Practical info Miami, USA
Getting around the city
The mainstay of the Miami public transport system is the Metrobus. However, the network is large and takes some time to get used to. The fare is standard to any destination. If you need to change buses, ask for a transfer when buying your ticket, as it costs extra. There is also an elevated train service called the Metrorail, which connects North and South Miami with stations at one mile intervals. For a more scenic option, the elevated monorail, the Metromover, offers great views of downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay and connects with buses and trains. However, most visitors take taxis or hire a car. This can be more convenient, as the city is sprawled out over a large area. To rent a car, the driver must be over 21, have a valid credit card and, if from abroad, hold a passport and English language driving license. Be aware when driving around Miami that local drivers can be aggressive.
Time
GMT -5 (GMT -4 from March to November).
Electricity
Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.
Currency
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
Communication
The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas. Internet cafes are prevalent in most towns and cities and wifi is widely available.
Emergency number
911 (General)
Travel documents and health
Miami International Airport
Getting to the city
The airport is well connected to the Miami Intermodal Center (Central Station) by the free MIA Mover electric train. From here numerous services connect to greater Miami. These include the scheduled, local Metrobus; a mass-transit Metrorail system; a fixed rail system designated specifically for downtown Miami and Brickell; and the TriRail commuter train, reaching Broward and Palm Beach Counties.
Car rental
Car rental agents operate at the new Miami Intermodal Centre (Central Station), which is connected to the airport by the the free MIA Mover electric train. Companies represented include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, E-Z Rent A Car, Hertz, National, Payless, P&P Family Auto Rental, Royal, Sixt Rent A Car, and Thrifty.
Airport taxi's
Taxis and shuttles are available from the arrivals level, outside the baggage claim areas. There are wheelchair-accessible taxis and shuttles available upon request. Fares to the city centre are about $27 in a taxi and $15 in a shuttle (shuttle estimate is per person, fares vary with additional passengers).
Transfer between terminals
The three terminals are connected by walkways and trains.
Facilities
There are numerous restaurants, bars, cafes and fast food chains available 24 hours. A multitude of shops, including duty-free, are available. The airport also has ATMs, bureaux de change, a chapel, an art gallery, spa services, a yoga room, and a rooftop swimming pool at the airport hotel. Facilities for the disabled are availible.
Parking
Miami International Airport's long-term parking facilities consist of two multi-level parking garages. Short-term parking is available in the same area, near the terminals. Garage parking rates are $6 for the first hour, and $17 for around three hours up to a full day. All vehicles parked in the garage are allowed to stay for a maximum of 60 days.
Internet
Wifi is available at a cost of $4.95 or $7.95 for premium access.