International Travelers
Site-wide Translation
We love our international visitors to The Florida Keys & Key West, and to make your trip planning easier, our site is available in five languages. Use the translation selector at the bottom right of each page to select your language. Also, our Conch-cierge chatbot is fluent in 45 languages, so ask away en français...or whichever language you parler.
International Videos and Brochures
Here are resources for international travelers, including agencies that can assist with group travel booking.
UK
Axis Travel Marketing Ltd
Riverside House, River Lawn Road, Tonbridge, TN9 1EP, Great Britain
+44(0) 208 686 2600
info@axistravelmarketing.com
French/Francais
Regardez une vidéo des Florida Keys
German/Deutsch
Beobachten Sie ein Florida Keys Video
Get It Across GmbH & Co. KG
Neumarkt 33, Cologne, Germany 50667
49-221-47671214
49-221-47671215
fla-keys@getitacross.de
Italian/Italiano
Guardate un video Keys Florida
Axis Travel Marketing Ltd
Riverside House, River Lawn Road, Tonbridge, TN9 1EP, Great Britain
+44(0) 208 686 2600
info@axistravelmarketing.com
Dutch/Nederlands
Get It Across GmbH & Co. KG
Neumarkt 33, Cologne, Germany 50667
49-221-47671214
49-221-47671215
fla-keys@getitacross.de
Portuguese /Portugues
Spanish/Espanol
Swedish/Svenska
Axis Travel Marketing Ltd
Riverside House, River Lawn Road, Tonbridge, TN9 1EP, Great Britain
+44(0) 208 686 2600
info@axistravelmarketing.com
Mandarin/Simplified Chinese/普通话
Japanese/日本語
International Traveler FAQ
Do I need a SIM card or international phone plan in The Florida Keys?
The Florida Keys are part of the United States, and most major wireless providers offer service throughout the island chain. Before traveling, check with your wireless provider about international roaming, data plans, and coverage options.
If you need to purchase a SIM card or have questions about mobile service, your best option is to do so at your international arrival airport. Miami International Airport is the closest major international airport to The Florida Keys and typically offers more options for travelers.
Where can I exchange currency?
Currency exchange options are limited throughout The Florida Keys, so travelers are encouraged to exchange money before arriving or at the airport. Miami International Airport is the closest major international airport and is usually the most convenient place for currency exchange.
Most businesses in The Florida Keys accept major credit cards, and ATMs are available throughout the destination. However, it is always a good idea to carry some U.S. dollars for smaller purchases, tips, parking, or local vendors.
What language is spoken in The Florida Keys?
English is the primary language spoken throughout The Florida Keys. Spanish is also commonly spoken in many areas, especially in hospitality, restaurants, and visitor-facing businesses.
How do I get to The Florida Keys from Miami International Airport?
There are several transportation options from Miami International Airport to The Florida Keys, including rental cars, taxis, rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft, shuttle services, and private transportation companies.
Many visitors choose to rent a car so they can enjoy the scenic drive along the Overseas Highway and explore the different islands at their own pace.
Can international visitors rent a car in The Florida Keys?
Yes, many international travelers rent cars when visiting The Florida Keys. However, requirements can vary by rental company. Before booking, check directly with your rental car provider about driver’s license requirements, age restrictions, insurance, deposits, and whether an International Driving Permit is needed.
Is The Florida Keys safe for international travelers?
The Florida Keys are considered a safe and welcoming destination with a relaxed island lifestyle. Local law enforcement, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the U.S. Coast Guard all help support safety on land and on the water.
As with any destination, visitors should use common sense, lock vehicles, secure valuables, follow local laws, and pay attention to weather and water safety guidance.
What currency is used in The Florida Keys?
The U.S. dollar is the official currency used throughout The Florida Keys. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, attractions, shops, and tour operators.
Do I need a passport to visit The Florida Keys?
International visitors entering the United States will need the proper travel documents required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This may include a valid passport, visa, ESTA authorization, or other entry documentation depending on your country of citizenship.
Travelers should confirm all entry requirements before departure.
What airport should I fly into?
Many international travelers fly into Miami International Airport, which is the closest major international airport to The Florida Keys. From Miami, visitors can drive south into the Keys or arrange shuttle, rideshare, taxi, or private transportation.
Key West International Airport also serves The Florida Keys and may be convenient for travelers connecting through U.S. airports.
What is the best way to travel between the islands?
Driving is one of the most popular ways to explore The Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway connects the island chain from Key Largo to Key West and offers scenic water views along the way.
Visitors can also use taxis, rideshares in select areas, shuttles, bike rentals, walking in some downtown districts, and local transportation options depending on the island.
Are tips expected in The Florida Keys?
Yes, tipping is customary in the United States. At restaurants, it is common to tip servers, bartenders, taxi drivers, rideshare drivers, tour guides, hotel staff, and other service workers.
A typical restaurant tip is often around 18% to 20% of the bill for good service.
What kind of electrical outlets are used?
The United States uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets with a standard voltage of 120V. International travelers may need a plug adapter or voltage converter depending on their devices.
Will my credit card work in The Florida Keys?
Most major credit cards are accepted throughout The Florida Keys. Travelers should notify their bank or credit card company before traveling internationally to avoid unexpected holds or declined transactions.
It is also helpful to ask about foreign transaction fees before your trip.
Is public transportation available?
Public transportation is limited compared to larger cities, but some bus and shuttle options are available throughout Monroe County and between certain areas of The Florida Keys. Visitors who want the most flexibility often choose to rent a car.
What should I know about driving in The Florida Keys?
Traffic travels on the right side of the road in the United States. The Overseas Highway is the main road through The Florida Keys, and speed limits vary by area.
Visitors should allow extra travel time, especially during weekends, holidays, events, and peak travel seasons. Please avoid stopping on bridges or road shoulders unless it is an emergency.
Can I drink tap water?
Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink throughout The Florida Keys. Bottled water is also widely available at grocery stores, convenience stores, hotels, and restaurants.
What should I pack?
The Florida Keys have a warm, tropical climate, so light clothing, swimwear, sunglasses, reef-safe sun protection, sandals, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Visitors should also pack any medications, travel documents, adapters, and weather-appropriate items. A light rain jacket can be helpful during the summer and rainy season.
What should I know about sun and ocean safety?
The sun in The Florida Keys can be strong year-round. Visitors should use sun protection, stay hydrated, and take breaks in the shade.
For ocean activities, always follow the guidance of local captains, guides, lifeguards, and park staff. Pay attention to posted signs, marine life rules, boating regulations, and weather conditions.
Are there hospitals or medical services in The Florida Keys?
Medical services, urgent care centers, pharmacies, and hospitals are available throughout The Florida Keys. International travelers should consider travel insurance and confirm whether their health insurance provides coverage in the United States.
Is travel insurance recommended?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for international visitors. It can help with unexpected situations such as trip delays, cancellations, medical needs, lost luggage, or weather-related travel disruptions.
What emergency number should I call?
In the United States, call 911 for emergencies, including police, fire, or medical assistance.
Are there customs or rules I should know before visiting parks, reefs, or beaches?
Yes. The Florida Keys are home to sensitive marine habitats, coral reefs, wildlife, and protected natural areas. Visitors should follow all posted rules, avoid touching coral or marine life, dispose of trash properly, and use responsible boating and snorkeling practices.
When in doubt, ask your tour operator, hotel, marina, or park staff for guidance.
Can I use WhatsApp or messaging apps?
Yes, many visitors use WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, and other apps while traveling. Check with your wireless provider about international data charges or connect to Wi-Fi when available.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Wi-Fi is commonly available at many hotels, restaurants, attractions, and some public areas. Availability and speed may vary depending on location.
What time zone are The Florida Keys in?
The Florida Keys are in the Eastern Time Zone. Daylight saving time is observed during part of the year, so travelers should confirm the local time when planning flights, tours, and reservations.
Are The Florida Keys family-friendly?
Yes, The Florida Keys offer many family-friendly activities, including beaches, aquariums, nature centers, museums, boat tours, snorkeling trips, wildlife experiences, parks, and historic attractions.
What should I do before I arrive?
Before traveling, international visitors should confirm entry requirements, transportation plans, rental car policies, phone service options, currency needs, hotel reservations, activity bookings, and travel insurance coverage.
Planning ahead helps make your Florida Keys vacation smoother, easier, and more enjoyable.
