Dubbed America’s Casablanca and the Magic City, Miami’s identity is that of a truly multicultural American city. Third most popular city in the United States for international visitors, it is a gateway to the South and Central US, and the streets are peppered with the flavors of Latin American food, language, music, politics and spirit. For sightseeing trips across the area, car rental is the best option.
Getting there
Miami International Airport and the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport serve Miami, with flights from all over the world. A public bus service and private shuttles run to town from Miami Airport, and Fort Lauderdale has acess by taxi to the nearby tri-rail service – running every hour southbound to Miami. Metrorail connects with the tri-rail commuter service, from where Amtrak trains run to major cities in the US. If you’ve chosen self-drive as your vacation transport option, checking out the best national travel deals prices available is the way to go.
Greyhound services arrive from New York, Washington, Atlanta, New Orleans and Orlando and there are three terminals in the city; Metrobus connects all three bus terminals. Florida’s major turnpike, the I-95, passes through Miami and on down to Key West. I-75 approaches from the west of Florida and heads into Fort Lauderdale. Driving in the city can be fraught during the high season, but rural routes are perfect for scenic trips in your rental car.
Key attractions
Glitzy, glamorous South Beach is the trendiest part of Miami, with its designer shopping, upbeat restaurants and fast-paced nightlife. South Beach itself, with its white sands and palm trees, stretches from Lincoln Road Mall to South Pointe Park, and its most striking feature is the famous Art Deco Historic District, with over 800 buildings in this striking architectural style. The distinctly gay atmosphere also adds a lively aspect to the area.
Downtown Miami, distinguished by its sleek skyscrapers, impressive government buildings and cultural centers, is the metropolis nerve center. On the waterfront, the lively Bayside Marketplace is a popular shopping and entertainment arcade clustered around a small harbour and abuzz with bars, shops and market stalls. Car rental gets you and your shopping bargains safely back to your hotel.
Out and about
There are several world class attractions near to Miami. Just to the west are the world famous Everglades – a huge subtropical wilderness and home to crocodiles, alligators, bottle-nosed dolphins, manatees and many birds of prey. To the south of Miami are the Florida Keys, with their unique and laid-back atmosphere and extensive water sports. To the north of Miami is Fort Lauderdale, the дVenice of Americaе with itеs canals and waterways lined with expensive yachts; while Orlando, known for its outrageous theme parks, is farther northwest. National travel deals on your rental car leave you with more money to spend on enjoyment.
Leisure options
Miami offers world class dining, unparalleled shopping and recreational activities for every style and taste, and endless nightlife options. Sporting activities are prolific and include biking, boating, fishing, fitness, golf, kayaking, sailing, jet-skiing, scuba diving, tennis and windsurfing, among others.
Safety
Crime is not as prevalent as it once was in Miami, but is certainly still rife in some areas. Never leave your car parked on a city street at night, and always beware of pickpockets. Take regular breaks when driving long distances and be careful when enjoying water sports. We strongly recommend you take out adequate travel insurance for you and your family when visiting Miami.