With the economy not being in the best shape, many people don’t have the luxury to travel as much.
However, one trip to the small town of Hamtramck visitors can experience a taste of the world.
The 2.2 square mile city encompasses 33 different nationalities and all are very proud of their roots.
Hamtramck was originally a “Pole Town” and visitors are still able to get a feel of Poland. Restaurants like The Polish Village Café are known for their authentic dinners, which include the ever so popular pierogis.
After dinner, visiting the New Palace Bakery down the street is a must to purchase krusciki (better known as angel wings in English).
One block over, Polish Market has a huge variety of the best kielbasa. Many people stock up to make their own Polish based dinner at home.
Food is not the only way to experience the Polish lifestyle in Hamtramck. Across the street from Polish Market is the Pope Park, in honor of remembrance of the late Pope John Paul II. Many citizens pay their respects by lighting candles and bringing flowers to the memorial daily.
Even though Polish characteristics are quite evident throughout Hamtramck visitors are still able to experience other nationalities. The Ukraine church Immaculate Conception holds many masses in Ukrainian and a library/museum is just across the street.
The Muslim community has expanded throughout the past few years and so have their cultural impact.
Walking down the street you can hear the traditional Call to Prayer coming from the Mosques and instantly feel like you’re in a Middle Eastern country.
Many Arabic restaurants and markets fill the streets of Hamtramck. Shops have writing in Arabic to make it a more authentic feeling.
Finding traditional Bengali clothing is easy. Visitors can shop for colorful saris around the city.
If you’re more into Bosnian food, cevapis are a well-known dish at the Bosnian Specialties restaurant.
Having so many nationalities within one small city gives everybody a chance to visit “the world in two square miles.”
