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’ve come to see that what really makes Miami special is its people.

When I overhear people talking in restaurants, I can usually tell if it’s Spanish, French, Russian, or German. But in Miami, I heard languages I couldn’t even identify. I was curious and found out that over 70% of Miami residents speak a language other than English at home. That makes sense, considering the city’s Cuban, Haitian, South American, and Caribbean roots. It has a multi-cultural pulse.

This also helped me understand the large Jewish community, with Kosher beach clubs and even its own ambulance service, Hatzalah South Florida. I hadn’t known about these aspects of Orthodox Jewish life before, but now they made sense. A little further down the beach, I was surprised to find a Russian and Turkish Bath.

But what’s the deal with Miami’s 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. See for yourself. I could have explored more, but I didn’t want to leave my lounge chair. I was content just watching the ocean and listening to the waves from under my umbrella.