Glorious year-round sunshine, miles of sandy beaches and plenty of activities to keep visitors of all ages happy, it's no wonder UK travellers book flights to Florida. Without a doubt the most popular destination for families is
Orlando - or more specifically Disney World. Each year nearly 49 million people from all over the world visit this gargantuan theme park. For some, the size of it can seem overwhelming so nearby Tampa's Busch Gardens is another alternative.
But there's more to Florida than just roller coasters and life-size cartoon characters. Fort Lauderdale has some impressive museums and historical sites while the waters of the Florida Keys are great for fishing and diving. In fact, North America's only living coral barrier reef can be found there. The Keys make up the southern tip of the state and consist of more than 400 islands along the Florida Straits including Key West and Key Largo which have become weekend hideaways for those living in Miami. The sultry, decadent city of Miami is another popular stop for travellers taking flights to Florida. Celebrities and jet-setters flock to its shores for more than just a tan; they come to party till dawn in South Beach.
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The climate in northern Florida tends to be temperate and subtropical in the southern end. Compared to other US states Florida experiences the most extremes in temperature. Tropical showers are frequent from March to May when the weather is warm. It gets extremely hot and humid from late May to September. Travellers should be aware that hurricane season runs from June to November throughout the state.
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Peak Season:
From October all the way through to April is the high tourist season in Florida, in particular Orlando. In northern Florida summer is peak season.
Off Season:
Cheap flights to Florida can be found in winter which is the off season. In summer, southern Florida can be a bargain but can also be extremely humid.
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With the money saved on a cheap flight to Florida hire a car and treat yourself to a fun road trip. This is the best way to really explore the state. Public transportation is available in some cities but it’s a good idea to check their schedules ahead of time. Flying between cities is another good option for those who prefer not to drive long distances.
Florida is a cyclist’s dream. In central Florida there are coastal bike paths and flat long-distance trails.
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- Families love visiting Orlando, Kissimmee, and Lake Buena Vista, home to the world’s biggest theme parks including Disney World, Busch Gardens, Wet N’ Wild and Sea World.
- Fort Lauderdale was a popular retreat in the 60s and 70s for college students but is today a buzzing port that draws yacht owners and major cruise lines to its upscale shopping and renowned restaurants. Its beaches are warm and the weather is nearly always perfect.
- If you’re looking for miles of pristine beaches and islands then head to Fort Myers on Florida’s west coast. Here sports enthusiasts can enjoy outdoor activities from exploring wildlife preserves to fishing. Baseball fans can watch the Red Sox or Twins spring training.
- Synonymous with wild parties and spring break, Daytona Beach on the east coast plays host to a number of popular events like the Daytona 500 stock-car race, Bike Week, and the Fall Cycle Scene. But if racing doesn’t entice you then its beautiful beaches and golf courses are sure to.
- Daytona’s neighbour, New Smyrna Beach, is quieter and has a staggering 13-mile beach front. Known throughout the world as the “safest bathing beach” thanks to its offshore rock ledges that counteract the dangerous undercurrents. It also has excellent year-round deep sea fishing.
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