Zareefa: So much of what I share today comes from what I grew up with. Turmeric, neem, and sandalwood were not viewed as “ingredients,” they were simply a part of life. But more than that, it was the mindset behind them. We were not constantly searching for something new. We worked with what we had, and we trusted it. That is something I think is missing today. People have access to everything, yet they trust nothing. Ammu Beauty brings that back, not just the rituals themselves, but the confidence in them. ML:   You’ve been open about your journey as a single mother of two and how you used holistic wellness practices to transform your body and mindset. What were the most important shifts physically, emotionally, or spiritually that helped you reclaim your sense of vitality? Zareefa: The biggest shift was realizing that no one was coming to fix me, and that was not a bad thing. It meant I had to reconnect with myself instead of constantly looking outward. Physically, I simplified everything: nourishment, minerals, hydration, and sleep. Emotionally, I let go of the pressure to do everything perfectly. Spiritually, I stopped treating wellness like something I needed to buy or achieve, and started treating it like something I practice. I think a lot of women are exhausted because they are outsourcing their well-being instead of building a relationship with it. Once I shifted that, everything changed. ML:   In a beauty industry that often pushes quick fixes and complex routines, you advocate for simplicity and balance. What does “natural beauty” truly mean to you in today’s highly curated digital world? Zareefa: To me, natural beauty is about not abandoning yourself. It is not about rejecting modern skincare, it is about not becoming dependent on it in order to feel okay. We have been conditioned to believe we always need more: more steps, more products, more correction. But natural beauty is about understanding when enough is enough, and when your skin is asking for support rather than overwhelm. It is about trusting your body instead of constantly trying to override it. In a world that is so curated, I think that is what actually feels real. ML:   As someone fluent in both English and Bengali and deeply connected to your cultural heritage, how do you see traditional South Asian beauty wisdom influencing the future of global skincare? Zareefa: I think what is happening now is a reintroduction, not a discovery. These rituals have always existed, they were simply overlooked. What I hope translates globally is not just the ingredients, but the philosophy behind them. South Asian beauty has always been rooted in balance and self-trust. It does not separate the skin from the body or the mind. As people become more overwhelmed by options, I think that kind of wisdom becomes even more valuable, because it teaches you how to understand yourself, not just consume. ML:   Looking ahead, what is your larger vision for Ammu Beauty and your platform beyond products and social media in terms of empowering people to feel confident, healthy, and beautiful at every stage of life? Zareefa: Ammu Beauty was never meant to just sell products. It is about shifting the relationship people have with beauty and wellness. I want to create spaces, experiences, and education that bring people back to themselves, where they do not feel like they constantly need to search outside for answers. Because confidence is not built through consumption, it is built through understanding. If I can help people feel more connected to their bodies, their routines, and their intuition, then that is the real impact. follow Zareefa on: Instagram  | TikTok By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Juriel Marmol

Tequila Town officially opens to the public April 2 at the expanding Factory Town campus. Positioned as the first experience outside Mexico to follow tequila’s lifecycle from seed to spirit, the installation blends environmental storytelling with art, architecture, music, and ritual to trace the heritage of Jalisco’s valley region. Courtesy of Tequila Town Spanning more than 25,000 square feet and over ten rooms, the experience unfolds as a sequence of sensory chapters. Visitors move through environments that present tequila’s cultural and agricultural foundations while highlighting both historic houses—such as Cuervo, 1800 Tequila, Reserva de la Familia, Gran Centenario, and Dobel Tequila—and newer producers reframing tradition with contemporary methods. The installation expands the narrative beyond spirits, emphasizing shared commitments to sustainability and community support in Mexico. Live performances, culinary pop-ups, and a marketplace of Mexican artisans integrate with large-scale installations designed to prompt reflection on culture, memory, and environmental stewardship. Courtesy of Tequila Town Tequila Town is led by a collective of creatives and cultural practitioners, including Danish Khan, Montana Masback, Taimur Khan, Danie Gomez-Ortigoz, Lou Bank, and Avra Jain. Their approach merges ancestral storytelling with technology to create what they describe as a “phygital” experience—one where digital tools enhance, rather than replace, emotional connection. Environmental preservation is central to the project. A permanent agave garden, native trees, and on-site programming guided by an arborist ground the experience in themes of regeneration. Guests will learn how agave has shaped economies and traditions for centuries, and why protecting the plant is critical to the future of tequila. Courtesy of Tequila Town Miami’s role as a cultural bridge makes it the chosen location for the debut. Set within the industrial setting of Factory Town and Toledo Studios, the installation will also feature live art, performances, and “Agave After Dark” dinners led by invited chefs and mixologists. Additional details and future updates will be available through the Tequila Town website at Tequila Town . By ML S taff. Photos : Courtesy of Tequila To wn.