Book cheap flights to Miami

Tropical weather lingers over the city all year round thanks to the warm currents of the Gulf Stream that stroke the coastline. Winter and early spring see the city bursting at the seams with holiday goers and events such as the Calle Ocho Festival and Miami Carnival. However, with it comes higher prices and large crowds. Temperatures rise and rainfall descends upon the city during the summer and autumn months, but the crowds become thinner and prices drop. Music and the arts also experience a resurgence, with food festivals such as Taste of the Caribbean and South Beach Seafood Festival tantalising the taste buds and the Falls Festival of the Arts and Italian Film Festival indulging the mind.

South African passport holders do require a visa to travel to North America. The purpose of your trip will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. Immigration Law. In order to qualify for a visa, you will need to meet a number of requirements.

You will also need to ensure your passport is valid for six months after your intended return date and that you have three blank pages available for entry stamps. Processing can also be a lengthy process, so it is advisable to leave considerable time for this.

Visas can be organised via the US Consulate General in Cape Town, Durban, or Johannesburg.

Cape Town – 2 Reddam Ave, Steenberg, 7945.

Phone: ( 27) 021 702 7300

Durban – 303 Dr Pixley Kaseme St, Durban Central, 4001.

Phone: ( 27) 031 305 7600

Johannesburg – 1 Sandton Dr, Sandhurst, 2146.

Phone: ( 27) 011 290 3000

See this guide on how to apply for your USA visa.

Despite its polished, glamorous façade, Miami is a sprawling metropolis with a large population, so crime does happen. You can avoid becoming a victim of circumstance by taking certain precautions and maintaining vigilance at all times. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is recommended.

Pack and carry your own luggage, and keep an eye on it at all times. Be aware of your surroundings, and the people around you. Do not make your personal items such as wallets, cameras and handbags visible targets for theft. Some experts recommend avoiding Downtown Miami at night as it empties out and can become quite seedy.

Keep hydrated and use a good sunscreen during the hotter months, as temperatures can get dangerously hot. Jellyfish frequent the waters along the coast and are notorious for their excruciating stings – watch out for them. During hurricane season, listen to the television or radio for up-to-date emergency information, try to remain indoors, and avoid downed power lines and flooded areas.

There are no vaccination requirements for visitors to the United States.

Accommodation in Miami is a scintillating offering of intimate boutique hotels, sprawling beach resorts, trendy holiday inns and delectable luxury hotels.

Luxury beach resorts and hotels dominate the coastlines, offering sublime views of the glittering turquoise ocean. Cabanas and beach umbrellas spill out onto the powdery sands and restaurants offer the ultimate spot for sipping on coconut infused cocktails while the sinking sun paints the sky in exquisite hues.

Across Biscayne Bay, South Beach offers up a tantalising selection of boutique hotels. Iconic Art Deco architecture lines the streets, seducing travellers with their curious façades and chic interiors. Ideal for guests who want to experience the intoxicating hustle and bustle of Miami.

Miami is a large metropolis with numerous methods of transportation that will make it easy to get around and explore every nook and cranny.

SuperShuttle is the official airport shuttle for Miami International Airport. Multiple kiosks can be found in the arrivals section of the airport. Their services include 24/7 shared-ride options to or from the airport. Other shuttle services include SAS Transport Service and Go Airport Shuttle.

For travellers wanting freedom, a number of car rental companies operate within the city. However, congestion can become frustrating and petrol expensive. Other options include: bike and scooter hire, Uber and other taxi services, local and inter-city trains and a hop on trolley service that offers a particularly fun way to explore the city.