This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Where better to enjoy the heat than sunny Miami, Florida? Miami’s a great holiday destination for pretty much anyone, from couples to families to groups of friends. With unique boutiques, an interesting historical district and a number of fantastic beaches, it’s no wonder people come back year after year. In order to keep the trips coming, you’ll need to make sure this year’s vacation stays on budget. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
Do your research
First things first – do your research before you go. Check out travel blogs and comparison websites to find the best deal on flights, accommodation and tickets to the many awesome attractions Miami has to offer. You might be able to find discounted tickets to the Miami Seaquarium or Jungle Island, just by searching online or asking travel agents.
Stay off the beach
Accommodation right on the shore is generally going to be more expensive than staying a block or two inland. Consider booking a room in a boutique hotel or hostel in one of the many unique Miami neighborhoods and you’ll get the added bonus of seeing interesting architecture and shopping in vintage boutiques. Check out Miami’s Modern Architectural District (MiMo) and the Art Deco District of South Beach in particular for some great budget hotels.
Take what you can with you
Bring your sunscreen, beach hat and snacks with you if you can. Beachfront shops and their escalated prices aren’t for you! The cost of these everyday items adds up so if you have room in your bag then fill it up.
Choose free activities
Pick one or two of the popular attractions, such as the Miami Zoo or Seaquarium, and fill the rest of your time with free activities. Pack a picnic and head to the beautiful village of Key Biscayne for the day, go to the Children’s Museum or the Wolfsonian on one of their free days or stroll along Calle Ocho in Little Havana for a taste of the local Cuban culture.
Follow the locals
Finally, when in doubt, follow the locals where they’re going. They’ll know where the best deals are to be had and you’ll get the added bonus of seeing the city from a local’s perspective.
This strategy can be especially useful when you’re trying to find somewhere to eat. Or, if gourmet food is high on your list of priorities, head to the ‘Magic City’ during Miami Spice, an annual restaurant promotion event held in August and September. You can sample some of the city’s fine dining at a drastically discounted price.
So, there are plenty of ways to cut down on your spending while in Miami. Do your research ahead of time, book a budget hotel and, when in doubt, remember sunbathing is free!
Have a great vacation!