miami travel issues

Travelers, experts react to severe weather, staff shortages causing major travel problems at MIA, FLL

MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, FLA. (WSVN) - In the face of relentless severe weather conditions across the country, travelers at Miami International Airport (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) have been grappling with significant disruptions to their flights, leading to frustration and inconvenience.

As of Tuesday morning, FlightAware stated that there are 18 delays and eight cancellations at FLL , while at MIA , there are five delays and seven cancellations.

From endless delays to exhausted passengers resorting to sleeping on airport floors, the impact of these weather-related challenges has been extensive.

7News cameras on Wednesday captured long lines at an MIA terminal.

Among the passengers who found themselves waiting after their fights were delayed was Huntley Sawyers.

“I know people who’ve been here from earlier this morning, struggling to get on a flight,” said Sawyers.

Sawyers said he and his family were on their way to Houston from MIA.

“I was excited but, you know, it was just like, the day is gone already, kind of, so we’ll see what tomorrow feels like if we make it on the plane,” he said.

Sawyers and his loved ones are not alone. Other passengers were feeling the airport headaches, too, not just in South Florida but around the country.

Staffing shortages in the airline industry are another reason why people are stuck, including an air traffic controller shortage.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby wrote an internal memo. It reads in part, “The [Federal Aviation Agency] frankly failed us this weekend … It led to massive delays, cancellations, diversions, as well as crews and aircraft out of position … That put everyone behind the eight ball.”

Since Saturday, the nation’s airlines have been forced to cancel over 6,000 flights , with an additional 32,000 experiencing delays. Such statistics reflect the magnitude of the travel woes that have beset airports nationwide, leaving passengers stranded and longing for their intended destinations.

“They said it was technical problems. Once we went to reticketing, they told us that it was due to the weather,” said traveler Claudia Rendon.

Zachary Navit, a weary traveler, voiced his exasperation as he mentioned he barely got sleep while he awaited his flight.

“It’s certainly been a test of patience, frustrating in many ways,” he said.

Edwar Barajona, another traveler caught in the chaos, described scenes of long queues, distressed children and even elderly passengers sleeping on the airport floor.

Another traveler said he needed to fly to Maine for work, but all of the flights into the state have been delayed.

“I don’t even have my luggage,” he said. “It’s been over two days, and I still haven’t even seen Maine. I was supposed to leave on Saturday.”

The root cause of this travel nightmare can be traced back to the weekend when intense thunderstorms swept across the country, compelling airlines to keep their planes grounded for safety reasons. Travelers found themselves stranded miles away from their desired destinations, as the severe weather conditions wreaked havoc on flight schedules.

“Once we were getting in line, they told us our flight was canceled,” said Claudia, who’s been stuck in Miami since Monday waiting to get back home to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. “Hopefully, I’m praying that the flight is going to be on time.”

Experts predict cancellations could get worse closer to the July Fourth holiday , potentially exacerbating an already tense situation.

According to AAA, nearly 4.2 million travelers are projected to take to the skies during this period, setting a new record for holiday air travel. As a result, airports are bracing for an influx of passengers, raising concerns about potential disruptions and further exacerbating the existing travel challenges.

Andrew Gross, a spokesperson for AAA, advised travelers to take proactive measures to minimize the impact of potential disruptions. Gross emphasized the importance of arriving at the airport on time and recommended having the airline’s app installed on mobile devices to stay updated on any gate changes.

Natalie, a traveler with a flight to Greece, described the situation as “frustrating” and attempted to call Jet Blue for answers. “We’ll try this now as we’re walking down to Jet Blue but nobody seems to know what to do.”

As the nation grapples with severe weather conditions and the ensuing travel difficulties, passengers are left hoping for improved conditions and smoother journeys in the days ahead.

“You have to have that kind of expectation that things might not go smoothly. I feel like, if you have too high of expectations, then your day is ruined,” said Sawyers.

Airport officials advise travelers to check with their airlines to ensure there are no delays or cancellations before they head to the airport.

Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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WEATHER ALERT

A rip current statement in effect for Coastal Broward and Coastal Miami Dade Regions

Severe storms causing major issues for travelers trying to leave south florida.

Terrell Forney , Reporter

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The list of canceled or delayed flights was long all day Sunday at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Linda Crompton’s JetBlue flight back home to North Carolina was suddenly cancelled after she arrived at the airport.

“There’s nothing we can do and we’ll probably be sleeping here at the airport, I guess, tonight,” Crompton said. “Who knows?”

That’s where hundreds, If not thousands, of Spirit Airlines passengers alone are stranded.

Delores Palmieri and her travel companions are trying to get back home to Chicago after wrapping up a South Florida vacation.

“Our flight was canceled and now we are not able to get back until Thursday,” she said.

“The fact that we’re waiting four days and not being given any word as to why is pretty frustrating,” added Logan Graves.

Local 10 News tried getting those answers Sunday directly from the CEO of Spirit Airlines, Ted Christie, who was at FLL seen speaking with several pilots.

He refused to go on camera to talk about the flight fiasco that will leave so many sidelined from school and work commitments.

“I lose the income on each class I don’t teach,” said Emma Graves. “Very difficult situation to be in when they’re saying four days which is pretty much a whole week of work.”

Over the weekend, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue and American have all experienced widespread delays and cancellations.

Travelers at Miami International Airport were met with long lines to rebook flights.

Each of those airlines have blamed either weather and or air traffic control issues for the headaches.

“We were not given any accommodation for anything besides our flight on Thursday,” said Palmieri.

Copyright 2022 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Terrell forney.

Terrell Forney joined Local 10 News in October 2005 as a general assignment reporter. He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, but a desire to escape the harsh winters of the north brought him to South Florida.

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Flight delays reported nationwide after ‘issues’ at Miami air traffic control center

• David Matthews, New York Daily News (TNS)

Flight delays were reported across the U.S. on Monday after “issues” at an air traffic control center in Miami.

In response to customer complaints and social media posts bemoaning the delays, the Tampa International Airport attempted to clear the air.

“Florida air space is not closed. Miami Air Traffic Control is having a few issues at the moment, but almost all flights in/out of TPA are unaffected. Please contact the FAA for further info. We’re wishing you safe travels!” the airport tweeted.

The Federal Aviation Administration followed up by issuing a ground stop for all aircraft trying to enter or fly out of Florida.

“The FAA has slowed the volume of traffic into Florida airspace due to an air traffic computer issue that is being resolved...The ERAM system is a modern computer system at the air traffic centers that handle en route traffic,” the agency told WESH 2.

Miami International Airport said Monday afternoon that a “radar data link outage” was to blame but that it had “been resolved and planes are slowly being allowed to depart.”

©2023 New York Daily News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Mia - miami international airport current conditions, current weather forecast, 10-apr-2024.

Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 70s. East winds 10 to 15 mph.

Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 80s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.

Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 70s. Southeast winds 10 to 15 mph.

Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 80s. South winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.

Mostly cloudy. A chance of showers after midnight. Lows in the lower 70s. Southwest winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.

Mostly sunny. A chance of showers in the morning. Highs in the mid 80s. Chance of rain 30 percent.

Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 60s. Highs in the lower 80s.

Updated June 13, 2022

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There is currently no mask mandate in Miami-Dade County, however we do encourage you to be safe! Face masks and coverings are optional but do practice social distancing when you are exploring our beautiful tropical paradise! Facial masks and coverings are optional for Miami-Dade County public transit, Miami International Airport and PortMiami. Please inquire with other public transportation options such as Brightline, taxis, Uber and Lyft as they may have their own mask rules.

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Home » North America » Miami

Is Miami SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Known for its pastel art deco architecture as well as its skyscrapers (it boasts the  third tallest skyline in the US ), Miami is obviously also known for its  beaches  and beach lifestyle. Combine with Latin, particularly  Cuban culture,  and it makes for one heck of a city.

But it’s not all one big party. Definitely not. It’s got one of the  highest rates of violence  in the US; gangs, drugs and the crime associated with all three is rife. Spring Break is also ROWDY.

And that quite understandably has you thinking, “Is Miami safe?” Good question.

After living in Miami for 5 years–and traveling all over it–I’m here to help you out with insider tips and updated facts on the city.

So let’s dive right in and determine how safe Miami really is.

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There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Miami Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Miami.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

Is it Safe to Visit Miami Right Now?

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Yes, it’s safe to visit Miami right now! In 2022, more than 26.5 million visitors arrived in Miami based on an official press release. Tourists had an overall problem free experience.

You probably learned from movies and series that Miami is synonymous with drugs. It isn’t as bad as it’s made out to be. That’s fiction for you.

There are still issues   in the day-to-day life of Miami. Gun crime is a BIG part of it. Same with property crimes. But unlike the TV depiction, this violence isn’t always gang-related.

So there are many neighborhoods, even today , where you shouldn’t be walking around. Especially not at night.  Overtown  and  Liberty City  both have the highest violent crime rate in Miami and should be avoided  at all times. 

There’s also an issue with  homelessness,  with many shanty towns set up on overhead passes. So walking overhead passes should also be avoided.

Other than that, as far as popular tourist places go, it is safe to visit Miami, as long as you follow a few travel safety tips .

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Miami so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where to stay in Miami, you want somewhere safe and secure. Many travelers choose to stay in popular locales like Brickell or South Beach, and have exactly zero problems.

• Coral Gables : A lush green suburb about 30 minutes south of Downtown/Brickell, Coral Gables is the perfect place to base yourself in Miami. It has more of a “town” feel to it, is incredibly secure, and is where you’ll find some great Airbnb options .
• Key Biscayne : This upscale island (which is connected via the stunning Rickenbacker Causeway) is where you’ll find the safest beaches in Miami that are overflowing with palm trees.
• Coconut Grove : The Northern part of Coconut Grove features plenty of great hotel and Airbnb options as well as a wide variety of restaurants, shops and bars.

Places to Avoid in Miami

The question “is Miami dangerous” doesn’t have just one answer. For much of the city, travelers of all kinds will have no issues. But then there are dangerous neighborhoods that even locals would never go to.

Avoiding these places in Miami–at all cost, I might add–will instantly make your trip safer. You certainly don’t want to rent a Miami Airbnb in one of these areas…

• Liberty City : As the most dangerous part of Miami, Liberty City (also known as Model City) has been termed the most perilous zipcode in the 305. Gun violence is rampant, as are high levels of drug abuse, poverty and assault
• Overtown : A direct neighbor to Miami’s much-loved Wynwood district is the historical Overtown neighborhood… that you should avoid no matter what. The area is ridden with crime and as an anecdote, while trying to find our Uber after attending a concert in Wynwood, OVertwon locals threw glass bottles at my friends and I.
• Allapattah : A run-down neighborhood located on the outskirts of Downtown, there’s no reason for you to ever end up here. Gun violence is a fact of life and the area feels very seedy in general.
• South Coconut Grove : My first week of college we quickly learned that there are two sides to “The Grove.” The trendy portion filled with cafes, bars, and scenic views is great to visit, but know that Grand Ave quickly changes at McDonald Street and the metro is NOT a good way to reach the safe areas.

While not like the above, Little Havana and Little Haiti are both neighborhoods with known tourist areas. Enjoy those, but do not venture beyond as your safety will decrease significantly.

South Miami is another area with plenty of upscale and safe areas, but also neighborhoods where things get real shady, real quick–particularly by the South Miami Community Center.

Keeping your money safe in Miami

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

With a high crime rate, Miami might not  seem  like the safest destination in the US. But in general,  as long as you stick to certain neighborhoods, you should be totally fine on a trip to this seaside city.

And when it comes to staying as safe as possible and  traveling smart, we’ve gathered together our top tips for your Miami itinerary so you can have an awesome time and minimize risk.

• Take a taxi instead of walking at night  – especially since Miami isn’t known for its walkability. Better safe than sorry.
• Careful of your belongings in crowded areas  – especially in crowded Downtown Miami streets. Pickpockets  work in these areas.
• Don’t leave your stuff unattended on the beach  – and generally keep an eye on it, even when you’re with it .
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Keep your luggage close at Miami Airport  – which has a reputation for bags going missing. Keep valuables in your carry-on.
• Know some Spanish – English is more widely spoken in Pakistan than Miami (true story from experience) so it really pays to know basic Spanish.
• Avoid using overhead passes  – there’s a big homeless community and as we said, they’ve set up makeshift towns on the passes.
• Try not to look like a vulnerable tourist  – looking lost or  like a tourist  (SLR round neck, etc.) will make you MORE of a target. Fortunately, because it’s a cosmopolitan city, anyone can look like they fit here unless they give off huge clues.
• Possession of under 20g of weed is a ‘decriminalized’ – no criminal charge, but the law allows you to be fined. Any more, and it’s a crime.
• If you’re arrested, be polite and do what they say  – but you don’t have to speak or answer any questions until you have a representative.
• Heed purple flags on beaches   – these mean dangerous pests like jellyfish, stingrays, and/or other venomous critters are in the water.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• And the sun  – use sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay in the shade when it’s at full belt. Sunstroke is miserable and possible in Miami but completely preventable.
• Watch the news during hurricane season – June—November. Hurricanes literally tear the city up. Try not to be in South Florida during one.
• Get yourself a sim card  – if your phone’s not working, get one of these. They’re good for maps, emergencies, and keeping in touch.

It might not seem like a  safe city  to visit because of its reputation, but like many places in the world, crime is localized. It’s not just one big free-for-all of violence and gangs. These things happen in certain neighborhoods that a) you probably won’t be visiting and b) you should avoid anyway.

Yes. Miami IS safe to travel alone and – in fact – it’s a pretty cool place  to travel alone. You might be worried that it’s lame to go to a place known for beach parties by yourself . You might be worried someone might steal your wallet. But let’s put those concerns to rest.

From days chilling on the beach to mornings and afternoons spent browsing museums and art galleries, there are a ton of places to visit in Miami. And with super fun nightlife, too. But still: be smart. So here are some tips for staying safe as traveling solo in Miami.

• It’s probably NOT a good idea to  walk around on the beach after dark. The beaches aren’t necessarily unsafe at night, but you will  be putting yourself at more risk being in places like this. It’s better to pick  busier places  to wander at night in Miami.
• Miami has great nightlife and all types of scenes .  But careful not to get  too wasted.  It’s never fun losing all your senses. Not only can you simply not find your way back home, but a lack of judgment can lead you into some stupid or dangerous  situations.
• Crime and pickpocketing are common.  And if you’re by yourself, you’re more of a target. Wear a money belt and keep your dollars safe. The last thing you want is to be in a fun city like Miami and have no cash to fund your good time!
• On that note, don’t keep all your money in one place.  Separate it into different stashes. If you lose wherever you’re keeping ONE BIG stack of money, you’ll lose everything.  You should also probably consider getting an  emergency credit card for those ‘you never know when’ situations.
• Keep your friends and family back home informed of your travel plans. Don’t go off the grid. Tell them what you’re up to, and where you’re going; this is always safer and better for you in the long run if something happens to you. No one knowing where you are is just not good.
• Stay somewhere  with good reviews.  Whether it be a local hostel or an expensive hotel, know what you’re getting into before you arrive with reviews!
• For emergencies, you should put emergency numbers  into your phonebook. Save them so they’re high up too, so you don’t have to scroll through everything  to find them.

Miami is a pretty safe place for  solo female travelers . It’s a fun city – and it’s fun for everybody . Cool beaches, nightlife, and vibrant Spanish-infused culture. The most you’ll worry about ( probably ) is what to do with your stuff on the beach when you want to swim.

It’s as safe for females as any other city in the US . As long as you do whatever you would do in any other city or town in the world  to keep yourself self, you’ll be fine. With that in mind, here are some tips for a stress-free time in Miami!

• Drink responsibly! This means  not surpassing your limit as much as it does keeping an eye on your drink, always. Drink spiking is not rare.  And  don’t  accept drinks from strangers, even if they seem nice.
• Clothing choice in Miami  almost  doesn’t matter. It’s up to you. Shorts  or whatever you feel like. But in the evening you MIGHT not get into some clubs if you don’t dress up.  So make the best of it and dress to the 9’s in that outfit you’d feel like is overdoing it anywhere else.
• Topless sunbathing in the US, in general,  is against the law.  But between  1st and 16th Street  – apparently – you can.  So go for it, if you want! Only there though. And be aware of the people around you and let someone know if you feel another beachgoer is giving you too much attention.
• As a woman, you can be more of a target for theft. Purses, especially are a quick win for thieves. Make sure your bag isn’t dangling off the back of a cafe or restaurant chair. It could easily get snatched  so keep it close to you – on your lap will do just fine (because in Miami it’s bad luck to put a purse on the floor). This applies to any traveler, of course; keep your bag close to you.
• If somebody’s  hassling  you, tell them to stop it or go away , or just ignore them. If someone is  too much , remove yourself from the situation, find somebody and tell them about it. Bar staff, bouncers, shop owners –  find help.
• Don’t linger out of politeness. If a situation is uncomfortable,  leave it.  No reason to make yourself uncomfortable just to save someone else’s feelings.
• On a similar note, if someone is asking questions that are too personal – if you’re married, where you’re staying – you DON’T NEED to tell people this. If lying is safer, please do it.
• Make sure you  look at reviews of where you’re planning to stay.  This will ensure that you find somewhere that  suits you  that’s also SECURE. In particular, check reviews from other solo female travelers. If they say it’s amazing, then it’s probably going to be amazing for you too.
• And if you  want to meet people,  join a tour or try out a group activity. Some hostels or guesthouses might do these, but otherwise –  have a look online.  There are LOADS of  tour companies.  But again, do your research, see which one is most your vibe, and go for it.

Key Biscayne

This laid-back beach neighborhood is actually on its own “key” and is attached to the Miami mainland by a bridge. It’s quiet, relaxed, and has the chillest stretches of sand in the city.

Miami’s not ALL about the partying; a lot of places are perfect for family travel . In restaurants, you’ll find children’s menus, highchairs, baby changing facilities, even things like children’s activity books to keep them occupied as you wait for your food.

You don’t have to go far  to find open spaces to frolic around in. For example, the  Venetian Pool  is a well-loved swimming pool that’s super popular  for families. Then there’s Matheson Hammock Park which features a kid-friendly lagoon.

When it’s too hot  outside, head to  Miami Children’s Museum:  a world of fun indoors.

Hotels have  child-friendly  family bedrooms – even motels do as well. High-end hotels and resorts come complete with  babysitting services  and  kid’s clubs.  Easy.

You MIGHT want to think about what time of year you go. It can get  pretty hot  in the summer. The  winter months  are much milder – but still warm – and you’ll probably want to avoid the rainy season. The rain and humidity can damage your adventure plans.

The rainy season is also hurricane season, so please keep yourself updated on any tropical systems developing so you can adjust your plans to keep your family safe.

Make sure you  protect against nature.  Cover up against mosquitoes, make sure your children know about the  purple flags  and to follow the lifeguards’ rules, and don’t let them stay in the sun  for too long.

Let me be honest–public transportation is atrocious in Miami. The city’s Metrorail only goes North and South (which means no connections to the beach), and is old and packed most of the time. While it’s safe to use during the day, I wouldn’t recommend using it at night. Not that it’s open that late–standard hours of operation are from 6AM- 12AM.

The rail is extended by a bus system, though expect to spend up to 2 extra hours getting to your destination…and NEVER try to take the bus to Miami Beach.

The MetroMover, which only operates around the Brickell area, is more convenient though this unfortunately tends to attract some shady characters. Even so, I’ve used the metro alone dozens of times and had no issues.

Cycling in Miami is quite popular, but not safe in most areas due to the insane traffic. You can enjoy the (semi-decent) cycle lane that goes over the Rickenbacker Causeway that leads to Key Biscayne (one of the best places to visit in Miami !) though.

Uber is the easiest way to get around Miami, though it is not cheap and most drivers I’ve encountered do not take safety seriously. Many do not speak English so do familiarize yourself with Google Translate.

Assault, rape, theft, and homicide are all frequently reported in the 305. Though certainly not anywhere near as dangerous as it was in the ’80s, violent crime in Miami is still relatively high.

Miami Dade government statistics show more than 1200 crimes being reported in the first 15 days of 2023 alone. But for the most part, such incidents are occurring in areas that a tourist wouldn’t be in anyways.

The most concerning thing you should worry about is petty crime–phone thieves work hard in bars and clubs all over the city.

Laws in Miami

Miami’s laws are similar to what you’ll find elsewhere in the US. While weed is not legal in Florida, it is decriminalized AND it’s medically legal. You can definitely get away with smoking at a park or beach as long as you’re far enough away from other people.

The drinking age is 21, and bouncers are very familiar with fake IDs. Do keep in mind that while other drugs are widely used , they are illegal. If you do plan to dabble in them, make sure you have a test kit to check for fentanyl.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Miami without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Miami.

What parts of Miami are dangerous?

Overtown, Liberty City and Allapattah are the most dangerous parts of Miami statistically. Luckily, it’s very unlikely for tourists to end up in these parts of the city.

Is Miami safe to live?

Indeed it is! More than 2.6 MILLION people live in Miami-Dade county and most have absolutely zero issues. Plenty more move to the city each year–it’s all about choosing to live in a secure area and building.

Is Miami Beach safe for tourists?

Miami Beach is fairly safe for tourists, however, as a major attraction, it’s also a haven for pickpocketing and petty crime. Stay alert and watch your belongings, especially on Washington Street at night.

Is Miami safe at night?

While certain areas are popular at night (Brickell and South Beach, for instance), you shouldn’t venture outside of populated places at night. Walking around desolate areas is NOT a good idea, as in any city.

Is Uber safe in Miami?

While Uber is generally safe, it is less safe than in other US cities. Most drivers do not speak English which makes communication difficult. Another issue is that many drivers use their phones while driving. Do not sit in the front seat and don’t be afraid to stop the ride if you feel unsafe.

Gang violence is not a good thing. But in Miami, it distorts the crime figures somewhat. What gangs do IS crime. But that crime – more often than not – doesn’t directly affect the safety of the everyday person. Tourists are very unlikely to become involved in it.

In the areas where gangs are most prevalent, it’s simple: just avoid those areas.  And then there are those affected by gangs, people committing crimes like pickpocketing and robbery to buy drugs, who like to operate either in busy touristed areas (in which case,  don’t look unsuspecting ) or in deserted areas  mainly  at night… So it’s easy, again:  don’t walk around quiet places at night. 

Miami is a super fun city. The nightlife here is off the wall and the daylife is  pretty exciting too.  Spring Break can get a little much here, so if you don’t want to party THAT much, just  avoid  Miami during this time.

Doing everything that you already do to ensure your safety and security in your own country STILL APPLIES in Miami. It’s not all paradise, but it’s also not a death trap!

Looking for more info on traveling to Miami?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Miami
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Miami travel guide!

Updated January 2023 by Samantha Shea

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

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Just saying…Miami has had 28 murders this year 2022. LOOK IT UP!!! Easy to measure! That’s amazing for a city that size. Actually one of the safest large cities to travel in US. Sure…anything can happen to anyone so take precautions as usual. Alot to brag about 100% . To say Miami is one of the most violent cities in the US is just inaccurate.

I have no idea how my search sent me here. But anyway. I’m born and raised in Miami. Gotta say your article is pretty spot on..

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Port of Miami Cruises Delayed Due to Weather (Possibly 60,000 Passengers Impacted)

The Miami area has been hit by wild weather over this weekend with strong wind gusts and heavy rain. Official data counted about 1.2″ in the Miami area officially on Saturday, but wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour also hit the region. As well, tide levels reached moderate flood stage, causing havoc:

We’ve seen wind gusts as high as 56mph along parts of the South Florida coastline. The constant onshore wind is pushing us into moderate flood stage during times of high tide, about 2.2 feet higher than normal. #Miami #FLwx pic.twitter.com/oQZVVGjPTP — Brandon Orr (@BrandonOrrWPLG) December 17, 2023

As of Sunday morning, the port announced on its website and Twitter that due to the weather, “all PortMiami cruise ship boardings and departures will be delayed.”

The notice says cruise passengers should contact their cruise line for more details.

There will be a delay on Sunday, December 17th embarkation due to recent weather conditions. Please contact your cruise line for instructions and more information. pic.twitter.com/3POAPbDODc — PortMiami (@PortMiami) December 17, 2023

Given this delay is occurring on a weekend when more ships end their trips and begin new ones (known as “turnaround day), it has a significant impact on a large number of passengers. A check of ship-tracking site CruiseMapper.com shows Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas in port with MSC Divina, with Oceania Insignia and Norwegian Encore in the process of docking. Meanwhile, several other ships sit offshore, waiting their turn to come into port.

Typically ships arrive in port early in the morning, between 6-7 a.m. local time. As of 11 a.m. local time today, many ships had yet to dock.

All told, nine cruise ships are scheduled to be in port today before heading back out this evening:

• Scarlet Lady (carries 2,770 passengers at double occupancy)
• Oasis of the Seas (5,602 pax)
• Grandeur of the Seas (1,992 pax)
• Norwegian Encore (3,998 pax)
• MSC Divina (3,078 pax)
• Oceania Insignia (698 pax)
• Carnival Horizon (3,960 pax)
• Carnival Celebration (5,374 pax)
• Vision of the Seas (2,050 pax)

Combined, these ships have a passenger capacity of roughly 30,000 at double occupancy . Considering that the passengers both debarking and embarking are impacted by the delay, that could mean roughly 60,000 passengers in total will be affected if the ships are sailing full.

This no doubt includes a number of passengers with flights home scheduled for later today that will likely have to be rescheduled.

If you have a cruise arriving or departing Miami today, then your cruise line should be in touch with instructions . No matter what, it’s important to pack some patience as an already busy day in port is set to be even busier.

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Feeling Brave? MSC Debuts “Cliffhanger” — A Swing That Takes You 160 Ft. OVER the Water

What i wish i knew before visiting nassau on a cruise, 11 tips cruise lines don’t want you to know (but they aren’t against the rules), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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Airlines struggle with lack of planes as summer travel set to hit record levels

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Microsoft and NetEase to re-launch Warcraft game in China, ending feud

Chinese video games giant NetEase said it is working with Microsoft to bring popular games including "World of Warcraft" back to the country after a public fallout that ended a decade-long partnership in 2023.

Traffic delays and other issues mark total solar eclipse day

Authorities on Monday reported traffic crashes and significant road delays across the country as thousands of people flocked to prime locations to gaze up at the rare solar eclipse – and then made their way home again.

Local roads and highways in states including Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Vermont and New Hampshire were impacted by the flood of drivers, many of whom were from out of state. The most intense bottlenecks appeared to be in the path of totality , a vast swath of the country – approximately 115 miles wide, crossing through 13 states – where people were able to view the total eclipse.

Traffic slowed on major highways in Indiana as the eclipse progressed Monday afternoon. State transportation officials posted video showing backups forming on Interstate 65 headed toward Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Star reported. The Courier & Press in Evansville reported delays after the eclipse ended.

Indiana State Police Sgt. John Perrine posted on X that traffic on state highways was flowing but rest stops along interstates in the path of totality are at or near capacity. 

Perrine said transportation officials planned to shut them down "once they are full and will not allow any more traffic in for the duration of the eclipse." One rest stop along I-74 near Veedersburg, northwest of Indianapolis, closed because it had reached maximum capacity from "eclipse viewing traffic." 

In Oklahoma, a crash around 7:30 a.m. local time narrowed eastbound lanes on I-40, a major transcontinental highway that runs from California to North Carolina. The crash occurred not far from several state parks that were hosting eclipse events, and was within driving distance of the full eclipse path, which included parts of southeastern Oklahoma and Arkansas.

"Crews estimate cleanup will take the majority of the day. Expect delays in the area and use extra caution. #trucking #eclipse," said a post on X by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation .

Multiple crashes were reported in Waco, Texas, a city in the path of totality, which hosted several festivities and eclipse viewing events. The crashes all occurred on I-35, which runs from southern Texas to Minnesota. The wrecks shut down multiple lanes.

"Expect major traffic delays in this area," the Texas Department of Transportation said in a statement around 9 a.m. local time.

Officials warn drivers of delays, dangers ahead of solar eclipse

In the weeks leading up to the celestial event, officials issued warnings about heavy traffic congestion and the danger of driving during the eclipse , including distracted pedestrians and the sudden change in light conditions. Eclipses have previously been tied with surges in traffic crashes, including fatal collisions.

In New York, extra troopers were staged throughout the entire state, especially in northern counties and cities, such as Buffalo, from which spectators can see a full eclipse, according to the New York State Police .

In Ohio, the state's Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission heavily staffed its toll booths, service plazas and maintenance buildings in anticipation of the eclipse, which it has designated as "a high-volume traffic event" like, for example, Thanksgiving.  The Ohio Emergency Management Agency estimates, for the solar eclipse, between 150,000 and 575,000 travelers will visit the state, which encompasses areas in the path of totality.

During the 2017 eclipse, congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

Contributing: Kayla Jimenez and Phaedra Trethan, USA TODAY ; The Indianapolis Star

Airbus and Boeing's problems spell bad news for the cost of your summer vacation

• IATA predicted this year will beat the pre-pandemic record for air travel.
• But both Boeing and Airbus jets are having problems that are reducing capacity.
• Some airlines are already warning that prices will go up.

You can expect to pay more for plane tickets this summer, as airline capacity struggles to keep up with demand.

In December 2023, the International Air Travel Association predicted 2024 would break records for the most air passengers ever . It expects 4.7 billion people to travel this year — 200 million more than the pre-pandemic high set in 2019.

But airlines are warning they'll have fewer seats available than they initially thought, as both Boeing and Airbus are dealing with problems.

IATA had predicted a 9% growth in capacity. But passenger airlines will see 19% fewer aircraft than expected this year, Martha Neubauer, a senior associate at AeroDynamic Advisor, told Reuters .

Southwest Airlines has paused hiring because it now expects to receive 46 new Boeing 737 Max jets, down from 79.

Related stories

And the CEO of Europe's biggest budget airline, Ryanair, warned its ticket prices could go up 10% due to Boeing delivery delays.

Additionally, United has asked pilots to take an unpaid leave in May to help mitigate delayed deliveries of Boeing planes.

Boeing has had a bad year as the Alaska Airlines blowout in January sparked increased scrutiny from regulators. The Federal Aviation Administration has limited how many 737 Max jets it can manufacture.

And since CEO Dave Calhoun announced he would resign at the end of the year, Boeing's new chairman is trying to win back customers' trust.

While Boeing has been under the spotlight, Airbus also has some problems of its own.

A flaw in the Pratt & Whitney engines used on Airbus A320neos will ground 650 jets for inspections in the first half of this year.

IATA also predicted that airline profits would be up 10% from last year. But the trade group's director general, Willie Walsh, said the average airline only makes $5.45 for every passenger.

"That's about enough to buy a basic grande latte at a London Starbucks," he added. "But it is far too little to build a future that is resilient to shocks for a critical global industry."

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

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Record-Breaking Travel Expected in South Florida for July 4th Weekend

Mia officials said they’re expecting upwards of 700,000 people to come through between thursday and monday, by julie leonardi • published june 30, 2022 • updated on july 1, 2022 at 7:54 pm.

Millions of Americans will be traveling this 4th of July weekend, and whether it’s in the skies or on the roads, Miami International Airport officials said they’re seeing thousands more passengers passing through this year so they expect a busy few days.

MIA officials said they’re expecting upwards of 700,000 people to come through between Thursday and Monday. They said they’re averaging 145,000 passengers per day.

That’s compared to 125,000 travelers per day during July 4th weekend in 2021. They’re calling this record-breaking travel growth and they’re advising people to plan ahead.

With the heavy traffic throughout airports, comes flight issues. Major airlines have been dealing with staffing shortages, cancellations and weather delays.

Get South Florida local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC South Florida newsletters.

With that, things could get tricky. But, some travelers who are desperate to have a good time, say the risk is worth the reward.

“I’m as confident as I can be, I mean what’s the alternative? Sitting around for another two and a half years?” said Mary-Ann, who was traveling to DC from Miami.

MIA officials said travelers passing through should be aware of their airline’s policies.

2-year-old child drowns at Margate home: Police

New video shows scene on I-95 where twins who died were found unresponsive

Delta has sent an email to travelers warning of possible operational issues and they’re letting passengers change their flights free of charge.

American Airlines said they’ve been preparing for this holiday weekend since last year and they now have 1,000 more pilots than last year.

"That’s been a source of delayed and cancelled flights. Delta is offering a free change fee, American also offers that, it’s something you may want to consider if you’re changing the flight," said Greg Chin, Communications Director for MIA.

Chin said the airport is expecting garages to be at max capacity.

But for those taking their cars instead of planes, AAA says 2.6 million Floridians will be traveling and nearly 90% of them will be on the roads, despite soaring gas prices.

If your plans don’t take you to the road or the skies, but to the seas, know there will be a heavy police presence on the water in South Florida to keep boaters and their passengers safe.

“Twenty-three percent of fatal boating accidents last year were related to drug and alcohol use. If you’re on the waters in the state of Florida and you’re operating under the influence, you won’t get cited, you won’t get warned, you’ll get arrested," said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Maj. Alberto Maza.

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Flying during the solar eclipse? These airports could see delays, FAA says

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

March 28, 2024 / 7:04 PM EDT / CBS News

Air travel was already expected to pick up next week because of Spring Break, but Federal Aviation Administration officials  said  now until mid-April will be increasingly busy due to "the Great North American Eclipse."

Many Americans are planning on flying on April 8, the day when the U.S. will experience a total solar eclipse that will track across the sky from Texas to Maine. While some eclipse chasers will be heading toward states in its main path, others are timing flights to view it while airborne.

The eclipse "will likely mean crowded parking lots at airports and long lines at security checkpoints," Marisa Garcia, a senior contributor at Forbes,  told  CBS News. 

"It's going to be hectic but fun," she added. "Go with the mindset that it's going to be busy and pack light and pack carefully. Be patient and pleasant with everyone."

Passengers on the day of the eclipse should expect air traffic delays and an unusually high number of drones in the skies, FAA Senior Technical Advisor Kevin Morris said in an advisory  video . 

According to the FAA, these airports could see delays on April 8:

• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis
• Kansas City, Missouri
• Toledo, Ohio
• Erie, Pennsylvania
• Austin, Texas
• San Antonio, Texas
• Burlington, Vermont

Garcia said American Airlines could see the biggest delays at Dallas-Fort Worth, the airline's main hub, which is squarely within the eclipse's path of totality  — where it can be seen in full. 

Officials in Erie, Pennsylvania, said they expect roughly 250,000 people to flock to the area for the eclipse. Meanwhile, tourism for the big event is expected to bring $1 billion to Texas . 

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Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

More from CBS News

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S.?

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times across the U.S.

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

Why do you need special glasses to watch a solar eclipse? Doctors explain.

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Sunday Dolphins Mailbag: Poyer, Skylar, Chubb, and More

Could Jordan Poyer set an example for Jevon Holland? Are the Dolphins overdoing it at defensive tackle? Tackling those and other Miami Dolphins issues

• Author: Alain Poupart

In this story:

Part 2 of an early April Miami Dolphins mailbag:

From Karen Dube (@karmabiitzhard):

Curious if you believe Tua's half sleeve on his left arm will help him play better in tight games?

Hey Karen, that’s good. Really, though, anything that could help in that department would be welcome, right?

From Richard Hulme (@RichardHulme7):

Which position is most in need of the premium 1st round pick, OL or DT?

From Pajake Japat (@D1nonlyJP):

What do you think the Dolphins should prioritize with their 1st pick?

Hey Richard and Pajake, I think the Dolphins have a lot of numbers at both spots without somebody who stands out as a clear starter at either right guard or defensive tackle next to Zach Sieler. So then it comes down to what’s the best prospect available. But of those two, I think IOL might be slightly more of a priority.

From Olive Grove Jon (@owlizee):

Hi Alain, do you think the addition of Poyer will elevate the play of Holland and bring him back to the form he showed prior to last season?

Hey OGJ, I think you make an excellent point there because Poyer’s competitiveness and intangibles make him the perfect mentor to help a talented young safety to take the next step. Whether Holland follows Poyer’s lead will be up to Holland, but it certainly would behoove him.

From Grumpy Ol’ Git (@cleggylad):

Did any player in IPP the catch your attention?

Took me a while to realize that by IPP, you meant the International Player Pathway, which is how the Dolphins got Durval Queiroz Neto for a couple of years. I can’t say I’m familiar with many of the players in the program, but I’m always for taking a shot on those guys because you never know you could wind up with a Jordan Mailata like the Eagles did.

From suicidolphin (@BrianAdams1969):

Could you and Omar give some depth to the issues that led up to trading Minkah? I’ve relied on the one where Minkah was being a baby, but I’m not sure and would love details.

Hey Brian, Omar and I have discussed it on the podcast, but I’ll be happy to go over it again and it involved a couple of factors. One was Fitzpatrick’s reluctance to be used in a variety of roles as a jack of all trades safety (kind of like what Baltimore has done with Kyle Hamilton) and another was Fitzpatrick wanting no part of what clearly was going to be a painful 2019 rebuild that began with the Dolphins giving up 102 points in their first two games.

From Phillip Rhodes (@mindcrime):

Cam Goode seemed to be coming on a little bit last year before being injured. With Chubb and Phillips possibly out for a portion of the season, do you see Goode making a meaningful contribution this season?

Hey Phillip, Goode himself is coming off a serious injury as he tore a patellar tendon on Buffalo’s punt return for a touchdown in the Week 18 game. So he’s also facing a long rehab. If he does come back fully healthy, I could see Goode making a contribution on defense, but we’re not at the point of being able to count on him to make an impact IMO.

From NY DolFins Lifer (@gmarcotte11b):

I like the re-signing of Wynn and Lamm, I know the OL still needs another piece or two, I say draft an edge at 21 if the right guy is there for Chubbs’ replacement next year, and then go WR at 55 to replace Tyreek next year as well. Thoughts?

I have no issue with that game plan, assuming the right prospects are available at each spot.

From Jason Kirkland (@1bigdad424):

Hi Alain, 2 questions: what do you put the odds at that Miami signs OBJ? If you were to bet, what position do you think Miami goes at 21, assuming they stay put?

Hey Jason, I’d put the OBJ signing at 70 percent right now, though I could see a scenario where it doesn’t happen until after the draft. As for 21, I’m thinking edge defender.

From OGHighway (@OGHighWay):

Miami has signed quite a few players even with the limited cap space. What do you think they will do with the post-June 1 money? Has Thompson shown enough in his development or do you think Miami should take a shot at a late-round QB?

My best guess is we’ll see a couple of post-June 1 signings, though nothing overly dramatic. As for a late-round QB, I’m always for taking a shot at one of those guys, particularly if there’s a singular trait that makes them stand out even if they have work to do in other areas.

From Prince-Bishop Militantly Aardvark (@MilitantlyA):

Are the Dolphins trying to set the record for total volume of DTs? I think they need a high-quality DT who is not yet on the roster. Do you agree, and if so, what would you do about it? It would make sense to bring in a new WR to replace the headache-causing Tyreek, but don't the Fins need to replace Wilkins first? Then there's the question of safeties for the future, little matters like the future left tackle... Are fans overrating the repair work done so far?

Hey PBMA, lot to unpack here. Can’t disagree with anything you wrote here, though I think you can give up on the idea of a big-name DT being brought in to replace Wilkins. It’s clear the Dolphins have chosen the volume approach here, and maybe there’s something to be said for not having your DTs play as many snaps as Wilkins and Zach Sieler played last season.

From Tr3yBallJam3s (@AJ_Killmonger):

Do you agree that we have filled enough spots vacated by last year's starters to where Chris Grier can draft BPA regardless of position except QB?

Because the roster is likely to undergo a lot of changes in the next couple of years, and even as a universal statement, going BPA always should be the approach. But I also would submit that we shouldn’t pretend like the Dolphins don’t have a few options where they could use an upgrade.

From Eugenio Tallone (@Ertallone):

Hi Alain, what do I need to apply to be a Dolphins DT this season? Thanks...

Hey Eugenio, thanks for the laugh. Are you 300 pounds?

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