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Miami Travel Tips

Arriving & Departing

» Boat & Ferry Travel
If you enter the United States in a private vessel along the Atlantic Coast south of Sebastian Inlet, you must call the U.S. Customs Service (PHONE: 305.536.5263). Customs clears most boats of less than 5 tons by phone, but you may be directed to a marina for inspection.

» Cruise Travel
The Dante B. Fascell Port of Miami (1015 North American Way, PHONE: 305.371.7678), in downtown Miami near Bayside Marketplace and the MacArthur Causeway, justifiably bills itself as the cruise capital of the world. Home to 18 ships and the largest year-round cruise fleet in the world, the port accommodates more than 3 million passengers a year. It has 12 air-conditioned terminals, duty-free shopping, and limousine service. From here, 3-, 4- and 7-day cruises depart for the Bahamas and the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with longer sailings to the Far East, Europe, and South America.

Operating year-round from the seaport are Carnival Cruise Lines (PHONE: 800.327.9501), Cunard Line Ltd. (PHONE: 800.728.6273), Norwegian Cruise Lines (PHONE: 800.327.7030), and Royal Caribbean International (PHONE: 800.255.4373).

» By Bus
Most motor coaches that stop in the Miami area are chartered tour buses. Bus One (PHONE: 305.870.0919 or 888.287.1669 in Greater Miami; PHONE: 305.870.0919 or 888.287.1669 elsewhere) offers daily roundtrip service to Orlando only; $98 includes meals on board and free pick-up at select area hotels.

Regularly scheduled, interstate Greyhound (PHONE: 800.231.2222) buses stop at five terminals in Greater Miami, including Miami International Airport.

» By Car
The main highways into Greater Miami from the north are Florida's Turnpike (a toll road) and I-95. From the northwest, take I-75 or U.S. 27 into town. From the Everglades, to the west, use the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41), and from the south use U.S. 1 and the Homestead Extension of Florida's Turnpike.

» By Train
Amtrak (8303 NW 37th Ave., PHONE: 800.872.7245) provides service from 500 destinations to the Greater Miami area, including three trains daily from New York City. The trains make several stops along the way; north-south service stops in the major Florida cities of Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale. For extended trips, or if you want to visit other areas in Florida, come via the Auto Train from Lorton, VA, just outside of Washington, DC, to Sanford, FL, just outside of Orlando. From there it's less than a four hour drive to Miami. Note: you must be traveling with an automobile to purchase a ticket on the Auto Train.

Getting Around

Unless you're never leaving the beach, a car in Miami is a must. Greater Miami's public transportation system leaves much to be desired. Locals know that waits at bus stops can be lengthy and complain that trains don't get you where you need to go - at least conveniently. The network consists of more than 600 Metrobuses on 70 routes, the 21-mile Metrorail elevated rapid-transit system, and the Metromover, an elevated light-rail system serving downtown Miami and vicinity. Free maps, schedules, information on special transportation services for the disabled, and a "First-Time Rider's Kit" are available from the Miami-Dade Transit Agency; reduced-fare tokens, sold 10 for $10, are available at all Metrorail stations (regular fare is $1.25).

Contact Miami-Dade Transit Agency (PHONE: 305.770.3131, weekdays 6 AM-10 PM and weekends 9 AM-5 PM) or www.metro-dade.com.mdta) for info.

» By Bicycle
Great weather and flat terrain make Miami great for cycling enthusiasts, but as a general method of transportation, it shouldn't be your first choice given traffic and limited bike paths. You can opt for Miami-Dade Transit's "Bike and Ride" program, which lets cyclists with permits take single-seat two-wheelers on Metrorail and select bus routes. Bicycles are allowed on Metrorail weekdays before 6:30 AM, from 10-4, and after 6:30 PM, and anytime on weekends and major holidays. You can also store your bicycle in lockers at most Metrorail stations; leases are available for 3, 6, or 12 months.

Miami-Dade Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator (PHONE: 305.375.4507) has details on permits, bike maps, and lockers, and is open weekdays 8-5.

» By Boat & Ferry
In Greater Miami all boats with motors, regardless of size, must be properly registered. Always obey "No Wake" signs; slow zones are strictly monitored and many serve to protect Florida's endangered manatees. Watch for personal watercraft: they're everywhere and their drivers don't always practice safe boating.

For boating emergencies or environmental concerns, call the Florida Marine Patrol (PHONE: 800.342.5367) or the U.S. Coast Guard (PHONE: 305.535.4368 in Greater Miami; 800.432.1216 elsewhere).

» By Bus
Metrobus (PHONE: 305.770.3131) stops are marked with blue-and-green signs with a bus logo and route information. The frequency of service varies widely from route to route, so call in advance to obtain specific schedules. The fare is $1.25 (exact change only); 60 cents for seniors (65 and older) and students. Transfers cost 25 cents and 10 cents respectively. Some express routes carry surcharges of $1.50.

» By Train
Elevated Metrorail (PHONE: 305.770.3131) trains run from downtown Miami north to Hialeah and south along U.S. 1 to Dadeland. The system operates daily 5 AM-midnight. Trains run every six minutes during peak hours, every 15 minutes during weekday mid-hours, and every 30 minutes after 8 PM and on weekends. The fare is $1.25; 25 cents transfers to Metromover or Metrobus must be purchased at the station where you originally board the system. Parking at Metrorail stations costs $2.

Metromover (PHONE: 305.770.3131) runs on two loops around downtown Miami, linking major hotels, office buildings, and shopping areas. The system spans 4½ miles, including the 1½-mile Omni extension with six stations to the north, and the 1-mile Brickell extension with six stations to the south. Service runs daily, every 90 seconds during rush hour and every 3 minutes off-peak, 6 AM-midnight along the inner loop and 6 AM-10:30 PM on the Omni and Brickell extensions. The fare is 25 cents; transfers to Metrorail are $1.

Tri-Rail (PHONE: 800.874.7245), South Florida's commuter train system, offers daily service connecting Miami-Dade with Broward and Palm Beach counties via Metrorail (transfer at the TriRail/Metrorail Station at the Hialeah station, at 79th Street and East 11th Avenue). It also offers shuttle service between MIA and the Tri-Rail airport station at 3797 N.W. 21st St. Tri-Rail stops at 18 stations along a 71-mile route. Fares are established by zones, with prices ranging from $3 to $9.25 for a round-trip ticket.

» By Trolley
The latest step-saver in Miami Beach is the Electrowave (PHONE: 305.535.9160 or 305.843.9283), a fleet of electric trolleys that run every few minutes up and down Washington Avenue with turnabouts at the Lincoln Road Mall and South Pointe Park. Rides are 25 cents and trolleys operate Monday-Wednesday 8 AM-2 AM, Thursday-Saturday 8 AM-4 AM, and Sundays and holidays 10 AM-2 AM.

» Taxis
Except in South Beach, it is difficult to hail a cab on the street; in most cases you'll need to call a cab company or have a hotel doorman hail one for you. Fares run $3 for the first mile and $2 every mile thereafter; flat-rate fares are also available from the airport to a variety of zones. Fares are set by the board of county commissioners, so if you have a question or complaint, call the Metro-Dade Passenger Transportation Regulatory Service (PHONE: 305.375.2460), informally known as the Hack Bureau. There is no additional charge for up to five passengers or for luggage. Many cabs now accept credit cards; inquire when you call or before you get in the car.

Recent legislation promises safer, more comfortable taxi service for Greater Miami. Hospitality training and increased competition should rein in most surly drivers. But Greater Miami still has cabbies who are rude and in some cases even dishonest, taking advantage of visitors who don't know the area, so try to be familiar with your route and destination.

Central Taxicab Service (PHONE: 305.532.5555). Diamond Cab Company (PHONE: 305.545.5555). Flamingo Taxi (PHONE: 305.885.7000). Metro Taxi (PHONE: 305.888.8888). Society Cab Company (PHONE: 305.757.5523). Super Yellow Cab Company (PHONE: 305.888.7777). Tropical Taxicab Company (PHONE: 305.945.1025). Yellow Cab Company (PHONE: 305.633.0503).

Contacts & Resources

» Business Hours
Most Greater Miami businesses are open weekdays 9-5; banks usually close sometime between 4-5, although larger branches feature drive-thru windows that are open until 6. Twenty-four ATMs are everywhere for quick money, deposits, even cash advances.

» Museums & Sights
Operating hours for sights and museums vary, but most are open seven days a week, rain or shine. It's always best to check, though, since some have seasonal hours. For the most part, parks and beaches operate sunrise to sunset.

» Restaurants & Clubs
Miamians dine and party late. Restaurants in high traffic areas stay open until at least midnight and there are a few 24-hour spots. Reservations are always a good idea since some places take a break on Mondays or may close for lunch. No one goes to a club before 11 PM and on South Beach many stay open till 5 AM.

Customs & Duties
Arriving in the United States

Non-U.S. residents ages 21 and older may import into the United States 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 2 kilograms of tobacco, 1 liter of alcohol, and gifts worth $100. Meat products, seeds, plants, and fruits are prohibited.

For additional information, contact the U.S. Customs Service (inquiries, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229, PHONE: 202/354-1000; complaints, Office of Regulations and Rulings, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229; registration of equipment, Resource Management, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229, PHONE: 202.927.0540).

» Electricity
The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts/60 cycles AC. Foreign visitors traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.

Mail

Every address in the United States belongs to a specific zip-code district, and each zip code has five digits. Some addresses include a second sequence of four numbers following the first five numbers, but although this speeds mail delivery for large organizations, it is not necessary to use it. Each zip-code district has at least one post office, where you can buy stamps and aerograms, send parcels, or conduct other postal business. Occasionally you may find small stamp-dispensing machines in airports, train stations, bus terminals, large office buildings, hotel lobbies, drugstores, or grocery stores, but don't count on it. Most Americans go to the post office to buy their stamps, and the lines can be long.

Official mailboxes are either the stout, royal blue steel bins on city sidewalks or mail chutes on the walls of post offices or in large office buildings. A schedule posted on mailboxes and mail slots should indicate when the mail is picked up.

» Sending Mail Home
First-class letters (under one ounce) sent within the United States cost 34 cents; postcards are 20 cents. A one-ounce letter to Canada or Mexico takes a 60-cent stamp and a postcard 50 cents. Airmail letters (under a half ounce) to other overseas destinations cost 80 cents, and postcards are 70 cents. For 70 cents, you can also buy an aerogram - a pre-stamped sheet of lightweight blue paper that folds into its own envelope.

» Receiving Mail
If you wish to receive mail while traveling in the United States, have it sent c/o General Delivery at the city's main post office (be sure to use the right zip code). It will be held there for up to 30 days. You must pick it up in person, and bring identification with you. American Express offices in the United States do not hold mail.

Money

Plastic is everywhere in Greater Miami and debit and credit cards are readily accepted. If not, there's sure to be an ATM nearby offering services you would only expect to find at a full-service bank branch, including cash advances and money transfers. You can use a tried-and-true traveler's check at most restaurants, hotels, and stores as well - it's just not as convenient.

Although Greater Miami is a relatively expensive destination, a smart shopper can find bargains in just about every category, from a $1 quick bite at a walk-up window in Little Havana to significantly lower room rates at hotels just a few blocks off the beach. You can expect to spend an average of about $6 for breakfast, $12 for lunch, and $25 for dinner, while daily hotel rates average $150. Greens fees at public golf courses are $14-$20, but fees can approach $200 at the toniest private courses. Adult admission to area attractions typically costs $12-$14, but remember that the outdoors is a major attraction in itself, and many of Greater Miami's outdoor events and festivals are free.

» ATMs
ATMs may cost you as much as $2 per transaction, so either use your own bank's ATM, or one that honors Cirrus or Plus. Either way, be wary at night and go to a safe, well-lit location (machines at Publix Groceries throughout Miami and Miami Beach are free and usually well-trafficked).

» Currency
The basic unit of U.S. currency is the dollar, which is subdivided into 100 cents. Coins are the copper penny (1 cent) and four silver coins: the nickel (5 cents), the dime (10 cents), the quarter (25 cents), and the half-dollar (50 cents). Silver $1 coins are rarely seen in circulation; a "golden" dollar coin was introduced in 2000. Paper money comes in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. All these bills are the same size and green in color; they are distinguishable only by the dollar amount indicated on them and by pictures of various famous American people and monuments.

» Exchanging Money
For the most favorable rates, change money through banks. Larger banks, especially in downtown Miami or South Beach, offer currency exchange. Contact First Union (PHONE: 800.275.3862) or Nationsbank (PHONE: 800/299-2265) for the location nearest your destination, or you can look in the Yellow Pages for exchange services. In general, U.S. banks will not cash a personal check for you unless you have an account at that bank (it doesn't have to be at that branch).

The best strategy is to buy traveler's checks in U.S. dollars before you come to the United States; although the rates may not be as good abroad, the time saved by not having to search constantly for exchange facilities far outweighs any financial loss.

Although fees charged for ATM transactions may be higher abroad than at home, Cirrus and Plus exchange rates are excellent, because they are based on wholesale rates offered only by major banks. You won't do as well at exchange booths in airports or rail and bus stations, in hotels, in restaurants, or in stores, although you may find their hours more convenient. To avoid lines at airport exchange booths, get a bit of local currency before you leave home.

» Money Orders, Funds Transfers
For wire transfers, Western Union (PHONE: 800.325.6000) is probably the best bet.

Any U.S. bank is equipped to accept transfers of funds from foreign banks. It helps if you can plan dates to pick up money at specific bank branches. Your home bank can supply you with a list of its correspondent banks in the United States.

If you have more time, and you have a U.S. address where you can receive mail, you can have someone send you a certified check, which you can cash at any bank, or a postal money order (for as much as $700, obtained for a fee of up to 85 cents at any U.S. post office and redeemable at any other post office). From overseas, you can have someone go to a bank to send you an international money order (also called a bank draft), which will cost a $15-$20 commission plus airmail postage. Always bring two valid pieces of identification, preferably with photos, to claim your money.

» Taxes
Greater Miami's sales tax is currently 6.5%, but tourist taxes can raise the total to as much as 12.5% on accommodations and 8.5% on meals. It's all a bit complicated, since the tax may change depending upon which municipality you're in and what you're buying. Ask about additional costs up front if they're not posted.

» Tipping
Restaurants in Miami-Dade must now provide customers with written notice of their tipping policy and post an antidiscrimination statement in English, Spanish, and Creole - in other words, if they choose to charge an automatic 15%, they'd better post it.

The customary tip for a doorman who calls for a taxi or a valet who brings your car around is $1. Bellhops are usually given $2 per bag in luxury hotels, $1 per bag elsewhere. Hotel maids should be tipped around $1 per day of your stay. For concierge service, tips depend on the request, perhaps $5-$10 for above-and-beyond service. Taxi drivers should receive 15%-20% of the fare and skycaps $1 per bag.

If you're sitting at the bar, bartenders should get 50 cents-$1 per drink. Maitre d's and wine stewards should be rewarded for special efforts. Tip waiters 15%-20% of your bill before tax. Check your bill first though, since many restaurants in heavily touristed areas of Greater Miami add a gratuity to your final bill, as is done in some Latin American and European countries; you can adjust that up or down. A 15%-20% gratuity is usually added on parties of six or more.

Passports & Visas
Entering the United States

Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom who plan to stay in the United States for fewer than 90 days do not need entry visas. A valid passport, a return-trip ticket, and proof of financial solvency are required; you'll be asked to fill out the Visa Waiver Form, I-94W, upon entry. Travelers who plan to stay more than 90 days can apply for the appropriate visa at the United States embassy or consulates in their home country. Canadian citizens need valid identification but neither a passport nor a visa to enter the United States.

» At Home
If you live in the U.K.: U.S. Embassy Visa Information Line (PHONE: 01891/200290; calls cost 49p per minute, 39p per minute cheap rate) for U.S. visa information. U.S. Embassy Visa Branch (5 Upper Grosvenor Sq., London W1A 1AE) for U.S. visa information; send a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Write the U.S. Consulate General (Queen's House, Queen St., Belfast BTI 6EO) if you live in Northern Ireland. Write the Office of Australia Affairs (59th fl., MLC Centre, 19-29 Martin Pl., Sydney NSW 2000) if you live in Australia. Write the Office of New Zealand Affairs (29 Fitzherbert Terr., Thorndon, Wellington) if you live in New Zealand.

» Passport Offices
The best time to apply for a passport or to renew is during the fall and winter. Before any trip, check your passport's expiration date, and, if necessary, renew it as soon as possible.

Australian Citizens: Australian Passport Office (PHONE: 131.232).

Canadian Citizens: Passport Office (PHONE: 819.994.3500 or 800.567.6868).

New Zealand Citizens: New Zealand Passport Office (PHONE: 04.494.0700 for information on how to apply; 04.474-8000; 0800.225.050 in New Zealand for information on applications already submitted).

U.K. Citizens: London Passport Office (PHONE: 0990.210410) for fees and documentation requirements and to request an emergency passport.

Safety

Greater Miami is as safe for visitors as any American city its size, but it's always a good idea to exercise extra caution when you're on vacation. Stepped-up policing of thieves who prey on tourists in rental cars has helped address what was a serious issue in the early '90s. Still, visitors should be especially wary when driving in strange neighborhoods and leaving the airport. With the exception of heavily touristed areas in Miami Beach and Coconut Grove, it's also best not to walk alone at night, and it's always a good idea to ask your concierge or front desk staff which areas to avoid. Don't assume that valuables are safe in your hotel room; use in-room safes or the hotel's safety deposit boxes. Try to use ATMs only during the day or in brightly lit, well-traveled locales. If you're shopping, don't leave purchases in the car, and when leaving a mall or grocery store, check to see you're not followed.

» Beach Safety
Before swimming, make sure there's no undertow. Rip currents, caused when the tide rushes out through a narrow break in the water, can overpower even the strongest swimmer. If you do get caught in one, resist the urge to swim straight back to shore - you'll tire before you make it. Instead, stay calm. Swim parallel to the shore line until you are outside the current's pull, then work your way in to shore.

While at the beach, steer clear of anything that looks like a blue bubble in the sand or water. These are either jellyfish or Portuguese men-of-war, and stings from their tentacles can cause a painful allergic reaction. Beaches with lifeguards usually post signs warning bathers. Don't forget lots of sunscreen and drinking water. Overexposure and dehydration are oft-treated medical emergencies in South Florida. While not too serious, they can quickly dampen vacation spirits.

Telephones

The country code for the United States is 1. The area code for Miami is 305.

All U.S. telephone numbers consist of 10 digits - the three-digit area code, followed by a seven-digit local number. If you're calling a number from another area-code region, dial "1" then all 10 digits. For calls within the same local calling area, just dial the seven-digit number. A map of U.S. area codes is printed in the front of most local telephone directories.

Four special prefixes, "800," "888," "877," and "900," are not area codes but indicators of particular kinds of service. "800," "888," and "877" numbers can be dialed free from anywhere in the country - usually they are prepaid commercial lines that make it easier for consumers to obtain information, products, or services. The "900" numbers charge you for making the call and generally offer some kind of entertainment, such as horoscope readings, sports scores, or sexually suggestive conversations. These services can be very expensive, so know what you're getting into before you dial a "900" number.

» Directory & Operator Information
For assistance from an operator, dial "0". To get a local or national telephone number, dial 411; in a few places it is necessary to dial 555.1212. If you want to charge a long-distance call to the person you're calling, call collect by dialing "0" instead of "1" before the 10-digit number, and an operator will come on the line to assist you (the party you're calling, however, has the right to refuse the call).

» International Calls
International calls can be direct-dialed from most phones; dial 011, followed by the country code and then the local number (the front pages of many local telephone directories include a list of overseas country codes). To have an operator assist you, dial "0" and ask for the overseas operator. The country code for Australia is 61; New Zealand, 64; and the United Kingdom, 44. To reach Canada, dial 1 + area code + number.

» Long-Distance Calls
Competitive long-distance carriers make calling within the United States relatively convenient and let you avoid hotel surcharges. By dialing an 800 number, you can get connected to the long-distance company of your choice.

For details, contact AT&T (PHONE: 800.225.5288), MCI (PHONE: 800.888.8000), or Sprint (PHONE: 800.366.2255).

» Public Phones
The most common pay phone in operation today is the coin-operated type. To use one, pick up the receiver, deposit your money (25 cents-35 cents for a local call), and then dial the number. An automated message will alert you to deposit more money, if needed.

Telephone-card phones, so popular elsewhere in the world, are becoming increasingly common. Grocery stores, newsstands, and other establishments sell the disposable phone cards, available in varying amounts from $5 and up. To activate the card, dial the code number and follow the instructions printed on the card.