Katstravel's travel blogs:
|
|
  | |  |
Miami, FL
Entry 10 of 11 | show all | print this entry |
Overview
 A destination of vast diversity, Miami's year-round warm weather attracts visitors from all over the world to its beautiful beaches, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Two million people call Miami home, but another 10 million come to visit every year.
The Spanish were first to arrive, and it is understandable that their influence should be felt first and foremost. Miami was colonized by the Spanish in the 1500�s, then used as collateral in negotiations with the English that ended the Seven Years War. Spain gained Havana back in exchange for Florida. In 1783, England traded Florida back to Spain for the Bahamas, and Spain ruled Florida as a colony until 1821, when Florida became a state.
Miami now is world famous for its beaches, 35 miles worth, from South Beach to Sunny Isles. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or just people watch, there are enough different beaches to suit your fancy.
But there is so much more to the city. A wide range of museums and parks can be found here. They add a refined sense of culture to the glitz and glamour of Miami's world-renowned nightlife.
Of course, if shopping is your main objective, Miami has more than enough shops and boutiques to suit your needs. That's without even mentioning the many upscale shopping malls and sidewalk stores that dot the map
What sets Miami apart from most other tourist destinations is the blend of people who call it home. Nowhere else in the world will you see so many people from so many different cultures. Large communities of Cubans and Haitians mix with retired "snowbirds" from New York and Canada.
It's hard to take in all that Miami has to offer in one day, but here are some of the highlights.
  top Arrival Information
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Miami, 1015 North America Way. Three million people traveling through this port each year make it the busiest in the world.
Local Transportation in Miami
Unless you plan on spending the day in Coconut Grove or South Beach, you will need more than your feet to get around. Metrorail trains travel north-south along a 21 mile route from downtown to the suburbs. Unfortunately, the rail doesn't go to many tourist destinations. Buses are available, but suffer from delay problems. Not the recommended way of getting around. If you have any intentions of seeing attractions in more than one part of the city, your best bet is to use taxis. Rates are $1.50 for the first 1/8 of a mile, and a quarter for each subsequent 1/8 of a mile. The biggest cab companies are Yellow (tel. 305/444-4444) and Metro (tel. 305/888-8888).
top Local Interests
Rarely is a tourist attraction defined as an entire area of a city, but The Art Deco District makes the grade. The District is part of South Beach and is generally bounded by Dade Blvd. to the north, 6th St. to the south, and Alton Road on the west (to the east is the Atlantic Ocean). An area once considered a disgrace to the city was rededicated as a historic landmark. It was then redecorated with bright pastels, and now this vibrant area stands as a monument to urban redevelopment. Visit the Art Deco Welcome Center, at 1001 Ocean Drive (tel. 305/531-3484) for a good start on what to see.
For a visit you won't soon forget, take a trip to the Holocaust Memorial, located at 1933-1945 Meridian Avenue (tel. 305/538-1663). Kenneth Treister's hauntingly beautiful museum centerpiece is a must see. It is open daily from 9am to 9pm.
A bizarre tourist experience awaits you at the Coral Castle, at 28655 S. Dixie (tel. 305/248-6344). The stone carved "castle" has a unique history that you have to see for yourself.
The Fairchild Tropical Garden, at 10901 Old Cutter Road (tel. 305/667-1651), is practically a rain forest. 83 acres of meadows, lakes, and tons of exotic plants and birds are on display here. The tram tour is highly recommended.
If you're a sports fan, chances are you'll be able to catch a professional team in action almost any day of the year. Baseballs Florida Marlins (tel. 305/626-7426) and football's Miami Dolphins (tel. 305/620-2578) play at Pro Player Stadium. The NBA's Miami Heat (tel. 305/577-HEAT) play home games at the waterfront American Airlines Arena. The NHL's Florida Panthers (tel. 954/835-7000) moved to a new arena north of the greater Miami area, but you still could make the trip if you have the time.
Where I stayed:
Azamara Journey
|
|
If you like this entry, search for other entries by katstravel, from Florida, United States or try a new search. |
| |
Back to Entry - Back to Home
|
