Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
If you end up on trial here, at least you'll get a free tour of one of the most imposing court-
houses in the USA. Built between 1925 and 1929, this a very…appropriate building: if
structures were people, the courthouse would definitely be a judge. Some trivia: back in
the day, the top nine floors served as a 'secure' prison, from which more than 70 prisoners
escaped.
DOWNTOWN'S INTERNATIONAL BAZAARS
Downtown Miami has a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges. We think this is
a bit undeserved; the area is dodgy at night but safe by day, if a little down-at-heel. Part of
this ratty atmosphere is due to large amounts of cheap, knock-off electronics, fashion
and jewelry shops that cluster in half-abandoned malls and shopping arcades. These
stores are almost all run by immigrants, from West Africa, East Asia, South America and
the Middle East (did we cover all the directions?). While we doubt you need cheap con-
sumer goods of dubious origin, we do think it's fun to check out one of these markets, like
you'll get to the messy, shouting, sweaty and exciting bazaars of the developing world,
where folks yell at you to seal a deal and haggling is often an option. It's not as pretty as
shopping in Miami Beach or the Design District, but it's a fascinating slice of this city's
life.
