With its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and exciting nightlife, Miami is a dream destination for many. However, it is also an expensive city to visit. By saving on unnecessary costs, you can splurge on other experiences like fancy restaurants or VIP nightlife. For money-conscious travelers, here are some tips to make your trip enjoyable without breaking the bank.
Flights
When planning your trip to Miami, one of the major decisions involve choosing flights. Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary airport serving the city and offers free airport shuttle to parts of the city. However, flights into MIA can be pricier compared to flights into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Find what works for you based on convenience and budget requirements.
Fort Lauderdale is about 30 miles north of Miami, and flights into FLL are often cheaper. You’ll have to arrange ground transportation to Miami whether it’s ride share or public transit.
Uber or Lyft can cost $35-$50, or you can use public transit. The Tri-Rail train connects FLL to Miami, providing a budget-friendly option for around $5 per ticket. If you have a flexible schedule, comparing prices between these two airports can be the start of decent savings.
Transit
Getting around Miami is surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. One of the best-kept secrets for tourists is the FREE transit service along North and South Beach. Called the North Beach and South Beach loops, they are complimentary and operate until 11PM.
They cover popular tourist areas and are not as packed as you would imagine. There are other “loops” in the city, such as the Downtown and Brickell loops – also free.
For other parts of the city, Miami’s public transit system is cost-effective. You can buy fares through the Transit app, which allows you to pay and display a QR code to the bus driver. The app also provides real-time bus and tram schedules, making it easier to plan your trips.
Keep in mind the QR code changes based on the time, so you will need internet access when showing the QR to bus driver. Be aware of potential data roaming charges.
Another free transportation option is Freebee, a service similar to Uber but free of charge. Freebee operates in certain areas of Miami and can be hailed via the Ride Freebee mobile app. This service is a great way to get around safely and economically without worrying about fares.
We first became aware of this service while waiting for the bus. A Tesla driver with the Freebee logo stopped and asked if we wanted a ride. Naturally, we declined because there are many schemes that could end up costing money, and we were also concerned about the safety of accepting a ride from a random driver. Use the app for safety and reliability.
Food and Entertainment
Miami is renowned for its dining and entertainment options, but they can quickly drain your budget if you’re not careful. One popular activity is taking a boat tour in the Bayside area, which offers stunning views of celebrity mansions and the Miami skyline.
However, be cautious of the “raffle” scheme on these tours. Three out of four people in the group were announced winners, even though the tour only had 20 people, which made us suspicious.
Winners were escorted downstairs in their respective groups to receive details about their prizes. They were then asked to make a $40 refundable deposit, sign a document filled with fine print, and commit to attending a two-hour seminar in the following days, which would qualify them for a cruise or vacation stay.
To avoid any awkward situations, you can decline the offer once you are brought downstairs. Research indicates these are time-share seminars, and many participants later regret their decision to attend.
In the Beach area, drink prices can be exorbitant; for instance, two shots of tequila at Mango’s Tropical Cafe can set you back over $40. To avoid these high costs, consider drinking during happy hours.
Dining out in Miami can be expensive, especially in tourist-heavy areas. It’s standard practice for restaurants to add gratuities to the bill, typically 15% to 20%, without informing you. Always check your bill before adding any additional tip to ensure you’re giving what you want.
If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat between adventures, consider local grocery stores that sell cooked food. For example, M&L Food Market offers a delicious chicken and rice dish for just $6. Small eateries like Toto 2 Pizza also offer breakfast for only $9.99.
Overall Experience
Remember, Miami is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying the beach, savoring local cuisine, or exploring the city’s vibrant culture, these tips can help you manage your budget and make the most of your trip. With a bit of planning and awareness, you can enjoy all that Miami has to offer.
