Fort Lauderdale Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

Major U.S. Carriers include AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon with extensive coverage.

SIM & eSIM Options

Prepaid SIM cards available at carrier stores, electronics retailers.
eSIMs for immediate connectivity upon landing. Airalo.com
Wi-Fi is widely available and often free in hotels, cafes, airports.

Portable Wi-Fi & Language

Consider a portable Wi-Fi device for consistent connectivity.

Solis Wi-Fi & Language Tools

Solis Wi-Fi portable devices for travel. Soliswifi.co
English is the main language, Spanish is widely spoken in South Florida.
Rosetta Stone or translation apps like Google Translate. Rosettastone.com

Language & Useful Phrases

While English is sufficient, a few Spanish phrases can be courteous.

Basic Phrases

English: "Hello," "Thank you," "Excuse me," "Please," "How much does this cost?"
Spanish: "Hola," "Gracias," "Por favor," "¿Cuánto cuesta?"
Many businesses have bilingual staff.

Postal Services

United States Postal Service (USPS) post offices are throughout the city.

Sending Mail

Send postcards, letters, and packages via USPS.
UPS and FedEx offer faster or specialized shipping.
Post offices readily available.

Communication Best Practices

Staying Connected

Consider local SIM for calls.
Use eSIM for immediate internet.
Leverage free public Wi-Fi.
Portable Wi-Fi for continuous access.

Language & Etiquette

English is standard, Spanish widely used.
Translation apps for convenience.
Basic polite phrases are appreciated.
Bilingual staff in many service areas.

Smart Connectivity

For seamless communication, activate an eSIM before arrival. This ensures you have data and calling as soon as you land, avoiding the hassle of finding a local SIM card.

Business Hours & Schedules

Navigating Fort Lauderdale's daily operations.

Retail Shops

Generally 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM weekdays. Malls and larger stores extend to 9:00 PM, especially weekends.

Restaurants

Breakfast 7:00-10:30 AM, Lunch 11:30 AM-2:30 PM, Dinner 5:30-10:00 PM. Bars open later.

Grocery & Convenience

Most grocery chains 7:00 AM - 10:00/11:00 PM, some 24 hours. Convenience stores often 24/7.

Banking & ATMs

Banks open Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, some Saturday mornings.

Access to Funds

Bank hours vary, check specific branches.
ATMs are widely available 24/7.
Found at banks, grocery stores, tourist areas.

Holidays & Seasons

Federal holidays mean bank, government office, and some business closures.

Seasonal Considerations

Major U.S. Federal holidays impact services.
Spring Break (March) leads to crowds and possible restrictions.
Smaller businesses may reduce hours in low season (summer).

Airport Services and Compensation

Airport Lounges

FLL offers free Wi-Fi throughout terminals.
Priority Pass members enjoy independent airport lounge access. Prioritypass.com
Comfortable waiting areas and amenities.

Flight Compensation

Compensair assists with flight delays, cancellations, denied boarding. Compensair.com
Service helps claim compensation when eligible.
For significant travel disruptions.

Planning for Continuity

Always check websites or call ahead for smaller attractions or restaurants to confirm their operating hours, especially during holidays or off-peak seasons.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Social customs and accepted behavior in Fort Lauderdale.

Social Interactions

A handshake is common for first meetings. Direct eye contact signifies engagement.

Common Greetings

Handshakes for introductions.
Direct eye contact generally polite.
Hello, Hi, How are you? Are typical verbal greetings.

Attire Guidelines

Fort Lauderdale generally a relaxed dress code.

Dress Code

Swimwear acceptable at beach/pool.
Cover-ups for restaurants/shops near beach.
Smart casual for most restaurants, semi-formal for upscale.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is a significant part of service workers' income.

Tipping Practices

Tipping is customary for service.
15-20% for good service at restaurants.
Not tipping for table service is considered impolite.

Photography & Sensitivity

Generally no restrictions in public, but respect privacy.

Etiquette Reminders

Ask permission for close-ups of individuals.
No flash or photography in certain exhibits.
Avoid discussing divisive politics or religion with strangers.

Important Social Cues

Personal Space & Public Behavior

Americans value personal space; avoid standing too close.
Public drunkenness or disruptive behavior generally frowned upon.
Modest dress is respectful in places of worship.

Inclusivity & Privacy

Fort Lauderdale is progressive and inclusive for LGBTQ+.
Respect privacy, especially in residential areas.
Avoid photographing children without parental consent.

Cultural Connection

Being polite, open-minded, and patient in interactions will contribute to a positive experience.

Accessibility Information

Fort Lauderdale's commitment to accessibility.

Mobility Access

Infrastructure caters to travelers with mobility challenges, following ADA.

Accessible Facilities

Public buildings, attractions, newer hotels are ADA compliant.
Hotels offer ADA-compliant rooms with accessible amenities.
Fort Lauderdale Beach offers beach wheelchairs at lifeguard stations.

Accessible Transport

Transportation options accommodate travelers with disabilities.

Transit Solutions

Broward County Transit (BCT) buses are wheelchair accessible.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is ADA compliant.
Water Taxi may have limitations, inquire directly for specific boats/stops.

Sensory Impairment Support

Services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Support Resources

Audio guides and large print materials at cultural institutions.
Sign language interpreters available upon advance request.
Public transportation announcements are both visual and auditory.

Accessibility Resources

Organizations and websites for further accessibility information.

Information Sources

Disability Rights Florida (non-profit).
Broward County's ADA Coordinator Office for local details.
Check attraction websites or contact directly for accessibility statements.

Fort Lauderdale Travel Tips