¡Bienvenido a Miami!

Known for the weather, Art Deco architecture, pristine beaches, all-night parties on South Beach and cigar shops on Calle Ocho, Miami is a leading destination for travelers from all over the world.

The stars of the WTA leave the desert and head towards the beach for the second Premier Mandatory of the year and to compete for the chance to be crowned champion of the 2016 Miami Open.

Miami-resident Monica Puig has joined in on the fun for this edition of the WTA Travel Guide: Miami and gives you her recommendations for must-sees and must-dos in the Magic City.

WATCH THE MATCHES

Within the bright lights and big city of Miami, nestled on the island town of Key Biscayne, the Miami Open offers the perfect combination of world-class tennis and a premier entertainment experience.

New to this year’s event is the Taste of the Miami Open, where fans can sample a variety of dishes from celebrity chefs and local restaurants. If you’re looking to hop aboard the food truck trend, check out one of the three food trucks on site providing a variety of culinary offerings. Click here for all of the delicious dining options for you to sample during your visit.

Qualifying runs March 21 – 22, with matches beginning at 10:00am. Main draw is March 22 – April 3, with day sessions beginning at 11:00am. Night sessions begin March 23 and start at 7:00pm. Looking for tickets? Click here.

WHERE TO STAY

One of the most visited cities in the world, there is no shortage of first-class hotel accommodations for you to choose from when visiting Miami.

For a true luxury beach escape with convenient access to the Miami Open, the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne is the place to stay. With a 20,000 square-foot spa, four restaurants, access to water activities on Biscayne Bay and the largest tennis facility of any Ritz Carlton property in the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center, there is no shortage of ways to entertain people of all ages.

If you’re looking to venture off Key Biscayne, the Four Seasons Miami offers 221 deco-inspired rooms in the heart of the sophisticated neighborhood of Brickell. With two pools, and free access to Equinox gym and more than 100 fitness classes offered each week, the Four Seasons can ensure you stay active after a day of watching the world’s best athletes.

The JW Marriott Marquis not only provides guests with the opportunity to eat at celebrity Chef Daniel Boulud’s restaurant db Bistro Moderne, but also a chance to explore two floors worth of entertainment including the indoor Mariano Bartolome Indoor Golf School with a simulator, a virtual bowling alley and a NBA-approved basketball court.

Included on Travel + Leisure’s “500 World’s Best Hotels 2015” the Epic Hotel, guests can enjoy boutique-style accommodations but with big-city luxury. Relax by the pool or enjoy Miami nightlife at Lit Lounge.

The Conrad Hotel offers beautiful minimalist designed rooms, with a bar on the 25th floor to give guests a panoramic view of the city. Rooftop tennis courts and a pool, as well as a 24-hour fitness center are all excellent options if you’re looking to be active during your stay.

WHERE TO EAT

Miami offers seemingly unending culinary options, but here are a few of our favorite for your dining pleasure.

For a true taste of Latin America, head to Coya Restaurant for traditional Peruvian food and bespoke pisco cocktails.

If you’re looking to experience the informal Japanese dining style called izakaya, visit Zuma Restaurant in the heart of downtown, for modern Japanese flavors.

In the beautiful neighborhood of Coconut Grove, Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar and Latam Grill is known for their fresh Ceviche Spoon Bar, as well as their take on modern Mexican food. They also offer a well curated selection of South American wines and a signature cocktail list.

Voted OpenTable’s Diners Choice Award for Most Vibrant Bar Scene in Miami, Bulla Gastrobar specializes in Spanish and Catalan dishes. The casual dining experience stays true to providing diners with the chance to sample the most popular tapas in Spain without leaving Coral Gables.

Named Ocean Magazine’s “Best Place to Brunch in Midtown,” Apeiro Kitchen & Bar features Mediterranean cuisine gives diners the opportunity to enjoy lunch, brunch, happy hour or dinner both in a rustic indoor and outdoor setting.

MONICA PUIG‘S FAVORITE SPOTS

Although she was born in Puerto Rico, Monica Puig calls Miami home and is one of the few players who has the opportunity to play an event in front of her hometown crowd. When she isn’t on court, here are a few of her favorite must-see spots in Miami:

The beach is my happy place. There are so many beautiful beaches in Miami. Click here for a great list of all sandy spots you can visit.

My favorite activity when I’m at home is to go out to eat with my family. For traditional Cuban food, I love Sergio’s for a healthy and fast breakfast. For a great meal in Coral Gables, my go-to spot is Hillstone. They have amazing spinach dip and ahi tuna tartare and then after dinner you can walk the famous Miracle Mile for more shopping and bars. If you’re craving an awesome steak dinner, I love Morton’s, located in the Financial District.

Miami has no shortage of amazing shopping. When I’m not at the beach or on court, I love going to the Miami Design District to check out the high-end stores. For great outlet shopping, Dolphin Mall is the place to go, with stores like Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus all at discount prices.

And finally, don’t forget to come out and cheer me on during my matches at the Miami Open. See you there!