By Ellen Kendall
Miami International Airport at Sunset
Thirteen
United States-based airlines and 32 foreign airlines serve the
Miami International Airport. In 2007, 15.5 million international passengers used the airport, ranking it third under John F. Kennedy Airport in
New York and
Los Angeles International Airport. The airport features nearly 500 art exhibits in public areas. Environmental measures include emission reduction, green buildings and purchasing, and energy and conservation efficiency.
Wows and Woes
The art exhibits all over the airport are stunning. Electrical outlets and Internet charging stations are prolific.
Long waits for security checks are common, as are flight delays. Food facilities are meager. Traffic and parking are horrific. Construction sites are all over the airport, except in the international concourse.
Insider Tips
Get to Miami International Airport at least two hours for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Thousands of people cause long delays in parking and at airline counters. Carry food with you since most of the food at the airport is fast food. Take reading material and toiletries or gifts for others. This airport has few stores.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
I was going on a travel writing press trip a few years ago and had my choice of the Atlanta or Miami airports for my connecting flight. I chose Miami. It was a big mistake. I was shocked at the unclean state of the restrooms, the lack of decent places to eat and the rudeness of airport employees. The only good thing about this airport is the art.
Bottom Line
The Miami International Airport facilities are fewer and worse than other major United States airports. If possible, avoid flying out of this airport.
Resources
About the Author:
Ellen Kendall has 15 years of writing and editing experience. Her travel and insurance articles have appeared in national magazines. Her book contributions include biographies and multi-cultural and Holocaust lesson plans. She has previously served as a real estate broker and interior designer and taught ESL in Korea and at Duke.
Photo Credits:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/egm757lover/
