Mountain Girl Meets Miami 305
Falling in love with Miami’s culture and energy.
Last month, I had the opportunity to visit Miami. Since I’m a mountain and lake person, I was initially ambivalent. I was not thinking about adventure or having an open mind. When I arrived, I found myself in a place full of unique food, soft sand, and sea breezes. We stayed at a nice hotel right on the crystal blue ocean, so I thought, “What’s not to like?”
I realized it’s the people in Miami who make it special.
Usually, when I hear people speaking nearby, like in a restaurant, I can tell if it’s Spanish, French, Russian, or German. In Miami, though, I heard languages I didn’t recognize at all. I found out why: More than 70% of people in Miami speak a language other than English at home, which makes sense given the city's Cuban, Haitian, South American, and Caribbean cultures.
The large Jewish community had Kosher beach clubs and even their own ambulance service, Hatzalah South Florida. I didn’t know about these parts of Orthodox Jewish life before, but they made sense. Just down the beach, there was a Russian and Turkish Bath, which I didn’t expect.
So, what’s the story with Miami 305?
305 is Miami’s original area code, and people use it to show their pride. If you have a 305 number, you’re considered cool. If you’re the rapper Pitbull, you’re even cooler because you’re Mr. 305. There’s even a 305 Day. To sum it up, Miami displays the rare beauty of contrast. Go see for yourself. I could have learned more, but that would have meant leaving my lounge chair. I was happy just watching the ocean and listening to the waves under my umbrella.
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