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 midday and midnight, and are almost always open on Sundays. This is also the case for supermarkets.
Public holidays in the USA include New Year's Day (January1 ), President's Day (3rd Monday in February), Easter Sunday, Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (1st Monday in September) and Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November).
Budget & Tips
The cost of living is generally high in Florida, particularly in Miami (and even more so since the pandemic). When it comes to shopping, there are a number of outlets dedicated entirely to big-name brands at knock-down prices. Often open-air, these factory outlets feature the biggest fashion brands (Levi's, Converse, Adidas, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger...) selling products from previous collections at reduced prices. Reductions can be as much as 75%! It's 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. Here too, a 6% tax must be added.
Sales
As in France, there are sales periods in Florida. The Back-to-school Sale takes place at the end of July, just before the start of the school year in early August. In autumn, the After Thanksgiving Weekend Sale featuring Midnight Madness kicks off the day after Thanksgiving (towards the end of November) for 3 days, from Friday to Sunday. From December 26, it's the turn of the After Holiday Sales to begin, until January1. These are among the most important, but there are others throughout the year. Some sales take place on a particular day: Valentine's Day Sale (February 14), Mother's Day Sale (Mother's Day), Father's Day Sale (Father's Day), Black Friday (end of November)... As you can see, there's no shortage of bargains to be had!
What's very local
Miami doesn't really have a craft industry of its own. Among the classic souvenirs to bring back, however, are gourmet Key Lime products (the Keys' famous little lime), cigars from Little Havana or decorative license plates. 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.