The most beautiful pearly white sand beaches of The Sunshine State, people watching on Ocean Drive and the cozy Spanish atmosphere in Little Havana; hip and exotic Miami is the base for exploring South Florida. The city is known for its skyline with impressive skyscrapers, the ever-popular Miami Beach and the beautiful Art Deco buildings. Even the beautiful natural park of The Everglades is only a thirty minute drive away.
We therefore recommend that you rent a car in Miami. You can pick up a rental car at almost thirty locations in this sun-drenched city. You do this after you have already reserved the ideal car online. Get into your rental car immediately upon arrival and don’t waste a second and discover the impressive state in the south of America. In this great metropolis you can enjoy the warm climate, the Caribbean influences and the important port of Fort Lauderdale.
Traffic In Miami And The Surrounding Area
According to bestitude.com, Miami is located in the south of Florida, or The Sunshine State, which in turn is in the south of the United States. If you fly to Miami, you will arrive at Miami Airport. This international airport is centrally located in Miami. From the airport, you’ll likely be driving onto Dolphin Expressway (State Road 836), an east-west link that runs from Florida’s Turnpike to downtown Miami. If you are traveling to Miami Beach, you may also consider following the Julia Tuttle Causeway (I-195) and the Airport Expressway (State Road 112).
From Miami you can drive into the impressive Everglades after just 59 minutes via the Ronald Reagan Turnpike. This swamp landscape is huge, so the travel time depends on your final destination. In this National Park you can also make a small, but beautiful tour of 36 minutes. Start here at the Birdon Rd exit which is off the 41. Then proceed via Wagon Wheel Road and Country Road to the last stop at HP Williams Roadside Park back to 41.
Driving in the United States does not differ much from driving in the Netherlands. Of course you have to pay attention to the small differences in the traffic rules. For example, when driving on the highway, you can overtake on both the left and right. And even when the traffic light is red, you may turn right, unless a road sign specifically states that this is not allowed. If you see a stop sign at an intersection, actually come to a stop before continuing, even if there is no other traffic.
Welcome To Miami, Bienvenidos A Miami
Spanish or English: both languages are spoken in the city. Miami is often described as a mix between a typical North American and South American city. You will therefore not miss the various cultural influences. And this is also reflected in the kitchen: the ‘Floribbean’ cooking style. Florida and the Caribbean are merged here, and in this way you can see Caribbean influences in the sharp spices, fresh vegetables, chicken and fish and the presentation of the dish. But you can also enjoy Latin Fusion here: the enchiladas and tortillas reflect the Latin American influences.
Stroll Across Sun-Drenched Miami Beach
Grab your towel and step onto the sunny beach to enjoy the wonderful temperature. Miami Beach is perhaps one of the most famous beaches in the world. This beach is actually just below the city itself, but is easy to reach with your rental car. South Beach is one of the most famous beaches and here you have the best chance of bumping into a celebrity. Also drive down Ocean Drive, a street known for its Art Deco hotels and cozy restaurants. You may even recognize some of them from the TV.
Experience The Latin American Atmosphere In Little Havana
Have you always wanted to experience the Cuban atmosphere? Then you just do that during your visit to Miami. Little Havana is one of the hippest neighborhoods and the Cuban influences are clearly visible here: on Calle Ocho, Latin American music flows from the open windows and the smell of tobacco hangs in the streets. Listen to the locals have political discussions during a game of dominoes in Maximo Gomez Park, admire the colorful graffiti on the walls and enjoy authentic Latin American dishes.
Visit Relaxing Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove is one of the oldest and nicest neighborhoods in Miami. The district has existed since 1873 and is a gathering place for artists, musicians and adventurers. Although the neighborhood is located in the middle of Miami, there is a very cozy and relaxed atmosphere. This gives you the opportunity to browse the charming boutiques, visit art galleries and stroll along the harbour. Plus, in typical American fashion, you can visit the drive-in movie theater or join a free yoga class in the park.
Go On An Adventure In The Everglades
During your visit to Miami, we recommend taking a day trip to the Everglades. It is one of the most visited natural parks in America and is a natural habitat for crocodiles, alligators, snakes and birds. One of the nicest ways to discover this swamp area is by motorboat. Moreover, this is your chance to spot those well-known alligators. Do you prefer walking? Then follow the Anhinga Trail to the beautiful lakes of Whitewater Bay. This is one of the most beautiful trails in the park and ideal if you enjoy walking. And don’t worry, it’s safe.
