Very much an off-the-beaten-track destination, Kochi is a backpacker’s paradise. A trip to this coastal city in the Indian state of Kerala invokes images of the town’s past, when it was instrumental in the spice trade. Here, an amalgamation of Arabian, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese and British influences, make for a rich experience with plenty of things to do in Kochi.

Check the price of flights to Kochi further below and book Economy or Premium Class flights to Kochi with Qatar Airways.

The Sunshine State’s main airport serves one of the United States largest cities, and is one of only eight US airports currently able to accommodate the new A380 Airbus.

The focus in this bright, efficient airport is on customer service, and passengers flying from Miami with Qatar Airways will find the staff incredibly friendly and welcoming, making departures from this international air hub a real pleasure.

In 2014 it was voted as one of the world’s best airports serving 40-50 million passengers at the Skytrax World Airport Awards.

Parking and transportation

Miami International Airport is exceptionally well served with public transport, with direct links to Miami-Dade Transit's Metrorail, Metrobus network, the Greyhound Bus Lines and to the Tri-Rail commuter rail system.

The MIA Mover is a passenger movement system that transports passengers between terminals and Miami Central Station. Both bus and rail coverage is extensive, fast, reliable and affordable. Add to this a fleet of efficient taxis and limousine services and you have a comprehensive ground transport system that’s admired throughout the aviation industry.

Car parking is also plentiful, with a total of 8,233 spaces, and valet parking available in the Dolphin and Flamingo garages on the departure level, across from concourses D and J.

Arriving at Miami

Passengers flying from Miami with Qatar Airways depart from the North Terminal Concourse D. This is a huge terminal, so it is important to ensure that you check upon arrival for the correct check in gates as marked on the automated display boards.

Alternatively, call ahead to confirm your flight and departure time, concourse and gate, or check online at www.miami-airport.com. You will need to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to clear check in and customs.

Facilities and amenities

Miami International Airport has an exceptional selection of facilities and amenities, as one would expect from such a large air hub. Concourse D has two multi-media auditoriums that can be booked for business functions, and Wi-Fi is available in some public areas and lounges.

There is a wide range of award-winning shops and retail outlets selling exclusive, luxury goods and accessories, and an excellent selection of cafés, restaurants and food outlets serving international cuisine.

Think of Kochi and the iconic image that springs to mind are the unique ‘Chinese fishing nets’ that line the harbour. But this bustling city is much more than simply a fishing port, and is one of the main tourist destinations in India.

Book a flight to Kochi with Qatar Airways and you’ll have the opportunity to explore this diverse city for yourself. A medieval city founded on the spice trade, modern Kochi is today a thriving commercial and technology centre too, representing India’s willingness to embrace and blend both its modern and traditional culture.

Tourist attractions

The Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi are a fabulous photo opportunity, particularly at sunset. But Kochi also has plenty of other attractions to entertain visitors. Everywhere you look you will see reminders of the city’s colonial past, including Princess Street, that is packed full of authentic European architecture.

In Fort Kochi you will also find the world’s only international pepper exchange, proving just how important this spice was and still is to the city. The Dutch Palace in Palace Road is a relic of the Dutch East India Company’s influence on the region, and throughout the city you will see Dutch influences alongside the colonial splendour of some of the British Raj buildings.

To find out more about the history of this eclectic city, visit the Hill Palace Museum, originally the Kochi Maharaja's palace and now the largest archaeological palace in South India. It includes the Cochin Royal Crown and Crown Jewels (be aware that security is understandably very tight around this section of the exhibition!). The palace/museum is surrounded by lush gardens patrolled by peacocks.

Travel Considerations

Flights to Kochi with Qatar Airways land at Cochin International Airport. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. Before you fly to Kochi please check the visa and passport requirements.