Holidays are not only about having a good time, but experiencing new things and feelings as well. The Holocaust Memorial in Miami (close to the Art Deco district) is one such experience which will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions no matter what your race or religion. It is probably going to be one of the hardest places to visit on your journey, but it is well worth the trip. No admission fee is charged.
On entering the Holocaust Memorial you will find yourself surrounded by stark architectural design elements which lead to the "Arbor of History" which is kind of a covered walkway with a section depicting the history of the holocaust.
You then come to a lovely pond with lily pads and the stillness prepares you for what is to come as you enter a tunnel like space which is designed to let only small slats of sunlight in. The walls contain the names of the infamous death camps and lead to the centerpiece of the memorial.
Towering over 40 feet, the "Sculpture of Love and Anguish" resembles an outstretched arm with the base made up of figures depicting mothers, fathers and children in despair and pain. The sculpture is topped by a hand reaching upwards and bearing a number like those burned into the skins of the concentration camp victims. There are no words to describe the effect of this haunting work of art which will move people in different ways.
The final part of this "journey" leads up to a memorial wall with countless names of the many innocent victims. Profoundly moving and heartbreaking, the Holocaust Memorial is a reminder of one of the greatest atrocities of human history which should never be forgotten.
If you are planning a holiday to Florida's Key West then you definitely have to try some snorkeling. The seas here are calm and clear and the reefs provide a stunning display of colorful coral and tropical fish. Most of the reefs are located in shallow water so visibility is excellent.
For all you non-snorkeling folk out there, snorkeling is pretty easy to learn and boat crews are always willing to lend some helpful pointers. All you need is a snorkel, flippers, a mask and a safety vest which are provided by most boats for those who do not have their own.
Most Key West boats engaged in snorkeling usually head out in the mornings at around 9.30 p.m. and are back at midday, while afternoon trips start from about 1 p.m. Several boats also head out during the early evenings so as to give you a chance to catch the sunset. However, if you really are into snorkeling and want great value for money, then the best thing to do is book an all day excursion which gives you more time to explore the wonders of the sea. Most day trip boats also provide breakfast and lunch which contributes towards justifying the higher cost.
If you own an underwater camera the best time to go snorkeling is in the afternoons when the sun is at its peak. While boats head to different parts of the Key West reef, try and find one going to Sand Key which has some great snorkeling spots. Other than that, remember while snorkeling not to take an "underwater souvenir" home with you no matter how pretty it looks, because the reef, its coral and fish are all one big ecosystem which depend on each other for survival.
