Melissa Puppo
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Lifestyle Writer & Editor | Founder: Melissa Puppo Creative Co. -|- La vita è bella ✨
Articles by Melissa Puppo
Explore Group-Friendly Fort Myers
Photo courtesy of Fort Myers Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods My first glimpse of the islands, beaches and neighborhoods of Fort Myers came in shades of pink and orange, as the sun rose over the Caloosahatchee River outside my window. Before the day’s site visits began during a recent FAM trip, I slipped out for a quiet walk along the marina at The Westin Cape Coral at Marina Village, my host hotel.
Flamingo Gardens: A Guide to Wildlife, Botanical Gardens and Things to Do
Step through the entrance and 60 acres unfold around you. Ancient banyan trees create pockets of shade, while free-roaming peacocks wander the grounds. The property has changed considerably since 1927, when it began as a commercial citrus orchard founded by Floyd L. and Jane Wray. Today, it’s home to The Arboretum of Flamingo Gardens, featuring hundreds of native and exotic trees. Of note are 12 towering Florida “Champion” trees, among the largest in the state.
Feast for the Senses: Dine Out Lauderdale Returns
Ask for the Dine Out Menu Not every restaurant automatically hands it out, so be sure to ask your server for the Dine Out Lauderdale menu alongside the regular menu. You can always add in an extra appetizer or cocktail if something catches your eye. Get Around Via the Water Taxi If you're planning a meal along the Intracoastal or a different neighborhood than where you’re staying, consider taking the Water Taxi instead of driving.
5 Surprises for Meeting Planners About Fort Myers
Martin Zangerl/Unsplash Ask most planners about Southwest Florida, and they’ll mention the sunsets and the beaches. But Greater Fort Myers has so much more to offer. Its footprint stretches west from Boca Grande to Bonita Springs and Estero, with each neighborhood and island sporting its own personality. What surprised us most wasn’t any single property or venue, but the variety found in the destination and how well it can accommodate events of all sizes.
Florida’s Cruise Comeback: Why Everyone Is Setting Sail This Summer
by | May 11, 2026 View from a private balcony in one of Disney Destiny’s one-story suites. Photography courtesy of Disney Cruise Line. The room erupted inside Star Princess’s indoor Arena theater as we watched a glass bottle shatter against the ship’s bow, captured on-screen from outside during the naming ceremony. The ship’s godparents, Matthew McConaughey and his wife, Camila, stood steps away, smiling onstage as we witnessed the centuries-old christening ritual unfold.
Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Best Rooftop Hangouts
After soaking in hours of sunshine on Fort Lauderdale beach, nothing hits the spot quite like a refreshingly cold beer. Bo's Beach is the perfect watering hole for cooling off while taking in the Atlantic’s stunning waterfront views. Expect live music and drink specials throughout the week, along with seasonal events. The rooftop is a great hangout for people-watching, watching the big game, or killing time before your next nearby adventure.
Why Greater Fort Lauderdale Keeps Families Coming Back
Between building sandcastles, getting up close to alligators and digging into an ice cream cone that takes two hands to hold, Greater Fort Lauderdale offers plenty for families. Add 24 miles of sandy beaches and year-round sunshine, and there is no shortage of things to do. Families who return year after year know there is always something new to discover, while longtime favorites remain just as appealing.
Top Splash-Worthy Moments You Can Only Have in Greater Fort Lauderdale
Jet ski past mansions and mega yachts. Eat sushi while cruising the Intracoastal. Snorkel shipwrecks off the coast. In Greater Fort Lauderdale, the water isn’t just a pretty backdrop. It’s where the best memories happen. The best part? Our 24-mile stretch of golden beaches is just the starting point. Nowhere else can you airboat through the Everglades in the morning and have your feet in the Atlantic by afternoon.
Best Restaurants In Coral Gables
Enjoy Bucatini Carbona at Eating House, made with egg yolk, breadcrumbs, heritage bacon & black truffle Coral Gables is a picturesque city within Greater Miami & Miami Beach, is knows for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture and a thriving dining scene that draws both locals and visitors alike. You'll find everything from aesthetic cafes and dim sum haunts to classic steakhouses and MICHELIN-lauded restaurants.
What’s New & Coming in Fort Lauderdale
The beauty of an ever-growing destination like Greater Fort Lauderdale is that there are always new places to try, whether it’s your first visit or your 100th. Maybe it’s a smashburger joint with a devoted following, a new hotel dotting the skyline, or a restaurant devoted entirely to caviar, the luxury delicacy taking over menus everywhere.
Naples Botanical Garden | Conservation | Flamingo Magazine
Explore the 170-acre tropical oasis at Naples Botanical Garden. Photography courtesy of Naples Botanical Garden. Springtime in Southwest Florida means vibrant blooms, sunny skies and idyllic temperatures made for lingering outdoors. There’s no better place to soak in this time of year than at Naples Botanical Garden, a 170-acre tropical oasis celebrating its most colorful season yet.
A Park for Everyone: Inside the Reimagined Huizenga Park
Between shopping, riverfront dining, and downtown sightseeing, Huizenga Park is now a destination worth building into your itinerary when visiting Greater Fort Lauderdale. Just steps from Las Olas Boulevard and along the New River, the reimagined 3.6-acre park blends shaded green space, public art, and daily programming into one natural stop on a downtown day.
Valentine's Day Gift Guide 2026
We’ve rounded up Cupid-approved gifts for both him and her, including handcrafted persimmon golf clubs, luxurious skincare sets inspired by Roman bathing rituals, coastal chic mahjong tiles, handmade Colombian leather goods and more—all made in the Sunshine State. For more than 50 years, this family-owned Miami brand has crafted timeless leather goods-from phone cases to wallets to bags- using premium Columbian leather. Bams, cracks and dragons get a beachy 30A twist.
Creative Valentine's and Galentine's Day Ideas in Miami that Don't Involve a Restaurant
Cabaret nights, immersive experiences, and flower design classes beat a crowded restaurant any day. Sure, you could fight for a reservation at the hottest restaurant in town, but Valentine’s Day in Miami offers plenty of other ways to celebrate, whether you’re planning a date night on Feb. 14 or gathering the girls the day before for Galentine’s Day.
Best Mocktails and Where to Find Them in Greater Fort Lauderdale
With the new year comes a wave of wellness-focused resolutions and more mindful beverage choices, and Greater Fort Lauderdale emerges as an ideal destination for travelers seeking alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks. Whether you’re participating in Dry January, choosing to drink less or simply curious about zero-proof options, the area’s dining and bar scene proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste or experience.
New Wellness Spots in Miami: January 2026
One of the best parts of living (or visiting) Miami is that there’s always something new to explore. One month it’s reformer Pilates in a moody Little River studio, the next it’s infrared sculpting in Miami Beach or a seed-oil-free hot bar in Brickell. Right now, the city’s wellness scene is in full bloom—perfect for everyone setting their New Year’s intentions. From organic grocers to high-energy workout classes, these new openings are giving us every reason to refresh our routines.
2026 Must-Visit Events Coming To Greater Fort Lauderdale
Thanks to major festivals, destination-worthy experiences and award-winning dining, including Michelin-recognized restaurants, as well as beloved beaches and idyllic weather, it has never been a better time to book a trip to Greater Fort Lauderdale. Neighborhoods are buzzing with year-round events and headline-making debuts such as Barbie Dream Fest, making 2026 a compelling moment to experience what’s new or fall in love with the city for the first time.
Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival
Greater Fort Lauderdale’s food scene has earned Michelin stars and James Beard nominations, and this January, the area’s best restaurants and chefs will gather for a week of great food and drinks. The seventh annual Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival (VLFWF), running January 19-25, brings Food Network stars like Richard Blais, Nancy Fuller, and Eddie Jackson to the beach. You’ll find everything from small, collaborative dinners to a Grand Tasting with over 100 samples.
Coral Gables Just Got a Wellness Studio That's Worth the Hype
When’s the last time you took a pause? Not the kind where you hit “pause” on Netflix to grab your Uber Eats at the door. But a real pause that lets your body and mind reset. If your brain is getting a little fuzzy, even trying to remember, it’s time for some much-needed R&R. But before booking a deep-tissue massage, consider a new way to recover that calms the mind and body—and even challenges your comfort zone.
Greater Fort Lauderdale Holiday Events
‘Tis the season for holiday lights—and lots of them! During winter, Greater Fort Lauderdale bursts with epic displays, glowing wonderlands, boat parades, and historic homes decked out like Victorian Christmas cards. Whether you plan your trip around the biggest and brightest or simply want to experience festive fun between beach days, there’s plenty here for everyone. Here’s what’s happening this holiday season that you won’t want to miss.
Florida's Holiday Light Shows
by | November 26, 2025 This holiday season, we’ve scoured the state for sparkling drive-through wonderlands, 50-foot trees made entirely of sand and boat parades so dazzling they put your neighborhood’s roof decorations to shame. From the Panhandle to Miami, we’ve rounded up the state’s brightest traditions for full-on winter magic. Grab the hot cocoa, crank the carols and start planning your route. The Lightner Museum is lit up for St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights.
2025 Holiday Gift Guide
Tis the merriest, and busiest, time of the year! Between a calendar filled with jingling and mingling and a to-do list longer than Santa’s, sometimes it feels like you need a team of elves (or Flamingos) to get through the month. From small-batch treasures to one-of-a-kind finds crafted across and inspired by the Sunshine State, our homegrown holiday edit makes giving local the easiest gift of all—just add a bow.
What to Know About Endospheres, a Buzzy, New Lymphatic Treatment
I’m lying face up on a treatment table at Skin Club Miami in Coconut Grove when I first feel the silicone roller under my knee. The technician tells me she’s activating my lymph node before moving to my thigh. It’s not painful, more like a constant, deep pressure that borders on ticklish. If you’ve ever gotten a lymphatic drainage massage, you know the feeling. Except this therapy is said to be more effective because it feels like five sets of hands are working on you at once.
12 Restaurants Where Locals Go to Eat in and Around Tampa
Partner Content From This advertising content was produced in collaboration between Vox Creative and our advertiser, without involvement from Vox Media editorial staff. Image courtesy The Dough Show Discover the bites you should actually text your friends about Sep 12, 2025, 7:40 PM UTC Tampa’s food scene is a flavorful mix of tradition and creativity.
Virgin Voyages | Travel | Flamingo Magazine
by Melissa Puppo | July 14, 2025 Is A Virgin Voyages Cruise the Perfect Caribbean Escape? Rain poured down as I peered from my balcony aboard Virgin Voyages’s Scarlet Lady, watching the downpour blur Roatán, Honduras’ shoreline. My friend shot me a knowing glance, the same unspoken question hanging between us: abandon our zipline adventure or brave the storm? Getting drenched and cold didn’t exactly sound appealing, and what if they canceled the whole thing anyway?
Tips for Virgin Voyages
by Melissa Puppo | July 14, 2025 Tips for Smooth Sailing on Virgin Voyages Virgin Voyages’s latest vessel, Brilliant Lady, will hit the high seas beginning September 2025 and then head to Miami in October, officially kicking off the winter season in the Caribbean. This will be a great opportunity for Floridians to come aboard the newest ship in the fleet and discover the world’s No. 1 cruise line.
Local Legends: The Chefs Putting Greater Fort Lauderdale on the Culinary Map
Once known primarily for spring break revelry, Greater Fort Lauderdale has quietly evolved into a foodie destination, and a handful of talented chefs are to thank for that. The region now boasts James Beard Award nominees, Michelin-starred chefs, and innovative culinary artists who are redefining the South Florida dining scene. You can share a meal at the first-ever Michelin-star-awarded restaurant in Fort Lauderdale or savor inventive sea-to-table concepts that celebrate local ingredients.
Things To Do with Dad For Father’s Day in Greater Fort Lauderdale
Celebrate the father figure in your life with a day full of appreciation and some of his favorite activities. On Sunday, June 15, you’ll discover plenty of ways to celebrate Father's Day in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Sample some of the area’s best brews at top breweries, or get your game face on for a fun round of pickleball. No matter how you choose to spend the day, options abound for everyone under the sun. Check out some of the best things to do with Dad in Fort Lauderdale and beyond.
Coral Gables Magazine
By: Melissa Puppo Stefano Spacagna carefully applies each color vertically to allow for a blended transition between shades I’ve been coloring my hair for as long as I can remember, usually opting for traditional highlights or trendy balayage. I prefer low-maintenance upkeep, so when I learned that Spacagna Italian Hair Design on Miracle Mile offered Degradé, an exclusive coloring method rarely seen in South Florida, I had to experience it for myself.
Greater Fort Lauderdale Itinerary
Few things kick off summer quite like a long Memorial Day weekend in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Whether you're craving rooftop views and beachside cocktails, boat days and barbecue, or a little luxe mixed with laid-back vibes, this coastal paradise has plans with your name on them. Here’s how to spend the holiday weekend — the Lauderdale way. Kick off your three-day Memorial Day weekend by fueling up at one of the best fast-casual spots in downtown Flagler Village: Mitch’s Downtown Bagel Cafe.
Bohemian Rhapsody
By Kate Bernard & Melissa Puppo True Bohemian style isn’t about looking undone but rather effortlessly chic. This season’s boho luxe trend embodies precisely that tension point, where free-spirited fashion meets meticulous craftsmanship. Think less pattern-heavy, anything-goes aesthetic of the early 2000s and more sophisticated details with earthy neutrals, flowy fabrics, and natural elements like fringe. If your wardrobe’s been craving this reinvigorated energy, this BHS Edit was made for you.
Get Key-zee With These Three Guides to the Florida Keys
by Melissa Puppo | March 3, 2025 Get Key-zee With These Three Guides to the Florida Keys The Florida Keys have long promised a blend of fiery sunsets, legendary lore and mysterious habitats. When I arrived at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, a secluded retreat off Little Torch Key, I was searching for something I couldn’t quite define. With only 30 thatched-roof bungalow suites, the resort felt worlds away from my Miami base, offering a rare calm.
Where to Drink at Lunch
Sometimes the best part of lunch isn’t the plate—it’s what’s in the glass. Whether you’re sneaking away for an hour or settling in for the long haul, these Miami spots know how to do midday right. If your idea of a perfect afternoon involves great wine and pizza, Bar Bucce is the ultimate destination. This is more than a place to eat—it’s a place to be. The vibe is industrial-chic and the beverage program will make you want to hang out all day.
The Best Miami Restaurants for Birthdays
In Miami, birthdays are a sport. The city is packed with flashy dining rooms, but not all of them deliver food, service, and atmosphere worthy of a once-a-year celebration. From high-glam people-watching to intimate omakase counters, these are the Miami restaurants that understand one thing clearly: your birthday deserves more than mid. If your birthday wish list involves designer shopping bags and prime people-watching, look no further than Carpaccio.
The Best Miami Spots for a Work-From-Home Break
Working from home doesn’t mean staying home all day. These restaurants are ideal for WFH breaks, whether you’ve got time for a full lunch or just enough for coffee and a quick bite. If your work-from-home break needs air, space, and perspective, Bayshore Club delivers. Expect casual coastal food, marina views, and a breeze that reminds you why Miami is home. One visit and your “quick lunch” becomes a mental vacation.
Eat, Stay & Play Like a Pro During Miami Art Week
by Melissa Puppo | November 29, 2024 Eat, Stay & Play Like a Pro During Miami Art Week Ah, Miami Art Week—the time when the 305’s vibrant streets transform into the ultimate hub for all things creative. From the avant-garde to the globally renowned, this spectacle brings together art lovers, collectors and the see-and-be-seen crowd, transforming Miami into the ultimate destination for artistic works Dec. 3–8.
Baked to Perfection: The Cookie Monsters of Florida - Flamingo Magazine
by Melissa Puppo | October 22, 2024 Baked to Perfection: The Cookie Monsters of Florida There’s something undeniably comforting about a fresh, warm cookie. No matter your age, it’s a bite of nostalgia. Whether you grew up baking them with loved ones or snuck pieces of raw cookie dough when no one was looking, cookies have always been a treat.
Fall for Tallahassee: Football, Food and Fun in Florida’s Capital - Flamingo Magazine
Fall for Tallahassee: Football, Food and Fun in Florida’s Capital Few things capture the spirit of Tallahassee quite like football season. Yet, this dynamic city offers much more than game-day thrills. As the largest city in Florida’s Big Bend and Panhandle regions, Tallahassee beckons you to explore its signature canopy roads, lined with oak trees, scenic trails ideal for hiking and biking and a vibrant Southern culinary scene.
Florida's Padel Fever - Flamingo Magazine
Florida’s Padel Fever Every corner in Miami seems to be sprouting one of two things these days—a sleek, new luxury highrise or a shiny padel court. And if you’re lucky, your apartment complex might even offer the latter as part of its trendy, new amenities. For the uninitiated, padel is a fun, dynamic racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It was invented in Mexico in the ’60s and is played on a smaller, enclosed court using a deflated tennis ball.
7 Best Haunted Houses in Miami for a Spine Tingling Halloween
This huge scare park—one of the biggest in South Florida—has been spooking local souls since 2000. Journey through four new haunted encounters that will leave you questioning your decision to step inside. In addition to the sprawling Haunted Midway where you can enjoy unlimited rides, this year, you'll also find a Toxic Apocalypse paintball experience and more surprises. Tickets cost $39 or $20 for children under six. When is it? Tuesday to Sunday, September 26 to October 31 Where is it?
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Date Night Ideas in Greater Fort Lauderdale
Ready to turn your next night out into an unforgettable adventure? Greater Fort Lauderdale is brimming with date-night possibilities that promise romance, excitement, and a touch of local flair. Whatever your interests, the region offers a captivating mix of experiences for everyone under the sun. From must-see comedy shows to sizzling culinary experiences and everything in between, we’ve rounded up the area’s best to make your date night truly special.
The Best New Restaurants in Miami [September 2024]
September in the city means just one more month of dine-out deals with Miami Spice, so make sure you find time to eat around town while enjoying unbeatable prices. Whether you’re revisiting our past roundups or exploring this month’s hottest picks, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up five must-try locales, from a classic Miami steakhouse to a fast-casual Brazilian eatery.
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The Best New Restaurants in Miami [August 2024]
It’s officially August, which means Miami Spice has arrived! Dive into the deals now through September by booking a reservation at some of the city’s hottest spots, including our new, fabulous August restaurant picks. We’ve rounded up five must-try locales, from a New York transplant heating up in the 305 to a beloved sushi restaurant making its brick-and-mortar debut. Happy eating! New York City chic meets Italian charm inside Brickell’s newest Italian hotspot, Felice, hailing from the Big Apple.
7 Plating Tricks To Elevate Your Dinner Party
You must be signed in as a member to print this content These easy hacks give any dish a restaurant-quality presentation your guests will remember. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner party with close friends or a grand feast for a crowd, one thing’s for sure: the food is everything. As Giada always says, you eat with your eyes first, so why not make your dishes look just as divine as they taste?
The Best New Restaurants in Miami [July 2024] | Dish Miami
As Miami continues heating up this month, so does its vibrant culinary scene, with many exciting new restaurants to explore. From the design-forward Elastika in the Miami Design District to the authentic Ecuadorian flavors at La Pata Gorda in Coral Gables, there is plenty of delicious to go around. Here are five new restaurants worth checking out in July. Uncover the best new restaurants, neighborhood eats, and exclusive specials the city has to offer.
Scoop Heaven: Discover the Best Ice Cream Shops in Greater Fort Lauderdale
Greater Fort Lauderdale offers many ways to stay cool during the summer months. Enjoy a resort pool or ocean swim, or indulge in an ice-cold treat. Fortunately, plenty of ice cream parlors in Greater Fort Lauderdale serve refreshing delights to cool you off quickly. With National Ice Cream Day right around the corner on July 21, we’ve created a definitive guide to some of the area’s must-visit hotspots.
New Social Wellness Club Brings Locals Together Over Cold Plunges and Coffee
It's an overcast Saturday morning in June, and Miami's usual sunshine is nowhere to be seen. Rain drizzles on and off as I head to Joia Beach, the swanky hot spot overlooking Biscayne Bay adjacent to Jungle Island. While most guests will arrive later for the Sunday brunch vibes, 500 locals, including myself, are here to cool off — but not from the heat.
5 Sites History Buffs Must See in Sicily
You must be signed in to print this content These archeological wonders let you experience the island’s long and fascinating history for yourself. Sicily has been one of the Mediterranean’s most coveted treasures for nearly 3,000 years. Its strategic location off the toe of Italy’s boot, fertile volcanic soil enriched by Mount Etna—Europe's most active volcano—and abundant natural resources have attracted many civilizations over the centuries, making it a hot commodity in the ancient world.
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