Miami's allure endures with its blend of keys, gators, and Latin cuisine, enticing tourists still.
Miami, Florida, is a city that proudly embraces its transformation over the past 40 years. Once a struggling city, it's now a hub for art, culture, and finance, with a diverse community that takes pride in calling it home.
Neighborhoods Reborn
One of the most drastic changes can be seen in Wynwood. Originally a working-class neighborhood with garment factories and retailers, Wynwood struggled with crime and drugs throughout the 80s. However, the arrival of artists seeking cheap rent and space in derelict warehouses, along with Tony Goldman's vision for Wynwood Walls, transformed the district. Today, Wynwood is home to the Bakehouse Art Complex, a non-profit incubator for new artists, and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Miami's art and nightlife scene.
Coconut Grove, Miami's oldest neighborhood, and Coral Gables, a planned community to the south of Downtown, have also seen changes. Yet, the charm of their leafy streets and street-side cafes remains untouched.
Little Havana's Fiery Heart
Little Havana truly stokes the fire of Miami's character. Originally a safe haven for Cuban exiles forced to flee their homeland, Little Havana now boasts restaurants, bars, and cafes offering an authentic taste of Cuba. Calle Ocho, the neighborhood's central street, is a lively hub of Cuban culture. Here, musician Juan Turros plays saxophone at Old's Havana, joining in with other musicians whenever the opportunity arises.
The Road to Paradise: Key West
Miami is just the beginning of South Florida's delights. Drive 160 miles along the Overseas Highway over 42 bridges, and you'll reach Key West. This slice of paradise is known for its welcoming and friendly vibe, effervescent LGBTQ community, and year-round sunshine. Key West's marine life, heavily protected and cared for by the locals, adds to its allure.
Ernest Hemingway's Haven
Key West is also renowned for the famous writers who called it home. Ernest Hemingway, the city's most celebrated resident, once lived in a home now turned Hemingway Home and Museum. Here, you can see the typewriter on which he wrote classic novels like "The Old Man and the Sea" and "A Farewell to Arms." But it's the 59 six-toed cats that steal the show, each named after a famous figure from Hemingway's life.
Everglades Adventure
No visit to South Florida is complete without an Everglades adventure. This largest subtropical wilderness in the United States is a place of natural beauty and abundant wildlife, including alligators, crocodiles, panthers, and manatees. Captain Robby Price, who knows the Everglades like the back of his hand, leads visitors through this unforgettable experience.
Beyond these highlights, Miami's transformation continues, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and preserving its unique character. Whether you're looking for art, culture, nature, or sunshine, Miami and South Florida have it all.
- The transformation of Wynwood has also included the establishment of eco-friendly travel options, promoting sustainable tourism within the city's ecosystem.
- In Miami's thriving bakery scene, Bakeries Factory stands out as a pioneer in organic, locally-sourced ingredients, contributing to the city's gastronomic revolution.
- During your visit to Key West, don't miss out on taking an Everglades ecosystem tour to learn about the delicate balance of this unique environment and the ongoing conservation efforts.
