TRAVEL TO MIAMI

Miami Beach

Although tourists generally consider Miami Beach to be part of Miami, it is in actuality its own municipality. Located on a barrier island east of Miami and Biscayne Bay, it is home to a large number of beach resorts and is one of the most popular spring break party destinations in the world. Because of its length, it is generally broken up into three districts.

Mid Beach - Often known just as "Miami Beach", this district refers to the "Mid-beach" area between 23rd Street and 63rd Street.

South Beach - Southern tip of the island to about 23rd Street.

North Beach - Northern tip of the island, from about 63rd Street on up.

Do

Beaches Of course, if you're in Miami, you'll want to spend some time on the beach. Miami Beach in on a barrier reef across the Biscayne Bay, and it's sandy, sunny beaches from party-hearty South Beach that continues all the way up north along the coast of Florida. As Miami has pretty temperate weather, the beaches will be active all year round, but the water will usually be too cold to swim in the winter. Topless sunbathing is allowed in Miami Beach, and if you want to take it all off, go to Haulover Beach Park in North Beach.

Work

If you are not from the U.S., you will need a work visa. If you try to work while holding a tourist visa, you are still considered an illegal immigrant in the U.S. Immigration and Nationalization Services conduct frequent illegal immigrant checks in Miami businesses since Miami has several refugees from Cuba, Haiti and other nearby countries. If you don’t have the right visa, you may not get a job in Miami.

There is an exception to getting work without a visa in Miami, however. Since yachts and cruise ships sail on international waters, these companies can freely hire any person they like.

Drink

Nightlife in Miami consists of upscale hotel clubs, independent bars frequented by locals (including sports bars) and nightclubs. Most hotel bars and independent bars turn the other cheek at your physical appearance, but you have to dress to impress (which does not mean dress like a stripper) to get into a nightclub. Also remember to never, under any circumstances, insult the doormen and/or nightclub employees that will grant you entry or touch the velvet ropes or you may as well be sitting on the opposite side of the clamoring masses trying to get in. Attempting to tip the doormen and claiming that you know employees that work in the nightclubs (unless you actually called and reserved a table or a spot on the VIP list) is also considered an affront. Getting to the club unfashionably early and pushing through the crowd (and not the doormen) also can help make you stand out in the crowd. Finally, most nightclubs won’t admit groups of men unless those men are waiting in front of a gay bar. Bring some women or leave the pack if you’re desperate to get in. And once you get in, remember that the charge to get in these clubs can cost up to $20—cash only (some clubs, however, mercifully have ATMs—that can charge up to $7 for a withdrawal). Popular drinks in Miami include the Cuba Libre and the mojito.

TRAVEL TO RIO DE JANEIRO

RIO DE JANEIRO

There is much more to see in Rio than just Copacabana. From Lapa and Santa Teresa to Christ the Redeemer and the Sambodrome, Rio de Janeiro has it all. Located between huge mountains and beautiful beaches, you will certainly enjoy this city. 

It hosts numerous interesting museums, some great colonial buildings and impressive churches. A must-see is Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pao de Acucar). There are also numerous galleries with good works of Brazilian artists.

The best way to explore the city is by foot, as you will get a good taste of what Rio is all about. Public busses are generally good, but they are difficult to navigate as there is no route map. Prefer the air conditioned ones (with the words "Ar Condicionado" written on the front side). If you are visiting for a short period of time, it might be worth making longer trips by taxi; they are not very expensive. But be aware that the taxi drivers (especially during Carnival) do not always charge the correct fare for the desired destination. Most Cariocas do not take taxis, unless it is an emergency, it is raining, or they are late for something. The subway (Metro) is another good and safe option for getting around the touristy areas.

There are also vans (white) with destinations written on a sign in the front window used mainly by the locals to move about the city rapidly. These vans are not recommended for tourists who are not familiar with Rio, or who cannot speak any Portuguese.

For a city as old as Rio de Janeiro, it has its fair share of amazing culture preserved in its museums. Rio's central role during the Portuguese colonial rule for 59 years and, subsequently as the capital of independent Brazil for 138 years, gifted the city with stunning Brazilian art and historical attractions that speak volumes of its rich culture. The wide array of museums in Rio presents something for everyone!

National Historical Museum

If Latin America history is of interest, then the National Historical Museum that houses over 287,000 items of Latin American history is worth a visit. The museum also houses the largest collection of numismatic items in North American history. Modern history lovers can revel in Paço Imperial for it not only was the home of 7 colonial governors and housed the royal family, it was also witness to signing of Lei Áurea in 1888 signaling the end of Brazilian slavery before becoming a museum.

By Air

There are hundreds of flights from all continents and South America to Rio. Domestic flights arrive or leave from Santos Dumont airport. International flights go to Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (earlier known as Galeao). There are taxis and busses running into town from both airports. Some taxi companies have fixed rates, but it is rather expensive. You pay for the car and not for the number of passengers, so if you can share a taxi you