Miami

There is a possibility that your travel to Florida’s coastline or to exciting central Florida may be via Miami should your travel plans include flying into Miami International airport. Many travellers will jump straight into a hire car and head for their chosen vacation destination.

However, have you ever thought that perhaps spending a few days in Miami might be a great way to start your vacation? Miami is an exciting city full of interesting ways to spend time. There is everything from a range of restaurants and the nightlife of Miami Beach to amazing areas like the Everglades.

These are a few things we have tried and would suggest, although it has to be said there is much that we are yet to explore in and around Miami:-

South Beach – As an area typical of Miami’s trendy ambiance South Beach offers clear blue waters and an interesting art deco landscape. Certainly worth spending some time here.

Everglades – Open 7 days a week and consisting of 1. 5 million acres of swamps, saw-grass prairie and sub-tropical jungle, the Everglades National Park is one of the most spectacular public parks in the US. The park is home to many rare species, including the American Crocodile, the Florida Panther and the West Indian Manatee.

Parrot Jungle Island – The name may suggest a specialisation with Parrots but Parrot Jungle Island actually acts as home to a variety of animals including Parrots (naturally) , Cranes, Macaws, Flamingos, Condors, Tigers, Llamas, Skunks, Orangutans, Kangaroos, Monkeys and Chimpanzees. Jungle Island is located on an island of its own, near downtown Miami. It is located at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail and can be reached via I-395.

Bayside – Bayside is a really pleasant open air shopping and eating area located on the water side. There is an array of differing shops selling exclusive Miami merchandise plus stores like Gap. Bayside has a host of varied eating establishments ranging from Sushi to vegetarian to a good steak. There is nothing more relaxing and pleasant than eating in the open air watching the variety of expensive yachts, boats and sometimes ships sailing by. After a nice meal it is worth taking a walk down by the water where many of the boats are docked and perhaps take an excursion on one of the tour boats.

Hotels – Hotel accommodation varies dramatically in cost, dependent upon proximity and standard. The typical range is between $70 to $450 per night. We generally choose hotels in the $160 per night range which have always proven to be of a good family standard and not too expensive for a 2 night stay.