Miami Beach: Vacation Survival Tips

Miami Beach, a popular vacation spot for both singles, and families. Television series such as Miami Vice, and C.S.I. Miami involve crimes taking place in Miami, but also use the beautiful tourist filled beaches as a back drop. However, there are things you should know about Miami before planning a vacation there, information that could keep you from becoming a victim.

Miami Beach is beautiful, there is no question about that. The white sandy beaches, draw tourist from all over the world, making Miami a hot vacation spot. You'll find plenty of Hotels along the beach, which fill up quick during peek months. Beach hotels, on popular beaches don't come cheap. In fact you can expect to pay double or more, then other hotels charge just a short drive away. Unfortunately, vacationing on a budget isn't a smart move in Miami. Several tourist a day make the mistake of reserving hotel rooms just a short drive from Miami beach, at a bargain rate. This can be a big mistake!

The neighborhoods in Miami are like night and day. We have all heard that old saying "the wrong side of the tracks" well, in Miami that can happen quicker then you think. Even though the violent crime rate has decreased in the past few years, there are still area's that you need to avoid at all cost. This means, for no reason should you drive, park, walk, or stay in these area's at any time. The worst parts of Miami include Liberty City (Lemon City), Opa Locka, Overtown, Downtown Miami, and parts of Coconut Grove.

Not everyone can afford to stay directly, or across from the beach, especially when basic hotel room rates are an average of $95.00 a night, and that doesn't include a room with a view. There are area's of Miami that is safe to stay in, and have more reasonably priced rooms. Coral Gables for instance is a little more affordable, safe, and offers nice rooms for less then Miami Beach. Coconut Grove also has nice area's, but remember the night and day rule, it strongly applies to Coconut Grove.