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Among culture insiders, Art Basel Miami Beach (December 2-7, 2008) is known as the younger, sexier sister to Art Basel, the venerable fair that has drawn the art cognoscenti to Switzerland for almost four decades. But the stateside version, now in its seventh year in Miami, is by no means less of an extravaganza—or easier to navigate, especially for first-time visitors. There are 240 galleries presented, seventeen satellites setting up around the city and important shows at all the major museums (this year’s most anticipated exhibits include Belgian filmmaker Chantal Ackerman at the Miami Art Museum and Albanian artist Anri Sala at the Museum of Contemporary Art).

Prioritizing when to see what and where is key to having an enjoyable art-filled week in Miami Beach, confirms Muriel Quancard-Johnson, the energetic founder of Opus, a travel company focused on contemporary art, design and architecture, who is taking a small group to the fair this year. “Attending Art Basel Miami Beach offers visitors an adventure unlike any other and provides an incredible opportunity to make contacts within the art world,” says the French-born, New York-based Quancard-Johnson. During the exclusive six-day trip, travelers will have a chance to explore the fair led by art experts, as well as have access to special events like the opening night reception. They will also be able to visit various private collections and galleries, and enjoy dinner and cocktails with artists and curators. The Opus group will be based at the recently remodeled Angler’s Boutique Resort, in the heart of Miami’s Art Deco district. The trip is limited to ten people. $5,500 (single occupancy) or $7,500 (double occupancy), including accommodation, lunch and dinner, transportation in Miami, guest curators and artist’s fees as well as all entrance fees to cultural activities.