In short
Miami is a Latin American city located in the United States: Spanish is spoken fluently by a majority of residents, and many businesses operate in that language first.
South Beach, on the island of Miami Beach, holds the Art Deco district — the largest such ensemble in the world — and the beaches. Wynwood is the quarter of murals and galleries. Little Havana keeps Cuban life around Calle Ocho. Brickell is the financial district.
Note: Miami and Miami Beach are two separate municipalities, divided by Biscayne Bay and causeways.
Arriving and getting around
Two airports: Miami International, linked by the Metrorail, and Fort Lauderdale, some forty minutes north, often cheaper.
Miami is a car city, but parking in South Beach is expensive and difficult. The Metromover, a free automated monorail, serves downtown and Brickell. Buses and the Brightline train link Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Orlando.
What it really costs
Miami has become one of the most expensive cities in the United States for housing.
Florida levies no state income tax. On the other hand, tourist taxes and resort fees are added to advertised hotel rates: the displayed price is never the price paid.
When to come
December–April is the dry season and the high season: it is also the most expensive.
Hurricane season runs from 1 June to 30 November, peaking in August–September. Summer is hot, very humid, and late-day thunderstorms are daily.
Art Basel Miami Beach, in early December, fills the city.
What nobody tells you
The Everglades begin less than an hour away and are a national park in their own right, not a roadside attraction. The most heavily sold airboat trips often operate outside the park.
The Keys string out along the Overseas Highway: Key West is about three and a half hours away by road, across forty-two bridges.
The South Beach Art Deco district has been protected since 1979 thanks to a preservation campaign waged against demolition; guided walks leave from the Art Deco Welcome Center.
The sea is warm all year, and swimming is not limited to summer.