Don't even think about moving here, Gringo (Cont.)
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7/25/2006
Most everyone in Miami speaks Spanish, that is partly why most of the Americans have moved away. I know people that have lived here for 30 years and still don't speak one word of English. Why? Beacuse they don't have to and don't want to. The Cubans, in general, feel they have a sense of entitlement here--like America owes them something. As far as I know, Cubans are the only foriegners that don't have to "fight" to stay here. They just touch the sand, and they can call this country home. Don't get me wrong, there are many great Cuban individuals here, but the mindset as a whole group is very arrogant, if not ignorant. As an American, doing business here is a never-ending chore. One gets the constant impression that he or she is being hustled or swindled. Oh, and if you happen to get in a car accident here, which in time you will, always call the police. The offender will always try to get out of it by offering you their cousin Javier who owns a body shop who will fix your car. Traffic is horrible. Crime is high. I don't go anywhere without packing a firearm, but I will say, I have had only few larceny incidents in my 35 years living here. Forget public transportation--It is a joke. Miami should be a model of "what not to do in Public Transportation". In case you think that I have something against Hispanics, let me tell you that is very far from the truth. My first wife and first love (deceased) was Nicaraguan with whom I have had two beautiful half-Hispanic children. My second wife is Mexican and 3 of my 5 best friends in the world are Cuban, Dominican and Colombian. It's not the Hispanis in Miami that I don't like, it is their attitude. By contrast, LA is more than 50% Hispanic, but you go can anywhere and the Mexicans (or whatever Hispanic culture they come from) will speak or at least try to speak English. They strive to give you good service, care about your dollar, are greatful to be in a this country and are willing and able to make a positive contribution. C'mon Miami Latinos---Assimilate! I long for the opportunity to flea back to the US, unfortunately, I am one of the lucky few gringos in this town that has a great job that pays well, so I am hard pressed to leave, or I would already be gone.
Daniel | Kendale Lakes, FL