History tends to repeat itself, but one popular Florida city is leaving 2023 in the past. Ready to turn a new page this spring, some new ground rules are being implemented to deter bad behavior and keep locals happy.
Let’s be honest – Spring Break can become a circus.
Not every spring traveler is rockin’ neon clothing, crushing beer cans, and fist-pumping to obnoxious music, though.
Some people simply want to relax and have a blissful day at the beach in one of America’s best cities.
The problem is that it has become a big ask when crowds become unmanageable and don’t treat their vacation destination as if others live there.
The beautiful city of Miami may be awesome to visit, but locals are demanding it stays that way this spring.
Here are 5 things travelers should know when visiting this popular Florida beach city this spring:
More Cops, More Stops
Last year’s Spring Break was mayhem in Miami. Widespread reports of violence led to many arrests and thousands of citations, local residents’ voices are being heard loud and clear by saying, “not again!”.
Even though Miami is a very popular spring getaway, especially to party your pants off for Spring Break, it seems as if the city underestimated the proper security measures needed to keep everyone safe and happy.
This year will be different as more police officers will be stationed and trained to be on the lookout for any ‘bad apples’.
DUI checkpoints will be set up in common areas to keep roads safe and to have beachgoers thinking twice about drinking, which will be tougher anyway, with liquor stores closing shop early.
On Alert For Illegal Substances
As jam-packed as beaches can be this time of year, it’s easy to see how the crowds can get out of hand.
One of the issues Miami faced last spring was drug use became out of control, leading to violence. Police are on high alert this time around to prevent a sequel to last year’s occurrences.
Politics aside, Florida isn’t exactly known for being the most open-minded state, so this wouldn’t be the best place to get caught making bad decisions.
Bag checks will take place in certain areas to ensure everyone’s safety.
Hellacious Parking
Local authorities are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to all possible deterrents to another season of chaos.
The focus isn’t so much on locals letting loose at the beach; the main area of concern is out-of-towners flocking into Miami and making a mockery of their city.
It’s happened before, and to prevent it from happening again, the city is making it extraordinarily difficult to enjoy a beach getaway during Spring Break.
Excessive parking fees are expected, as well as a complete shutdown of common beach entrances and parking garages from March 7-10 and March 14-17, creating a nightmare for traffic flow.
Good luck getting an Uber! Towing fees will also double, totaling $516, for non-residents.
Go To Bed, Kids
Spring Break parties can last until dawn, but the city is doing its best to put a stop to that by issuing stringent curfews.
According to Miami Beach’s official website, there doesn’t appear to be a set time for curfews just yet.
That being said, loud music is won’t be tolerated and it’s illegal to drink in public putting a real damper on Spring Break plans.
Those who try to slip through the cracks may be better off with a silent disco in their hotel room.
Fort Lauderdale Takes A Different Approach
A short drive or train ride away is the scenic city of Fort Lauderdale. Those who can’t resist the urge for a South Florida getaway may want to consider this beach city as the best alternative to Miami.
Miami is going full bore to stop the madness, but Fort Lauderdale is embracing the inevitable. As one of the most affordable Florida beach getaways, it is surely enticing.
While they will also have security operations in place, spiked drink tests will be available, and more lifeguards and jet ski patrols, rather than beach closures.
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