Miami ~ The Gateway to Latin America

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated March 15, 2023 tourism Cultural Experience
by Jon Miksis
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Miami has a reputation for being a glamorous vacation hotspot – thanks to its rowdy nightlife, trendy beach scene, and bustling cruise port. It’s a tropical oasis and cultural center at the same time, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the US. Miami also serves as the gateway to Latin America.

Whether you’re a college student on spring break, or an adult seeking a tropical getaway, Miami has an assortment of entertainment options that will leave you in awe.

Miami is truly the gateway to Latin America
Miami, Florida is the gateway to Latin America.
Miami is an exotic beach destination and bustling city
Miami’s beaches are among the best in the US.

Aside from its party and beach atmosphere, Miami also offers a riveting cultural experience. Over 70% of Miami’s population speaks Spanish, making it one of the most Hispanic cities in the United States.

Miami has traditionally boasted the largest Cuban-American population. However, in recent years, there has been a sharp rise in residents from countries like the Dominican Republic and Mexico. As such, Miami has seen a considerable shift in its cultural dynamic that has undoubtedly shaped the cityscape.

Latin American influence is visible everywhere in Miami – in its architecture, food, music, and people – making Miami the U.S. gateway to Latin America.

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Latin American influence

During my trip to Miami, I experienced the city’s Hispanic heritage firsthand. Upon arriving at the airport, the first phrases uttered around me were in Spanish. As we left the airport, the Uber driver greeted us with “hola”. As someone who spent nearly 6 months of my life in Spain, it was an exciting opportunity to practice my español in a place much closer to home.

In most of my interactions outside the touristy parts of the city, Spanish was ostensibly the lingua franca. After experiencing the Latin American influence, cultural identity, and lifestyle throughout the city, it became clear to me that Miami is much different than anywhere else in the U.S.

Miami’s Hispanic heritage is strikingly visible in neighborhoods such as Española Way and Little Havana. When taking a stroll down these streets, the vibrant Hispanic community is on full display—showcasing colorful art galleries, authentic restaurants, and Cuban cigar shops, all while Latin music resonates in the background. If you close your eyes for a moment, you may mistake the charming ambiance for Santo Domingo or Havana. ¡Que chévere!

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Miami also has a fervent nightlife
Española Way is one of my favorite spots in Miami.

Miami: a city transformed

Through my interactions with local residents, I learned that Miami’s cityscape has drastically transformed over the past several decades. Ocean Drive, the focal point of Miami’s tourism and nightlife, has been fully restored to its original art deco façade.

However, according to some locals I met, the surrounding neighborhoods have undergone the most extraordinary changes. One man went so far as to say that Miami has been given a “face-lift” since he was a kid, noting that not all changes have been positive.

With real-estate and food prices at all-time highs, I can understand the pros and cons of this influx of tourism. It’s truly one of the top east coast destinations in the US.

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Ocean Drive is one of the top attractions in Miami

Having spent only four days in Miami, I didn’t even come close to experiencing all that I wanted to. There are plenty of sights and attractions that are on my list for next time, including the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, which were closed when I showed up on a Tuesday (*Note to self: always check Opening Hours beforehand!*).

Though Miami’s cityscape is endless while time is not, I was fortunate to enjoy a taste of Latin America in a city only a couple hours from home. For anyone wishing to experience Latin charm in the US, look no further than Miami – the gateway to Latin America! And also, one of the top destinations in all of Southern Florida!

Read Next: Where to stay in Florida!

Read Next: Coolest Stays in the Florida Keys

For Further Reading: Best Hidden Gems in Florida

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Further reading

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2 comments

Anna March 4, 2018 - 22:25

Miami is such a unique and fun place and I love your description of it and your pictures! When I moved to Miami from Europe, I thought I was moving to the US… Little did I know that Miami was so much more than that.

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Joanne March 4, 2018 - 17:19

Great write up on Miami – one of my favorite cities. I love biking along the beachwalk – it goes on for miles and miles. The art deco buildings are beautiful – each one so unique with it’s style and colors. Makes me want to return.

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