That's what I liked about VC more then LC.
The fact that a place like Miami isn't as stereotypical for a place of crime like NYC, makes it more fun IMO. Perhaps a place like LC is more suited to crime, but VC can be suited to it aswell. The Downtown, Little Haiti, Vice Port, Little Havana districts of VC weren't as glamorous and seemed to fit the "Crime" feel more.
I would still take GTAIII over alot of GTA style games, but I'm always going to be a Vice City fan.
Just like I think VCS craps on LCS. Emipre Building FTW!!!
Quoted for emphasis. I agree with everything you said.