Searchin' the globe for great music!

Posts tagged “Art Deco”

South Beach

**South Beach (Florida) http://www.visitsouthbeachonline.com/history.htm is a horse of many colors! Talk about a triple head-on cultural collision between Hispanic/Cuban/Puerto Ricans, flashy African-American/Jamaican/mixed baggers showing off their pimped out rides, and the smattering of a Caucasion minority. On one side of the bustling street, Ocean Ave. is the never-ending sandy beach with the most beautiful turquoise blue water. On the other, are the ‘beachinest’ Art Deco buildings, each one dating back to the 1930s, standing proudly and beautifully, side by side along this busy avenue. The stories these hotels/resataurants could tell us about the early days of Hollywood movie stars, crooners, musicians, and politicians could tell would be priceless! To think that these buildings have stood the test of time and, thank goodness, were not sacrificed in the name modernization!

 South Beach is in constant activity, with every sidewalk café and bar overflowing with happy, partying people. Music is pumped out over speakers at every venue, with some providing live music and dancing. Mango’s is my personal favorite because of the entertainment provided by the staff. Mango’s features one of the longest running “Cabaret” shows in the country, with a cast filled with beautiful and talented women and men from all over the world ! Every 20-30 minutes or so, a different staff member takes his/her turn dancing on a bar designated for this specific purpose. There are also various shows (Michael Jackson, Conga, Salsa, Belly Dancing, etc,) that are highly entertaining and energetic. The ‘stage’ is conveniently located just inside the front door, providing the patrons with a show, as well as cleverly advertising this fun-filled place to those on the street. Lights, action, and loads of fun abound from the walls of this high-energy, happening club.

Another hot spot, on the corner of Ocean and 8th Street, with the very catchy name of ‘Wet Willie’s’ is a two story hang out with positivity overflowing from the rafters and beams. Willie’s specializes in delicious frozen daiquiris of a multitude of creative and exotic flavors. It’s hard to walk past this place (location, location, location!) and not want to join the party!

Miles of white sandy beach, stunning aqua blue water, warm, tropical weather, and people from all over the world make this place a happening hot spot. South Beach is the place to see and be seen when in the Miami area of Florida, as it draws in the rich, famous and trendy. Nightlife abounds, but South Beach is also a historic district, a people-watching haven and a beach-lover’s dream. If ever you have a chance to visit, you’ll be glad you did.

Miami Beach

January 29, 2012 | Categories: Travels | Tags: , , , | Leave a comment