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There’s dominos. Then there’s DOMINOS. There’s the kids game that many of us played in our misspent youths, when we usually just set up the darned little tiles only to whack them down again in toppling clappety-clap rows. Then there’s the serious game as it’s played in the islands. Seriously, mon. As the new home for many people from the Caribbean (where dominos is practically the national pastime, places like Jamaica and Haiti), Broward County has more than its fair share of intense domino players. The trick is finding them and getting them to let you watch. Well, folks, do I have a tip for you!
For months, I’ve been catching the fierce dominos of a group of spirited city workers in Fort Lauderdale. I walk by them often when I’m at the beach and today I finally asked if they do this every day at about the same time. They said yes. I told them I’m a writer and would like to tell people about it. They didn’t pelt me with dominos so I figure it’s ok to pass along their time/location info. If you want to watch dominos the way this game should be played, go to Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach parking lot on weekdays at about 11:30 a.m. or so. You’ll notice a walkover from Bahia Mar hotel across A1A to the beach. Under the beachside end of that walkover, there’s a picnic table hidden in the shade. That’s the place.
Today, three enthusiastic fellows from Haiti were in the mix of five or six guys playing. If you’ve never seen island dominos, it’s a hoot. They SLAP down the tiles on the table, just for emphasis. Or to make some kind of so’s-yer-mama statement, I’ve never been sure. They argue and talk all through the game and offer up comments about each other’s skills and probably about each other’s parentage too, for all I know. Creole is among the languages spoken here so you won’t catch every word. But you’ll sure recognize all the fun and passion involved. It’s a small piece of the Caribbean that now has become a small piece of South Florida too. Drop by and watch a game or two sometime. Just don’t ask if they’re going to set up the dominos in rows so you can knock them over. They didn’t pelt me with tiles after learning that I’m a writer, but I feel sure there’s some limit to their patience.
For months, I’ve been catching the fierce dominos of a group of spirited city workers in Fort Lauderdale. I walk by them often when I’m at the beach and today I finally asked if they do this every day at about the same time. They said yes. I told them I’m a writer and would like to tell people about it. They didn’t pelt me with dominos so I figure it’s ok to pass along their time/location info. If you want to watch dominos the way this game should be played, go to Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach parking lot on weekdays at about 11:30 a.m. or so. You’ll notice a walkover from Bahia Mar hotel across A1A to the beach. Under the beachside end of that walkover, there’s a picnic table hidden in the shade. That’s the place.
Today, three enthusiastic fellows from Haiti were in the mix of five or six guys playing. If you’ve never seen island dominos, it’s a hoot. They SLAP down the tiles on the table, just for emphasis. Or to make some kind of so’s-yer-mama statement, I’ve never been sure. They argue and talk all through the game and offer up comments about each other’s skills and probably about each other’s parentage too, for all I know. Creole is among the languages spoken here so you won’t catch every word. But you’ll sure recognize all the fun and passion involved. It’s a small piece of the Caribbean that now has become a small piece of South Florida too. Drop by and watch a game or two sometime. Just don’t ask if they’re going to set up the dominos in rows so you can knock them over. They didn’t pelt me with tiles after learning that I’m a writer, but I feel sure there’s some limit to their patience.
posted by LauderBLOGGER at 9:46 AM
That sounds interesting. I'm coming to Fort Lauderdale Thursday for 3-day trip. What would be the top 3 things you suggest I do or see?
Hi -- thanks for the comment. Here are my immediate thoughts:
1) A morning walk on the beach. Then breakfast at an outdoor cafe. (Then maybe catch that dominoes games!)
2) If you've never been, go to the Everglades. Sawgrass Recreation Area -- about a half hour drive from downtown. Take an airboat ride. It's worth the time.
3) Cocktails and dinner on Las Olas -- have a drink outdoors, walk the street, shop. Then find a nice spot for dinner. There are many choices, from reasonable to expensive in price.
Most of all -- have fun! Let me know how you liked my ideas!
I love the idea of eating breakfast at an outdoor cafe! We are coming down in July and staying at Marriott's Beach Place. Could you recommend a cafe nearby? I've read some of your "blogs" and enjoy learning about the area. This is our first time coming there.
Hi Jenn
I'm glad you're enjoying the blogs. I enjoy writing them. It's not too far from your hotel to walk to the beach area, assuming you're relatively healthy. Maybe 10 minutes or so from your door. There are good places all up and down A1A so I'm reluctant to name just one. But here's a thought. St. Bart's is popular and nearer than some to where you're staying. You might start there and work your way a couple blocks north during your visit. July can be fun here -- less crowded, with a more relaxed vibe than during the heart of the tourist season. Hang out near the water, either the ocean or Intracoastal, and you'll stay cool. A nice pina colada won't hurt either! Have fun! And stay in touch!
Hey, Thanks for Blogging! I'm going to Ft. Lauderdale with a group of friends from Milwaukee this Saturday. Is there anything going on for St. Patty's day like last year's Pub Thrawl?!!
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