Indulge in the cultural melting pot that is the Magic City

Known as the Magic City, Miami is a place as diverse as they come. A melting pot of different cultures and influences from across the globe, there is an enormous array of interesting sights and attractions on offer to tempt the traveller. Most notable, however, is the city’s Hispanic heritage, which stretches back over centuries.

Indeed, 1566 marked the arrival of the first Spaniard in Miami — Pedro Menendez de Aviles– who came searching for his missing son. He was followed there a year later by Father Francisco Villareal, who sought to build a Jesuit mission near the Miami River.

However, the Jesuits left soon after, leaving the Tequesta Indians in settlement. It then took nearly another 200 years before Spanish blood returned to Miami, when a mission travelled there with the purpose of building a fort and church.

During the 1700 and 1800s, a number of non-Spanish settlers also arrived in Miami, serving to bring with them an eclectic mix of other cultures and traditions, including people from the Bahamas and Britain. It wasn’t until the late 1950s and ‘60s, and Fidel Castro’s revolution, however, that Miami saw an influx of Hispanics relocating there.

In fact, around 155,000 Cubans escaped to the city, due to the fact it had such an extensive Cuban population. This has continued to grow over the years, so that today Hispanic and Latino residents account for approximately 80 percent of Miami’s total populace.

As a result, Miami’s cultural scene is a unique mixture of different international flavours, coming from such places as Spain and Cuba, as well as from other parts of the United States. And, the city even has its own newspapers and TV broadcasts in Spanish, in addition to numerous authentic restaurants and nightlife.

Visitors to Miami can therefore indulge in all things Latino, especially when it comes to the city’s nightlife. Indeed, there are a range of unique clubs and bars to visit, all with their own Hispanic twist. From traditional dancing and delicious foods to a colourful music scene, there is something for all tastes.

There are also a number of museums and exhibitions to experience, which offer up an amazing way to trace Miami’s rich cultural heritage. For example, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a great place to go to find out about local artists, whilst the Historical Museum of Southern Florida can prove a fascinating experience should you have an interest in learning more about the city’s history.

And considering the popularity of the cultural twist that Miami offers, it is good to know that there are a wide range of flights, as well as a plethora of Miami hotels available to help make your visit that little bit easier. Add this to the wide range of bars, restaurants and attractions, and you can be guaranteed to have a trip packed full of flavour and fun.

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.