Miami is the type of place you can arrive to with loads of cash and plastic and leave with more clothes, shoes and accessories than you ever dreamed possible.
Shopping malls and plazas are at nearly every intersection, beckoning you to come in and have a look around. You'll find a sale at every strip mall and a bargain bin or clearance rack in nearly every store.
But nestled away in a strip mall not far from the excessively busy Falls Shopping Center lies one of Miami's most interesting shops. It's not a luxury boutique filled with haute couture, and it's not a run-of-the-mill chain store. Instead, Five Sisters offers their customers a relaxing shopping environment and a place to go and find items that will enrich their spiritual lives.
Five Sisters provides an eclectic shopping experience for those looking for a little spiritual enlightenment — Photo courtesy of Priscilla Blossom
If you're lucky enough to have heard about this gem, it was likely through word of mouth. Its location makes it easy to miss, even though it's a short walk from one of the busiest streets in town (US-1). The signage outside is practically nonexistent. But while this dissuades the crowds, maybe it's also what makes coming here such a special treat.
Stepping inside, you'll be greeted by one of the kind, smiling shopkeepers, who will be more than happy to show you around. The store itself isn't big, but it helps to have a guide, making the experience even more special.
You'll find an endless array of spiritual and metaphysical reading material on the shelves at Five Sisters — Photo courtesy of Five Sisters
In the air, the scent of light incense or oils will instantly put you at ease, as will the low emanating music, the kind of thing you might hear at the end of an invigorating yoga session.
Take note: This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path experience. You won't find Chanel or Nike here.
Instead, you'll find some great boho chic threads; books on meditation, Buddhism, witchcraft and angels; a pack of fun tarot cards; Tibetan singing bowls, colorful tapestries for your bedroom; and plenty of beautiful, handcrafted jewelry for every taste.
Gifts for loved ones abound in the form of trinkets, journals, CDs, charms and even services.
Handcrafted jewelry like this abounds at this unique shop — Photo courtesy of Five Sisters
Yes, that's right. Five Sisters isn't just an eclectic shop but also a center for healing and divination, a sanctuary for wellbeing. Yoga classes are offered three times a week for just $10, or you can pay $60 for an all-month pass.
Reiki, Prana and other healing services are available, as well as various types of tarot and chart readings, performed by local psychics, clairvoyants and mediums. Check out their events calendar for even more services, workshops and more.
The next time you're in search of a special, unique gift or want to spend some time browsing through items you're sure not to find at the local Wal-Mart, head to the quiet strip mall that holds one of Miami's most treasured, spiritually divine secrets.
