My Journey to Miami: How Passion Turned into a Business

The First Time in Miami: Just an Ordinary Vacation That Changed Everything

My first trip to Miami was almost 15 years ago. It was a typical vacation with a friend: staying in South Beach, a day trip to the Everglades, a visit to Key West. There was little of the real Miami I now show my clients and yet, the city fascinated me from the very first moment.

I still can’t say exactly what it was. Maybe the light. Maybe the mix of languages, people, and music. Or simply this feeling that anything is possible here.

What I didn’t know back then: that trip would change a lot.

If you want to know why, keep reading to learn how my journey to Miami began.

2017: The Year My Miami Journey Truly Began

A few years later, my master’s studies in social work and education led me back to Miami. This time, not as a tourist, but for a six-month internship. Together with a fellow student, I worked in a shelter for homeless men, right in a neighborhood far from the typical “postcard Miami.”

That time was intense, sometimes sad, often challenging, but incredibly rewarding.

We learned about the American social system, listened to countless life stories, had honest conversations, and received so much gratitude in return. I realized how much can be changed through empathy and small gestures.

From a Scooter Accident to a Reality Check

We lived in a small studio apartment in North Miami Beach, and since public transportation isn’t the most reliable option there, we decided to buy a scooter.

After just one month, it happened: a driver didn’t see us and hit us. Fortunately, we only suffered scrapes and bruises. But what happened next, I’ll never forget: the man got out of his car, saw us lying on the ground and simply walked away. No help. No concern.

For the first time, I experienced how differently justice and humanity can work here. It was a harsh reality check and still, I wanted to stay.

Between Social Work, Sunshine, and Salsa

Despite the difficult moments, that period was filled with joy and energy. Days were dedicated to helping people; evenings were all about music, dance, and new friendships. I discovered a Miami that was raw, real, and full of life.

At some point, I started writing my now-famous “Miami List”. A collection of my favorite places, restaurants, parks, cafés, and activities, neatly color-coded and sorted by neighborhood. What began as a personal list quickly became my passion project.

Friends asked me to share it. I never did. Instead, I began creating personalized travel itineraries, tailored to each person’s wishes and interests. At first, just for fun. Later, with the thought: Maybe there’s something more here.

Turning Passion into a Dream

The idea of sharing my love for Miami never left me. I kept coming back to the places I loved, to the people, to the music.

At some point, I realized: Miami is my happy place.

The city embodies everything that defines me: my Latin American roots, my love for music, the warm climate, the diversity, and that unique vibe between sunshine, chaos, and Caribbean beats.

After completing my master’s degree, I spent several years working in the social field, supporting women and migrants in German, English, and Spanish. I guided people through crises, helped them build new perspectives, and learned how essential empathy, organization, and trust are.

These are the very same qualities I rely on every day in my own business.

Still, the desire remained: to combine my professional experience with my passion for Miami and to help others experience the city as authentically as I’ve come to know it.

Taking the Leap

In the spring of 2024, I made a decision: I quit my job.

I enrolled in entrepreneurship courses, attended business coaching sessions, joined networking events, and spent months developing my concept.

Between colorful notes, inspiring conversations, and long evenings filled with ideas, my passion project slowly took shape: Miami Travel Dream.

On December 2nd, 2024, it officially became reality. A moment I look back on with pride and gratitude.

Looking back, I’ve learned that courage doesn’t mean being unafraid. It means taking action despite fear. And that mindset - that just do it, think big, try something new attitude - is exactly what makes Miami so special to me.

Why Miami?

For me, Miami is more than just a travel destination. It’s a feeling.

A place where cultures, languages, and stories come together.

Where you sip Cuban coffee in the morning, stroll through the botanical gardens at noon, and dance barefoot on the beach at night.

With Miami Travel Dream, I want to show travelers that Miami is so much more than sun, sand, and skyline.

I help people discover the city with heart, through personalized itineraries, authentic recommendations, and true insider tips.

Because once you’ve felt that special Miami vibe, you understand: Miami isn’t just a place you visit. It’s a place that stays with you.

Conclusion: From Passion to Purpose

What began as a six-month internship turned into a lifelong connection and eventually, my own business.

I truly believe everyone has that one place in the world that feels like coming home.

For me, that place is Miami.

With Miami Travel Dream, I share a piece of that feeling for everyone who wants to experience the real, vibrant Miami. 🌞