Book excerpt: What Venice was to the world at the Renaissance period, so Miami is to the world today. An active melting pop of cultures, where Art Deco rivals with Spanish Baroque, where artists mingle with athletes, models and socialites, where South Americans and Eastern Europeans sit together for espressos on Ocean Drive. This book explores Miami Beach style, from the mythical Lincoln Road to the Art Basel Miami, one of the leading international art fairs. With an in-depth look at its historical past as well as its present-day glamour, In the Spirit of Miami Beach elegantly captures the city's vibrant personality and cultural jubilance. With a jubilant text by the noted author, entertainer, and bon vivant David Leddick, this rich volume brings one of the world's hottest destinations to colourful life. The book ends with a selective guide on all the hoels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, spas, which are to discover for a "stylish Miami". AUTHOR: David Leddick is the author of several novels as well as several highly regarded art photography books. His novels include My Worst Date, Never Eat in, The Sex Squad, The Handsomest Man in the World, and his art compilations include the Male Nude. Leddick was formerly worldwide creative director for L'Oreal and Revlon. He divides his time among homes in Miami Beach, Paris, and Montevideo. ILLUSTRATIONS 150 photographs