Miami Beach, United States - Thousands of tourists and residents basking in a hot sun filled the streets of the art deco district of Miami Beach to celebrate its 100th birthday on Thursday.
"Happy Birthday, Miami Beach," yelled one of the party promoters through a loudspeaker from one of the bars along Ocean Drive -- the seaside avenue lined with hotels, bars and restaurants. It was closed to traffic all day for the festivities.
People strolled about sipping mojitos or beer, riding bikes or walked to the beach in swim trunks to enjoy a gala concert featuring opera singer Andrea Bocelli, Gloria Estefan and ex-Bee Gee Barry Gibb as a week of celebration came to a close.
The city rose up 100 years ago as a group of investors bought up land and turned it into a playground for the wealthy. It's now a magnet for tourists -- 14 million last year.
It is known for great weather, vibrant nightlife, art deco architecture and homes belonging to such stars as Matt Damon, Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin and Shakira.
"Everything is over the top," said Peter Van der Pot, a Dutchman who visits the city periodically and came this time to take a cruise.
"It's like the American dream. Everything is very well organized. The architecture is fantastic. But it is very expensive," said Van der Pot, who is 39.
The fact that the city was turning 100 caused some European visitors to smile.
"I live in a house that is over 100 years old," said Van der Pot, whose home is in Amsterdam.
AFP
