Discovery Series – Miami
Discovery Series – Miami is coming together with the ornament that we’ve seen earlier this week. Here is how the big mug is different from its mini sibling:
– The dominoes on the front of the ornament are likely a nod to Máximo Gómez Park, more affectionately known as Domino Park, a vibrant community hub in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood. Located along Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street), this small park is famous for its daily gatherings of local Cuban elders who play intense games of dominoes and chess, often drawing curious onlookers and tourists. The park is more than just a gaming spot – it’s a cultural symbol, reflecting the strong Cuban-American identity of the area. Little Havana itself is a lively neighborhood full of Latin American art galleries, colorful murals, live music, and family-owned restaurants serving Cuban coffee and food. Walking through Little Havana offers a taste of Cuba in the heart of Miami, with Máximo Gómez Park at its social and cultural center.
– We also see a long bridge, this is probably a reference to one of the causeways that connect mainland Miami to Miami Beach, such as the MacArthur Causeway or the Venetian Causeway. These bridges not only serve as vital links between the city and its famous beachfront, but they also offer some of the most breathtaking views of the Miami skyline – especially at night. As the sun sets and the city lights begin to shimmer, the high-rises of downtown Miami reflect off the water, creating a dazzling panorama. Whether driving, biking, or simply pausing for a photo, these bridges provide a perfect vantage point to admire the contrast between the natural beauty of Biscayne Bay and the urban energy of the city.
– Miami’s coastal lifestyle is perfectly symbolized by its sleek yachts and iconic drawbridges. Luxury boats glide through the city’s waterways, especially around Biscayne Bay and the Miami River, showcasing Miami’s connection to both leisure and wealth. The drawbridges lift regularly to let taller vessels pass, offering a unique rhythm to the flow of traffic and daily life. Watching a drawbridge open as a yacht cruises through is a classic Miami scene blending modern engineering with oceanfront elegance.
– The Miami Freedom Tower stands as a powerful symbol of Cuban-American history and resilience. Originally a newspaper headquarters, it later became a processing center for Cuban refugees fleeing Fidel Castro’s regime in the 1960s. Its Spanish Revival architecture makes it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Today, it functions as a museum and cultural center, preserving the stories of immigrants who helped shape Miami’s identity.
– The Cuban sandwich is a beloved culinary icon in Miami, reflecting the city’s deep Cuban heritage. Traditionally made with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread, it’s a flavorful representation of cultural fusion. Many local cafés and restaurants, especially in Little Havana, pride themselves on serving the best version. Grabbing a Cuban sandwich is more than a meal – it’s an essential Miami experience.
– Beach games are a lively part of Miami’s outdoor lifestyle, especially along the shores of South Beach. Visitors and locals alike join in games of beach volleyball, paddleball, or even casual soccer matches on the sand. These activities capture the city’s vibrant, social energy under the Florida sun. Whether competing or just watching, the playful spirit of Miami is always on display by the water.
