Traveling to Miami: tips and practical information before departure

After the article about me 10 must-see and do things in Miami, Here are some practical tips for preparing for your trip to Miami!

Formalities?

To travel to the United States, you must have a passport valid for 6 months after the date of return from the trip. You must also apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ESTA): Official ESTA website . The fee is 14$ and the ESTA is valid for two years.

Attention, a visa is mandatory if you have been to these countries since March 2011: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen. To apply for a B2 tourist visa, you must fill out the form. DS-160 online form   Visa fee: 160$

When to go to Miami?

Regarding the weather in Miami, it should be noted that the summers are hot and humid, while the winters are much drier with hurricane chances from July to October… I therefore recommend going at the end of winter/early spring, avoiding the Spring Break period (March) when many young people head to Miami to have a (very) good time.

How to get to Miami?

To travel to Miami I went on Liligo.fr To compare all the airline tickets and find a cheap flight in just a few clicks. You also have the option on this online comparator to book accommodation at a very attractive price. This is the right deal, try it out!

What insurance should I take before traveling to Miami?

Prepare your trip to Miami with a travel insurance from Heymondo It holds crucial importance, especially considering the high costs of healthcare in the United States. Miami, renowned for its sunny beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic attractions, can also present unexpected health risks. Heymondo offers comprehensive medical coverage, covering not only medical emergencies but also providing protection against exorbitant medical expenses in the United States. With the American healthcare system renowned for its high rates, taking out travel insurance with Heymondo becomes an essential precaution to avoid significant medical expenses in the event of an accident or illness. By investing in Heymondo, you not only ensure total peace of mind but also financial protection against healthcare costs in the United States. Before diving into the Wynwood art scene or relaxing on the beaches of Miami Beach, make sure you have the necessary security and protection with Heymondo.

How to get around in Miami?

Transportation to and from Miami Airport 

The least expensive solution is to take the Miami Beach Airport Express (bus #150) which costs 2.65$ but stops all over Miami Beach from the 41st Street to the south. The Super Shuttle costs 22$ but directly serves South Beach (reserve your ticket at least the day before). You can also opt for the yellow taxi (fixed rate and announced at the airport taxi counter) which will cost you about 35$ to South Beach. Otherwise, always compare in real time with your Uber app; it’s sometimes worth it, especially if you’re traveling with several people!

If you plan to stay in Miami for only 2 days and then go discover the region: Key West, the Everglades or other Florida territories, rent a car; the rates are really attractive! I recommend booking your car on the site Carigami.fr, Here you can find the car that suits you best. For your information, I rented a Ford Mustang Convertible for 390€ for 1 week!

 

Getting around in Miami

Getting around by Bus in Miami and Miami Beach

The bus network is really well developed! It costs 2.25$ per trip (payable on board with the supplement). The price is the same regardless of the distance on the line, but you will have to pay again if you change lines. You can also take the Easy Ticket (at metro stations or authorized retailers) which allows you to change lines for the same price (2.25$) for a period of 3 hours. Another option if you plan to use public transport a lot is to opt for the package. Easy Card 1 day 5.65$ – 7 consecutive days 29.25$

Moving around in a trolley

An original, fun, and FREE alternative to discovering Miami neighborhoods! These are traditional vintage-style buses that travel through Miami (Downtown Miami and Brickell + itineraries to the Wynwood Miami Design District, Little Havana and Little Haiti) and Miami Beach (South Beach). Note that the rides are quite slow and the Trolley stops almost every 50 meters. But it’s always fun to go from one neighborhood to another 🙂

More information here for the Trolley from Miami

More information here for the Trolley from Miami Beach

Getting around on Metrorail in Miami

There are two metro lines in Miami, one that leaves from the airport and the other from the northwest of Miami, to serve the city center. Fare: 2.25$ per trip. More information here

Getting around on Metromover in Miami

The Metromover is an automated aerial metro that serves the city center in 3 lines, and it is free. There are the Brickell loop, the Inner loop and the Omni loop. Stand in front of the glass, you’ll be able to enjoy a unique view of the neighborhoods as you slalom between the buildings and discover the city from a new, quite futuristic angle!

Getting around with Uber or Lyft

I have used both services extensively through their respective apps; it’s simple, convenient, and cheap if you’re traveling with several people. It costs about 4-6$ for a ride in Miami Beach and 12-15$ for a ride from Miami Beach to Miami (Downtown, Wynwood, etc.).

Rates often change, so compare the two services. Don’t have an UBER account? Create an account now and benefit from a discount with the code: t8jni

Where to sleep in Miami Beach?

You can find all types of accommodations in Miami, for every taste and budget. During my last trip to Miami, I booked a hostel called «Hi Miami Beach» at the last minute, located just a few steps from Lincoln Road. This time I went to the Approximately 39, a boutique hotel in Art Deco style located between 39th and 40th streets in Miami Beach. This small-scale hotel is designed around the theme of travel and exploration; of course, I approve! The welcome is perfect, the rooms comfortable and beautifully decorated; there is a bar located near the lobby but there is also, and above all, a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by smaller, more intimate spaces where you can relax, have a drink, or have a snack. The hotel has parking, costing 25$ per day. If you want to book a hotel in Miami, compare prices and find the one that suits you best on Liligo.fr