My Travels: Post #2: Deep South Florida Series: Little Havana, Calle 8. (Next Week, Post #3: South Beach.)

When you drive south from west Florida and cross the state from west to east by taking U.S 41 east, that road will become 8th Street, SW or “Calle Ocho” when you enter Miami, a state historic highway. Further south on that highway though, you will enter the charming Little Havana neighborhood.

Little Havana is nothing like your traditional neighborhood street. Is a multicultural population of Central and South American immigrants, however, with a large Cuban-American community. There are fruit stands, art galleries, bars, shops and of course the people who are super friendly. You see some old-folks wearing their “Guayaberas” (traditional Cuban shirt) with big cigars in hand, and finally, the restaurants, you’ve got to try THE FOOD. (Yes, if you are on a diet, avoid Little Havana:-).

However, you should skip the diet for a moment and just indulge for a day. Try the “Cuban Sandwich” or the “Media Noche” for lunch or the Roasted Pork, Congri, or fritters and don’t skip desserts; flaky pastries with Caribbean flavors like guava and of course, order an espresso to wash it down.

Another interesting thing to watch is the serious competitive matches happening at the Domino Club, a place where regulars; men and women, gather to play Domino. Domino is more than a table game, it’s an important cultural activity that the locals have kept alive indefinitely and therefore, will never die.

Cuban -American culture is alive all over Little Havana. Plan your next visit to Miami now and don’t forget to stop by Calle 8, you will love it.
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Next Week, Post #3: SOUTH BEACH