We hit the hotel gym this morning in preparation for all those extra calories that might accidently find their way past our self-discipline and into our guts. It was a nice enough gym for a couple of people to workout at the same. In the two days, I only saw one other person in the gym. Outside, however, there were many people walking, jogging, and running along the beach road. Breakfast was included at the Hotel and there was no extra charge for all the “people watching”. People down here seem to be from all over the World. This must be a popular destination for Europeans. Everyone seemed nice enough, but no way near as cool as the people of Bluffs.
After breakfast we strolled across the street to the beach and walk several miles. Mental note, sand works the calves. As a beach (sand, waves, cleanliness, and sunshine), I’m going to give it 7 stars out of 10 stars. After a couple of hours we turned into the “town” area and found our way to Joe’s Crab Shack. Joe’s is well known for Stone Crabs and Keylime Pie. Typically, crabs are caught and all of the crab may find its way to the table. Stone Crabs, however, are different. Once a year the crabs are caught and the fisherman are allowed to tear off one of the claws only. The crab is then allowed to return to the Ocean and within a year will grow back the claw. So, when you think life sucks, thank God you’re not a Stone Crab. We also tried the keylime pie, which in general I am not a fan. However, they were not lying. It was amazing for both its flavor and the crust. The crust was halfway between a traditional pie crust and a cookie.
In the afternoon we spent time lounging by the rooftop pool. Base tan (check). For dinner, we went in search of a traditional Cuban restaurant. With a little help of the all-knowing Google, we walked to the Espanola district and found Havana 1957. 1957 predates the Cuban communist revolution which led to the rise of Fidel Castro and his brother and the exodus of many Cuban nationalist to southern Florida. Miami is what it is in large part to the Cuban immigration. Another excellent meal and refreshments. After dinner we enjoyed Cuban Coffee and freshly made Cuban Flan for desert. This was another culinary highlight of the trip. I personally find Flan to be a constant disappointment. Kudos to the little old Cuban lady making this one. It was mind blowing and is now on my list for best in the World. Pictures to follow.
After breakfast we strolled across the street to the beach and walk several miles. Mental note, sand works the calves. As a beach (sand, waves, cleanliness, and sunshine), I’m going to give it 7 stars out of 10 stars. After a couple of hours we turned into the “town” area and found our way to Joe’s Crab Shack. Joe’s is well known for Stone Crabs and Keylime Pie. Typically, crabs are caught and all of the crab may find its way to the table. Stone Crabs, however, are different. Once a year the crabs are caught and the fisherman are allowed to tear off one of the claws only. The crab is then allowed to return to the Ocean and within a year will grow back the claw. So, when you think life sucks, thank God you’re not a Stone Crab. We also tried the keylime pie, which in general I am not a fan. However, they were not lying. It was amazing for both its flavor and the crust. The crust was halfway between a traditional pie crust and a cookie.
In the afternoon we spent time lounging by the rooftop pool. Base tan (check). For dinner, we went in search of a traditional Cuban restaurant. With a little help of the all-knowing Google, we walked to the Espanola district and found Havana 1957. 1957 predates the Cuban communist revolution which led to the rise of Fidel Castro and his brother and the exodus of many Cuban nationalist to southern Florida. Miami is what it is in large part to the Cuban immigration. Another excellent meal and refreshments. After dinner we enjoyed Cuban Coffee and freshly made Cuban Flan for desert. This was another culinary highlight of the trip. I personally find Flan to be a constant disappointment. Kudos to the little old Cuban lady making this one. It was mind blowing and is now on my list for best in the World. Pictures to follow.