Miami

Miami offers a sensory overload. It's a place of striking contrasts: glamorous yet gritty, laid-back yet fast-paced, deeply American but with an undeniable Latin American soul. The air is thick with humidity, the sounds of Spanish, and the faint beat of reggaeton, creating a vibe that's electric, intoxicating, and completely unique.

The number one reason to visit Miami is its culture. It's an incredible fusion, especially in neighborhoods like Little Havana, where you truly feel the heart of Cuba beating strong. Then there's the art scene; from the world-class street art of Wynwood that feels like an open-air museum to the high-end galleries in the Design District, it's a visual feast. Of course, the iconic beaches of Miami Beach are just as stunning as you imagine. And the food! It isn't just about Cuban sandwiches and stone crabs (though you must try both); it's a culinary powerhouse with flavors from all over the Caribbean and South America. Miami is a city that's constantly evolving, always exciting, and never, ever boring.

Miami's population is diverse. You'll find the super-fit, fashion-forward crowd, especially in South Beach and Brickell. You'll also encounter incredibly warm and friendly people, particularly from the huge Cuban and other Latin American communities. Don't be surprised if you hear more Spanish than English; it's the city's unofficial first language. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases ("Hola," "Gracias," "Por favor," "Un cafecito, por favor"). It goes a long way and is genuinely appreciated. The vibe is generally outgoing and sociable, though people can be direct. It's a city with a lot of hustle and a lot of heart.

The food scene here is incredible and a highlight of the city. It's defined by its Latin American and Caribbean influences. You absolutely must try a proper Cuban Sandwich (Sanguich de Miami makes excellent ones). If you're here during stone crab season (typically Oct-May), splurging on Stone Crabs at Joe's Stone Crab is a rite of passage. For something quintessentially Miami, experience a ventanita (a walk-up coffee window) and order a Cortadito. Dining can range from cheap and delicious eats in Little Havana to incredibly high-end, Michelin-starred experiences in the Design District and Brickell.

Miami's infrastructure is a mixed bag. The internet is generally fast and reliable, and you'll find AC everywhere, which is non-negotiable for most of the year. Miami International Airport (MIA) is a major hub and fairly easy to navigate. However, public transport is a weak point. While the Metromover is a fantastic and free service for getting around Downtown and Brickell, and is currently undergoing a $153 million upgrade set to complete in 2026, the Metrorail and bus systems are not extensive enough to rely on for your entire trip. Traffic is a serious issue—a truly serious one—especially during rush hour and on the causeways to Miami Beach. The city is also flat and low-lying, making it extremely vulnerable to flooding during heavy rains and, of course, hurricanes during the season (June-November).

Most international travelers fly into Miami International Airport (MIA), which is massive and serves as a major gateway to Latin America. From MIA, your best bet to get to your accommodation is usually a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft, which costs around $30 to South Beach. Taxis are also readily available and typically charge a flat fare of $35 to South Beach. For a more budget-friendly option, you can take the free MIA Mover to the Metrorail station, which connects to Downtown, Brickell, and other areas. However, if you're staying in Miami Beach, you'll likely need to transfer to a bus or take a rideshare from the train station, which can be a hassle with luggage. The Metrobus Route 150 (Miami Beach Airport Express) also offers a direct, budget-friendly option to South Beach for $2.25, taking approximately 40 minutes.

Getting around Miami requires some planning. Within Downtown and Brickell, the free, elevated Metromover is an excellent way to travel; it's efficient and offers great views. The Metrorail is useful for north-south travel but has limited reach. The bus network is extensive but can be slow due to traffic. To pay for Metrorail and Metrobus, you'll need an EASY Card, which you can buy and load at any Metrorail station. A single trip costs $2.25, with a proposed increase to $2.75 in 2025, and there's a daily fare cap of $5.65 for contactless payments. For exploring different neighborhoods, expect to rely on Uber/Lyft. If you're brave enough to drive, be prepared for aggressive drivers and expensive parking. In South Beach, street parking for non-residents is $6 per hour, and garage rates have also increased as of October 2024. In dense areas like South Beach or Wynwood, walking or biking is often the best way to explore.

Miami's safety varies by neighborhood. Tourist-heavy areas like South Beach, Brickell, and Coral Gables are generally safe, but like any big city, awareness is key. Pickpocketing and opportunistic crime can be an issue in crowded nightlife areas like Ocean Drive and Bayside Marketplace, so always keep a close eye on your belongings. Be wary of common tourist scams, such as individuals pretending to struggle with English while an accomplice picks pockets, or people selling fake tickets for events. Credit card and ATM fraud are also potential risks; use ATMs inside banks or secure locations. Neighborhood boundaries can be stark; you can cross a street and find yourself in a much rougher area with a higher crime rate. Areas like Overtown, Liberty City, Allapattah, and parts of Little Haiti have historically struggled with higher crime rates and are generally not recommended for tourists, especially after dark. While community initiatives have seen some success in reducing gun-related homicides, gun crime remains a serious concern in specific, non-touristy parts of the city. Additionally, local officials have been actively addressing the elevated risk of overdose deaths, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Visible homelessness and encampments on overhead passes are a reality; it's advisable to avoid walking these passes alone. During events like Spring Break, Miami Beach implements strict measures, including increased police presence, DUI checkpoints, $100 parking fees, and double towing fees, to manage crowds and deter problematic behavior. A specific tip: rental cars are often targeted for break-ins, so never leave any valuables visible inside your car, not even for a minute.