Florida Overview

Ponce de León landed in Florida in 1513, looking for the elusive Fountain of Youth. Although the multitudes who flock to Florida today aren’t seeking fountains, many find their youth restored in the Sunshine State, whether they’re dazzled by the spectacle of Disney World or bronzed by the sun on the state’s seductive beaches. Droves of senior citizens also migrate to Florida—jokingly referred to as heaven’s waiting room—where the sun-warmed air is just as therapeutic as de León’s fabled magical elixir. Florida’s recent population boom has strained the state’s natural resources; commercial strips and tremendous development have turned pristine beaches into tourist traps. Still, it is possible to find a deserted spot on the peninsula on which to plop down with a paperback and dig your toes into the sand.

Waltz around Walt’s magical collection of amusements at Disney World .
Soak up the rays and the cocktails at the beaches and nightclubs of Miami .
Hop aboard a cruise through the swamps and islands of the Everglades .
Dig into a slice of the famous Key Lime Pie in the Florida Keys .

Practical Information

Capital: Tallahassee. Visitor Info: Florida Division of Tourism, 126 W. Van Buren St., Tallahassee 32301 (☎ 888-735-2872; www.flausa.com). Division of Recreation and Parks, 3900 Commonwealth Blvd. ...more

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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.