Miami flights and travel guide

Miami is often called the "Gateway of the Americas" due to its cultural and linguistic ties to North, South, Central America, and the Caribbean. It lies between the Miami River, Biscayne Bay, the Everglades and the Atlantic Ocean. But forget gateways and book that flight to Miami soon; you'll be on the beach in no time.

South Beach is great for people-watching. Its ten miles of beach plays host to the beautiful (and sometimes eccentric) people. Don't forget the backdrop. The minute you step off your Miami flight and drive through the city the architecture will leave awe-inspired. The Art Deco district within South Beach has the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture in the world. In contrast, North Beach boasts examples of Miami Modernism architecture and uncrowded beaches.

Don't forget to take a trip to Little Havana. Close your eyes and you might even believe you are in Cuba. The sounds of salsa and merengue call out from stores while old men in guayaberas enjoy a cigar with their game of dominoes.

While sauntering about, grab a strong and sweet Cuban coffee. Pick one up on most street corners for less than a quid. It'll keep your feet tapping as you make your way around this exciting city.

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Miami climate

Greater Miami enjoys a subtropical climate that ensures plenty of sunshine all year round. Sun protection is advised, even when temperatures are moderated by cool ocean breezes. Rainfall occurs mainly during summer and early autumn.

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When to fly to Miami

Peak season:

Tourists who are looking to escape the winter chill at home book flights to Miami from January through April when temperatures are in the teens to low 20s with blue skies and crisp air.

Off season:

The weather in June, July, and August is extremely hot and humid with the possibility of rain almost every day, but this is also a good time to bag a bargain.  However watch out for the official hurricane season which runs from June to November.

Shoulder season:

May and October through early December can be great times to take a flight to Miami.

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Getting around Miami

Driving is an easy way to get around Miami, but you’ll have plenty of options. You can find desks for rental car companies like Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise and Hertz at Miami Airport. You can also take the Miami Metrorail from Dadeland to Palmetto for just a few dollars. The Metrobus covers the whole county for similarly priced fares. If you need to change buses, make sure you ask for a transfer when you buy your ticket. You can also take the Metromover, a free automated people mover that runs downtown. It’s a great way to see Miami’s most popular tourist and shopping areas.

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Miami insider information

• Although it is not enforced strictly, there is an alleged curfew in effect for minors after 11pm on weeknights and midnight on weekends in all of Miami-Dade County. After these hours, children under 17 should not be out on the streets or driving unless accompanied by a parent or on their way to work. Remember that when you see them at Coconut Grove and on South Beach.
• Around half of Miami's population is Latin American. Visit the Museum of Hispanic & Latin American Art to better understand their culture. The annual Art Basel Miami Beach is helping the city fast become an art capital.
• Take full advantage of South Beach nightlife. Miami's pulsating dance clubs are considered among the best in the world. 
• Explore the Everglades in an airboat and get close to the swamps' inhabitants such as alligators, manatees, raccoons and Florida panthers.
• The largest Botanical Gardens in the US, the Fairchild Tropical Garden has 83 acres of palms and other exotic fronds.
• From Miami, the drive here through Coral Gables offers great views of some fine old Florida mansions. Open daily, admission is $10 (£5).

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Miami airports

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