Practical information : Treat yourself (& others) Miami
Timetable
Most shops are open every day, from 10am to 10pm depending on the city. They are rarely closed between noon and two, and almost always open on Sundays. This is also the case for supermarkets.
Among the holidays in the United States, we can mention New Year's Day (January 1st), President's Day (3rd Monday of February), Memorial Day (last Monday of May), Independence Day (July 4th), Labor Day (1st Monday of September) or Veteran's Day (November 11th).
Budget & Tips
The cost of living is mostly high in Florida, especially in Miami. As far as shopping is concerned, there are shopping malls entirely dedicated to big brands at discounted prices: the outlets. Often open-air, these factory outlets gather the biggest fashion brands (Levi's, Converse, Adidas, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger...) which sell products from previous collections at reduced prices. Discounts can go up to 75%! It is not uncommon to find a pair of Levi's jeans for 30 € after conversion. The main outlets are located around Orlando, Miami and Fort Lauderdale. There too, you must add a tax of 7.25%.
Sales
As in France, there are sales periods in Florida. Thus, the Back-to-school Sale takes place at the end of July, just before the beginning of the school year in early August. In the fall, the After Thanksgiving Weekend Sale featuring Midnight Madness starts the day after Thanksgiving (towards the end of November) for 3 days, from Friday to Sunday. From December 26th, it is the turn of the After Holiday Sales to start, until January 1st. These are among the main ones, but there are others during the year. Some sales take place during a particular day: Valentine's Day Sale (February 14th), Mother's Day Sale (Mother's Day), Father's Day Sale (Father's Day), Black Friday (end of November)... As you can see, there is no shortage of opportunities to make good deals!
What's very local
Miami doesn't really have its own handicrafts. Among the classic souvenirs to bring back, we can however mention gourmet products with Key Lime (the famous little lime of the Keys), cigars from Little Havana or decorative license plates.
For more souvenir ideas, you can check out our "What to bring back from your trip" section.
Bargaining is not a common practice in Florida.
Tourist traps
You will find countless souvenir stores, usually made in China. They are concentrated on Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue. It is better to choose local products and artisans when possible.