By Sadie Brooks
Miami Beach, FL, USA (Photo: Unsplash)
If you’re a passionate solo traveler (or someone trying out this form of travel for the first time) it’s great to know that Miami is one of the most perfect solo travel destinations. But if you’re familiar with it, it’s easy to miss out on all the best destinations and all the best perks. Luckily, the internet is here to help with all the best recommendations for all solo travelers—new or old.
Practical stay
Once you arrive in Miami, first find your accommodation (which is luckily easy to do). Hotels in Miami can be hefty, but in return, you’ll get great service, ultimate safety and beautiful décor. South Miami has the most affordable hotel rooms with prices going between $60 and $140 a night. But you can always opt for hostels or even try Couchsurfing which is popular in Miami.
Photo: Unsplash
Cheap transport
Most solo travelers are concerned about safety so they choose taxis to travel around, but in Miami, you can easily opt for Miami-Dade Transit. Their buses are very practical, safe and cheap. Walking around safe tourist neighborhoods is also a good solution and the best way to get to know the city. If you still want to take a cab, getting one in Miami can be hard and most companies have very bad reviews. A more reliable option in Miami is called the ZipCar—a car rental service with many pickup locations. If you want to go outside of the city, this might be a great option for a solo traveler in Florida like you.
Walk around Wynwood Walls
When visiting Miami, you must hit Wynwood Walls first. This area is a huge outdoor museum of street art and graffiti. Admission is cheap and you can even book walking or cycling tours if you don’t want to go alone. Another area that needs your attention is Coconut Grove with cute shops, cafes, eateries, parks and interesting homes.
Photo by: Daniel Di Palma (Click to enlarge)
Enjoy Miami Beach
Miami is best known for its natural beauties so don’t hesitate to spend as much time as you can near the ocean. If you want to enjoy the beach and have fun meeting new people, surfing and sampling cocktails, go to Miami Beach. This island is separated from the city, but it’s connected by several bridges. It’s a perfect place to go alone because it’s safe and you’re bound to make friends and stay busy exploring bars, clubs and architecture.
Eat deliciously and cheaply
When in Miami alone, make sure to eat like a boss—this is something you can enjoy solo and still have a blast. And Miami has a vibrant food culture thanks to all the different influences from all over the world. Don’t hesitate to treat yourself to a nice dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Miami as a welcome meal. Make sure to order fresh seafood with a view of the ocean—this is how fresh fish, shrimps or shells taste the best.
If you’re in for a smaller meal, you can go to Little Havana and try some authentic Cuban food. Cubans came to Miami during the revolution and they brought their delicious food with them. Today, you can enjoy all the best Cuban foods, especially cheap tacos you can pick up on your walks and enjoy as you stroll and look around. Keep in mind that Little Havana has Viernes Culturales (‘Cultural Friday’) happening on every last Friday of every month. At that time, the streets turn into a big festival of food, dancing and celebration.
Photo: Unsplash
Photo: Unsplash
Relax in Vizcaya Museum
After all the walking and exploration, visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This building was built to be a winter home for wealthy people, but since 1952, it has been used as a museum. Enjoy all the beauties of the place and achieve great relaxation in the greenery.
What to avoid?
Miamians are usually very friendly and cheerful people, but the city (like any other big city) can be a bit seedy at night. After nightfall, maybe avoid Opa-Locka, Liberty City and Overtown when traveling alone. Also, if you want to go out to one of the many excellent nightclubs, make sure to dress up because you’ll stand out like a sore thumb if you look casual. Also, don’t skimp on sunscreen—Miami is hot and humid so use plenty of it if you sweat.
Miami is a very safe and interesting place, so it might be a great choice for all first-time solo travelers. And with the tips above, you’re guaranteed to have a blast on your Miami adventure.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Journalist graduate, travel aficionado, and someone with endless curiosity. Lives in San Francisco, and enjoys reading, cooking, and comedy songs.
“Run from what’s comfortable. Be notorious”
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