Travel – Miami and the Islands

 

It seems appropriate that the fifth annual Caribbean Poker Classic aboard the MS Freedom of the Seas will depart from the southern US city of Miami, also known as ‘Magic City’. The celebrated event has all the allure, mystery and enchantment of magic, not to mention the trickery and sleight of hand which is sure to take place at the felt tables over the week of competition.

Getting There

Miami is well serviced by two international airports, Miami International and Fort Lauderdale International. Most of the big international carriers use Miami International, which is one of the largest airports in the world as it is a major transport hub between South and North America. It is consequently highly congested and visitors are encouraged to leave themselves plenty of time when embarking on a journey. Both airports have a free shuttle service to the Tri-Rail commuter rail which in turn links the airports and downtown Miami.

Getting Around

Although the time in Miami will be brief for most CPC participants, it is likely that many will want to see a bit of the city and surrounds. The most efficient and cost effective way of getting around Miami is by rail. There are two options available – Metrorail and Metromover.

  • Metrorail is a single line elevated above the city and it stops at many of Miami’s principle tourist attractions including the Lowe Art Museum, the Miami Museum of Science and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
  • Metromover is a free service which covers the downtown area of Miami and it connects to Metrorail by way of either the Government Centre in the CBD or Brickell Station.

Island Attractions

The MS Freedom of the Seas will depart Miami at 16h30 on the 16 November and will make her way to Puerto Rico and then on to the islands of St Thomas and St Maarten. There will be plenty of time to do a bit of sightseeing and we include a couple of ideas for the poker buffs:

  • On 18 November the liner will dock at San Juan, Puerto Rico and passengers will be encouraged to explore this beautiful old city from 15h00 – 23h00. The city and its inhabitants are renowned for their festive welcome to tourists and there is a vast selection of pubs, restaurants and nightclubs to choose from. The 16th Century citadel, El Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a world heritage site, is well worth a visit, but if history is not your game, then why not head for the Bacardi Rum Factory, known by the tippling natives as the ‘Cathedral of Rum’ – Yum!!
  • On 19 November the Freedom of the Seas will berth at Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas and passengers will have a free reign of the island from 8 in the morning until 6 in the evening. Why not enjoy a Skyride to Paradise Point, where the views of the island are exemplary and for those who need to get rid of those ‘sea-legs’ there is a short hike available as well.
  • On 20 November passengers will have the opportunity of exploring Philipsburg, St Maarten from 8am to 5pm. The island is interesting in that it is divided into a French and Dutch section, and each has its own inimitable style. An excursion worth doing is a visit to the Butterfly Farm situated on the French side, but for those who are looking for a bit more fun, why not head to The Sunset Beach Bar near Maho beach, where topless girls drink free!

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