Miami: Miami Beach, the perfect place for visitors looking for fun, sun and beach.

Documents and visas

To enter the United States, there are three types of visas: tourist, work and study. In the case of a tourist trip as a UK citizen, you will need a valid biometric or electronic passport as well as an electronic travel authorization (ESTA) before boarding. This application is made online and the decision is made within 72 hours of registration. The ESTA costs £18 (to be paid by credit card on the website) and is valid for two years.
Note that to travel to the United States, each member of a family must have their own passport, including babies and children.

Money

The official currency in Miami is the US dollar. There are ATMs everywhere in Miami, but all cash withdrawals incur a surcharge of about £2,5. However, the best way to limit bank charges is to pay directly with your credit card. The exchange rate applied at the time of payment will be that of the moment.

You should also be aware that tipping is common in the United States. Thus, prices in shops, hotels, restaurants, parks (except museums) are often tax free. This tax varies from more than 10% in the hotel industry and in the sales and food sector. Many tourism professionals also depend on tips, such as guides, luggage handlers (£0.8 per piece of luggage), cleaners (about £4 for a weekend), waiters (15% to 20% depending on the service), taxi drivers, etc.

Best period

The months of October through May offer mild weather for exploring Miami. It rains less, the sun is out (with an average temperature of 30°C in October) and the humidity is bearable to enjoy the beaches and all the neighbourhoods. Although it is possible to go during the summer (June to September), the season is prone to hurricanes, storms and high rainfall, not to mention the humidity which is a burden at this time.

Safety

Miami, like any large American city, is still safe to visit, however, you should be careful and avoid some dangerous areas at night. The Liberty City area (northwest of the city) is one of the most undesirable areas with a high crime rate due to drug trafficking and gangs. Another area to avoid is Overtown (northwest of downtown), which is known for its gun violence. Finally, Little Haiti (presence of gangs and mafia networks) and Little Havana (tourists are advised to stay away from the tourist areas) should also be avoided at night.
The emergency number is 911.