Miami, Florida has provided the back drop for many television series and movies for decades. The bustling city atmosphere coupled with ocean front cabanas is perfect for theatrical productions. Miami, with its rich historical and culturally diverse population is able to provide almost any environment needed to bring a great story to life in film.

Originally home to the Tequesta Indian Tribe the peninsula was claimed for the Spanish Empire by Pedro Menéndez de Avilés in 1566. One of the first structures built was a Mission on the north banks of the Miami River in 1567. This mission was abandoned shortly after completion from the never ending assault from the Natives and mosquitoes. Controlled by Spain for the next 250 years Florida was sold to the United States in 1821 for Five million dollars.

For decades the residents’ primary industry was “wrecking.” The dangerous coral reefs lured sailors to their deaths as they headed for shore. Collecting the spoils of these doomed vessels provided many with needed supplies and occasionally gold and silver. Treasure hunters still scour the ocean floor in the area hoping to strike it rich. Tourists can experience this through guided tours above and below the sea. Glass bottom boats, snorkeling and scuba diving excursions allow visitors to experience history in the making.

Sport fishing from a boat, the beach or a pier provides fisherman with a variety of choices. Casting their bait for deep sea fish like sailfins, yellow tail tuna, marlin, mackerel and more, private and group charters are available to fit any budget. Those guests who prefer to keep their feet on dry ground may find North Bayshore William Lehman Park on Northshore Boulevard more to their liking. With a boardwalk, complete with food vendors this public pier has a reputation of being one of the best in town.

The fascinating nightlife of Miami rivals some of the most frequented international hot spots. Reggae on the beach, Cirque de Ro Fridays where a key phrase gets you in for free are only two of the thousands of music and entertainment possibilities in Miami. Not to be left out many restaurants also offer specials, Some restaurants feature printable coupons while others provide phrases that will give patrons from 10 to 50% off the cost of their meal. Boardwalk café’s offer daily lunch specials while others like Zo’s of the Hook Sports features an all you can eat pasta night. Many hotels have vacation packages that include free meals for children and discounted rates for guests.

Providing fun filled activities is not a problem in Miami. Parrot Jungle Park was originally created as a sanctuary for the pet birds of Franz and Louise Scherr. It has grown to include animals rescued from roadside exhibits and abandoned exotics. This park offers a tree top ballroom that is available to host parties complete with full catering. Jungle Safari Everglades Park provides tours and educational programming inside the Everglades National Park. Gator Park offers airboat rides, gator wrestling and the chance to touch and hold one of the oldest reptiles on the planet.

History buffs will find many small historical sights in Miami. Well known locations in the Miami area include the Deering Estate built in the late 1800’s; the Ancient Spanish Monastery that is over 900 years old which is available for weddings and striking backgrounds for personal photography buff and the famous Coral Castle built by immigrant Ed Leedskalnin. It is said that Ed built this unique castle by hand without the use of heavy machinery or human helpers. If true the Coral Castle should be considered one of the few World Wonders.

Plan your next vacation in a location that offers the best of all worlds, Miami!

No related posts.