Exotic cruise vacations and international trade are what makes Port Everglades an economic powerhouse for Broward County and one of the most diverse seaports in the United States.
Located In the heart of Greater Fort Lauderdale and the City of Hollywood, FL, Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. It is a leading container port in Florida and among the most active cargo ports in the United States. And, Port Everglades is South Florida’s main seaport for receiving petroleum products including, gasoline and jet fuel. A foreign-trade zone and available office space inside the Port’s secure area make Port Everglades a highly desirable business center for world trade.
The Port Everglades Department is a self-supporting Enterprise Fund of Broward County government. It does not rely on local tax dollars for operations or capital improvements.
The total value of economic activity at Port Everglades is more than $28 billion. And, 224,054 Florida jobs are impacted by the Port, including 13,322 people who work for companies that provide direct services to Port Everglades.
ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION:
The United States has strict laws regarding drinking alcoholic beverages. It is against the law for anyone under 21 years of age to drink beer, wine, or any type of alcohol, not even with an adult, or in the privacy of your home. There is no exception to this law, regardless of your nationality.
WIFI:
In the United States, free WiFi is available at most McDonald’s restaurants, Starbucks coffee shops, and public libraries. Each WiFi network will require you to use a different password.
The City of Miami Beach also offers a free WiFi network. The system was built so that at least 95% of the City will have outdoor WiFi coverage and at least 70% of the City will have indoor coverage up through the second floor of a building. To login to the network, look for the WiFi signals: City_of_Miami_Beach_WiFi & MBKIDS. These free connections are not secure. Do not transmit important information.
Where do I fly into?
South Florida has three airports with commercial service:
- Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (IATA: FLL) (ICAO: KFLL), located just two miles south of down town Fort Lauderdale [31]. It is a major airport and popular low cost carrier destination. This is most convenient airport to Fort Lauderdale. Spirit Airlines maintains a hub here; JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Virgin America all also have substantial operations here. FLL is the main domestic airport for the South Florida region. It is also an emerging hub for flights to and from the Latin America and the Caribbean. There are some limited charter flights to and from Europe. Many passengers are bound for or coming from cruises using Port Everglades, some two miles away. Many taxis, cruiseline buses, and hotel/motel shuttles make access to either easy. Several air charter companies, with piston aircraft, turbo props and jets are based here. Air Ambulance services are also available.
You can take the Broward County Transit #1 bus along Federal Highway towards either Broward Central Terminal (Downtown Fort Lauderdale) or the Aventura Mall.
- Miami International Airport (IATA: MIA), [35] is located 25 miles south of Fort Lauderdale. It is the major international airport in South Florida, and known as ‘The Gateway to the Americas’. Home of American Airlines Latin American hub with frequent flights to Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, and US west coast. It is a 40-minute drive, south, from Fort Lauderdale using I-95, but can be much, much slower during rush hour. You can catch the Tri-Rail from Miami Airport to Fort Lauderdale station for about $4 a head. Then catch the linking bus, or get a cab from the station to the hotel. (More on Tri-Rail below).
You can take one of the shuttle vans from Miami Airport to Fort Lauderdale, price varies by destination but will be around $50 to $70 per passenger.
- Palm Beach International Airport (IATA: PBI), 1000 Turnage Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Phone: (561) 471-7420, [36]. This airport is another option. PBI, however, primarily serves the Palm Beach area and is the least convenient of the three airports for visiting Fort Lauderdale. Nevertheless, you can use Tri-Rail to get from Palm Beach Airport to Fort Lauderdale.
For general aviation:
- Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (IATA: FXE) (ICAO: KFXE), Located between Commercial Blvd and Cypress Creek Road just west of I-95 with entrances off West Commercial Boulevard at NW 12th Avenue, NW 15th Avenue and NW 21st Avenue and entrances off Cypress Creek Road at NW 10 Terrace and NW 24th Way and NW 28th Way. One of the ten largest general aviation airports in the country. Located in Fort Lauderdale, the airport is bounded by the cities of Tamarac to the West, Oakland Park to the South and Pompano to the North. Many privately owned aircraft are hangared or tied down here. Several air charter companies, with piston aircraft, turboprops and jets are based here. Air Ambulance services are also available.
Fort Lauderdale Weather:
Fort Lauderdale has a subtropical rainforest climate, which means all months of the year have a mean temperature of 18 C (65 F) or higher. As is typical in most tropical climates, there is a “wet/dry season”. Much of the rainfall in Ft. Lauderdale falls in the hot and humid summer months from May through mid-October. Daily thundershowers build up in the intense heat and quick, but intense, tropical downpours are common. Daytime temperatures are usually in the high 80sF or low 90sF with high humidity; nights are around 77F. The dry or low sun from November through April normally features sunny, dry, and warm weather with highs in the middle 70’s and lows near 60 F. Some winters can be quite dry and brush fires and water restrictions in place. The warm tropical climate of Ft. Lauderdale gives the city a 12 month beach season.
Fort Lauderdale Visa and Passport Requirements
| Passport required | Return ticket required | Visa required | |
| Australian | Yes | Yes | No |
| British | Yes | No | No |
| Canadian | Yes | Yes | No |
| Other EU | Yes | No | No/1 |
| USA | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Passports:
All travelers entering the USA under the Visa Waiver Program require an e-Passport with an embedded electronic chip. Any traveler not in possession of an e-passport will require a valid USA entry visa.
Visitors to the USA traveling under the Visa Waiver Program must obtain authorization from the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), a fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the USA if arriving by air or sea. It is recommended that applications are made at least 72 hours prior to travel but you may apply at any time prior to travel. Airlines must deny check-in to passengers without a valid ESTA. Apply online (esta.cbp.dhs.gov). There is a US#14 fee.
An ESTA is valid for two years, so if you’ve applied for one previously, ensure it’s still valid.
When applying for ESTA-authorization and entering the passport number, the number 0 must not be replaced y letter O as this can lead to problems upon entering the USA. The granting of an ESTA does not guarantee entry to the USA.
Canadian citizens do not require an ESTA, but permanent residents of Canada who are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program must obtain one.
All persons, including US citizens, traveling by air, land, or sea between the USA and Canada, Central and South American, the Caribbean and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport, or other approved document, when entering or re-entering the USA.
Visas:
Visas are not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days, except:
- Nationals of Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Poland, and Romania, who do require a visa as they are not included in the Visa Waiver Program.
VISA NOTE:
Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries who have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen on or after 1 March 2011 are not eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program and must apply for a US visa.
All passengers using US airports for transit purposes are required to obtain a transit visa. This does not affect qualified travelers traveling visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program.
To qualify for visa-free travel under the VWP, nationals must travel on a valid passport, for holiday, transit or business purposes only and for a stay not exceeding 90 days.
Holders of UK passports with the endorsement of British Subject, British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Protected Person, British Overseas Citizen or British National (Overseas) Citizen do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. A passport which states holder has right of abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not qualify for visa-free travel.
A visa does not expire with the expiry of the holder’s passport. An unexpired, endorsed visa in an expired passport may be presented for entry into the USA< as long as the visa itself has not been canceled, is undamaged, is less than 10 years old and is presented with a valid non-expired passport, provided that both passports are for the same nationality.
Nationals of countries not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
VISA COST: 160$ USD (Tourist, Business, Transit, and Student Visas)
VALIDITY: Visas may be used for travel to the USA until the date of expiry as long as presented with a valid passport. Some visas are valid for multiple entries.
The length of stay in the USA is determined by US immigration officials at the time of entry.
TRANSIT: Travelers who are visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program do not require a transit visa, but must obtain ESTA-authorization prior to travel.
APPLICATION: Embassy or consulate. All visitors requiring a visa must attend an interview at the nearest US consulate/embassy
Schengen Visas: The USA does not participate in the Schengen visa scheme
FUNDS: US Customs and Border Protection requires that visitors from abroad substantiate they have sufficient funds to enter the USA. The amount is not a fixed number, however, and does not have to be solely in cash; credit cards, traveler’s cheques, and other currency equivalents are considered. For more information, check the USCBP’s website (www.cbp.gov)
Health and Safety:
Fort Lauderdale can be very safe, but like all major cities, there are some parts of town you should probably avoid if you are on foot at night. The areas frequented by tourists, such as along the beach, shopping along Las Olas and downtown are generally more than safe. However, you may want to use more caution if in the west, northwest or southwest areas of the city, especially at night. If in doubt, it’s always a good idea to ask for advice on which areas are safe and which should be avoided. Rental cars stand out as obvious targets for thieves, so never leave valuables in a visible place (put any purchases or valuables in the trunk) and always lock your car doors.
Tourists may find South Florida drivers get impatient with the heavy traffic during high season. Try to plan your route before setting off and remember that US1 tunnels under Las Olas Blvd and the river. It may look like the two intersect on a map but they don’t. South Florida has quite a few senior citizens on the road so be alert.
Emergency telephone number for fire, police and rescue emergencies is 911.
If you visit a nightclub, it’s easy to let your guard down when it’s late and you’ve had a few drinks. But be aware that crime and theft to take place. Also, if you pay for drinks with a credit card, read your bill and make sure they are not charging you for items you did not purchase.
In an emergency the following numbers can be called free of charge:
Emergency: 911
Ambulance: 911
Fire: 911
Medical Services:
If you need serious medical attention, go to the nearest hospital emergency room, but be prepared to receive a bill for treatment. Hospitals in the United States are extremely expensive, compared to other countries. However, the law requires hospitals must provide care to anyone needing emergency treatment regardless of citizenship, or the ability to pay. In Miami Beach, the Mount Sinai emergency room is located at 4300 Alton Road. Their phone number is: (305) 674-2200. Emergencies requiring police, fire or medical aid can be reported by dialing 9-1-1 from any telephone. The use of this number is for emergencies only. If you do not speak English, ask the hotel front desk, or even a person on the street for assistance.
Helpful Tip: The emergency room is for people with life-threatening emergencies or anything that could have severe long-term effects on you. If you simply want something checked out, then you need to go to a community health clinic so the staff there can determine how bad your problem is and where you should be treated.
If it’s after hours and the health clinics are closed, but you have a problem that you’re concerned about, your other option is an urgent care facility. An urgent care facility is a great alternative to the emergency room. The cost is cheaper, and the facilities are usually open late.
Fort Lauderdale Currency Exchange:
The currency used in Fort Lauderdale is the US Dollar; code USD. It is divided into 100 smaller cent units. US coin comes in dominations of 1c, 5c, 10c, 25c. US bills come in dominations of 1$, 5$, 10$, 20$, 50$, 100$. 1000$.
Credit cards:
In the United States, day-to-day spending is largely credit card-based. So when you’re in Fort Lauderdale, plan to rely mostly on credit cards. Credit cards from any country work throughout Fort Lauderdale (at hotels, shops, restaurants, car-rental agencies, tour companies and so on); Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are the most widely accepted.
Helpful Tip: Contact your credit card company and let them know when and where you will be using your credit card on vacation.
Although most places in the United States accept credit cards, there are places where cash is needed. If you rent a car, toll roads accept cash only. Many parking lots only accept cash. Although most taxis accept credit cards, cash is still the accepted method of payment. Beach chair rentals, farmers markets, and public transportation is cash only. Tips are also appreciated in cash.
Traveler’s checks:
You can either cash your traveler’s checks at a bank or you can use them at stores, hotels, restaurants, etc. When you want to use a traveler’s check, you need to show a photo ID. You may also need to show the proof of purchase at the time of using it.
Banks and taxes:
Banks Hours:
MON-THUR: 8AM-5PM
FRI: 8AM-6PM
SAT-SUN: Closed
ATM:
You won’t have trouble finding an ATM in Fort Lauderdale, but be aware, there are high fees to retrieve the money. There is an ATM usage fee, plus a currency exchange fee. Also note, the ATMs inside shops, bars, and gas stations charge the highest fees.
Taxes:
Sales tax is 6%
Clothing:
Fort Lauderdale is generally a casual city. Shorts and light shirts are fine, but bring at least one heavier shirt or a light jacket, as the air conditioning can get cold indoors. Make sure you have comfortable shoes, you will do a lot of walking. And do not forget a swimsuit and beach towel, if you intend to go to the beach. You should also bring sunglasses and a small umbrella, especially if you are visiting during the rainy season.
If you are planning to go to the trendy nightclubs, you’ll want to dress in your most stylish attire (think designer clothes and sexy dresses) or you won’t get in.
Nudity:
Topless sunbathing in the United States is forbidden. However, Miami Beach is the exception, where women are allowed to sunbathe topless on the beach between of 1st Street and 16th Street.
There is also a clothing optional beach at the north end of Haulover Beach Park. The beach is located between Sunny Isles and Bal Harbour, and the nude beach section is clearly marked. There are three sections of the nude beach: the gay section to the north, the swingers area in the middle, and the nudists on the south end.
Electricity:
In the United States of America, the power sockets are of type A and B. The standard voltage is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.
If you bring any electrical appliance to the USA, you may need an adaptor to fit the US electrical receptacles. You may also need a converter to change the voltage from 110 volts to 220 volts.
Most common appliances will function with either 50 or 60 cycle current. Electrical frequency can affect electric clocks, audio equipment, and some other electronic gear. You should check your electrical equipment for compatibility with the 60-cycle current before you bring it to the USA.
Tipping:
The United States has a social institution called “tipping.” Basically, the price on the menu at any place which serves food is not the real price. The real price is 15% higher. However, Miami Beach is the exception, where some restaurants and bars include the tip, so make sure to check your bill to avoid double tipping.
The standard tip is 15%. If you are dissatisfied with the service you may leave less, or even nothing at all, but if you were well served 20% is appreciated. Taxis work the same way. It is considered very rude not to pay the gratuity.
Cabs/Taxis: 15% of ride
Airport/Hotel Shuttle: No tip is needed
Limo: 15% of the ride
Hotels: No tip is needed
Doorman:10$
Bellman:5$ per bag
Chambermaid:5$ per night
Room Service:15% each delivery
Parking Valet:10$ at pick up
Concierge: No tip is needed unless a special request
Water
Fort Lauderdale tap water is safe to drink according to EPA and international standards.
Groundwater has the potential risk of being contaminated by numerous sources. Power plants, landfills, hazardous waste locations, and agricultural farms all have the potential of emitting impurities into the ground, which can eventually end up in the water supply.
Language & Time
English is the spoken language, but this city is a melting pot – you will be comfortable speaking Spanish and French here.
All major cities in Florida fall in the Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5). The time difference between Miami and Paris, Brussels, Geneva, Berlin, Madrid, Rome, Prague, or Copenhagen is 6 hours. This means, when it is 1800 hours in France, it is 1200 hours in Miami.
Transit system
The east side of Fort Lauderdale, between downtown and the beach, is crisscrossed with canals. It doesn’t matter if you are in a car, on bicycles, or on foot, you have to cross the canals where the bridges are. This is one town where a good map can save you a lot of backtracking. Surprisingly the best road map of the East side of town is the ‘Dolphus Waterway Map”.
The US 1 does NOT intersect with Las Olas Boulevard. Your map is wrong if it says otherwise. The US 1 passes under the river in a tunnel and goes under Las Olas too, re-emerging only at Broward Blvd. to the north. This confuses many people who are trying to navigate around Fort Lauderdale.
What to pack for a trip to Fort Lauderdale:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Dress & Skirts, Heels (Ladies)
- Jeans & Suit Jacket (men)
- Shorts & Sandals
- Dress Shirts & Blouses
- Bathing Suits & Sunglasses
- Hats & Bag
- Toiletries
- Sun protection
- Some medicines are delivered only with a medical prescription. Bring your own medicine.
- Bring electrical outlet adapter and Voltage Converters
Things to carry on with you:
- A copy of your passport and driver’s license.
- Money If you are going to make a purchase or go out to dinner, take more and take a credit card as well. Use the card only if you don’t have enough cash.
- Your emergency telephone list of phone numbers from back home.
- A business card showing the phone and address of your hotel.
- Credit cards only if you plan to go to the bank.
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