Building your appetite...

Miami's mainly warm, sunny days are perfect for enjoying a variety of activities that are sure to get your blood pumping and build up an appetite to better enjoy all that South Florida cuisine. Whether your preference is on land or on the water, fun options abound.

South Beach is lined with a 25-block boardwalk, that starts at 21st Street and stretches to the bottom of Ocean Drive. Stroll, power walk, blade or bike along the paved path which is flanked by the ocean on one side and cafes on the other. Beachgoers can take a dip, join in an impromptu volleyball game, or sip an icy drink at a cafe across the street while watching the beach scene.

For those who'd prefer to check out the art deco architecture as they amble, the Miami Design Preservation League offers walking tours through South Beach. Self-guided audio tours cost $10 and are available from the Art Deco Welcome Center (1001 Ocean Dr., 305-672-2014) seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guided tours leave the center every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday at 10 a.m. and cost $15.

If you'd rather explore on two wheels, there are scores of bike shops offering rentals by the hour or the day. Miami Beach Bicycle Center (601 5th Street, 305-674-0150) offers free 2-hour tours of the Art Deco District on the second Saturday of every month. The tours depart at 10 a.m. from the bike center and rentals cost $10 for the two hours.

But one of the best, and most unique, ways to see Miami is from its waterways. Urban Trails Kayak Company (305-947-1302) has two North Miami Beach locations and offers half and full-day expeditions in the Everglades and Oleta State Recreation area, starting at $35. Or just rent a kayak ($8/hr or $25 for a full day) and paddle your way through mangroves and past the homes of Miami's rich and famous. You can visit their website at: www.urbantrails.com.

Some thoughts on tanning...

Avoiding excess sun exposure is the best way to keep your skin smooth, supple and young looking. Suntans and the signs of skin aging...wrinkles, age spots...are actually signs of sun damaged skin. Need proof? Check out the areas of your skin that have not been exposed to the sun and compare them with sun exposed areas like the tops of your hands and your face. See the difference? Want to slow the damage? Cover up and don't tan!
(Source: The Canadian Dermatology Association, 1-800-267-DERM)