With its sunny beaches, celebrity frequented condos like ICON South Beach and thriving nightlife, the appeal of Mimi and Miami Beach is easily understood.  Yet despite this appeal and its penchant for being a celebrity hangout and a frequent backdrop, Miami does not compare to Los Angeles.

And that’s a good thing.

Miami manages to offer the glitz and glam without succumbing to the pressure that celebrities feel when in Los Angeles.  There’s no paparazzi tracking a person’s every move or staked outside their home, whether that home is a waterfront residence or a unit at a building like the ICON condo.  A neighborhood like Star Island that is well known for its celebrity denizens remain undisturbed and even today the largely relaxed vibe has gained lots of favor.

Interestingly enough, this image that Miami has cultivated is at least partially due to the arrival of celebrities.   Gianni Versace and entertainer Madonna are two of many who managed to reinforce Miami Beach’s image as a sophisticated hangout, adding to the appeal of current hotspots like ICON Miami Beach and its neighbors yet to this day the city is well known for its climate and heavy emphasis on culture.  Miami may never become the apex of entertainment like Los Angeles but that’s okay, most of us prefer it that way.