car hire Miami

Playing host to millions of travellers a year, Miami, Florida has been dubbed the “Magic City.” The city’s allure was first discovered in the late 19th century when a catastrophic freeze seized northern Florida, devastating citrus crops and discouraging tourists. Fruit growers and others began to flock to the warmer climes of Miami when the railroad was extended to southern Florida. Travellers followed, attracted by the area’s string of beaches and balmy weather. During the Prohibition era, people in the States found another reason to visit and settle there: When it came to temperance, the Magic City turned the other cheek.

Miami’s fashion shopping is heralded as top-notch. Shoppers on holiday should head to the Bal Harbour Shops for more traditional, high-end clothes, or visit South Beach for hipper, flashier outfits.

Miami boasts an endless stretch of beachfront, with Miami Beach (technically its own city, but only a five-minute drive away) leading the way, these days, in hipness. Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is quite popular, and it’s also home to an internationally known club scene. South Beach, popular among gay travellers, hosts the 10-day White Party festival in November. Neighboring Coral Gables, southeast of Miami, is a fine place for a short side trip: You can check out the neighborhood’s mansions and peculiar homes, some of which are decorated with coral rock and shells.

Water sports are big in Miami. The nearby Everglades offer excellent canoeing, and other areas within driving distance make for a divers’ paradise: The waters off Key Biscayne and Key West are prime snorkeling and diving spots. Cruises are big business in Miami too: Nearly 20 million passengers set out from the Port of Miami, making it the busiest cruise ship port in the world.

Another mark of distinction is Miami’s diversity. The city is known as the gateway to Latin America, and its diverse identity is on festive display during Carnaval Miami, a nine-day party in March.

Miami International Airport makes your car hire pick-up easy and convenient, with several companies represented in its terminal.