Category Archives: Travel and Leisure

Car Rental, Hotels, Lifestyle, Live Music, Luxury Cars Rentals

High-End Miami: AA Journey Through Elite Hotels, Luxury Cars, and Vibrant Nightclubs

Welcome to the epitome of luxury in Miami, where the sun-kissed beaches meet the glamour of high life. In this blog post, we embark on an exclusive journey exploring the city’s most elite hotels, driving exotic cars, and experiencing its world-famous vibrant nightlife.

Miami luxury hotels and car

Elite Hotels: Where Luxury Meets Comfort

Our adventure begins with a stay at one of Miami’s premier luxury hotels. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, in a room where every detail exudes elegance. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, for instance, offers an unrivaled experience with its butler service, bespoke amenities, and private cabanas by the pool.

Another gem is the Faena Hotel Miami Beach, a visual masterpiece that offers a blend of art, luxury, and technology. From its opulent rooms to the immersive art installations, Faena redefines what a luxury stay should feel like.

Exotic Cars: Drive in Style

Miami is not just about where you stay, but also about how you navigate the city. Renting an exotic car is not just a means of transport; it’s an extension of the luxury lifestyle. Picture yourself cruising down Ocean Drive in a Lamborghini Huracán or a Ferrari 488, turning heads as you revel in the power and beauty of these engineering marvels.

Several high-end rental services in Miami offer a fleet of luxury vehicles to choose from. Whether you prefer the elegance of a Rolls-Royce or the sportiness of a McLaren, driving these exotic cars is an experience in itself. You can watch a video to get some tips when renting a luxury or exotic car.

Vibrant Nightclubs: Party Like a Star

As night falls, Miami’s nightlife comes alive with a vibrancy that’s unmatched. The city is home to some of the world’s most exclusive nightclubs, where you can dance the night away to the beats of renowned DJs.

LIV at Fontainebleau is an iconic spot that embodies the essence of Miami’s nightlife. With its state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, LIV attracts celebrities and party-goers from around the globe.

Not far behind is E11EVEN, a one-of-a-kind 24/7 show club and nightclub. With live performances, top DJs, and a rooftop restaurant, E11EVEN offers an unforgettable night out.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Luxury Experience

This journey through Miami’s elite hotels, exotic cars, and vibrant nightclubs is more than just a trip; it’s a plunge into a world of luxury and excitement. It’s a glimpse into a lifestyle where every moment is about extravagance and pleasure.

So, pack your designer bags and prepare for an experience that encapsulates the essence of high-end Miami – a journey that promises to be as unforgettable as the city itself.

Related posts:

  1. Guide to Exploring Miami’s Street Art Scene
  2. A Shopper’s Guide to Miami: Exploring Diverse Retail Districts and Boutiques
  3. How to Get Your Art Into a Gallery in Miami
  4. Expat-Friendly Events and Activities in Miami
  5. Best Places to Call Home in Miami-Dade County
Entertainment, Travel and Leisure

Billfish In The Bahamas

Having spent several years in the Bahamas, fishing both on the surface with rods and reels, and underwater with a Hawaiian sling, I can personally attest to the fact the the waters here are teeming with fish.  The area is part of what is known as the Sargasso Sea and whenever we’d see floating mats of the weed, we’d throw out several lines and start reeling in Dorado, aka Mahi Mahi.  The only trick was getting the fish to the deck of the boat without a big Barracuda chomping it in half.  We usually had 22 people on board, including crew, and we’d have no trouble at all hauling in catch of the day to serve everybody several days a week.  I always enjoyed making sushi and sashimi for guests who had never eaten raw fish as fresh as that before.

Famous Fisherman
Ernest Hemingway was said to have been inspired by a 500 pound Blue Marlin, which he caught while he lived on Bimini in the mid 30’s, to write his novels “The Old Man And The Sea”, and “Islands In The Stream.”  Until it burned down in 2006, Bimini’s The Compleat Angler Hotel had an unofficial Hemingway museum featuring news clippings, autographed books, and photos of him with his catches on the dock in Bimini.  Our crew spent many loud evenings there playing ring toss, and listening to giant fish tales over a few drinks.

The Bahamas Billfish Championship is a series five tournaments held between April and June each year that dates back to 1973.  Each tournament is based on a different island and over the years these have included Paradise Island, Bimini, the Berry Islands, the Abacos, Cat Cay, Great Exuma, and North Eleuthera.

The Championship has seen its share of record setting billfish over the years.  In 1979 at a Bimini Tournament, Sam Jennings, of Miami, caught a 1060.5 pound Blue Marlin.  His record stood until June 2011 at a Treasure Cay Tournament, when Dave Albury, of the Bahamas, caught his 1119 pound Blue.

Conservation Leaders
An awareness of the value of sport fishing as an enormous source of tourism revenue in the islands has lead the Bahamas Billfish Championship to take an active role in billfish conservation.  They have consistently increased the minimum length requirements over the years and began using time and date stamped digital images to verify fish releases.  They have also raised the points for releasing billfish offering further incentive to make sure the fish are quickly returned to the sea.
Every year they provide scholarships, which are administered by the Lyford Cay Foundation, to help Bahamian students in marine biology, and marine technology programs.

Renowned advocate for billfish conservation, and longtime avid angler, Tim Choate, co-founded the Billfish Foundation, which is dedicated to billfish research and conservation.  Tim started fishing in the Bahamas as a kid in the 60’s and has been honored with an award for his promotion of responsible fishing practices, with a trophy for Personal Achievement in the Advancement of Big Game Sport Fishing at a ceremony at the Bimini Big Game Club which is now known as a Guy Harvey Outpost Resort.

Beverly Bridge is a travel junkie and author who likes to draw inspiration from frequent vacations to the Bahamas. She loves to write about her travels in an attempt to entice people into experiencing more in life.

Business, Hotels

The Top Boutique Hotels and Sites of Interest in Miami

With its tropical flair, vibrant Caribbean culture and world-class beaches, Miami is one of the world’s best destinations for a leisurely and fun holiday. Holidaymakers have a bevy of choices when it comes to boutique hotels in this city. From chic to luxurious, Miami’s boutique hotels offer something for everyone. In addition, many of these hotels offer close proximity to the city’s wide variety of museums, galleries, parks, beaches and other attractions.

Delano Hotel

One of the top boutique hotels Miami has to offer is the Delano Hotel. Renowned for its relaxing atmosphere and prime location on the beautiful South Beach, the Delano Hotel boasts luxurious rooms and world-class guest service alongside easy access to some of the world’s greatest beaches and seaside views. For holidaymakers looking for leisure and luxury, the Delano Hotel is just the place to be.

Beacon Hotel South Beach

Stylish and sophisticated, the Beacon Hotel South Beach affords 75 comfortable guests rooms as well as top-notch service. Amenities include excellent restaurants, a 24-hour front desk and several meeting rooms. Located just steps from the beautiful Lummus Park and South Florida’s gorgeous beaches, the Beacon Hotel South Beach enjoys one of the best locations in the city.

Blue Moon Hotel

A haven for leisure and relaxation, the Blue Moon Hotel is one of the best Miami has to offer. With its spacious rooms and distinct Mediterranean flair, the Blue Moon Hotels seamlessly blends luxury, elegance and professional guest services. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, laundry service and on-site spa services.

 

Winter Haven Hotel

The historic Winter Haven hotel offers a mix of luxury and tranquillity alongside its own unique charm. Mere steps from Lummus Park and Miami’s famed beaches, the hotel’s 71 nautical-themed rooms offer wireless Internet access, air conditioning and premium bedding. Its rooftop sundeck, the perfect place to relax, boasts incredible oceanfront views as well.

Setai

Modern and luxurious, the Setai boasts comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities. With three pools, a world-class restaurant and a cutting-edge spa, the Setai is among the most posh and sophisticated in the Miami region.

Miami’s wealth of boutique hotels offer close proximity to its wide range of attractions and sites of interest. The city offers everything from fascinating galleries to unique neighbourhoods to stunning beaches to discover.

The city is best known for its gorgeous beaches, all of which offer excellent recreational and leisure opportunities like swimming, sunbathing, surfing, water sports, fishing, boating and much, much more. Miami also boasts a fantastic cultural scene complete with great museums and galleries like the Lowe Art Museum, the Frost Art Museum and the beautiful Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Zoo Miami and the Miami Seaquarium are two other must-see destinations in the city. Elsewhere in Miami, holidaymakers will find leading attractions like Jungle Island, Oleta River State Recreation Park and the lively neighbourhood of Little Havana.

More information on the finest Boutique hotels Miami has to offer.

Miami, Travel and Leisure

South Beach Miami

Miami is known for its beautiful beaches and exciting nightlife, and nowhere is that more apparent than South Beach. South Beach Miami is filled with beautiful people, gorgeous beaches, and nightlife that is second to none. With a variety of the world’s most luxurious hotels to choose from, South Beach Fl has a lot of great options for accommodation. Additionally, South Beach has plenty of activities to offer visitors. There’s shopping at luxury boutiques and designer stores, dining at upscale restaurants, relaxing on the beach or at the spa, partying the night away at a chic nightclub, or taking part in some intense water sports. The area is also great for a relaxing stroll, as South Beach Miami is famous for its Art Deco architecture. No matter what visitors want to do, South Beach has it.

Beaches

No trip to South Beach Miami would be complete without a visit to the gorgeous beaches. The main beach is obviously South Beach, stretching from South Pointe Park to Collins Park. This area is walkable to a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, and is great for everyone from college students to adults with children. The beach itself is very wide, and there’s a 1.6 mile path that runs along the beach that’s great for rollerblading, biking, walking, or jogging.

Water Sports

Not only is it a great place to be a beach bum, South Beach is also a great place to take part in a variety of water sports. There are a number of areas in South Beach where visitors can go snorkeling, parasailing, water skiing, surfing, kayaking, and much more. If it can be done in or around the water, chances are good that it can be done in South Beach Miami.

Miami’s  South Beach Travel Guide & Tips

Learn about the hot spots to visit in South Beach Florida. Americas #1 vacation and party destination.
This short travel guide features the key locations to visit. From Lincoln road to Ocean drive it’s all outlined here. Find out where to go and what to see on your next visit to Miami.

Dining

Miami is a very multi-cultural city, and nowhere is it more evident than in the food. Many of the restaurants in the area take their cues from the locals and their Latin American roots. South Beach also has a variety of restaurants that offer excellent fusion food, such as French-Latin American, or Japanese-Latin American. The food isn’t just Latin American or fusion, though. Miami has a fantastic international food scene, and it’s easy to find nearly any ethnic cuisine in South Beach Fl. Since Miami is right on the ocean, it’s also a great place to get excellent, fresh seafood.

Car Rental, Miami Beach, Travel and Leisure

Miami Beach Choices for Car Rentals

Miami Beach Choices for Car Rentals

Because it is such a wonderful vacation destination there are many choices for car rentals in Miami Beach.  The major chains such as Enterprise, Thrifty, Alamo, Avis, Hertz, and Budget are all available.  Smaller companies such as Miami Beach Rent A Car and Miami Rent A Car also provide quality vehicles and great service for all your car rental needs.  These companies offer discounted rates, some starting as low as ten dollars a day.  Since the area is so popular to tourists and businessmen, be sure to get a reservation in advance by either contacting the company directly or by going through a third party company such as Orbitz, Kayak, or Expedia.

And why not treat yourself?  A rental car does not have to mean an economy car, especially in Miami Beach.  Why not check out a Luxury car and drive the car of your dreams!  Even if it is only for a few days, it will be worth the extra few dollars to rent a nice Lamborghini, Porsche or Aston Martin.  Miami Beach is a perfect place for luxury car rentals.  Enjoy the feel of a new Ferrari or Jaguar as you drive along the beach.

Many companies offer car rentals right at the airport so there is no need for a taxi or bus service.  Most companies offer a pick-up service that will bring your rental car to you. Even while enjoying this convenience, be sure to take the opportunity to try out a vehicle that you might actually purchase one day. A few days or even a week of a car rental will teach you more about the car than a short test drive from the dealership, and you’ll find everything imaginable if you’re looking for car rentals in Miami Beach.   Enjoy your trip to Miami Beach and enjoy putting miles on someone else’s car!

choices for car rentals

Travel and Leisure

Explore Miami – Things To Do

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Explore Miami – Things To Do

Miami’s sunny weather, golden beaches and fascinating attractions make it a popular destination for tourists worldwide. This south Florida city has a subtropical climate. The summers are hot and humid and the winters are short and warm. Miami welcomes snowbirds, spring breakers, celebrities and millions of other tourists each year.

The Gateway of the Americas is world-renowned for it year-round good weather, white sandy beaches and turquoise-blue waters. The Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is ranked as one of the top ten beaches in America. It has 1.25 miles of natural beach, gentle waves and a bike path that takes you beneath a canopy of trees and near the beautiful Biscayne Bay. Canoeing, kayaking and hiking are popular activities. There is a seawall for some of the best fishing in the region. Visitors to the beach can tour the Cape Florida Lighthouse, the oldest standing building in south Florida. The park is also recognized as part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

The Virginia Key Beach, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was originally established as a Colored Only beach during the era of segregation. It has concession stands, a carousel and a playground. Snorkeling, biking, fishing and windsurfing are popular pastimes at this historic beach. Beachcombers can discover some of south Florida’s unique plants and endangered wildlife.

Bordered by two national parks, Miami is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast. The Everglades National Park is an important habitat for the American crocodile, the West Indian manatee and dozens of other rare and endangered species. There are many ways to enjoy this river of grass and its abundant wildlife. Park visitors can hike, camp, boat, snorkel or take a backcountry trek.

The Biscayne National Park is one of the largest marine parks in the United States. Its waters are a nursery and habitat for the region’s shellfish, crustaceans and fish. The park has a mangrove forest ecosystem and is home to many threatened or endangered wildlife species. This is an incredible destination for those who want to canoe, windsurf, kayak or fish. Snorkelers and divers can explore the park’s living tropical coral reef system.

Miami’s zoo and aquarium also provide exciting opportunities to experience wildlife. Zoo Miami is widely-regarded as one of the best zoos in the United States. It has thousands of animals and more than three miles of walkways. There are hundreds of interesting and educational exhibits. The Amazon and Beyond Exhibit is a 27-acres display of jaguars, anacondas, river otters and other inhabitants of the Amazon, Atlantic and Cloud Forests. Families with young children will enjoy the petting zoo with its kid-friendly goats, Shetland horses, alpaca and sheep. Those 18 years and older can be zoo keeper for a day working alongside zookeepers. Children of all ages can feed reticulated giraffes and ride dromedary camels.

The Seaquarium is a 38-acres marine-life theme park with stunning views of Miami’s skyline and the Biscayne Bay. Guest can watch a diver hand-feed tropical fish, moray eels, groupers and loggerhead turtles in the aquarium’s 750,000 gallon tank. Their aquatic shows and presentations feature dolphins, sharks, sea lions and crocodiles. The Dolphin Odyssey is an educational and interactive program for those who want an up-close and personal experience with dolphins. Participants are invited to touch, rub or climb aboard a dolphin for a ride across the pool.

Miami has several world-famous neighborhoods. South Beach is Miami Beach’s quintessential tourist destination. This trendy neighborhood is also known as SoBe and the American Riviera. Its Art Deco District neighborhood is the first 20th Century community to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. There are more than 800 pastel-colored buildings with sleek curves, glass blocks and glistening chrome. You can explore this rich architectural treasure by walking along Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road. If you stop by Lummus Park at night, you can enjoy live music under the stars. South Beach is a top international tourist destination with a vibrant nightlife. Its cuisine is a fusion of Latin and Mediterranean food and spices.

Coral Gables is another famous Miami neighborhood. It personifies its nickname, The City Beautiful. The abundant green spaces, tree-lined streets and Mediterranean Revivalist architecture are the backdrop for your shopping trip on Miracle Mile. This landmark shopping destination has almost 200 specialty stores and numerous chic eateries and restaurants. It is a relaxing and pedestrian-friendly city. The Merrick House and the Biltmore Hotel are two of Coral Gables’ historic landmarks and architectural gems.

Miami is also home to some unusual architecture. The Coral Castle is a monumental testament of a man’s undying love. Jilted by the fiancée, Ed Leedskalnin mysteriously carved over 1,100 tons of coral rock. He spent the next 28 years constructing his castle under the cover of night. The structure has a heart-shaped table, a sundial and a throne. Most of the pieces weigh nearly 15 tons. Mr. Leedskalnin died in 1951 and no one knows how he singled-handedly built his castle. Coral Castle’s visitors can try their hand at unraveling the mysteries of Miami’s Taj Mahal.

The curators of Miami’s museums make science more accessible for their visitors. Miami’s Children’s Museum has two floors and over 14 galleries of exhibits. The museum invites visitors to learn, imagine and create with their hands-on activities. Children can climb inside a two-story sandcastle, ride on a police motorcycle and harvest Florida fruits.

The Miami Science Museum has a planetarium, observatory and a wildlife center. Current exhibits explore subjects ranging from heart disease to the view of earth from space. The Moving Things Exhibit invites guests to use their brain and brawn to move objects. You can touch stingrays in the museum’s 3,000 gallon touch tank. The planetarium show uses the latest technology to project celestial bodies on a four-story projection screen during their music and laser show. The observatory offers a free star show in the planetarium and telescopic observing in the observatory. Visitors can view nebulas, galaxies, the rings of Saturn and the planets.

There is a rich blend of cultures in Miami. From Little Havana to Little Haiti, the Caribbean influences leave an indelible mark on all it touches. Miami is a dynamic tourist destination with unlimited potential for excitement and fun.

 

Sports, Travel and Leisure

Miami Sport Fishing

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Miami Sport Fishing Trips – Great Fishing Spots

With dozens of miles of pristine coastline converging with the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, the city of Miami, Florida, is quite possibly the world’s epicenter for sport fishing. The fishing area is sectioned off by the Bahamas, the edges of which lie about 50 miles east of the Miami coast. As a result, Miami fishing trips offer some of the most exhilarating and biologically diverse recreation that the planet has to offer, without the dangers of being out in the middle of the high seas. Avid sport fishermen sometimes travel thousands of miles to experience the clear waters and the incredible diversity of fish that can be hooked and reeled in.

Many purchasing options are available for people looking to take a sport fishing vacation to Miami, including commissioning a Miami charter boat or renting a Miami party boat. Whatever your pleasure, getting on a vessel and experiencing the incredible marine life of the area is something that should absolutely be done while visiting the fine city of Miami. Sport fishing tours are a major industry in the area, and many businesses are run by friendly folks equipped with the knowledge and savvy to make your sport fishing experience a lifelong memory.

A few dozen quality sport fishing locales dot the landscape along the Miami Beach strip, as well as the Bayside Marketplace region and Key Biscayne. The adventures range from authentic and rustic tours led by seasoned locals who have been in the business for decades to well-polished corporations that cater to a passenger’s every need.

Although the environment is tropical and the vibe is laid back, folks who operate Miami charter boats and other Miami fishing trips are well-trained professionals who know how to handle any situation the untamed sea can present. Before patrons embark on the fishing element of sport fishing tours, they will first be informed of the basics of how to move around a sport fishing boat and what to do when the action begins. Once that has been completed, the fun is ready to begin.

Whatever way you opt to access Miami’s prime sport fishing areas, you will likely be whisked about 10 or 15 miles off of the coast to where the sea floor rises, creating a concentrated thoroughfare for fish headed toward cooler waters of the the Atlantic. Naturally, accessing an area with a greater density of fish enhances the entire sport fishing experience. Folks who have opted to go with Miami party boats might not be quite as focused on the fishing festivities, but when someone on-board pulls a bright blue spearfish out of the water, you can be sure it will garner much attention.

Recreational sports fishermen from all over the world regularly pull amazing and exotic catches out of the saltwater using nothing more than determination and a little bit of technique. People are sometimes scared off by the idea of getting on a boat and battling some of the greatest athletes of the sea, but those folks can be comforted by the fact that the elements are controlled, the equipment is often state of the art and the staff and captains are thoroughly experienced at doing their jobs.

It is no secret that some of the planet’s most dynamic and awe-inspiring fish are swimming in the waters off of the outer coast of Florida. The aquatic life ranges from delicate and beautiful to large and aggressive. Swordfish are commonly hooked in the warm coastal waters and rarely look forward to boarding a fishing boat, creating a genuine challenge to sport anglers of all experience levels. They are just one of the well over 100 fish that are hooked regularly during Miami charter boat trips and Miami fishing trips. Incredible celebrations of evolution can be spotted regularly throughout the voyage, such as the barracuda or the sailfish, which are as beautiful as they are dangerous.

Mackerels, sea trout, tarpon and various types of tunas, groupers and marlins are amongst the most common species pulled out of the waters in the Miami area. Each has a unique and incredible color scheme that has been brought out by the salts of the sea. Many will be equipped with some type of weapon that has come standard with their biological structure and should be handled delicately while getting the fish on deck and posing for pictures that will soon make their way onto social networking websites.

Every single line that wiggles during a sport fishing tour is like a birthday present falling from the sky, or perhaps more accurately, rising from the depths. No one can be sure what is going to emerge on the other end of the hook, but it is certain to be an exotic and tropical catch that is full of passion and fight. Because of the clarity of the waters, hooked fish can often be seen 10 to 15 feet below the surface of the waves. The initial moments of a catch are incredible. First, a vague shape appears in the depths and quickly rises to the surface as the color and size of the fish become clear, at which point pulses quicken and endorphins are released. The first time a fish breaches the water is a sight to behold, as the being inadvertently shows off its intense beauty, strength and fear. Certainly not every fish that is hooked on Miami party boats or a Miami charter boat will be successfully reeled in, but many sports fishermen subscribe to the notion that the chase is the best part of the hunt.

Much like a lifelong baseball fan visiting the sport’s Hall Of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, all true sporting fishermen need to pay a visit to the city of Miami at some point in time. The city is a celebration of geological and human beauty, and an epicenter of the sport fishing universe. Common tourists often traipse around town looking for the freshest seafood. Sport fishermen go out and get it themselves.

Florida Travel, Miami, Travel and Leisure

Miami Travel Information for Tourists: What to Know Before You Go

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Miami rewards a little planning. The city is spread out, the weather has two very different seasons, and where you stay decides how you get around. This page gathers the practical Miami travel information most first-time visitors look for, with links to our detailed guides.

Details were checked against official sources in October 2026.

Getting here

Airports

Private and charter flights often use Opa-locka Executive Airport, about 7 miles north of MIA.

Trains

Amtrak serves Miami from the north. Brightline runs fast trains between Orlando, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and MiamiCentral station downtown.

Cruises

PortMiami sits on an island beside downtown. If you are sailing, read how to get to PortMiami from MIA and FLL.

When to visit

SeasonMonthsWhat to expect
Dry seasonDecember to AprilWarm, sunny and less humid. The busiest and most expensive time.
Shoulder monthsMay and NovemberWarm, with fewer crowds and better prices.
Wet seasonJune to OctoberHot and humid, with short, heavy afternoon storms. Lower hotel rates.

Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Most trips in those months go ahead without trouble, but book flexible rates, consider travel insurance and watch forecasts from the National Hurricane Center in the week before you fly.

Where to stay

  • South Beach. Beach, Art Deco hotels, restaurants and nightlife, all walkable. Parking is scarce and expensive.
  • Mid-Beach and North Beach. Quieter stretches of Miami Beach with larger resorts and more space.
  • Downtown and Brickell. High-rise hotels, the bayfront, the arena and museums, with the free Metromover at the door. A short ride from the cruise port.
  • Wynwood and Midtown. Street art, galleries, breweries and restaurants.
  • Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. Leafy, relaxed neighborhoods south of downtown, both on the Metrorail line.

Miami Beach and Miami are separate cities, joined by causeways across Biscayne Bay. Getting between them takes 15 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting around

You can cover downtown, Brickell and South Beach without a car. For the Everglades, the Keys and the suburbs you will want one.

Money

  • Sales tax is 7 percent in Miami-Dade County, added at the register.
  • Hotels add taxes on top of the room rate, and many charge a daily resort fee. Check the total before you book.
  • Tipping is expected: around 18 to 20 percent in restaurants, 15 to 20 percent for taxis, and a few dollars for valets and housekeeping.
  • Check the bill before you tip. Many restaurants, especially in Miami Beach, add a service charge automatically.
  • Cards and contactless payment are accepted almost everywhere, including on Metrorail and buses.

Language

English and Spanish are both used everywhere, and you will hear Haitian Creole and Portuguese as well. Most hotels, restaurants and attractions have staff who speak both English and Spanish.

Beach basics

Miami Beach enforces its beach rules. The city prohibits:

  • Alcohol in public, including on the sand
  • Glass containers
  • Smoking on beaches and in parks
  • Coolers, tents, tables and inflatable devices
  • Styrofoam, plastic straws and balloons
  • Loud music

The full list is on the city’s visitor rules page. Swim near a lifeguard tower and check the warning flags. Rip currents are the main hazard, and the flags tell you when the water is rough.

Sun, heat and storms

  • The sun is strong all year. Use sunscreen and drink water, even on cloudy days.
  • In summer, plan outdoor time for the morning. Storms usually arrive in the afternoon and pass quickly.
  • Lightning is common in summer storms. Leave the beach or pool when you hear thunder.
  • Streets in low areas can flood during heavy rain and seasonal high tides. Do not drive through standing water.

Staying safe

Miami is a major city and ordinary city sense applies. Keep valuables out of sight in a parked car, watch your phone and bag on the beach and in nightlife areas, and use official taxi stands or a ride app at the airport. In an emergency, call 911.

Useful official links

For trip ideas, the Miami pages from Frommer’s, Lonely Planet and Tripadvisor are good starting points, and our own Miami: Explore the Magic City covers the main sights.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to visit Miami?

For weather, December through April. For lower prices with good weather, try May or November.

Do I need a car in Miami?

Not if you are staying in South Beach, downtown or Brickell. Rent one for day trips to the Everglades or the Keys.

Which airport is better for Miami, MIA or FLL?

MIA is much closer to Miami and Miami Beach. FLL can be cheaper to fly into, but it is about an hour away by car.

Can you drink alcohol on the beach in Miami Beach?

No. Drinking alcohol in public is illegal in Miami Beach, and that includes the beach.

The bottom line

Pick your neighborhood first, because it decides whether you need a car. Come between December and April for the best weather, or in the shoulder months for value, and read the bill before you tip.

Details were checked against Miami-Dade County, City of Miami Beach and airport sources in October 2026. Prices and rules change, so confirm before you travel.

Travel and Leisure

Visit Florida – How To Save Money

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Going On Vacation: Why It’s Time To Enjoy The Summer Off-Season Time In Florida

There’s a secret that most people don’t know about Florida: visiting the state in the off season is actually the best time to go.

It’s a well-known fact that the majority of folks will head to Florida in its peak season, which runs from December until Memorial Day. The goal behind it is the max exodus many are doing to get away from the cold, winters months in the north. However, people do visit the state in its off months, which runs from June until the end of November. And, for them, there is an array of benefits to be had after the greatest chunk of visitors has left.

Three Reasons Why You Should Visit Florida In Its Off Months

1 – Cost

The best reason to see the “Sunshine State” in its off months is the cost.  After Memorial Day, every business, from the hotels to the restaurants to the boutique stores, feel the pain of the tourists leaving. These places will drop their prices to encourage the visitors (and locals) to spend their money.

While you get a cut-rate, the service is still top of the line. Customers still expect great service during the off season and business owners understand this. Since your business is greatly appreciated during these off-season months, the service is bound to be better.

2 – Taking In The Attractions

Another reason to enjoy the state in its off-season is the attractions you can visit without all the crowds to contend with. Think about how nice it would be to ride your favorite amusement ride without the hour or more wait. The shopping centers won’t be so crowded and you can find a parking space easier. The people waiting in line for a table at a restaurant are more likely the locals. Plus, the hotels and vehicle rental agencies will offer deep discounts and upgrades.

3 – Taking A Dip

Sure, the summer months means it’s hotter in the state. However, you don’t have to just sit back in a hotel room and enjoy the cool air. Rather, get out to the beach and enjoy a nice dip in the ocean (or Gulf of Mexico).  You can also enjoy the hotel’s pool. When you’re out and about visiting the sites, you can get into an air-conditioned room and cool off that way.

Possible Hazard Of Going To Florida In The Off Season

Summer Florida vacations do have some potential hazards associated with them. Summer months are considered hurricane season with the peak of it in August and September. Thus, you need to keep in mind that these storms will form at any point and hit the state. Make sure you stay alert for warnings and prepare yourself with the necessary supplies. If a storm is serious enough, you might want to cut short the trip and head home before the store comes ashore.

Sure, it sounds a warning but remember this: there are millions of people living in Florida all the time and they enjoy the peak season with vacationers and the off-season benefits. For them, it’s worth going through the rough, threatening weather to have that all-enjoyable vacation.

With the economy just now turning for the better (according to government data), it’s nice to know that your family vacation doesn’t have to cost you an arm and leg to enjoy. Rather, enjoy the off-season Florida offers and get away from the hustle and bustle of your life.

Travel and Leisure

Miami Extended Stay Hotels

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Extended Stay Miami Hotels

With its clear waters, tropical breeze and vibrant night life, Miami offers plenty of reasons to visit and stay for a while. Home to several extended stay hotels Miami invites you to stick around and enjoy. The following are descriptions of several Miami extended stay hotels.

Extended Stay America Miami – Coral Gables has a convenient location within walking distance to the Alhambra District and Miracle Mile and only three miles away from Miami Children’s Hospital and Coconut Grove. This Miami extended stay hotel was designed with longer stays in mind. Its studios feature lots of work space and kitchens with microwaves, refrigerators, and stovetops. Other amenities include guest laundry, pet friendly rooms, wireless internet for one fee of $4.99, free local calls, iron/ironing board, personalized voicemail, cooking and dining utensils, and transportation to the Port for an additional fee. You may choose from Studio Suites featuring queen beds, king beds, or 2 double beds. The front desk can help you with mail delivery or copy and fax service. The hotel offers free transportation to and from Bascom Palmer/Jackson Memorial Hospital during operating hours. If you are staying 7 or more nights, then one full housekeeping service is provided and includes vacuuming, dusting, changing towels and linens, emptying trash, replenishing toilet paper and soap if necessary, and cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. This service is given once every 7 days. For $10.00 per service, you can purchase additional full service cleanings. Guests staying from one to six nights may exchange their towels at the Front Desk. Any guests may purchase a $3.00 Refresh Service, which includes emptying trash, replacing soiled towels, replenishing toilet paper and soap as needed, and making the bed with the linens already on it. Neither service offers dishwashing. Check-in time is 3:00 p.m., and check-out time is 11 a.m. If cancellation is necessary, it must be done by 6pm hotel time on the projected day of arrival. Otherwise, your credit card will be charged the first night’s stay plus tax. Each guest room is allowed one pet. A non-refundable $25 per day cleaning fee will be charged on the first night’s stay, though it will not exceed $150. Size, breed, and weight restrictions may apply. Extended Stay America’s policy requires advance payment for rooms. Guest paying by the night will pay for their entire stay at check-in, and guests paying by the week will be charged at check-in for the first week. Children 17 and under stay free in the same room as an adult.

Extended Stay America Miami – South – Brickell is near Jackson Memorial Hospital, the Metro Rail, Marry Brickell Village and Brickell District. These locations are within walking distance, and the Port of Miami is just two miles away. This hotel is also designed for longer stays, and its studios have kitchens with refrigerators, stovetops, and microwaves. Guest laundry on site, $4.99 wireless internet, workspace, pet friendly rooms, free local calls, iron/ironing board, personalized voicemail, and cooking and dining utensils are included, and transportation is available to the Port for an additional fee. You may choose from Studio Suites with 2 double beds, king beds, or queen beds. Mail delivery and copy/fax services assistance is available through the front desk. During operating hours, complimentary transportation is offered to and from Bascom Palmer/Jackson Memorial Hospital. If you are staying 7 or more nights, then you receive one full housekeeping service. This service is provided once each 7 days. For $10.00, you may purchase an additional full service cleaning. You may exchanges your towels at the Front Desk if you are staying 1-6 nights. Any guest can purchase a Refresh Service for $3.00. Dish washing is not offered with either service. Check-in time is 3 p.m. and check-out time is 11 a.m. If you must cancel a reservation, then do so by 6pm hotel time on the projected day of arrival. Otherwise, they will charge your credit card the first night’s stay plus tax. You may have one pet in your room, but you must pay a non-refundable $25 per day cleaning fee, not to exceed $150, which you must pay on your first night’s stay. Breed, weight, and size restrictions may apply. Extended Stay America requires that you pay in advance. At check-in, those paying per night will be charged for the whole stay, and those paying per week will be charged for their first week. Children 17 and under can stay free in the same room as an adult.

Homestead Miami Airport/Blue Lagoon hotel is another extended stay hotel in Miami offers to its guests. Studio suite rooms for long-term guests include a kitchen with stovetop, microwave, and refrigerator. In addition to the guest laundry, personalized voicemail, iron/ironing board, workspace, pet friendly rooms, $4.99 wireless internet, and cooking/dining utensils, you can enjoy the fitness club access. Incoming faxes are complimentary and outgoing faxes and copy service cost a small fee. Faxes, packages, and mail are delivered to the rooms at each business day’s end. Like with the previous two hotels, one full housekeeping service is performed for those who stay 7 or more nights, and it includes the same as above. Front desk towel exchange is available, and the Refresh Service costs $5.00, should you need it. No dishes will be washed. Check-in time is 3:00 p.m. and check-out time is 11:00 a.m. should you arrive earlier than 3:00, you may be asked to store your bags and wait for the next available room. Based on demand and availability, property management might agree to extend your check-out hour. A higher rate may apply to those who depart early. Cancellations must be made by 6pm hotel time on the arrival date, or you must pay the first night’s stay plus tax. The hotel has the same pet policy and fees as the previous two, and they require the same advance payment at check-in as well.

Homestead Miami/Airport/Miami Springs extended stay hotel offers all the amenities of the previous hotel but also offers a pool, an on-site fitness facility, manager’s reception, and daily continental breakfast. You may also request Airport Shuttle to MIA from 7am-10pm. Room choices include a Deluxe Studio with a queen bed and sofa sleeper and a studio suite with 2 double beds. Mail and fax delivery are offered, as well as a two-line phone, incoming faxes for free, and small-cost copy and outgoing fax services. Housekeeping services, check-in/check-out times, cancellation and pet policies are the same as those of the Homestead Miami Airport/Blue Lagoon hotel.

Extended Stay Deluxe Miami – Airport – Doral, in addition to the amenities offered by the other extended stay hotels, offers a document printing station, 24-hour van service, and DVD/MP3 players in all rooms. Deluxe Studio options include 1 queen bed and sofa sleeper, 1 king bed and sofa sleeper, or 2 double beds and a sofa sleeper.

Homestead Miami Airport/Doral, offering the same amenities and policies as the above Homestead hotels, is located in the center of the Doral Business District. You may choose from a Studio Suite with a queen bed or a Deluxe Studio with a king bed and sofa sleeper.

Choices like these make finding a comfortable extended stay hotel in Miami easy!