Many US citizens consider Florida the ideal state for spending their vacation, holiday or even their whole retirement. As you might guess, the bright spot of this state has attracted many luxury resorts along its coastlines. Therefore, it is a holiday friendly place with all of the amenities and facilities available.
Nicknamed the “Sunshine State”, here is everything you ever wanted to know about Florida.
Brief History of Florida and Its Vacation Attractive Atmosphere
When the Spaniards arrived to the shores of Florida in the 1500s, they were astonished with the varieties of flowers there. They called the peninsula La Pascua Florida, which word for word means Florida Easter. It was the Easter season and the Spanish observed it as a national festival. Therefore, the name became The Festival of The Flowers.
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However, Florida’s background is truly an aromatic bouquet of many nationalities and ethnicities. The native Americans where the first to inhabit the peninsula. Later came the European colonizers comprised of the Spanish, French and the British. Sadly, the colonizers brought many slaves to the peninsula during the slave trade era. However, these people also brought their native culture which later enriched the area, after their long struggle for freedom.
Florida remained open to foreign immigrants arriving from all continents and especially from Latin America, as the latter is closer in proximity. Moreover, many Europeans had Florida as their first point of entry to the “New World” back then. However, their immigration waves continued during the 2 World Wars. Also people from Africa and Asia came to Florida seeking refuge in the early 19th century.
Vacationers and Holiday Tourists in Florida
Florida is the 27th US state to join the union in 1845. Ever since, it started attracting many vacationers coming from the colder northern states and from Canada. Many of these became permanent residents after enjoying the adorable weather of the state. Moreover, they claim that their health significantly improved within a very short period of time in the area.
Consequently, business boomed around the island and the economy revitalized significantly. Today it centers mainly around tourism, hotels and lodging, real estate, banking and various start up ventures’ ecosystems and endeavors.
The abundance of seafood diet boosts many retirees’ health and they feel rejuvenated. Also, the perfect combination of healthy meals and sun exposure replenishes many vitamins in the body. Perhaps the most important one would be vitamin D, which reaches optimal levels in Florida according to health experts. Consequently boosting immunity and health.
Miami, Florida: A Great Filming Spot
This place is a great filming spot due to its bright location for perfect footage. Many films, television series and even songs have Florida, and particularly Miami as their main feature.
One of the most remarkable works is the 1995 film, Bad Boys. Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as Miami detectives. Furthermore, a musical hit promoting the place, with the title Miami became a hit for that year. This is due to the exceptional performance of Will Smith himself, who added a special flavour to the song.
Fast forward to 2014, a romantic drama series (Telenovela) titled: Jane The Virgin became an all-time favorite. It captures the essence of the city and the various inspirations as well as challenges a typical resident might face.
However, it also sheds light on the mafia scene around the city and drug trafficking in an unconventional style. As the series depicts the crime lord using the technique of plastic surgery to go undercover for her missions. Nonetheless, it also shows the daily lives of writers, hoteliers, actors, detectives, real estate agents… in Miami.
On the other hand, Florida has the reputation of being prone to hurricanes. Having said that, thanks to hurricane hunter flights, much of these occurrences are accurately predicated and residents are advised accordingly.
Ecotourism in Florida
Florida is one of the most ecotourism friendly regions in the US and the world. Therefore, the state is always trying to promote sustainable tourism and responsible travel within its vicinity. Therefore, whether you are spending a vacation, holiday or retirement, Florida will surely delight you.
Sponge Diving
Sponge diving is one of the most popular activities in Florida. With Tarpon Springs in Central West Florida near Tampa, being the most famous go-to place to experience this lovely hobby.
As mentioned previously, many Europeans came in the 1900s to Florida. Among these were the Greek who are the masters of sponge harvesting. As a result, they initiated a prosperous industry here. At one point the area became the “Venice of The South”, due to this water-based venture.
Camping
This outdoor activity is just another beloved pastime in Florida. Many national parks and forests are scattered around the state. Therefore, camping becomes a must-do activity. However, just make sure to grab your mosquito repeller and you’re all set.
Freshwater Springs
These springs fill the peninsula with their perfect waters. The aquas are rich with limestone which is very precious for your health and shape. Many of them are bubbly springs, acting as a natural massager and relaxant for the whole body and mind.
The most popular is Wakulla Spring State Park in North Florida. This spring was featured in many Hollywood’s works for lagoon shots. Here is your complete list of Florida Springs.
There you have it, these are some of the best activities a visitor can enjoy here. Therefore, pack your bag and try to enjoy your short holiday, long vacation or complete retirement in Florida, the Sunshine State.
