Unlike clothing, which can be swapped with changing trends and seasons, a tattoo is emblazoned on its wearer for life. Though it might not be for all of us, it is hard not to appreciate the commitment a body art fan has — be it a full-color sleeve or just a hint of ink, and even more so in a city where skin is front and center, all year long. Miami loves its ink: We happen to be the most tattooed city in the US, with a staggering 24 parlors per 100,000 people. That means there's a lot of options...and a lot of duds to sift through when looking for that perfect piece.

So in order to get the low-down on Who's Who of Miami Ink, we went, well, straight to Mr. Miami Ink himself, Ami James. Not only did he garner Miami heaps of national attention, but his show was so popular, it inspired two spin-offs, one following James to New York. A session at his Love Hate Studio is one of the most sought-after appointments, not only in the city, but in the U.S. of A.. So lucky for us, Ami James handpicked his five favorite South Florida artists and explained why he loved each of his choices, and also gave us crucial tips meant for the tattoo-curious.

Check out to see who made Ami James' Tattoo Artists To Know list, plus find out the surprising lesson we learned about Miami tattooing.

Photo: Courtesy of Ami James

Hey there, lovebirds! If the season’s got you in a tizzy, we’re right there with you. Nothing says springtime like stepping out with a new crush, old flame, or man of the moment. Yet, sometimes your wallet doesn’t want to cooperate with you romantic enthusiasm. After all, there are swimsuits to buy, pedis to get – and the sandals, you guys. The sandals. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take your man out on the town. This city is full of date-y activities that’ll cost you next to nothing. If you're looking to dance your booty off or set up in a quiet corner to get close and talk, we’ve got loads of ideas for you. Whether you want a cheap spot for a perfect date, or a perfect date at a cheap spot (hey, whatever works!), here are some steamy and savvy nights out.



BYOB At SoundScape Cinema Series

Miami is full of open-air movie venues, but at this one you can actually hear the film AND see it properly. Take advantage of the mild spring evenings and pack a picnic for the SoundScape Cinema Series. This season features such classics as Vertigo, From Russia with Love, and Mrs. Doubtfire. All this comes gratis, thanks to our fair city’s parks department. Come an hour early to secure a good spot and enjoy a leisurely dinner (who can concentrate on food when Mrs. Doubtfire is on, anyway?) As the sun fades, the film begins and sounds of the city fall away. Then it’s just you, your sweetie, and the stars. And Robin Williams in a dress. Sigh.

Soundscape Cinema Series, Miami Beach SoundScape ExoStage, Corner of 17th Street and Washington Avenue.

Photo: Courtesy SoundScape

We’ll admit it— this city has an overwhelming amount of health nuts. If you’re taking a spontaneous trip down to Biscayne for sunrise, you are going to see a surprising amount of locals sweating it out during gruesome morning hours. I mean, there’s free yoga three times a week at Bayfront, and it’s always packed. Clearly, the Magic City has its fitness fix. And don’t get us started on Zumba classes. Or do.

Of course, when it comes to gyms around here, you couldn’t have more options. One that particularly stands out — with its raved-about group classes and motivating instructors (not to mention super cute workout wear boutique) — is Body & Soul. The recently renovated large warehouse space and swanky ambience makes Body & Soul the quintessential Miami gym—and they’re inviting you out to celebrate their relaunch of the new space this Tuesday night during an all-out soiree complete with DJs, big surprises, and Pharrell (see? Even gym launches have parties around here). If you can’t make it to rage right, well you’re sweat outta luck. Just kidding. Their class schedule is up on their website, so do yourself a favor and check out their killer YogathletA , Zumba or spinning classes to get you in shape for the summer. Just RSVP to RSVP@bodyandsoulmiami.com to take part!

When: Tuesday, April 17, 7:00 to 11:00 p.m.
Where: Body & Soul, 3183 Southwest 38th Court (at Southwest 40th Street); 305-441-2348.

Photo: Courtesy Body & Soul

We're settling into 2012 quite nicely, but it's obvious that here at R29, we can't help but daydream about our next getaway. While most of us aren't flying to Rio for Carnival (we used those precious vacation days for New Year's, ugh), that doesn't mean we're not already sweating Summer Fridays. But hey, the next long weekend (and last one for a while) will be here before you know it, and oh-so-coincidentally, Miami has some brand-new hotels that might make even Brazilians jealous. So, we've gathered up five properties that are worthy of your three-day weekend, whether you're planning a staycation or jetting down from up north. From a posh resort complete with butler service to a hip Ocean Drive aquarium pool (!), these haute hostelries are a guaranteed hold-over 'til your next big break. And, of course, we scored all the insider 411 on each. The best room with a view? Check. The meal that can't be missed? Duh. Just call us your personal concierge.

Flares are hot! We love our skinny jeans but we're thinking of grabbing a new silhouette at Thursday's Denim After Dark event (Madewell)

Only three cities in the world host map fairs. They are London, Paris, and Miami. Find your way to the Miami International Map Fair this weekend (History Miami)

Anyone in the market for a carousel, classic car, or giant toy soldier? This auction is for you (Huffington Post Miami)

We love looking up at the sky and seeing all those stars. Oh wait, where did they go? This documentary sheds light on the disappearing darkness. (O Cinema)

There'll soon be a new art gallery for you to visit. (Beached Miami)

Hi Miami! I'm so excited to introduce myself and get to know you, too! So, read on for a few fun facts about me—and please feel free to drop me some comments below and tell me all about yourself. Also, please fill me in on what Refinery29 Miami (that's you) readers would love to see on the site.

When it comes to wedding planning, maybe you're more Runaway Bride than Father of the Bride? We feel you. But that doesn't mean you have to go through a torturous process of tastings and waiting, when all you want to do is get hitched. What you need is a quickie wedding — something you can plan in, um, under a month and doesn't feel anything like Vegas. To hook you up, we've found the most gorgeous venues that might have some available spots for your spontaneous nuptials. From luscious gardens to a downtown rooftop, our gallery of the best quickie wedding spots in Miami has a definite vow factor.

If you dreamt of being a ballerina as a child raise your hand. Yep, guilty over here, too. Well, we found someone who actually kept the dream going: Miami City Ballet’s principal dancer Jennifer Kronenberg. And get this, she’s even the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker ! Amazing, right?

While the rest of us are joyfully eating cookies and pie, Kronenberg is working to stay disciplined to make sure she’s in top shape for her performances taking place everywhere from Miami, Broward, and Naples. We figured who better to ask for willpower tips than the eleven-year fairy veteran. You’ll be surprise; it’s not too hard!

What tips do you have for eating better during this time of year?
“Don't change your regular eating habits too much during the holiday season. The holidays are full of all of these awesome foods we all love and there are more sweets around, but always remember: everything in moderation. Instead of eating 10 cookies, just have one. And don't go for 10 plates of dinner. You wouldn't have more than one plate during the rest of the year, so don't do it during the season. Fill your plate with more proteins than carbs. And exercise!”

What's your advice on working out during the holidays?
“There are a lot of adult classes out there. Here, at Miami City Ballet, we have ballet and jazz. I think the best thing to do is to mix it up, stretching, cardio, and strength training. That's the best workout, and dancing has all those elements.”

When you're not dancing, how do you work out?
“I really like kettle ball training. It keeps me going. That and yoga and Pilates.”

We know you have great willpower and discipline but what can you not resist?
“On a daily basis? Ice cream. During the holidays? Sweet potato casserole and pecan pie. That's when I have to remind myself to just have one piece.”

Where do you go out to eat?
“I love sushi, Thai, and Italian food. I love Moon Thai in Coral Gables.”

So many little girls dream of being a ballerina. You've succeeded in attaining your dream. What advice do you have for others out there on dreams and goals?
“Especially around NYE when people are making their New Year's resolutions, my advice is to either write down your goals and put them somewhere you can see them everyday or say them out loud repeatedly every day. If you keep reminding yourself of what that goal is or what that dream is, you're so much more likely to achieve it. Anything is attainable. If it's something you really want I don't see any reason why you can't go out and make it happen. But sometimes we get sidetracked. When you forget what your actual goals and dreams are, it's really easy to not make it there because you get distracted doing something else. So be aware of your dreams all the time.”

Photo: Courtesy of Miami City Ballet.

Lights! Camera! Action! Wynwood steps into the spotlight in a new mini-documentary called Here Comes the Neighborhood, produced by Tony Goldman. (Open Media Miami)

Wish you could have a private island? Dream up $12-million first. A little piece of paradise located just off of Marathon is up for sale. (Huffington Post)

Last Saturday’s Missoni fashion show was one hot ticket. Local writer Annie Vazquez posted six looks that put our Target-bought duds to shame. (The Fashion Poet)

Hot for teacher? Ricky Martin's taking a guest turn on Glee, apparently. The Puerto Rican papi will appear on the Fox shoe next year, alongside Gloria Estefan . (Miami New Times)

After a $7-million facelift, The Rusty Pelican reopens next Monday, complete with a modern look and a new menu that is, thankfully, a lot more exciting then the previous one. (Eater)