Travelers have been heading to Miami for one reason only: the beach! But along with the incredible weather suitable for soaking up the sun year round, Miami also offers excellent restaurants, great shopping and interesting galleries… and all of them make Miami a very popular vacation destination.
The city is huge and there are a ton of things to do, not just stay close to the beach. For those interested in more than catching a tan we recommend visiting the Ancient Spanish Monastery, today a church and a popular marriage location. Those interested in the history, should not miss the Holocaust Memorial and the Jewish Museum of Florida. Several art museums will also draw your attention and you can enjoy some time in nature by checking out the parks (and maybe even listening to live performances).
Planning the budget
Those who want to soak up the sun in Miami will probably start by looking for Florida vacation packages and try to find something that suit their budget. However, while the packages are best for those wanting to spend time in resorts, those who plan to check out the city and the surrounding areas, should consider booking the flight and hotel separately.
The airport serving Miami is one of the busiest in the States and cheap flights to Miami are easy to find regardless of the time of the year when you travel. True, the high season lasts from mid-December to April and that’s when the prices are at their highest but considering the number of flights available, chances are you’ll always be able to find some kind of deal.
When it comes to hotels in Miami , booking at the right time is the key. There is no shortage of rooms available in the city but if you try to book a budget hotel on the spur of the moment right smack in the middle of the high season, chances are you won’t be able to find many options.
What to do in Miami in December
The month of December is filled with a lot of interesting things to do in Miami. The weather in Miami is mild at this time of the year which makes for a unique way to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s. And there are a lot of things you can do, including watching a play – Another Night Before Christmas, until December 27, the Miracle Theatre, Coral Gables -, watching dance performances – Miami Youth Ballet: The Nutcracker, at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts, Downtown Miami is only one of the many shows available – listening to live music, or taking the kids to experience some interesting activities – Santa’s Enchanted Forest, until January 3, at Tropical Park, West Miami.
If you want to take a break from the Christmas festivities, there are several festivals to check out. Israel Film Festival takes place between December 16 and 23. Miccosukee Indian Arts Festival takes place from December 26 to January 3 and highlights the color and pageantry of costumed Native Americans from all over the country. Florida Dance Festival: WinterFest takes place between December 27 and January 3 and is held in held in Miami and Miami Beach.
Where to stay
As mentioned earlier, there is no shortage of places to stay in Miami, ranging from cheap to expensive, from famous hotel chains to hidden budget hotels. The key is to book at the right moment. Sure, if you wait until December 23 to book your cheap hotel in Miami, the chances are you won’t find anything remotely cheap. And there’s always the possibility to check out the hostels.
Motel Blu is located within the historical district of Miami. All rooms have 32 inch televisions, microwave, fridge and hair dryers. The hotel offers free wi-fi, free breakfast and free parking. The Red Light restaurant is located within the hotel’s grounds. Bed prices start at $50 per night for a single room and $25 per person per night for a double room.
Harrison Hotel Miami Beach is located in the ‘High End Hotel Corridor’ of South Beach Miami, just steps away from the Lincoln Road Mall and Espanola Way. Please note that this is a youth hostel for international travelers. It offers free breakfast, free wi-fi, free linen and towels, free in room mini-fridges and many more. Bed prices range from $70 per night for a single room, to $30 per night per bed in a double room and $18 per night per bed in dorms.
Jazz on South Beach Hostel is a party hostel in South Beach. They host nightly events for the enjoyment of their guests. It’s located a block away from the beach and offers free breakfast. Guests must be 18 to check in and children under 16 are only allowed in private rooms. Rates start at $30 per night per bed in a double private room and $12 per bed in a dorm.
AAE Miami Beach Lombardy Hotel and Hostel is located right across the street from the beach. There are private rooms and dorms available. Guests can use the common kitchen. Men over 27 are not allowed to book a dorm bed. International Students and Out of State Students should only book a bed in dorm. Bed rates start at $52 per night in a single room, to $27 per bed per night in a double room and $11.50 per bed in a dorm.
The South Beach Hostel was fully renovated in March 2009. It is located in the heart of the famous Art Deco district. It is the only boutique hostel in South Beach. It offers free breakfast, free linen and towels, free wi-fi, free transportation to the airport twice a day and a free welcome drink. Guests must be at least 18 years old. Bed rates start at $42.95 per night per person in a twin room and $16.95 per night in a dorm.