Little Havana, Miami, United States, January 2023

So after a great trip to Europe (links to pictures from Slovakia, Cyprus, Belgium and Poland), I am here in Miami for a very short visit. Just 2 days, transiting from Warsaw to Panama City.

It is a strange place, I think. On one side there are many things that I like about it. It is clean, and in many ways progressive (in a way that I like). The nature is stunning, and the sea and beaches are amazing. Then, what I really like is this unique feeling of the melting pot. One meets the people from everywhere, and the strong influence of the Latino and Caribbean culture is just so nice. In that sense, I really loved exploring the Cuban neighbourhood called 'Little Havana'. Charming, colourful and filled with nice people, also making you realise a tragic modern history of Cuba.

There there is also this part of Miami (or perhaps, it is the US) that scares me. When one passes the schools, one feels like looking at high security prisons or bunkers with security wires, fences, gates and cameras. Clearly, chilling reminder of the gun laws in force and consequences it has on lives of people, and the security in the country. I was also shocked to realise how deep rooted and important it is for people here to underline that they are 'the best'. We have 'the best economy', 'the best country', 'the most innovative cities'… one hears all the time. It is puzzling to listen to this, knowing that while the US definitely has its charms and attraction, it is also a country of people living in poverty beyond belief and economic inequalities not experienced in many countries, which theoretically are 'poorer' that the US.

In any case, I have enjoyed the stay altogether, trying to focus on things that I enjoyed rather than at things that irritated me. And a cherry on a cake was an unexpected reunion with my dear friend from Mexico, Charly, who happened to be visiting Florida for a short time!

I am off to Panama City tonight. Tomorrow, back to work at last. It has been a long holiday and I look forward to re-engage with my 'stable life'.

Finally here comes a link to photos from visit to Miami. Enjoy the pictures!