Best Time to Travel
One reason why Fort Lauderdale is such a popular spot for sun-seekers is that it enjoys a year-round tropical climate, and very rarely experiences any cold weather. This also means that there’s little seasonal variation in temperature, so, while a Fort Lauderdale summer will be hot, the heat won’t be unbearable. If you’re traveling as a family, or crave a tranquil holiday, it’s best to avoid the city - particularly its beach - during spring break season, as Fort Lauderdale is still a party spot for energetic students.
Not to Miss
When in the city, spending a sun-kissed afternoon lounging on the soft sands of Fort Lauderdale beach is an absolute must - and the warm Atlantic waters make for a great swim. Culture-fiends should check-out the schedule at the Broward Center For The Performing Arts, which showcases year-round opera, dance, comedy and live music, while history-buffs will want to visit the fascinating Antique Car Museum. Meanwhile, shoppers can splurge at the endless Swap Shop flea market, or the ritzy Galleria Mall.
Getting around
The city is conveniently located a mere 3 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, a key transportation hub that serves dozens of flights to and from top domestic destinations, and international cities such as London and Montreal. To travel from the airport, take a taxi, public bus, or rent a car. Once there, it’s easiest to get around by car - but be sure to keep a close eye on the map to avoid getting confused by Fort Lauderdale’s extensive canal system. It’s also a great idea to rent a bike, as the central city area is quite small, and it’s a lot cheaper than relying on taxicabs.
Cuisine
Thanks to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Lauderdale’s cuisine-scene has a distinct focus on seafood. Food-lovers can track down the best homemade crab cakes, deep-fried calamari, and fresh, lightly-seasoned cod. There’s also succulent shrimp dishes to discover - infused with fiery peppers or sweet coconut - and a wealth of oyster bars. But it’s not all about sumptuous seafood - there’s plenty of classic American fare in Fort Lauderdale, found in its many diners and steakhouses.
Customs and etiquette
South Florida has an unfortunate reputation for road-rage, and if you find yourself stuck in traffic, you may experience a lot of honking horns and irritated looks - so remember to keep alert, plan your route, and drive considerately. As with everywhere in the USA, tipping is very important, particularly in restaurants and with taxis - and bars where there’s table service. Tipping 15 - 17% shows that you experienced good service, while 10% indicates poor quality. Fast Facts
• Population: 172, 400
• Spoken languages: English
• Electrical: The USA runs on 120V, 60 Hz current
• Phone Calling Code: +1 754/954911
