By Jane Kollmer, Director for Communications, University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center
Spending time in Miami this past July for the NACCDO-PAMN Annual Conference Planning meeting, my colleagues on the steering committee and I got a nice preview of what to expect from this fun, vibrant city that will be our host. I want to share my initial impressions from my brief visit.
Weather
Visiting Miami in July was hot, so time in the pool was much appreciated. It was not as fun to walk around in such warm, humid weather. However, the good news is May will be a lot more comfortable. But locals say it could be rainy, so it may be a good idea to pack an umbrella if you plan to venture out. The hotel air conditioning made it very comfortable inside, so I brought layers for our meetings.
Food
We had a wonderful meal at a restaurant called CVI.CHE that was in walking distance from the hotel. The food was Peruvian and so delicious—especially the ceviche. We all had a great time and the venue and service were excellent. Unfortunately, I didn’t get many opportunities to check out other dining spots, but I made sure to get an authentic Cuban meal from Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina on Calle Ocho in Little Havana.
Accommodations
The conference hotel is the InterContinental Miami. It was really nice. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. My particular room had a view of the marina, so I could watch boats. The lobby is a nice space to meet up with colleagues or wait for your ride. There is a Starbucks right off the lobby, but I suggest going out to get Cuban coffee at least once. Hotel staff were very friendly and accommodating. There is an outdoor pool, which is on the same level as the gym and spa.
Getting Around
Although the area around the hotel had some walking paths, it is probably better to take a cab/rideshare over to South Beach or one of the neighborhoods with stuff to do, like Wynwood, Brickell, Coconut Grove or Coral Gables. Getting to and from the airport was easy. The only thing that held us up one evening was traffic from a bridge that needed to be raised for a passing boat.
I may consider adding on a day or two before or after the conference to allow more time for exploring Miami, because I am sure I have only scratched the surface. Looking forward to seeing you all in Miami May 19-22, 2025!