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Miami, a city on Florida's southeastern coast, offers a distinctive blend of influences. Known for its extensive sandy beaches and clear waters, it's also a significant hub for arts and culture, particularly with its Art Deco architectural district. The city's prominence in international trade and finance is notable, alongside its lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene.
Visitors often explore South Beach, known for its oceanfront and distinctive buildings, or take in the art galleries of Wynwood Walls. Little Havana provides a glimpse into Cuban culture with its cafés and Domino Park, whilst the Everglades National Park, a short distance away, offers a natural landscape for exploration. The city's atmosphere reflects its position as a gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean.
When planning your stay in Miami, many visitors first look to South Beach for accommodation, as it's often considered the heart of the action, particularly for first-timers. This area boasts a wide range of hotels, from Art Deco boutique establishments to larger, more modern resorts, many with direct beach access. You'll find yourself close to Lummus Park, Ocean Drive's distinctive architecture, and the lively Lincoln Road Mall, perfect for a stroll and a bite to eat.
Just across Biscayne Bay, Downtown Miami and Brickell offer a more urban experience. These districts are brimming with high-rise hotels catering to business travellers and those seeking a city buzz. Downtown is home to the FTX Arena, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, and the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). Brickell, known as Miami's financial hub, features upscale dining, rooftop bars, and designer shopping. Accommodation here tends to be contemporary, with many hotels offering impressive city or bay views.
Further north, Mid-Beach provides a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than South Beach, while still being on the oceanfront. This stretch is home to a number of luxurious hotels and resorts, some with a more residential feel. Here you can explore the Faena District, known for its distinctive arts and culture venues, and enjoy a quieter beach experience, though still within easy reach of South Beach's energy via a short drive or bus journey.
Regarding travel, factoring in transport connections is sensible when choosing your hotel. Most hotels in South Beach, Downtown, and Brickell offer good access to public transport options, including the free Metromover in Downtown, which connects key areas. Both Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) serve the region, with taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttle buses readily available to get you to your accommodation. Depending on traffic, getting from MIA to South Beach can take around 20-30 minutes, while FLL is a bit further out.
To find better value on Miami accommodation, consider booking during the off-peak season. Prices tend to be significantly lower from June to November, when the weather is hotter and there's a higher chance of rain or hurricanes, making it less popular with tourists. The high season, from December to May, sees higher demand and prices due to cooler, drier weather and major events like Art Basel in early December.
Another strategy is to look at properties a little further afield from South Beach, such as those in Brickell or Downtown Miami. While still convenient for transport and amenities, these areas often present more affordable options compared to the beachfront hotels, especially if you're comfortable using public transport or ride-sharing services to reach the beach or other attractions. Booking well in advance, even during the shoulder seasons like late May or early December, can also secure more favourable rates before demand drives them up.