Florida is a dream holiday for many people and when you think of Florida, what is the first thing that springs to mind? If you said Walt Disney World, you wouldn’t be alone! We are lucky enough to have been twice, staying in a villa and a hotel inside Disney World. We have also booked to go back next summer and will be staying in a Disney hotel for the entire break. That reminds me I need to get our ESTA Visa sorted!
Of course, Walt Disney World is amazing and a dream holiday for lots of people, young and old. But Florida has lots more to offer too, from art and theatre to history and exotic wildlife there is so much to see and do its best to be prepared before your trip. Next summer I plan to tick more off the Florida bucket list.
When booking your Florida trip to DisneyWorld and beyond then make sure you are taking advantage of any offers including Disney Dining, Free Disney Money. Booking your tickets in advance can save money and a good tip is to have an itinerary before you leave. In fact, I have a notepad dedicated to next years holiday so that I make sure that I don’t forget anything! One thing is, of course, is making sure that you have all the paperwork including an in-date ESTA USA which is a mandatory travel authorization to travel to the US without a visa. An ESTA document application can be submitted quickly and easily with the online application form. The costs are £29,95 per person.
So, here are 5 things to see and do when planning your next family trip to Florida!
The Beaches –
Did you know that Florida’s Gulf Coast is home to 10 of the US’s top 25 beaches!? With well over 1,000 miles of beautifully golden shoreline, Florida has no shortage of beaches for you to explore. Clearwater beach is a firm favourite and has been ranked the No.1 beach in the US for 2019, 2018 and 2016 and when you see it, it’s clear to see why. The sand is golden and soft whilst the water is almost crystal clear and generally very calm so perfect for kids to splash around in.
With so many beautiful beaches dotted across Florida visiting at least one is a must do when on holiday. Plus, if you want to be more active lots of the beaches offer water sports, surf lessons and even boat cruises, you may even spot some dolphins!
Plan A Visit to The NASA Space Centre
Space is fascinating right? Well if you are planning a trip to Florida you can get the chance to get up close and personal to everything space at the NASA Kennedy Space Centre.
During a visit to the space centre, you will have the chance to touch a moon rock, take a tour of the spaceflight facility and even see a real space shuttle, you may even get the chance to meet a veteran NASA astronaut.
All the Wildlife
Florida is rich with wildlife and if you are an animal lover, visiting one of the many nature and wildlife reserves is a must to add to your travel plans. There are plenty of places to visit in Florida to get up close and personal to the wildlife from places like Miami Zoo which houses over 3,000 animals over 500 species.
There are also lots of nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries throughout Florida where you can get up close and personal with some beautiful animals that are possibly endangered or who perhaps have been rescued.
If you are looking for something with a little more adrenaline you can always take an air boat ride over the Everglades and through the swamps to get up close to the alligators, just keep your eyes peeled!
Take A Tour
With so much so see and do in Florida it’s impossible to fit it all in during one holiday. However, one way to squeeze in a bit more sightseeing during your holiday is to book a tour.
Whether it’s a bus tour in the city, a boat tour to spot dolphins and manatees or an airboat tour through the everglades to spot alligators. With so many tours on offer in Florida you are sure to find one you are your family will love. The bonus of using a tour is that there is usually a guide on board who can also point out any bits you might have missed and answer any questions you have too.
The Food!
When you visit Florida, you are totally spoilt for choice with food, you simply won’t be able to try it all. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to do your research before and make a list of the places and food you really want to try before you go.
Whether you are looking to try fresh zesty flavours like the fresh Florida orange juice or the tangy Key Lime pie or the amazing seafood available. You will find a whole range of markets, restaurants and stores offering some of the most amazing food you have ever tried.
Have you ever been to Florida? If so, what are your must-see/do activities and attractions outside of Disney World?
