The Big Bus Tours of Miami was one of the normal “hop on, hop off” variety. We found it better than usual as the commentary was live rather than recorded and listened to via earphones. Although it was entirely in English there were earphones and a recorded commentary for those for whom English was not their standard language – though a certain amount of Spanish was spoken by some of the guides. This made it more interesting and up-to-date and also meant we had the option of asking questions. We booked a 2-day option which gave us plenty of time for both routes and a variety of guides.
The red route went around the main town, through areas such as Little Havana and Coconut Grove, it also stopped at a shopping centre, various famous old buildings etc. We decided, as we had an interesting commentator, to sit on the bus and do the complete circuit, returning to the harbour front where there was a swap over to the blue route.
The blue route went to Miami Beach where we got off for lunch and a wander along the beach and to look at the Art Deco buildings. We then picked up the bus again and returned across the bridge to our start point, a short walk from our hotel. A good and interesting day out.
The next day we picked up the red route bus again, this time getting off at Vizcaya – an old house which is now a museum with lovely gardens (reviewed separately). This is opposite the science museum but we did not have time to visit both. After lunch back onto the bus and completed the red route for the second time. This was not in any way boring as the commentator was different and told us many new facts.
Definitely recommended as one of the best of this type of bus tour we have been on.
