Miami sits just south of Fort Lauderdale, north of Key West, and east of Naples, Tampa, Clearwater, and Saint Petersburg.
Fort Lauderdale and Miami are only 45 minutes apart, and many people commute between the two cities. People call Fort Lauderdale the “Venice of America” for its many beautiful canals and waterways. It feels decidedly more Americanized due to its more English-speaking population, but with reportedly less happening compared to Miami.
Key West and the rest of the Florida Keys consist of a string of 44 quiet, tropical islands, popular with locals and tourists alike. They offer a Caribbean-like atmosphere, cheap seafood, and postcard sunsets. It’s a great place to unwind with a rum runner in your hand under a palm tree by the water.
Many people go to Naples, Tampa, Clearwater, and Saint Petersburg to retire in Florida. They emit peaceful and relaxed energy, with many down-to-earth places closing down at 9-10 pm.
Daytona Beach, only 4 hours away from Miami, garners attention as home to the Daytona International Speedway, which hosts February’s iconic Daytona 500 NASCAR race.
And, a 4-5 hour drive up north will take you to Saint Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., known for its Spanish colonial architecture.