Why not real city with fictional settings within, such as the bar?
I think you're spot on in skin color importance, Commandante, btw! Although I do bristle sometimes at descriptions like "cappuccino" for skin...
Agree with both of these. I don't see a problem directly stating race/skin color.
Cicada
I wrote a short story that was totally conceived in a dream! It was (years later) published here. Go for it! But I can relate to other projects...
What makes you feel like it's hard to distinguish, specifically? May help. I think the general articles are probably your best bet in helping you...
As an aside, just checked out Neon from your link, looks great! I'll have to get an issue and see if my work may fit! Always good to find new...
Separate names with a comma.