Florida

Sunshine State Dreams - Parks, Beaches & Everglades Adventures!

Hotels in Florida

Welcome to Florida

Picture yourself meeting Mickey Mouse in the Magic Kingdom, feeling the thrill of a rollercoaster ride, relaxing on a white-sand beach watching dolphins play in the turquoise Gulf waters, cruising through the unique Everglades spotting alligators, or soaking up the Latin rhythms and Art Deco style of Miami's South Beach. Florida delivers all this and more! Famous as the "Sunshine State," it's a destination synonymous with family fun, beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and vibrant city life.


For many first-time UK visitors, Florida means heading straight to Orlando for the unparalleled theme park experiences of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, perhaps combined with a beach break on the nearby coasts. But Florida offers incredible diversity for returners or those seeking different vibes: explore the laid-back, scenic Florida Keys all the way down to Key West, discover the history of St. Augustine (America's oldest city), enjoy the sophisticated beaches and dining of Naples on the Gulf Coast, witness a rocket launch from the Space Coast, or explore the state's numerous natural springs and wildlife reserves.

Airports in Florida

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Flights: Numerous direct flights operate from London (Heathrow and Gatwick) and some regional UK airports (like Manchester) to Florida's main hubs. Airlines include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Aer Lingus, TUI, and Norse Atlantic Airways. Key gateways are:

  • Orlando International Airport (MCO): The main gateway for Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and central Florida attractions. Very busy with UK flights.
  • Miami International Airport (MIA): Serves Miami, Fort Lauderdale, South Beach, and provides access to the Florida Keys and the Everglades. Major hub for Latin America.
  • Tampa International Airport (TPA): Serves the Tampa Bay area and the Gulf Coast beaches (like Clearwater, St. Pete Beach).
  • Other airports like Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Orlando Sanford (SFB - often used by charter/package holidays), Southwest Florida International (RSW - near Fort Myers/Naples), and Jacksonville (JAX) also receive international or connecting flights.

Transport options in Florida

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Rental Cars, (Tolls - Be aware that Florida has many toll roads and bridges, increasingly using cashless electronic tolling (Toll-By-Plate) or requiring a SunPass transponder).

Public Transport: Generally limited for travelling between cities/regions

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available (metered or fixed rates). Uber and Lyft are widely available and often more convenient/cheaper, especially in cities and tourist areas.

Official Spoken Languages

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The main language is English, and UK visitors will have no problems communicating throughout the state. American English is standard.


However, Florida, particularly South Florida (Miami-Dade County), has a very large and influential Spanish-speaking population, primarily of Cuban and other Latin American origins.

Weather & Climate

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Dry Season / Peak Season (roughly December - May)

Wet Season / Hurricane Season (June - November)

Must-Visit Destinations in Florida

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Miami Magic (South Beach & Beyond)

Experience the vibrant energy and Latin flair of Miami. Stroll along South Beach (SoBe) admiring the iconic pastel-coloured Art Deco architecture, relax on the famous beach, enjoy the buzzing nightlife, people-watch on Ocean Drive. Explore diverse neighbourhoods like the colourful street art district of Wynwood, the Cuban heartland of Little Havana (try a Cuban coffee and sandwich!), or the upscale shops of the Design District. Miami offers culture, beaches, food, and undeniable style.

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Walt Disney World (Orlando)

Immerse yourself in the magic at the world's most famous theme park resort. Explore the four main parks: Magic Kingdom (classic fairytale experiences), Epcot (World Showcase cultures & Future World innovation), Hollywood Studios (movie magic, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Toy Story Land), and Animal Kingdom (wildlife encounters, Pandora - The World of Avatar). With water parks, Disney Springs shopping/dining district, and countless resorts, it's an unparalleled family entertainment destination (plan extensively!).

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Everglades National Park Adventure

Explore the unique subtropical wilderness of the Everglades (UNESCO World Heritage site). Take an airboat ride skimming across the 'River of Grass' spotting alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat (book tours outside the park boundaries for airboats). Alternatively, explore within the park via walking trails (like the Anhinga Trail - great for wildlife), tram tours (Shark Valley), or boat tours (Flamingo area). Visit during the dry season (winter) for the best wildlife viewing and fewer mosquitoes.

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Florida Keys Scenic Drive & Key West Charm

Escape to the laid-back island chain stretching south from the mainland. Drive the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1), crossing numerous bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge) with stunning turquoise water views on both sides. Stop for snorkelling or diving at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo), relax on Sombrero Beach (Marathon), feed tarpon at Robbie's (Islamorada). Reach quirky, charming Key West, the southernmost point of the continental USA.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Visiting Orlando's theme parks requires serious planning! Book park tickets and accommodation well in advance. Research Disney's Genie+ / Lightning Lanes or Universal's Express Pass systems if you want to minimise queue times (they cost extra). Make dining reservations ahead, especially for popular restaurants. Download park apps for maps, wait times, mobile ordering. Pace yourself – parks are huge! Stay hydrated, use sun protection, take breaks, and don't try to do everything in one day.

Theme Park Power-Up (Plan, Book, Pace!)

Remember you'll be driving on the RIGHT. Rental cars are almost always automatic. Florida has many toll roads using electronic systems – ensure you understand your rental car's toll policy (SunPass transponder, Toll-By-Plate billing - usually involves extra fees) or consider getting your own SunPass Mini sticker. Air conditioning in your car is absolutely essential year-round. Be prepared for sudden, heavy downpours, especially during summer afternoons – slow down and increase following distance.

Driving Dukes (RIGHT Side, Tolls & AC)

Florida's heat and humidity can be intense, especially for UK visitors. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Use high-factor sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses religiously. Pack light, loose-fitting clothing (cotton/linen best). Always carry a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, particularly during the wet season (summer/autumn), as showers can appear quickly. Be aware of hurricane season (June 1st - November 30th) – monitor forecasts if travelling during this time and follow local advice.

Weather Warrior (Hydrate, Protect, Prepare)

Remember standard US tipping culture applies! Budget for tips: 15-20% for restaurant table service (based on pre-tax bill), $1-2 per drink for bartenders, 15-20% for taxi/rideshare drivers, $1-5 per bag for hotel porters, $2-5 per day for hotel housekeeping. Also, remember that displayed prices in shops and restaurants almost always exclude sales tax, which is added at the checkout (varies by county, typically 6-8%).

Tip Top Tipping & Tax Tactics (USA Norms)

Florida: Your Sunshine State Escape Awaits!

Florida offers a dazzling array of experiences, living up to its "Sunshine State" moniker with beautiful beaches, world-famous theme parks, unique natural environments, and vibrant cities. From the magical kingdoms of Orlando and the stylish streets of Miami to the wild beauty of the Everglades and the laid-back charm of the Keys, Florida caters to families, couples, adventurers, and sun-seekers alike.


With excellent flight connections from the UK, easy communication, and endless opportunities for fun and relaxation, Florida remains a top choice for an unforgettable holiday. So pack your sunnies, plan your park days, embrace the warmth, and get ready to discover all the Sunshine State has to offer!