The capital of the ‘Sunshine State’ of Florida, Miami is an internationally important destination for both leisure and business travellers.

This glamorous, glitzy destination is focused on providing visitors with a truly memorable experience with all the razzmatazz of a typically American destination. However, you will find the people incredibly friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of attractions to entertain visitors.

Sizzling nightlife, long, white beaches and luxury boat trips – Miami is the US’ very own slice of tropical glamour. Stretched along Florida’s southeast shoreline, gazing at the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s regional neighbours include the Bahamas, Bermuda and the Caribbean islands .

When you’re not relaxing on powdery, sun-kissed beaches or engaging in high-octane water-sports, you should take some time to explore Florida’s Everglades, or discover the city’s thriving Latin scene.

Book a flight ticket to Miami with Qatar Airways and discover the US’ vivacious southern gateway.

Passengers flying from Goa with Qatar Airways will find Goa International Airport (also known as Dabolim Airport) has the same relaxed, informal atmosphere as the surrounding region. This modern airport is efficient with a well-organised and professional system that makes it a great place to start your journey. 

Recent upgrades in 2010 mean that the airport can now comfortably cope with the increasing numbers of passengers flying through, and you’ll find that check-in and customs checks are very smooth and stress free. 

Transportation and parking

There are a number of different ways to reach the airport from the centre of Panaji, the state’s executive capital. The journey by car takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The nearest railway station is in Vasco da Gama, which is approximately five kilometres away from the airport. Buses tend to be very crowded, so if you are travelling with young children or a large amount of luggage then the best option is to pre-order a taxi through your hotel reception. 

Airport shuttles are available, but these are usually reserved for tour operators and package holiday customers. Parking at the airport is quite limited, with a parking lot of 400 spaces directly outside the main terminal building.

Arriving at the airport

Passengers flying from Goa with Qatar Airways depart from Terminal 2. There are 75 check-in counters, 22 immigration counters for departures, 14 security check booths and eight customs counters. Check-in is on the ground floor, and security checks are carried out on the first floor. 

The waiting area for Departures is on the second floor. Be aware that, as with all international airports, security is very tight. However, the airport’s check-in and security checks are very efficient, so allow around an hour and a half before your flight is due to board to go through processing.

Facilities and amenities

Passengers can access paid-for Wi-Fi, which is free to Business and First Class passengers using the VIP lounge. Snack bars are located in the international terminal serving light snacks and drinks. A restaurant serving more substantial meals can be found in the domestic terminal area. 

The main terminal has Duty Free outlets, as well as other retail vendors selling travel essentials, luxury goods and souvenirs. Disabled assistance is available on request, and there are ramps and lifts connecting all parts of the airport.

The capital of the ‘Sunshine State’ of Florida, Miami is an internationally important destination for both leisure and business travellers.

This glamorous, glitzy destination is focused on providing visitors with a truly memorable experience with all the razzmatazz of a typically American destination. However, you will find the people incredibly friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of attractions to entertain visitors.

Book a flight to Miami with Qatar Airways and you will discover a city that is much more than just sun, sea and theme parks. Miami is also a vibrant and forward-thinking business centre, making it a favourite destination for entrepreneurs and business travellers too.

Tourist attractions

Top of the list for any visit to Miami has to be South Beach. This iconic stretch of golden sand has featured in countless films and TV shows, and is a haven for the rich and famous.

A good way to see Miami from a different perspective, including the beach, is on a Miami City & Boat Tour. This 90-minute tour takes in a number of locations including South Beach, Little Havana, Downtown Miami, Brickell Ave, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and The Venetian Pool.

Miami is surrounded by a unique eco-system – the Everglades. Tours of the Everglades by airboat are incredibly popular and a great way to experience this unique part of Florida.

Star Island is an artificial island in Biscayne Bay where the stars and celebrities have their homes. There are public access areas, making this an interesting excursion if you enjoy celeb-watching.

Miami also has a number of internationally important museums, including the Frost Art Museum, which has an extensive collection of pre-Colombian artefacts, and the Lowe Art Museum, home to a collection of Latin American art as well as classical Greco-Roman artefacts.

If you want to get out and about then the Oleta River State Recreation Park is the largest urban park in Florida and has plenty of hiking and cycling trails to explore.

Travel Considerations

Flights to Miami with Qatar Airways land at Miami 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 Miami please check the visa and passport requirements.