United States

Miami

Colombian-Panamanian artist, Jon Aro is a dynamic presence in Miami's queer nightlife. With his distinctive blend of alt-electronic R&B, he's seamlessly tying together the underground scenes of both Berlin and Miami. His work as a music producer, model and performance artist keeps him on the move, travelling frequently to different parts of the globe.

Despite his nomadic lifestyle, his hometown Miami holds a special place in his heart, with its vibrant culture and beautiful beaches offering a constant source of inspiration. Whenever he’s back in the city, he reconnects with the places that fuel his creativity. Now, he’s sharing his top 10 must-visit spots in Miami, giving you a glimpse into the locations that shape his sound and style.

I love to go to museums, especially by myself. Perez is one of my favourite museums to go to as they centre a lot of modern and contemporary art of the 20th/21st century. They have one of the best exhibitions and events in my opinion. I get a lot of inspiration here. The location is just perfect to go and then have a walk or picnic around it after with an ocean view.

If you know me you know I love my fritanga. Located in Little Havana, it’s one of my favourite places to get carne asada, queso frito, and gallo pinto con maduro. Overall best food and it’s open 24 hours. If anyone’s got you for a midnight meal after a party it’s Pinolandia.

Another amazing spot to go eat at for some good soul food with an amazing ambience. One of the best Haitian/Caribbean spots in Miami located in Little Haiti has all your favourites, from vegan to meats and seafood. Come here for the best curry goat and jerk chicken to feed the heart with juicy love.

The best queer underground party dedicated to the Black Caribbean diaspora, created by a brother of mine Akia aka Pressure Point. They now have a radio station y’all should go check out if you wanna be at the forefront of what the freshest sounds of the Miami underground is listening to! NB: This collective does not have a specific location.

Recently opened in Miami Design district, Dion Lee has one of my favourite pieces in Miami to wear. I used to work in the store and it just has such a good energy overall, its design is incredible with a beautiful sculpture designed by Oliver Laric. It’s located in Design district which you can also walk around after you purchase some goodies from Dion Lee.

The legendary Domicile is known for its techno parties that a lot of my friends go to since there really aren’t that many spaces that play GOOD techno. If you need a good night out and want to listen to some good techno, Domicile is the place for you.

This is such a cute spot if you love wine and a good ambience. They serve all your favourite spirits which you can order with a charcuterie board and hear some nice live jazz. They have a big outside area in the back filled with flora you feel like you're in a little forest.

Now you KNOW I love a good perreo, and no one is doing it like this party here. Perreo del futuro is a Latino party done where we all get down and sweaty throwing ass to reggaeton. Mi gente Latino will love this party if you ever get the chance to come down to Miami while this is happening. NB: This collective does not have a specific location.

One of my favourite places to walk around even if it's just to window shop. Mainly because it’s not a typical mall because it’s an outdoor mall, beautifully designed by Architectonica. It’s one of the largest construction projects in the US during its creation. It’s actually the most beautiful mall I’ve ever been to. It’s a must.

This is a very very well known bar here in Miami. It is the perfect gastropub to meet up with friends and have some nice signature cocktails or just a couple of beers. It has such a unique vibe with nice live music and it’s open till very late so you can always trust on it.

A treasure and historic landmark built on 1916, Vizcaya museum and Gardens by James Deering is a must see. Formerly his home, it has one of the best botanical gardens you’ll ever witness down here. This a great day time walking activity since it is also located near the water. 

Another incredible Queer underground rave party you’ll ever set foot in Miami. It’s the first party I ever had gone to when I first moved to Miami and made me fall in love with raving haha. Thrown by my sista Gami @ultrathem, it’s just THE party to go to when you’re in Miami. If you didn’t know about them, well now you do! NB: This collective does not have a specific location.

Lagniappe

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