Like any other large city, Miami has it fair share of taxi scams. Over the past few years, the number of taxi scams that have affected tourists seemed to have increased. So tourists who come to Miami better know some ground rules.
The majority of taxi scams occur at the airport. The reason is that the traveler has no idea about the geography of the place and is left at the mercy of the cab driver. So the first thing all tourists must do is at least have some idea where they will be going and some of the key intersections. If you plan to stay at a hotel ask the front desk prior to coming what the average taxicab fare is and what is the route. The more knowledgeable you are, the less likely are you going to be scammed.
In most cases, the driver takes a long route to get you to your destination. Charging gullible tourists $100 for a $40 ride is not unheard of in Miami.
When you do get in a taxi, ask if there is a flat rate. If not skip that taxi and look for one that has such a rate.
There are also scams that involve a tax cab breakdowns on the highway and the cabbie then calls for another taxi. This way you end up paying both of them the maximum fare.
If you are staying at a hotel ask them if there is a shuttle service or a taxi that they can recommend. Never pay upfront to any cabbie.
If you are in no hurry and do not have family, just take the metro or the bus. This is far cheaper but the only downside is that you travel with many more people.
Just recently Uber got the go ahead to operate from Miami airport. Again, know what the fare will be as Uber can also be tricky at times. Never take Uber during rush hour as they charge a lot more than the regular taxi.
Hotels that offer shuttle to the airport include Hampton inn, Hyatt, Marriott, Sheraton, Residence, Homewood, Pullman and SpringHill suites. The only downside is that you may have to stay near the airport but fear not, there is a great metro service running all the way to South beach. Finally when you fly back, the shuttle will take you back. This alone will save you $100.