T
Joined: Apr 11, 2002
Posts: 39
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T
Smiley, I lived in Miami for three months last summer. Email me if you need more info on the following suggestions.
Fox's, on highway 1 in Coral Gables is an authentic, totally original, 50s lounge. Everything is as it was, including the menu (where else can you get a manhattan to go with your Hungry-man-style shishkabob?). Even some of the clientele look like they've patronized the place since the 50s.
The art-deco district in Miami Beach is a pleasant surprise. It's much bigger than I expected (occupies a considerable area) and the buildings are nice eye-candy as are the beach goers.
Fort Lauderdale has a great flea market called the Swap'n'Shop (aka the circus flea market). If you can get past the elephants that are sadly paraded around the parking lot in shackles, it's well worth a visit. I found tons of rare old Mai Kai junk there in only three visits. Now's the perfect time to visit too as the weather is not too hot. I think they are open 7 days. I also had very good luck at Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale thrifts, but no luck whatsoever in Miami thrifts (and I visited them all, believe me).
The old neighborhoods of Coral Gables are stunning and worth poking around if you have some time to kill. If visiting Fairchild (see below) drive south from Coconut Grove on Old Cutler Road. The banyan's, other landscaping, and the houses are all spectacular.
If you have a lambretta scooter, then you probably should visit Casa Lambretta, in Coral Gables.
If you like plants, you've got to check out the Fairchild Tropical Garden (www.ftg.org) in Coral Gables (South of Miami). Their web page can't convey the beauty of the Garden. Again, if you like tropical plants, you have to make some time to visit. Their gift shop is kind of cool, also. They don't stock tiki stuff per se but have a lot of nice tropical accessories and a great bookstore if, like me, you appreciate obscure plant books.
Miami is a very interesting city...I miss it. Have fun.
[email protected]
http://www.tikigardens.com
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