Miami Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Florida and it serves downtown Miami and the south Florida area. Huge numbers of tourists flock to Miami every year because of its massive beaches, reliably warm weather and multitude of bars, restaurants and night clubs. Car rentals in Miami Airport can be picked up from the newly built Rental Car Centre which houses vehicles from 17 different companies.
Automatics with sun roofs are particularly popular and should be booked ahead of time. Miami is an iconic airport which has been the scene of many films including Home Alone 2 and Casino Royale. The airport was also the destination of shoe bomber Richard Reid before he was caught.
Miami Airport Mini Guide
Why Should I Take a Trip to Miami?
Miami is one of the hottest destinations in the US, and not just for the weather. First popularised in the eighties in the TV series ‘Miami Vice’, millions got a taste for the glamorous lifestyle, the fast boats, surreal buildings and of course the beaches. The end result is that Miami Airport is the second busiest international airport in the States and tens of millions flock there each year for the sun, sand, glitz and natural delights of the area. The atmosphere there is captivating with a strong Hispanic influence making you feel you’re much further south and not necessarily in mainland USA.
How do I get to Miami?
Miami International Airport is the closest but potentially the most expensive option, being only eight miles from the city centre. For a sometimes cheaper option, try Fort Lauderdale which is 25 miles away. Most major US and UK airlines fly from London Heathrow direct to Miami so getting there from the UK should be easy. There are a number of ways of getting into the city from the airport including bus, shuttle, taxi and hire car. Some buses will take you to the nearest train station where you can get the train into the city and from the end of this year you’ll be able to travel by rail link straight from the airport into Miami.
What’s the Airport Like?
It has three terminals, each with a number of concourses. The North Terminal is in the final phases of construction and is due to be completed later this year. All terminals are directly connected, with the north terminal having a single perpendicular concourse and the central and south having a pier arrangement. The length of the concourses means that you can be faced with a good walk if arriving at the outer gates so it’s best to check with your airline and request assistance if you struggle with mobility.
What can I Expect When I Arrive at Miami International?
Air bridges are supplied to ease your transfer from the plane to the concourse which will be followed by a walk down to security if arriving on an international flight. Once inside the terminal building you’ll be directed to the appropriate baggage reclaim belt which will be on the level below the concourses. Lifts and escalators are provided for ease of access. In the arrivals hall you can get directions or help on airport matters from the centrally located information desk and then find your way to your onward transport. If you need cash there are foreign exchange companies and ATMs in the arrivals hall. For collection of pre-booked rental cars you’ll need to phone the company from one of the courtesy phones on the concourses or in the main terminals and they will direct you to the transfer train in the central transportation courtyard which will take you to the depot.
What are the Facilities Like for Departing Passengers?
You may want to get to the airport a little earlier for the shopping there is out of this world. First get your bags checked in and then head for the terminal’s lobbies. There you’ll find over a hundred shops selling everything you’d find on the high street and probably more; fashion, sport, entertainment, food, jewellery, the list goes on. Dining there is also very good with some excellent restaurants serving a range of international cuisine. And when shopping and eating are done, you can browse your favourite websites or check emails with the free airport Wi-Fi service.
Useful Links: