Located on the Atlantic Ocean on the southeast corner of the Florida peninsula, Miami has attained global notoriety in the past few decades, not just for its world-famous nightlife scene, but as a major financial and cultural centre. It has the largest concentration of international banks in the United States and, despite being located in the United States, it is sometimes facetiously referred to as the capital of Latin America because of its extensive population of citizens with Latin or Hispanic roots. Miami's tropical monsoon climate means it has mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon rainfall. The topography is completely flat, so city breaks in Miami are great for cycling and getting exercise!
Travellers on a flight from London to Miami or a flight from Manchester to Miami will want to fly into Miami International airport (MIA). A visitor also has the option of flying into Fort Lauderdale International airport (FLL), but this airport is about 45 minutes north of Miami proper by car. Keep in mind that a flight to Miami from London will, typically, take just over eight hours and the time zone in Miami is five hours behind the United Kingdom's. The official language in Miami is English, but you'll likely hear a significant amount of Spanish, too. The only currency accepted is the U.S. dollar, but you'll have no problem exchanging your pounds on a weekend in Miami.
The ideal time for package holidays in Miami is completely based on personal preference, as the city boasts a year-round mild climate. The wet season is between May and October, but that doesn't mean it rains all the time! Brief showers, on and off throughout the day, are more the norm. The temperatures during this period range from 29°C to 35°C. The winters are much drier and the temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C degrees during the day. No matter when you plan your flight and hotel for Miami, you'll find something going on. Here are a few events to watch out for:
Miami has a little bit of something for everyone. A weekend in Miami is the perfect opportunity to not only dance the night away at clubs like Mansion or Story, and spend the next day soaking up the sun at Nikki Beach, but to take in the multi-cultural sights, sounds, and flavours of Little Havana and Little Haiti. Many travellers love package holidays to Miami, as they're easily customisable with just a few clicks.
On city breaks in Miami, don't forget to get off the mainland! The city is known for world-class fishing. You can charter a boat with a tour company such as Double Threat Fishing Charters, and try your hand at catching tuna, sailfish, swordfish, and more. If you just want to cruise around and take in stunning views, book a boat tour with Island Queen Tours. They'll bring you past Star Island, where numerous celebrities have homes.
Besides fun in the sun, Miami offers a number of museums. In the heart of the city, visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a former private estate that is now a public museum and National Historic Landmark. For both indoor and outdoor entertainment, head to pretty Collins Park, which is also home to the contemporary art museum the Bass, as well as the Miami City Ballet.
Take a stroll and take in art outdoors in Wynwood. This Miami district is famous for its street art, and is also home to plenty of shopping, bars, and restaurants. Just across Biscayne Bay, you'll find storied South Beach, where you can walk along miles of white sand beach, take a dip, and admire this neighbourhood of Art Deco architecture.
If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Miami.
This is a city of many cultures, making a weekend in Miami an adventure for your palate.
Miami has no shortage of gift shops where you can find t-shirts, shells, beach towels, and more, and these are in particular abundance in South Beach. For upscale mementos, head to Bal Harbour Shops, the favourite mall of ladies-who-lunch types. Unique items can be found in the galleries and boutiques of Española Way, a delightful pedestrian shopping street also home to great Spanish, French, and Italian restaurants.
Planning on flying to United States? If a city break in Miami doesn't quite convince you, why not explore other exciting cities in United States ? Check out our amazing flight and hotel packages for your next holiday adventure!