Gainesville Florida's Best Kept Secret

Gainesville, Florida's Best Kept Secret
By Pat McCants

Quickly, when you hear the word Florida, what comes to mind?

The obvious answers would have to be related to vacations: beaches, Disney World, Miami, even the delicious citrus the state produces annually. When you consider taking a trip to the Sunshine State, you likely have a good idea of where you want to go. Daytona, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale offer endless miles of unspoiled shoreline, and Tampa and Orlando provide excitement with theme parks filled with spine-twisting rides and coasters. Saint Augustine offers an historical aspect to a fun vacation, and even Jacksonville is becoming a popular destination with its NFL team.

Did you ever think, though, to add Gainesville to your state tour? Do you even know where Gainesville is? If not, then please join us for a whirlwind virtual tour!

Gainesville is situated in the heart of Florida, close to Interstate 75 for easy access. It is the largest city in Alachua County, located seventy miles southwest of Jacksonville and forty miles north of Ocala. While hardly the largest city in the state, land or population wise, it is home to a rich history and cultural diversity, thanks largely to the presence of the University of Florida. Home to thousands of students from around the world, UF attracts a great number of visitors by virtue of a championship football program and a host of cultural activities. UF's annual homecoming festivities, culminating in the popular Gator Growl, are known to attract major music acts.

Speaking of music, did you know the town is birthplace and home to a number of legendary performers? Rock icon Tom Petty is a native, as is actress and singer Maya Rudolph, daughter of R&B vocalist Minnie Riperton. More than that, the popular sports drink Gatorade was invented in the city, made originally to help UF athletes combat dehydration. Though Gainesville 's celebrities have long since left town for other pursuits, and Gatorade is no longer exclusive to the university, there is still plenty to see when you come to the area. Just a few sites of interest around town include:

Florida Museum of Natural History: Funded by the University of Florida , the museum offers a distinct tour of Florida 's natural beauty, featuring flora and fauna indigenous to the state and enjoyed for centuries before settlers came to develop the land. Special to the museum is the exotic Butterfly Rainforest, a permanent exhibit showcasing more than fifty species of beautiful butterflies!

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens: Take a tour through lush gardens of Florida and see the land as it once was.

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park: Take a hike through this beautiful natural preserve and spot flora and fauna native to our wonderful state.

The University of Florida: Of course, no visit to Gainesville would be complete without a tour of this beautiful campus. Watch out for the stray gator (and we don't mean the students!) and be sure to ask about the legend of the tower. Very interesting, and funny, lore!

Educational, natural, yet always fun, Gainesville is a great place to visit on a whirlwind tour of Florida. Make some room in your vacation for an overnight stay.

Pat McCants, with her husband Tom, is owner and innkeeper of The Camellia Rose Inn of Gainesville, a Florida bed and breakfast. Just a short stroll from the historic downtown area, The Camellia Rose Inn offers six spacious rooms, each with private baths and free wireless Internet access. Make your online reservation today.

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Florida Vacation Rental Apartments

Florida Vacation Rental Apartments
By Damian Sofsian

Privately-owned apartments are widely available for short term and long term vacation rentals all over Florida. There are several agencies that house large databases of vacation rental apartments in Florida. Such private holiday homes give a superior vacation experience when compared to a hotel.

Owners of vacation rental apartments register their property details with agencies. They also ensure that the details are supported by an availability calendar. The data on this calendar helps tourists decide on bookings for specific dates.

The options available are many; one bedroom with one bath, two bedrooms with one or two baths- and so on. Whatever the size, most of the apartments come with a deck or balcony where you can relax, with the sounds of nature forming a pleasant continuous backdrop.

Most of the apartments are located close to beaches giving residents easy access and fabulous views. Seemingly never-ending stretches of white sand, sparkling aqua blue water and cheerfully twittering seabirds are freebies that come with every apartment.

The usual practice for payment of rentals is that only US currency is accepted unless specifically agreed upon otherwise. The advertised rates for apartments always refer to double occupancy. Additional guests are charged on a per head basis and allowed up to maximum occupancy limits. During holidays, special rates and specifications regarding minimum number of nights are applicable. The general practice is that all Florida vacation rental apartments are let out for a minimum of three night's stay.

A one bedroom apartment is rented out at $90-$120 a day. Weekly rates work out to around $450 - $600 and monthly rents are in the range of $1800-$2100. Two bedroom apartments are rented out at $100- $140 a day, $500 - $ 750 a week and $2000 - $ 3000 a month. Luxury apartments of the same size have higher rentals and larger apartments with lesser amenities may even come with lesser rentals than these.

Florida Vacation Rentals provides detailed information on Florida Vacation Rentals, Florida Vacation Home Rentals, Florida Keys Vacation Rentals, Florida Beach Vacation Rentals and more. Florida Vacation Rentals is affiliated with Florida Vacation Homes.

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Disney Dining In Florida

Disney Dining In Florida
By Chris Neilson

All Walt Disney World Resorts are fabulous places to visit, but they are also amazing places to dine. Whether it be a quick snack or a full gourmet dinner, you will not be disappointed by the choice and quality of fare that Disney has to offer.

Each theme park, water park and resort area has a vast selection of eateries for you to sample and enjoy, and as you would expect, depending upon your budget, you can eat for just a few bucks, or really push the boat out and savour the delights of five star cuisine.

Many of Disneys restaurants are themed, and these are incredibly popular with the kids. Likewise, character dining experiences (aimed at younger members of your party, but enjoyed by all) are often the highlight of a childs day. Well what could be better when eating your meal than to be served by Mickey, Donald, Pluto, or maybe even a real life Disney princess ? Of course character dining also allows you to capture some magical photographic memories too.

All to often, people get the impression that theme park food is going to be unhealthy food. Admittedly, there is fast food available in the form of burgers, hot dogs and fries, but you will also be pleasantly surprised to discover that the alternatives are indeed exceedingly healthy, and downright tasty too.

Our vegetarian friends are also well catered for, along with guests who have special dietary requirements, or those who cannot eat certain foods because of religious beliefs. Full details of the contents of all meals served on Disney property can be found by simply asking the cast member who takes your order.

And whilst a lot of food served throughout Disney parks is essentially American cuisine, a visit to Epcot World Showcase for example, will give you the opportunity to experience a vast selection of foods from around the world, ranging from Chinese, to French and even little known Norwegian delicacies, to name but a few.

Each Disney park that you visit has its own map so that you can find your way around. Clearly marked on these maps, and divided into categories are the dining experiences offered to tempt your taste buds.

So whether it be a full service restaurant, character dining, a quick takeaway or a healthy fresh green salad, you will find it all at Disney. The service is, as with all things Disney, friendly and polite, and its great to know that when those hungerpangs strike, that you will be well catered for, in every sense of the word.

Chris Neilson is a professional writer and private Villa Owner who has an extensive knowledge of the Florida Travel Industry. He is also the senior copywriter for the well known Florida Vacation Rentals web site Orlando Villas http://www.orlandovillas.com and Park Tickets site http://www.park-tickets.com

Copyright Chris Neilson 2005 All Rights Reserved

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Florida Timeshare Rentals

Florida Timeshare Rentals
By Seth Miller

Florida is a popular tourist destination, as the state comprises of numerous famed cities that boast of stunning theme parks, forests and beaches. For this reason the state of Florida has witnesses an upsurge in the number of timeshare companies within the state. They form the crux of a larger network that effectively organizes vacations for international and domestic tourists. The trade of timeshare is based upon acceptance of a concept that is sold in exchange of a membership fee. Potential customers are offered a type of ownership of a particular vacation property for a specified time period for every year of their membership. It is obvious that members would not be inclined to visit the same place every year. Organizers arrange for holiday exchanges between members and reservations to other destinations are largely dependant on availability. In case members do not go for a holiday in any particular year they can let the management know. This allows the organizers to arrange for Florida timeshare rentals.

The holiday week is rented to a third party who pays the member a rental. Certain timeshare companies require members to arrange for such rentals through company brokers as they receive an additional fee for such transactions. The fee that is received when a membership week is rented is largely dependant upon the nature of the membership. For this reason, rentals made during a peak holiday season tend to be higher than those made during off seasons.

Florida timeshare rentals for smaller apartments generate a reasonable income as compared to larger accommodation options that induce higher revenues. Florida time-share rentals are a popular alternative for people who do not wish to go on a vacation for a particular year. This is because members are required to pay a maintenance fee every year apart from their membership costs. Since these payments are usually made out of individual budgets, members opt for rentals, which generate revenues that can be used to pay maintenance costs. This option makes such timeshare vacations more favorable.

Florida Time Shares provides detailed information on Florida Time Shares, Florida Time Share Resales, Florida Time Share Promotions, Florida Keys Time Shares and more. Florida Time Shares is affiliated with Florida Real Estate Listings.

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Wreck Scuba Diving in Florida

Wreck Scuba Diving in Florida
By J Aubin

Some of the most enjoyable diving you may ever do is wreck scuba diving. Because travel by ship was the main way of going from continent to continent prior to development of air travel, and because the technology used on ships and in weather forecasting was not advanced at all, many ships sank in waters around the world providing dives that are interesting and fun. There are so many wrecks that only the Florida wreck diving will be covered in this article.

In fact, there are so many Florida wreck scuba diving spots available, you'll have plenty of difficulty choosing which ones to dive. Hurricanes, coral reefs, shoals and pirates all help sink the ships that are often quite near the shores.

During the Spanish colonial period, the Florida Straits were the most frequently used passage for ships to access the Gulf Stream to get the boost of these fast-flowing currents for their trip home across the Atlantic Ocean. Some of these ships were never to return safely home but were trapped into one of the many tragedies that happened to the then ill-equipped vessel when challenging Mother Nature. Many of these unfortunate victims of the sea have been excavated and are awaiting your arrival.

One great wreck scuba diving destination is Pensacola in the Panhandle of Florida. There are lots of ships within a small area. In Pensacola Bay, eleven ships were to become victims of a hurricane during 1500. The colonists that were becoming settles on the shore at what is now known as Pensacola Bay were unloading vessels when the massive storm overtook them. Of course, there were no storm warnings like we have today and they were taken unaware. The result of the loss of the eleven ships was to soon become the demise of the colony which only lasted 60 years.

The Trinite is another great wreck scuba diving spot. This French wreck lies off St. Augustine and went down during a storm in 1565 while the Frenchmen were preparing to attack the Spaniards who had colonized this section of the northeast Florida coastline. After the vessel sank, the attack did not occur. Today you can not only scuba dive the wreck at St. Augustine but you can also see other sights like the nation's oldest school house and oldest drug store, tour the fort as well as get in some fun in the sun.

You can do some wreck scuba diving at the resting place of the Tierra Firme fleet. Two ships from the fleet of 27 vessels, the Atocha and the Santa Margarita, went to their watery graves along with 380 sailors during a hurricane in 1622. The fleet had more than $250 million in cargo among them and the Atocha proved to be quite a profitable salvage job once it was located and now you can see it for yourself along with her sister ship in the Florida Keys.

In 1700 the Henneta Marie, a slave trade vessel that had unloaded slaves in Jamaica and was in the Key West to load sugar from the plantations sank. Today you can visit Key West during your wreck scuba diving vacation and see the oldest know wreck of a slave trading vessel that has been identified by name.

While you are in the Florida Keys for wreck scuba diving, go see the San Pedro which was one of the last vessels from the New Spain fleet to cross to what is now the United States. In 1733, this ship was taken victim by a hurricane along with several other ships traveling with her. There are wrecks covering over 80 miles of the Florida Keys oceanscape from this storm. The Spanish salvaged this ship only to find that she had been burned to the waterline so that pirates could not loot her.

In 1713 a vessel named Urca de Lima owned by the Spanish ran aground on a shoal off Florida's Atlantic coast during a hurricane. There were nine other ships lost during this hurricane but because the Urca de Lima was grounded and did not sink like the others, she was used as a supply ship to provide for the survivors of the other shipwrecks as well as the one remaining French vessel that had been accompanying the Urca de Lima. Over 1,000 men lost their lives in this tragic hurricane.

You can find still dive and find shipwrecks under the waters of the Atlantic Ocean on Florida's eastern coast as well as some in the calmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico which run along the western shore of Florida and the southern edge of the Florida Panhandle.

Florida is a great place to go wreck scuba diving and you will find the waters warm enough to dive even in the winter. In fact, the winter is the peak season in this southern state. You can obtain discount rates if you choose to travel to Florida during the off-season which is May through November. You'll also enjoy less crowded areas and beaches with fewer visitors.

As you plan your wreck scuba diving in Florida, be sure to have all your dive equipment checked by a professional so that you won't experience any problems while visiting a wreck. If you do not want to take your own dive gear, there are many dive shops located along the coastlines of Florida ready to provide for your every need.

If you want to ensure that finding the wrecks, scuba diving with a charter boat that specialized in wreck diving is practical. These captains know exactly where to visit quickly and easily locate the wrecks you want to visit. These locals can also point out other places of interest to see and things to do in the area during your holiday.

While wreck scuba diving, remember that safety must always come first when in the water. Don't take unnecessary chances. Be sure to stay with your dive party and your trip will be a great success.

Wreck Scuba Diving and other Scuba Diving Vacations

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Vacation in Central Florida

Vacation in Central Florida
By Bryn Hiner

There is so much to see and do in Central Florida, its hard to know what to select first! Having lived and worked in the area I know there are few things that are must-see, and others you may want to take-a-pass on, but the choice is up to you.

Do you want an enchanting adventure with plenty of thrills, family entertainment, and maybe a reminiscent visit to an old favorite? Or are you on the cutting edge of new adventures and want to experience only the newest thrills engineered to make all you adrenaline-junkies go wild?

Well, Central Florida definitely will fit the bill whether you have a million-dollar budget, or a more modest family budget, there will be something for everyone in the family. The key is to plan ahead, know what the big-ticket items will cost, like your airfare, hotel, attraction tickets, and meals, and then find creative ways to get the most out every vacation dollar you have to spend. Of course one of the biggest commodities on your trip will be TIME! There is just no way to get to everything done in a single trip, so think carefully about how to budget your time, and your whole family will come away with memories to last a lifetime.

One of the best ways to settle arguments about who wants to go where, and when, is to have a good idea before you even leave home about what the options are, and how long it will take to visit each place. For instance, you may want to spend 1 or 2 days at Disney World, while someone else may want to spend an entire week! A good way to start planning is for everyone in the family to build a wish list of their own must see adventures, then as a family, sit down and decide where you can agree or where you might have to sacrifice things for another trip. If you approach the options with the idea that it may not all fit into one trip, you build in automatic anticipation for another adventure at some later time.

Just be careful not to over-schedule your trip, as you will want plenty of flexibility to explore things you discover along the way, and to have plenty of down time. Dont forget to take the weather into account for the time of year you are going to visit, and remember to plan your days around little-ones sleeping and eating schedules. If you give yourself a little more time for each event that you think it will take, youll avoid unpleasant surprises and give yourself room to relax and ENJOY your vacation.

Once you have your familys wish lists, and youve started to narrow down the choices, take the time to learn the geography. If one member of the family wants to visit Busch Gardens in Tampa and the other wants to visit Daytona Beach, youre talking about opposite sides of the state one on the Gulf Coast and the other on the Atlantic Ocean! So keep your activities locations in mind and youll be sure to avoid disappointments. Florida is a lot bigger than it seems on the map, and youre going to need road-time to get between attractions.

Of course you can always decide to divide and conquer, Dad takes the Gulf Coast and Mom takes the Atlantic Coast, but then you all miss the bonding time doing things as a family. On a smaller scale, the divide and conquer strategy works well for short time blocks; say you have some members of the family terrified of roller coasters, and other bored with quieter pursuits, you can split up for say an hour or two, then meet up for a sit-down lunch and share your morning adventures with each other. This also works well if you have several age ranges to accommodate not everyone will be old enough, or ready to tackle some of the more intense rides, so its good to know those limitations and plan them into your day. Remember that at most attractions, you can wait in line as a family, and then one parent can go on the ride while the other parent waits at the end then switch.The other considerations you will make is how each member of the family fundamentally feels about certain things for instance, a trip to Sea World will satisfy those seeking an adventure as well as those family member that are particularly interested in nature, science, and animals while everyone has a great time!

Walt Disney World has grown up some in the past decade, and offers more of thrill rides, while maintaining the family atmosphere that Walt Disney himself founded Disneyland Park on back in the 1950s. With their 50th Anniversary Celebration, theyve proven to be the venerable giant in the entertainment and theme park industry, and no really does it better. Of course Universal Studios Orlando, Sea World, Busch Gardens Tampa to name a few do an outstanding job, and a visit to all of these parks is a great vacation experience you just have to know your family preferences and which parks will cater to your needs the best.

And lets not forget all the other options out there! With Kennedy Space Center, Water Parks, Gator Parks, NASCAR events, world class shopping, and other adventures, from Tampa Bay, Daytona Beach, Cape Canaveral, Kissimmee, and everything in between, Central Florida has a lot offer and plenty of sunshine to go around!

Bryn Hiner - for more information about traveling in Central Flordia, visit our web site http://cheapdisney.info to start planning your trip today!

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Vacationing in Cape San Blas Florida

Vacationing in Cape San Blas, Florida
By Jennifer Weiss

Cape San Blas, Florida is situated in northwest Floridas Gulf Country, extending from mainland Florida and separating the Gulf of Mexico from St. Joseph Bay. On the west side of Cape San Blas, the St. Joseph Peninsula curves northward and surrounds the gorgeous St. Joseph Bay. Whether you are looking to escape to beautiful beaches or enjoy a weeklong retreat away from the stresses of everyday life, Cape San Blas can satisfy your needs and soothe your soul.

Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay, Cape San Blas is blessed with beautiful turquoise waters and twenty miles of pristine white sand beaches. You never need to worry about finding the perfect place to lay down your towel since the beaches are uncrowded and unspoiled by the masses of people who head to places as breathtaking as this city. While the stunning sand dunes would seem to draw visitors here in droves, the secluded location means you can enjoy privacy on one of the most spectacular beaches Florida has to offer. Soak up the sun in a peaceful atmosphere as you enjoy what could easily be mistaken for a private beach.

Although the sunning is great, the water is clear, clean, and ideal for swimming and numerous other water activities. The tide is usually low, meaning kids can usually venture into the water, and you will rarely find such glistening water that is not overrun by swarms of vacationers. One of the best places to visit is St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, a 2500-acre wildlife refuge that is consistently named one of the best beaches in the country and which offers a variety of water sports including diving, snorkeling, boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

Land adventure and amazing sights should not be forgotten on any trip to Cape San Blas, Florida. Make your way to the sand dunes, which can run from 30-40 feet high, on the wooden walk-overs conveniently located near the beach. These towering beauties are a memorable part of any vacation and a great way to break up your day near the water. If you are looking for a more physically demanding outdoor excursion, try the six mile sand-hiking trail that makes its way from St. Joseph Peninsula State Park to the northernmost tip of Cape San Blas. You can catch sight of glorious birds, numerous varieties of wildlife, and a preserved environment full of wildflowers and trees that will leave you in wonder.

One of the must-see sights of any vacation to this area is the Cape San Blas Lighthouse. There were four constructions of the lighthouse during the 1800s, with mishaps and natural problems leading to the demise of the first three. The fourth one, the one that remains, is now a square skeleton tower that surrounds a stair cylinder and flashes a white light every 20 seconds. The effort that went into finally establishing a lighthouse on this spit of land makes a visit to the Cape San Blas Lighthouse well worth the journey.

A fishing excursion off of Cape San Blas is the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon with the family. While catching a big one is the dream of everyone making their way into the clear, pristine waters of St. Joseph Bay, there is a lot more to this fishing adventure than simply reeling one in. Charter a boat with a company like Tall Tales Charters, and you can watch sea turtles coming to the surface for some air, rays floating along the bottom in search of a meal, porpoises chasing after your bait, and a loved one reeling in a beauty. Summer is a great time to head out to sea since you will find a variety of fish including redfish, tarpon, tripletail, flounder, ladyfish, and bluefish, so book your reservation early for the fishing adventure of a lifetime.

Whether you want to stroll the sands or soak up the sun, Cape San Blas is a beautiful place to escape from the crowds and enjoy a peaceful, relaxing vacation. For accommodations with luxurious views of private beaches, consider Cape San Blas FL vacation rentals for your next trip. Enjoy all the amenities of home while leaving the stresses of your daily life behind in this gorgeous retreat setting. After just one visit, you may never want to pull yourself away from the stunning white sand and the crystal clear water that surrounds you.

HomeAway.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider Cape San Blas FL vacation rentals for your next trip to Floridas Gulf Country.

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Places to Stay in Florida in Your RV

Places to Stay in Florida in Your RV
By Adrien White

Florida is a hot destination on the RV circuit give the amazing year around climate. RV facilities can be hit and miss, so here are some you can count on.

Aside from California and New York, there really isn't a more visited state than Florida. Miles of beaches on this southernmost state, along with attractions such as amusement parks, aquariums and more offer families a wide range of activities. There is so much to see and do in Florida that you could spend an entire season exploring the many sites throughout the state which is why traveling to Florida in a recreational vehicle, or RV, is such a great idea. You can take your time and stop at the many RV facilities to spend the night along the way.

The most visited area in Florida is arguably Orlando and the surrounding areas such as Kissimmee. This is because Orlando is where the Walt Disney World theme parks and resorts are located, and when people think of a place to go in Florida, they usually think of Disney. There are many other regions to explore in the state, but if you have small children, you will probably be drawn here to the center of Florida (away from the beaches and the beauty of the Everglades and other natural areas). Of course, this area also has a high concentration of RV parks, to fill the needs of families.

If you'd like to stay within the Disney resort, there is one place you should check into. It's known as the Fort Wilderness Resort, and it is located on the Disney resort property. If you choose to stay here, you can expect to find all of the amenities and beauty that Disney has to offer. The sites here are located within 740 acres of woodland forest, and by parking your RV in one of the Disney hookups, you also gain the ability to take part in the many activities and other amenities that are found at Disney resort hotels such as character breakfasts, early admission to the theme parks, and shuttle buses.

Staying within the Orlando area, but not at the Disney resort is also an option. The Tropical Palms Fun Resort, located just bordering on the Walt Disney World Resort, offers families a less expensive option than staying within the resort, but offers many of the amenities as well as the closeness of the Disney resort. The hookups here range from something they call the Super Site with electric, water, sewer, cable, paved area and patio, and picnic table down to the simple water and electric sites. The other amenities in the facilities include pools, cafes, wireless Internet service, a business center and a general store.

Picking Florida for your next family vacation is definitely going to make your entire family happy. From adults to kids, everyone loves the thrill of a warm Florida vacation, with or without a stop at the Disney theme parks.

Adrien White is with RV Rentals for You - information on RV parks, rentals, dealers, campgrounds and more.

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Florida Keys Resorts

Florida Keys Resorts
By Thomas Morva

The beaches of the Florida Key and its great fishing opportunities attract a huge crowd of tourists every year. Among options for accommodation, there are quite a large number of resorts in the Keys built along the beaches.

The shores of the Florida Keys are dotted with numerous resorts varying in rent from highly expensive five stars moderately expensive. Most resorts in the Keys have beautiful interiors, private pools, gymnasiums and saunas. Quite a few also offer spa treatments. Resorts are the best accommodation option when a tourist wants privacy and solitude.

Most resorts have hut houses or small bungalows with a large number of amenities. They are modeled as a home away from home. The rates vary depending upon the standard and class of the resort. It also depends on the type of accommodation that is booked. A resort can be a single room, double room, deluxe, suites or penthouses. The rates of resorts are always high during Christmas and Easter and for special events and three-day holidays. Highest rates apply during special annual events such as the Fantasy Fest and the lobster mini-season. Tourists can get good deals in the fall and early December. Tourists will do well to remember that local, state and tourist taxes are levied on all kinds of accommodations in Florida Key, including resorts.

All resorts have an excellent in-house service. The housing units in most resorts have air conditioners, color TV, phones, small refrigerators and many other amenities. All five star resorts offer units with a kitchenette, living room, and one or two bedrooms.

While some resorts in the Keys have private docks and ramps, others have their own private water- front and private islands. Some resorts also offer the residents, boat services, dolphin shows and other attractions.

The Florida Keys has many beautiful and luxurious resorts that are excellent for relaxation. It is always advisable for tourists to make reservations for resorts well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Florida Keys provides detailed information on Florida Keys, Key West Florida, Key Largo Florida, Florida Keys Vacations and more. Florida Keys is affiliated with Key West Real Estate.

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Take a Unique Vacation to the Florida Keys

Take a Unique Vacation to the Florida Keys
By Gary Thompson

When people think of a vacation in Key West, Florida they rarely realize that there is so much to do other than drinking and playing on the water. In fact, Key West is an old historic town that will appeal to anyone interested in history or architecture. Of course, there are still plenty of fun things to do on the water, but in the Florida Keys many of those activities are as unique as the islands.

With history comes ghost so while visiting Key West make sure to go on a ghost tour. This author has experienced one ghost tour in Key West and it was a blast. Our guide made the tour worth every penny. The stories were not only scary, but entertaining and informative as well. Of course, there is much more to do and see in Key West from historic tours to enjoying the natural environment.

The Florida Keys are known for their beautiful location stuck between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. If you don't spend some time enjoying the water you have missed one of the highlights of the Florida Keys. One way to enjoy the ocean is with a dolphin eco tour. Swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys is a rare event, so make sure to book a dolphin eco tour through a good company that has been in business for several years. Avoid any company that uses artificial methods, like feeding, to draw in the dolphins. There are many eco tours you can take while in the Keys, from kayaking to bird watching.

While in the city of Key West one of the best things to see and do is to simply walk around and explore. The old conch houses and buildings in Key West have a unique architecture that is all there own. The town has a fun history and the structures are current records of times past. Many of the old buildings are now restaurants, stores, and bars. You can tour many of these old homes and businesses. Favorites are Trumans Little White House and the Hemingway Home.

A Few Top Attractions in Key West

Hemingway House - If you are a fan of the great American author Ernest Hemingway, or you are interested in viewing a beautiful Key West home from another era, you must visit this place. The tour is worth it just to see the six toed cats. 907 Whitehead St. This tour is worth the modest admission price.

Fort Taylor - This fort was started in 1845 and was adapted over the years before eventually being abandoned. It was restored in the 1960s and is now a state park. From this park you can watch the sunset or swim from the beach. When Florida decded from the Union on January 13, 1861 Federal troops immediately occupied this fort and held Key West for the Union making it the only city in the Confederacy to be held by the Federals.

Conch Train - If you can't make the walk around Key West, or if you just want to get off of your feet for a while, the Conch Train is the best way to see the city. The tour guides are entertaining and informative.

Audubon House - The Audubon House has 28 original works from the artist John James Audubon. View the artwork and then tour the one acre garden.

Key West is a magical place that captures the hearts of thousands of people each year. Let your soul be wild and let your imagination go free in Key West.

The author, Scott Thompson, is the webmaster for http://www.Key-West-USA.com. Learn more about a vacation in Key West at Key West USA.

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Florida Keys Businesses

Florida Keys Businesses
By Thomas Morva

It is believed that the spirit of innovation is widespread in Florida. The state's pro-business, pro-technology climate, combined with easy trade access to key growth regions of the Americas, provides abundant reasons to position or expand a business in Florida and into other parts of Florida.

The Florida Keys is a famous holiday destination. There is a substantial amount of money that keeps flowing in as a result of the tourist industry. There are opportunities for extending existing business and even starting a new business. Tourists generally want to explore the land and this opens the door for unique opportunities.

There is a lot of room for the development of many businesses. Some popular business opportunities include hotels, lounges and bars. There are opportunities for purchasing an existing and flourishing business, as well, as people sometimes sell their businesses for various reasons such as retirement. A perfect marketing strategy can be researched and planned. This can be done by visiting the place, checking the existing tourist attractions and avenues for profit and then deciding upon a business. It is always suggested to look at a business that is not only tourist-related but will also attract local customers throughout the year, as this will be a more reliable source of income.

There are also many opportunities within the travel and tourism industry. In the Florida Keys, hotels are always full and making money on the regular flow of tourists and revised tariffs. Many people are also considering buying houses in the area at any given time, causing the real estate business to be prosperous in the Florida Keys.

There is scope for business opportunities with general services administration that secures buildings, products, technology and other essentials needs. It also sells spare property, such as real estate and vehicles, to the public.

Research has shown that a business in the Florida Keys can do well if it has easy operations, well-trained staff and the right quality for the customers. There are online sites that offer information and advice for big and small businesses alike.

Florida Keys provides detailed information on Florida Keys, Key West Florida, Key Largo Florida, Florida Keys Vacations and more. Florida Keys is affiliated with Key West Real Estate.

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Vacationing in Destin Florida

Vacationing in Destin, Florida
By Jennifer Weiss

Sitting majestically along the coast of the Florida Panhandle, Destin is part of one of the most gorgeous stretches of beaches in the world. A relative newcomer among the popular vacation destinations of the Emerald Coast, this city is fast becoming one of the best places to go for sun, sand, and relaxation along the Gulf of Mexico. Make your way to Destin, Florida for your next vacation, and the multitude of golf courses, the beautiful beaches, and the abundance of water activities will keep you coming back year after year.

As a part of the Emerald Coast, Destin is blessed with the same attributes as the other cities that line the southwestern corner of the Florida Panhandle. The beaches have sugar white sand, whose color is caused by the Appalachian quartz that arrives at the coast from the mountains, that is perfect for a stroll along the water or for simply throwing down a towel and catching some sun. The most distinct feature, however, is the sparkling emerald-green water, which creates the areas namesake hue from the sugar white sand that lies beneath the crystal blue water. Whether you want to build a sandcastle, play in the water, or work on your suntan, the beaches of Destin can accommodate your needs and look amazing doing it.

One of the best places in Destin to swim and simply enjoy an all-around exciting day is Henderson Beach State Park. Located off the Emerald Coast Parkway, this park is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and lays claim to over 6,000 feet of shoreline. While swimming is the most popular activity on the beautiful beach, visitors can also enjoy a nice picnic lunch in the afternoon or cast out a line on one of the docks. If you want to break up your day and experience more than the water, there are nature trails for hiking and wildlife viewing is not an uncommon activity as dolphins regularly emerge from the waters this area.

Since you are visiting some of the most breathtaking waters in the world, why not take advantage of the numerous water adventures and sports at your disposal. Snorkeling is a popular inshore option since the exceptional water quality makes it easy to catch sight of vibrant yellow angelfish, manta rays, and loggerhead sea turtles. If you want to venture offshore, rent a wave runner for some action-packed excitement on the water and to view the impeccable shoreline of Destin. For those looking for a more calm experience, rent a kayak and create your own adventure by paddling into the open waters and exploring different nooks and crannies.

The Destin area is home to some of the finest year round courses in the country, meaning the hardest part any golf enthusiasts vacation will be deciding which courses to play. While there are over ten courses in the area, there are two that stick out as both visually stunning and worth your best effort. The Emerald Bay Golf Club, designed by Bob Cupp, borders the Choctawhatchee Bay on the back nine and has a unique design that provides for an unrivaled experience. The Sandestin Raven Golf Course was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and presents a difficult test of golf through marshes, wetlands, and pine trees. There are dramatic changes of color throughout the course and players will face a variety of shot options that will undoubtedly lead to an exciting round.

While enjoying the beach and the emerald-green water of the Gulf of Mexico is probably your top priority, you will need accommodations that make it easy to spend your time soaking up the sun on the sugar white sands. For easy access to the beach and everything this amazing city has to offer, look into Destin vacation rentals for your next trip to the Florida Panhandle. You will find a wide selection of waterfront homes that have all the amenities you need for a relaxing, water-filled vacation away from the stresses of everyday life. Begin your search for the perfect home or condo rental today, and learn what a difference it makes to have all the comfort of home at your fingertips during vacation.

HomeAway.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider Destin vacation rentals for your next trip to Floridas Emerald Coast.

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Fort Myers Florida Vacations

Fort Myers, Florida Vacations
By Caitlin Moore

Thomas Edison and Henry Ford wintered here, and today it is the favored spot of retirees and vacationers alike. Fort Myers, Florida, located in the popular-for-good-reason Southwest part of the state, has appeal to spare thanks to its natural beauty, wide-ranging activities, and healthy sense of fun.

Along with Sanibel Island, Captiva Island and Cape Coral, Fort Myers brightens up the coast of Florida with a dazzling display of vacation delights. It sets itself apart in certain ways, however, making it more than worthy of being the focus of a long-overdue vacation. When the time has come to get out of town, this is a fitting place to flee to.

Located on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River and nestled on the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, Fort Myers has a prime view of all that makes a getaway memorable. This conservation-oriented settlement combines recreation with a respect for Mother Nature, meaning that the result is a town that covers all the bases in terms of brains, beauty and beaches. A touch of history holds all of these ingredients together, so no aspect of a complete holiday escape will be overlooked.

The downtown region is filled with shops, restaurants and parks meaning that this is the perfect spot to stroll, people watch, grab a bite to eat or check out one of the festivals or special events that occur on a regular basis. Nearby is the Marina, called the Yacht Basin, which offers all the supplies, guidance and aid that youll need to rent a boat or dock your own. A friendly gathering spot next door to Millennium Park, this calm and protected waterway is evidence of a well put-together place that deserves its title as prime tourist destination.

As far as historical influence, the goods are on display at a number of points of interest. The Fort Myers Historical Museum contains a private Pullman car and a 1900s Cracker House Replica. Edison and Ford Winter Estates provide glimpses of days gone with buildings, gardens and river tours. Fun for all ages can be had at the Imaginarium, an interactive museum with 3-D presentations, live animals, hands-on exhibits and more. Punching up a vacation with a little education is always a good idea, and doing so wont be a problem here.

Most visitors are after some high-quality beach time, though, and plenty of hours and days can be filled finding various ways to leave stress behind. Beachcombing, sailing, swimming, jet skiing, windsurfing the list goes on and on. Eastwood Golf Course is highly rated and open to the public all year round, and great water for fishing can be found a few minutes out to sea. Take a break from the outdoors with a little outlet mall shopping Florida is known for great bargains. Everyone has their own favorite leisure activity, the one that is dreamed about during times of boredom or stress, and its likely that activity can be taken up in Fort Myers with no trouble at all.

Completing the dream scenario will be a Fort Myers Vacation Rental. Settle into a cozy house, beachfront condo or villa to truly feel a release from responsibility. Tons of amenities, some unexpected like a blender, a hammock, a shelf full of books, will make life easier. Convenient locations, pet friendliness and availability that stretches for weeks set vacation rentals apart from other options, and could catapult them to the top of your list as far as making plans for all future trips. Where you lay your head at night as everything to do with the overall happiness of you and your group, so at the very least investigate the options and then follow your instincts towards the ideal set-up.

Theres a place out there for you and yours, and it just might be a festive, unique beach house lucky enough to exist in the pleasant town of Fort Myers. See for yourself as you begin your plans, and happy traveling.

Visit www.HomeAway.com to become better acquainted with vacation rental options all over the world.

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Florida Vacation Homes

Florida Vacation Homes
By Kevin Stith

Nothing can replace your home when it comes to comfort, and relaxation. The idea behind a vacation is not only having a good time with family and friends but relaxing your body and senses. Nothing can be more comforting than spending your vacation in a home away from home. A vacation home, be it an apartment, villa, suite, or small beach house, will fulfill all your vacation housing needs.

A Florida vacation in itself is an enduring experience, but spending it at a home with the utmost in luxury makes it a one of a kind experience. You either enjoy a sunset with the family, a candle lit dinner, or enjoy your favorite music by the fire.You get to experience Floridas good life with luxury, privacy, and your own space among the natives of Florida. The best part is that your enjoy it not as tourist, but as a resident. If you are lucky enough to get a property near the beach, you can enjoy the sounds of the sea. You get to enjoy the deep sea with all its minerals, sand to make your dream castle, and sun to be bathed in. You can enjoy the mesmerizing sights and tantalizing flavors of Florida along with your friends and family. A Florida Vacation in your self owned home is indeed an individual experience of its kind, whether youre a honeymooner, a family, or planning a holiday just to get away from day to day stress. Florida Vacation homes are a dream come true.

Florida Vacations provides detailed information on Florida Vacations, Florida Vacation Rentals, Florida Vacation Homes, Florida Vacation Destinations and more. Florida Vacations is affiliated with Florida Keys Vacation Rentals.

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You Have To Love The Location Say These Owners Of Orlando Florida Villas

You Have To Love The Location, Say These Owners Of Orlando Florida Villas
By David Leonhardt

It has been said that in real estate there are three things that count the most: location, location and location. I recently discovered how powerful this concept can be.

Not long ago, I wrote an article about owning a vacation rental and what to consider before making the plunge ( http://www.seo-writer.net/clients/villa-ownership.html ). Like every decision, there are pros and cons, and it also depends on an individual's temperament, comfort with risk and many other factors.

I asked a few dozen villa owners who were listed at an Orlando Florida villas rental listing site at http://www.lastminutevillas.net why they had chosen villa ownership and what cautions or advice they would offer somebody considering a Florida vacation rental.

What struck me, however, was how most of the vacation rental owners I interviewed offered more comments on why they chose Florida as a location, than why they chose to be a villa owner.

In other words, the location more than the occupation inspired villa ownership, and that location is Orlando, Florida. Considering the battering Florida had recently taken by one hurricane after another, this struck me as kind of odd. So I picked up the phone and called Stewart Granville, owner of the listing site.

It's late Fall and I'm sitting out here in my shorts. Do I need another reason? he asked. How are you doing up there?

Uh...let me just go get a sweater, was all I could respond.

To give you some idea of how important it for a vacation rental property owner to fall in love with the location, here are just two samples of what some villa owners told me:

When we are driving back to the airport in Florida we never want to leave, says Michelle Prince, owner of Secret Key Villa in Kissimmee, Florida ( http://www.lastminutevillas.net/villa/166/ ), adding It was something we have always wanted to do since taking a Christmas break in Florida every year.

I believe that to feel that you wish to buy property in Florida you must think further than 'Profit', says Dave Gordon, owner of Lindisfarne Villa in Orlando ( http://www.lastminutevillas.net/villa/89/ ). I sincerely believe that most foreign villa owners have the 'feel good' factor themselves and buy because they want to return time and againif they make a profitwhat the heck!

Of course, no business venture should be run on the off-chance of making a profit, but every business venture should be a labour of love, and few require as much love as the tender nurturing of vacation rental homes.

About The Author

David Leonhardt is a freelance writer

http://www.seo-writer.net/freelance/writer.html

Info@thehappyguy.com

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Condo Rentals In Davenport Florida Can Enhance Your Disney World Vacation

Condo Rentals In Davenport Florida Can Enhance Your Disney World Vacation
By Jim Benigni

Are you planning a Disney World or Orlando Florida Vacation? Davenport Florida is an up and coming community just minutes from Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World Orlando as well as many other Orlando attractions. If the expense of cramped hotel rooms in Orlando seem daunting, perhaps you should consider renting a much more spacious condo that has all the amenities of home frequently for less in Davenport.

Davenport is centrally located in the state of Florida. It is 90 minutes from Cocoa Beach on the Eastern Shore of Florida and approximately 90 minutes from the Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa area on the Golf Coast. Davenport is starting to be known as the Little Orlando. Although just a fifteen-minute drive to Disney World, it is so much more than just the little sister to Orlando.

Davenport is centrally located in Central Florida so you could visit Cypress Gardens or Sea World. For the adventurous, the Orange Blossom Hot Air Balloon Rides or the Helicopter Rides on Rte 192 will take your breath away and add to your vacation experience. Or, if you are really adventurous, the Kennedy Space Center is approximately 90 minutes from Davenport, for anyone who ever had visions of becoming an astronaut you are that much closer to having your fantasy come true.

The Disney Celebration Community is also just minutes away. There are many shops and boutiques as well as restaurants for your enjoyment. Downtown Disney will get you in the mood to enjoy all the various theme parks. Davenport is close to all the major theme parks, the Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Animal Kingdom are close enough so that you can visit the parks in the morning, come home to relax, nap or just jump in the pool. Be sure to return in the evening to see the parade and watch the late night fireworks.

Central Florida is also a Mecca for your golfing pleasure. There are many golf courses that will take your breath away and help you to fine tune your skills, before you return home. If you are a beginner there are plenty of par three courses and if you are looking for something more challenging you can play at Champions Gate to get the professional challenge. Note that summer rates are less expensive than the winter.

For you nature lovers there is the Bok Sanctuary or Silver Springs Nature Theme Park, both are minutes from Davenport. You can have a wonderful day enjoying nature at its best. Picture taking is mandatory. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a lot of walking.

Universal Studios and City Walk are just minutes from Davenport. The adventure begins at Universal Studios. When you're finished at the theme park the nightlife is just beginning, City Walk features many Arcades for the kids to try and excellent restaurants like Emerils and Jimmy Buffets Margarita Ville and don't forget The Hard Rock Café.

If you prefer to dining out there are many restaurants in or near Davenport that will fit any budget. You can get fast food as well as fine dining for that special occasion. For fine dining I highly recommend Mama Della's at the Petrofina Bay Hotel and the Gaylord Palms Hotel (all five or their restaurants). There are also plenty of Sea Food Restaurants to choose from. There are also plenty of Mc Donald's and Burger Kings as well as Pizza establishments to choose from. If you would prefer an evening in, condo rentals also include full kitchens so you can prepare your own meals and dine at the table family style.

For Baseball Fans, Davenport is right in the heart of the Professional Baseball Spring training center, you could drive to a different ball park everyday and follow your favorite team as they prepare for the upcoming season. Let's not forget, just 30 minutes away is Orlando's professional basket ball team, the Orlando Magic.

With a Condo rental in Davenport, your vacation in Davenport Florida can truly be the vacation of a lifetime.

More information on Condo Rentals in Davenport Florida can be found at http://www.PalmKeysGetaway.com

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Visit Boca Raton Florida

Visit Boca Raton Florida
By David Hallstrom

The city of Boca Raton, Florida, with it's more than five miles of publicly owned beachfront property and it's approximately 1,080 acres of parks is situated in Palm Beach County, almost midway between the cities of Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale.

Stay at the famous Boca Raton Resort And Club, 501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432, (561) 447-3000, with it's five distinct styles of deluxe guestrooms and suites, The Cloister which is the most classic of the Resort's five accommodation choices, the Tower which is a dramatic contrast, the Boca Beach Club, the Yacht Club and the Boca Bungalows. The Boca Raton Resort & Club offers its guests an unmatched variety of sports and leisure activities, all of which can be found on the Resort's 356-acre property. If that is too much for you, try the Marriott Boca Raton at Boca Center, 5150 Town Center Circle, Boca Raton, Fl. 33486, (561) 392-4600, with it's marble bathrooms, rainfall showers, solid walnut highlights, and deluxe aromatherapy amenities, or the Renaissance Boca Raton Hotel, 2000 NW 19th Street, Boca Raton, Fl. 33431, (561) 368-5252, with it's Mediterranean ambience, tropical pool and lush grounds or any one of a number of other excellent hotels in the city.

Play golf at the Boca Raton Resort And Club Resort Course on the Resort grounds, a 6,253 yard par 71 course highlighted with a variety of elevation changes and 12 surface acres of water including a signature water feature designed by Hugh Hughes, or the Boca Raton Municipal Golf Course, Golf Course Road, (561) 483-6317 with it's 18-hole regulation, 6,115-yard, par-72 course, nine-hole, 1,877-yard, par-30 executive course, driving range and putting green, or at the Red Reef Executive Golf Course, 1111 N. Ocean Blvd., (561) 391-5014, with it's nine-hole, 1,628-yard, par-32 course on the ocean, or at the Southwinds County Golf Course, 9557 Lyons Road, (561) 483-1305, with it's 18-hole, 72-par course.

Check out the Royal Palm Polo Sports Complex, 18000 Jog Road, Boca Raton, Fl., (561) 994-1876, the oldest existing club in South Florida, Boca Raton's Royal Palm Polo Club is known as the sport's winter capital.

Go shopping at the Town Center Mall, 6000 Glades Rd., Boca Raton 33431, (561) 368-6000, where you will find almost 200 exclusive stores including Bloomingdales, Burdines, Cartier, The Disney Store, Lord & Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom's and Tiffany's, or try other area centers like the Royal Palm Plaza, Boca Center, Glades Plaza, the Fifth-Avenue Shops, Oaks Plaza, Shops at the Sanctuary, Polo Shops, Del Mar Shopping Village, Garden Shops of Boca, Palms Plaza, Point West Centre, Village Pointe, Mission Bay Plaza, Shadowood Square, Boca Lyons Plaza, Somerset Shops, Regency Court, Shops of Boca, Piccadilly Square, VPC Center, Lakeside Centre and West Boca Square

Lie on the beach, go swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving, go freshwater or saltwater fishing, dine in one of the many fine restaurants, play tennis, check out Lake Okeechobee, the second-largest freshwater lake in the United States or just lie around your hotel pool and relax. If you get tired of Boca Raton you are right near Palm Beach and you are within just over an hour's drive from Miami Beach and all it has to offer.

For more information about the city of Boca Raton, Florida see: http://bocaratonfl.usacitydirectories.com, a directory of links to the city of Boca Raton, Florida guides and directories listing hotels, restaurants, attorneys, real estate brokers, information, resources, services, things to do, places to go and more.

David G. Hallstrom, Sr. is a retired private investigator and is currently the publisher of several internet directories, including http://www.usacitydirectories.com a directory of national, state, county and city guides and directories listing local guides, directories, web sites and web pages providing resources, services and information about things to do and places to go.

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7 Datona Beach Florida Attractions

7 Datona Beach Florida Attractions
By Steven Chabotte

1) The Beach - With a name like Datona Beach, this has to be the number one attraction. Datona has 23 miles of pristine beachfront for you to enjoy. Main Street Pier and Ocean Walk village are the hot spots on the beach with a variety of beac activities, restaurants, arcades sports equipment rentals and shops all within walking distance. You can even get in a little fishing on the pier if you want.

2) Daytona Beach Boardwalk - Take some time to enjoy the old fashioned arcades and the mini go cart track. You can also visit a variety of souvenir shops, take a ride on a cable car, enjoy musical entertainment at the oceanfront Bandshell and much more.

3) Daytona International Speedway - No trip to Datona would be complete without a visit to the Datona International Sppedway, home of the Datona 500, the Pepsi 400, NASCAR racing and much more. On days when there is no racing, consider a guided tram tour of the track or the NASCAR historical exhibits, the Datona Dreamlap simulator, the Richard Petty Ride-Along. For the more adventurous, take a stock car for a few laps around the course.

4) Museum of Arts and Sciences - The museum is best known as housing the only portrait of Argentina's Eva Peron painted while she was alive. Other attractions include collections of art from China, Africa and Cuba. There are also fascinating exhibits of Florida's history, including fossil mammils as well as a planetarium and a sculpture garden.

5) Marine Science Center at Lighthouse Point Park - The center offers a fascinating view of the aquatic world. They have a 5000 gallon artificial reef aquarium, a variety of interactive displays and a wet-dry lab to study the sea. Of special interest is the sea turtle rehabilitiation program that they run.

6) Bulow Plantation Ruins State Park - Once the home of a plantation and sugar mill that was founded in 1821 and destroyed during the Seminole Indian war. The park offers a variety of nature trails as well as a chance to walk amongst the ruins of the sugar mill as well as an open air museum.

7) Ocean Walk Village - This is the place to be for vacation shopping and entertainment. Ocean Walk Village has restaurants, a margarita and fajita bar, mai tais, and a variety of other restaurants as well as a 10 screen movie theater, a Harley Davidson store and much more.

To help you plan your next beach vacation, visit http://www.MyCityTravelGuide.com. With the ability to get instant pricing and booking on over 50,000 hotels at rock bottom pricing, planning your next vacation is a breeze.

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Visiting Gainesville Florida? Ten Ways to Spend Little or No Cash and Stick it to the Man

Visiting Gainesville, Florida? Ten Ways to Spend Little or No Cash and Stick it to the Man
By John M. Williams

Do you plan on being in Gainesville anytime soon? Maybe you're a Florida Gators fan or a rival in town to watch a game? Maybe you're a new student or professor at the University of Florida? Regardless of the reason for being in Gainesville, here's some activities that won't hurt your wallet and let you stick it to the man. Although I am not sure who this man is, we'll definitely help you stick it to him regardless.

1. Check out the alligators at Lake Alice

Lake Alice is a great place to relax in nature, and still be in the middle of the City. Placed in the heart of the University of Florida campus, you can find a great spot to sit down and watch alligators as they pop their heads out of the water. It is located at the corner of Museum and North South Drive. There are benches to sit down at, open grass to have a picnic, and a trail that wraps around the lake. The best part is that it's completely free. Heck you could even take a date there and pull the romantic card while in reality you just care about your own bank account but she'll never know.

2. Take a tour at the Santa Fe Zoo

Didn't think Gainesville has a zoo? Well at the community college it does! About a 15 minute drive from the heart of Gainesville, Santa Fe Community College has the only zoo around north central Florida. With over 200 different animals and 75 species, you'll see numerous mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians being displayed in a naturally wooded environment. Tours are free and are held at specific times on weekdays and weekends. Here's the website for the zoo: http://inst.sfcc.edu/~zoo

3. Float down the warm crystal clear water of Ginny Springs

This could be coolest place in the entire region. Within 45 minutes of Gainesville, Ginnie Springs offers crystal clear water that is 72 degrees year round, perfect for floating down the river on a tube, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. You can rent equipment from one of the local shops or bring your own. Take a cooler with some drinks down the river while enjoying the scenery (yes, the cooler floats also). You can choose the long ride down the river (about 2 hours) or the short one (about 45 minutes). There's an admission fee of $10 for adults and $3 for children ages 7-14. There could be additional rental fees if you need equipment but this is all definitely worth the money since you can spend the entire day and/or night at the Springs. Here's their website: http://www.ginniespringsoutdoors.com/index.html

4. Go to Devil's Milhopper

Devil's Milhopper is an amazing sinkhole that is over 100 feet deep and 500 feet across that is located in Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park about two miles northwest of Gainesville. You can walk to the bottom of it on a winding staircase. Small streams fall down the steep slopes. This park is open from 9am-5pm Wednesday-Sunday. There is a small admission fee of $2.00 per vehicle and $1.00 if on foot or bicycle. For info: call Devil Millhopper Geological State Park at 352-955-2008.

5. Check out the Florida Museum of Natural History

This is Florida's official natural history museum and features over 20 million specimens. It is the largest museum of natural history in the southeastern United States. Admission to the museum is free although it is suggested to leave a donation. There is a separate fee if you want to check out the popular Butterfly Rainforest, where you can view thousands (yes thousands) of different types of butterflies. It is a remake of the Amazon Rainforest. The museum is located on the University of Florida campus on SW 34th Street and Hull Road. For further info, here is the link to their site: http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu

6. Go walking, biking, or rollerblading on Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail

This scenic trail lasts for 16 miles from the Gainesville Boulware Springs Park through the Paynes Prairie State Park and the Lochloosa Wildlife Management Area. The wooded trail features native plants and wildlife and upon arriving in Paynes Prairie you might see bison, wild horses or cranes. Use of the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail State Park is free according to the website. Here is the link for hours, contact info, directions and more: http://www.floridastateparks.org/gainesville-hawthorne

7. Relax at Lake Wauberg (note: this is only open to UF students, faculty, staff and up to four guests)

Located only 8 miles from campus, this recreational site offers UF students, faculty, and guests free access to boating, volleyball, a ropes course, a climbing wall, picnics, and more with their Gator 1 cards. As far as boating you can take out kayaks, sailboats, paddleboats, and rowboats. The site is open Tuesday through Friday from 12:00pm-7:00pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am-7:00pm.

Try out these activities above and you can save significantly on your stay in Gainesville. Enjoy!

Brought to you by http://www.gatorsforum.com
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Florida Vacations

Florida Vacations
By Kevin Stith

Planning a vacation? Many potential vacationers desire relaxation as well as entertainment and may have trouble deciding where to spend their hard-earned vacation cash.

It takes some planning and thought to determine the best place to go to make the coming vacation memorable and splendid.

For a vibrant, colorful and affordable vacation, you might consider planning a trip to Florida, the land of sunshine. Whether its a romantic trip with your beloved, a family reunion, or a long-awaited holiday, a vacation in Florida is a pleasant, and often convenient, way to treat yourself. Nature trails, water-sports and activities, skiing sailing, kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, sky-diving and other adventurous engagements can entertain you and make you enjoy your vacation to the fullest. If you are a travel enthusiast and love to explore unexplored places, you can rent a car and drive along the Florida Keys. Florida is also the home of Disney World, which can satisfy your kids dreams while also rejuvenating the grown-up you.

Another attraction is Miami, which boasts of Art Deco architecture, a vibrant clubbing nightlife scene, plus top-notch restaurants and luxurious hotels.

In addition, you should not overlook the islands of Southwestern Florida along the Gulf of Mexico, including Sanibel Island and Captiva Island, which offer a bit more seclusion from the maddening crowds.

Florida is also a delight for shopping lovers. A vacation in Florida is indeed a package of comfort, relaxation and enjoyment.

Florida is a state with smiling beaches with lush green islands, grand resorts with luxury accommodation facilities, stirring theme parks and bustling cities. With several discount airlines (such as JetBlue) offering inexpensive flights, Florida is a short (and affordable) plane ride away.

Florida Vacations provides detailed information on Florida Vacations, Florida Vacation Rentals, Florida Vacation Homes, Florida Vacation Destinations and more. Florida Vacations is affiliated with Florida Keys Vacation Rentals.

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2 Great Ways to Discover Florida

2 Great Ways to Discover Florida
By Tim Burton

Ways to Discover Florida

For fun and adventure and culture, yes culture! Read on

Here are Some Great Ways to Discover Florida.

# 1. Fun and Adventure

With over 34 million visitors each year, Orlando is the undisputed theme park capital of the world. But if you are after more fun and adventure after visiting the theme parks at Disneyworld, Universal Orlando Resort and Seaworld, you should try the sensational Busch Gardens in Tampa, the world famous Daytona International Speedway and exploring the Everglades national park.

Dont Miss a Space Shuttle launch

Cape Canaveral on Floridas Space Coast is the only place in the West where people are launched into space. Being there when the Space Shuttle blasts into space is a truly incredible experience.

Dont Miss Floridas largest and fastest roller coaster

Is Busch Gardens, Tampa

Prepare for the thrill of your life on Sheikra, Floridas tallest roller coaster and the worlds tallest dive coaster. 70mph of pure adrenaline-pumping excitement. Travel 200 feet up and then plunge to the depths of an underground tunnel, with water!

Dont Miss Bush Gardens ZooWith over 2600 animals, the zoo at Busch Gardens is one of Americas top zoos

# 2. Culture

Look beyond the more obvious tourist attractions and you will be surprised at what you find.There is an abundance of architecture, museums, forts, art galleries.

Dont Miss Historic Wrecks

Pensacola has fascinating wrecks to explore. This includes the 500-foot World War 1 battleship USS Massachusetts, the Russian freighter San Pablo and an A-7 Corsair aircraft that fell off the deck of the USS Lexington.

Dont Miss Art Deco Buildings

Take a stroll down Ocean Drive, Miami, and enjoy South Beachs Art deco buildings. Painted pink, lavender and turquoise, they line the palm-fringed walkway.

Dont Miss a Driving Tour

If you have a car whilst visiting Miami, do yourself a favour, and take a driving tour of Coral gables. Coral Gables Driving Tour isnt just one of the countrys richest neighbourhoods, its a separate city within Greater Miami. Known as The City Beautiful for good reason, its elegant homes line winding avenues shaded by banyans and live oaks. This driving tour winds its way along the lush peaceful lanes and is both relaxing and cultural.

Along the tour are these beautiful sights:

1.The Granada Entrance a replica of the gate to Granada in Spain.

2.The Country Club Prado Entrance complete with ornamental pillars.

3.Alhambra water Tower built in 1925.

4.Coral Way lined by live oaks and Spanish-style houses.

5.Venetian Pool a beautiful public swimming pool.

6.Coral Gables Congregational Church built in Spanish Baroque style.

7.Biltmore Hotel one of the most stunning hotels in the country, beautifully restored to its 1920s century grandeur.

8.The Lowe Art Museum contains European and Native American Art.

9.French City Village one of several international villages built to add variety to the city.

10.Dutch South African Village.

11.French Country Village.

12.Chinese Village.

13.French Normandy Village.

14.Coral Gables City Hall

15.Miracle Mile the districts most important shopping street.

Other Bits of Culture:

- Hemingways House in Key West, where the novelist lived from 1931-1940.

- Little Havana in Miami 3.5 square miles of Cuban culture and life.

- The Ringling Museum of Art and Ringling Museum (Sarasota).

- Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island a charming Victorian resort.

- Salvador Dali Museum, St Petersburg.

About The Author:

Tim Burton writes travel articles for the popularOrlando Villas Florida website at http://www.milkriver.co.uk andVacation Rentals Worldwide website

Copyright 2006 by Tim Burton

Article may be reprinted but must include the all the author information.

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Palm Island Resort Fishing the Back Waters of Southwest Florida Lemon Bay and Charlotte Harbor

Palm Island Resort - Fishing the Back Waters of Southwest Florida Lemon Bay and Charlotte Harbor
By Bob Collett

Twenty seven years ago, my wife and I were looking for a peaceful beach vacation. We dreamed of a quiet place where we could get away from it all. Our good friend Alan Schleimer operated a small business in Cleveland, Ohio called Condo Search. He recommended a little known Gulf Coast island resort called Palm Island. Palm Island is located in Cape Haze Florida, on Lemon Bay near Englewood Florida.

Once arriving at Palm Island, also known as Little Gasparilla island, we quickly learned that an island vacation is just a little bit different. Palm Island has one restaurant, which also houses a very small general store about the size of pickup truck. Our Island paradise did not allow cars, and since Palm Island is one of the true developed Florida islands without a land bridge, the only way to get their was by ferry.

The ferry to Palm Island left every hour on the hour and returned to the mainland on the half-hour. The 20 minute ferry ride, dropped us off at Rum Bay Restaurant dock, where the first mate led us to a trolley car and preceded to take us to our condominium unit. The trolley made its trip around the island every hour also, so while getting on and off the island was very easy it took about 45 minutes to get off.

Since we were too young, and too poor to rent a gulf cart, Kathy and I opted for bicycles as our transportation. On the second or third morning, we continued exploring our new island. We had seen plenty of great beaches, but were simply not prepared for the beauty to be discovered as we came upon an estuary where Rum Bay met Stump Pass. Since it was low tide, we were able to wade through the shallows and discover bunches of unusual creatures that we had never before seen.

Among other species, we saw live star fish, numerous mollusks, something we called sea cucumbers, many schools of bait fish, lots of crabs, and all sorts of shells. Not more than 20 yards away a great blue heron was stealing shrimp from a fishermans bucket. There were all sorts of sea birds, osprey, cormorants, and others the likes of which we had never seen before.

Watching one of the fisherman pull in a yellow-tail jack off the surf, stimulated me to give fishing a try myself. Fortunately, Palm Island Resort was able to rent me a fishing pole with some tackle for $10. During the remainder of our island vacation, I was able to try fishing almost every day, and managed to catch a few fish, but I really didnt have much luck.

Over a period of several years and several return visits, we discovered many enchanting aspects of Palm Island, and the surrounding area. But it wasnt until I decided to hire a fishing guide in hopes of actually catching some fish in Lemon Bay, that my love affair with fishing the back waters of Southwest Florida began.

Most of the well known area fishing guides were already booked on my available days. One of the old timers told me about a new fishing guide who had fished the waters of Charlotte Harbor his entire life, had recently got started as a part-time fishing guide, and was looking for new clients. So I gave Captain Les Hill a call, and arranged to have him take me out on his boat Tarpon Hunter.

I have since fished the waters of Lemon Bay, Charlotte Harbor, Gasparilla Sound, and Stump Pass with Captain Les more than 25 times over as many years. A day fishing these waters with the right guide seems to be almost an existential experience. Aside from fishing, each day is filled with detailed explanations of the interaction of various fish, birds, and plant life. There are thousands of small mangrove islands, oyster beds, and deep holes where fish hang out.

Except for the occasional fish that is set aside for dinner, all of our fishing is catch and release. Moreover, we generally do not use live bait.

Most of my trips to the Charlotte Harbor Englewood Florida area include two to three days of fishing with guide Les Hill. With my son and I fishing in the boat, we have landed as many as 13 fish species over the three day span. I think this includes the fish we pulled in off the shore as well.

These include Reds, Snook, Sea Trout, Lady Fish, Flounder, Permit, Shark, Jack, Mangrove Snapper, Saltwater Sheepshead, Spanish Mackerel, Grouper, Blue, and some junk fish.

Still, we have not yet caught our first tarpon.

Most of the waters we fish range from 3 feet to 6 feet of water. The fish tend to hide in the holes which are a few feet deeper. Les can spot a hole that is likely to be home to Lady Fish and Trout while running his Tarpon Hunter at full throttle, almost on demand. Because the water is deeper in the hole, you can see the difference in color. Most fish hang out right on the edge of these holes.

When we hunt for Redfish or Snook, Les gets up on the platform, and poles along the mangroves. Here he can usually see the Redfish or Snook tailing, well before we make our first cast into the area. This increases our chances of landing a fish.

If you have ever fished as a kid, but got away from it, or if you have never spent much time doing salt water fishing, I strongly recommend that you visit the Charlotte Harbor area and find yourself a good fishing guide.

http://www.saylorcruises.blogspot.com

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Jacksonville Florida Hotels

Jacksonville Florida Hotels
By Ken Marlborough

Jacksonville is one of the largest cities in Florida. It has gained global acclaim because of its beaches and parks, that include nature and wildlife parks. It was once regarded as one of the many slave cities of the United States of America. However, it has gotten rid of this sobriquet to be regarded as one of the most attractive tourist attractions, and the Jacksonville hotels add to its beauty.

Jacksonville hotels consist mainly of the beach resorts that dot its long coastline. There are also the typical economical hotels, as well as the plush five-star hotels in the interiors. No matter what type of hotel you choose, each one provides enticing facilities for tourists, including tourist packages to the various beaches and parks.

Apart from the beach tours where one can either spend the entire day tanning under the sun, or play beach games or take part in water sports, there are also park tours. These tours are designed as to take the tourist to the maximum number of parks.

The best of the Jacksonville hotels are those that have been developed from old heritage homes. There are a number of large mansion-like homes that have been converted into hotels and beach resorts, providing one with a comfortable and luxurious home-away-from-home experience.

In spite of the discrimination in the grades of the hotels, the facilities are almost the same. It is all about the spending power. Most tourists prefer the budget hotels, as they need a room to keep their luggage safely and lay their head to rest at night. Obviously, the rest of the day is spent experiencing the city.

Florida Hotels provides detailed information on Florida Hotels, Orlando Florida Hotels, Jacksonville Florida Hotels, Destin Florida Hotels and more. Florida Hotels is affiliated with South Beach Condo Hotels.

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Try Something New in the Florida Keys

Try Something New in the Florida Keys
By Caitlin Moore

The Florida Keys, that charming string of islands that splays southwest from the tip of the peninsula, are diverse in themselves yet consistently pleasing. Your visit, should you be wise enough to take one, will be filled with unsurprising yet wonderful things like snorkeling and frolicking on the beach, but dont stop there. Embrace the free-spirited atmosphere and step out of your comfort zone. The Keys will support your foray into unconventionality, so be prepared to amaze yourself.

For example, the stunning and delicate environment of the Keys will persuade you to go exploring in ways you never thought possible. The vast coral reef that skirts several of the islands will entice you to take a dive for a better look, and the marshes of the Everglades will provide you an astounding array of birds and wildlife during your eye-opening eco-tour. Feel the exhilaration of being aboard a sport fishing craft and catching sight of a band of dolphins, or join the nightly group of revelers who sing and dance as the sun goes down in the most spectacular way.

If the theme of discovery suits you, then continue to develop it as you navigate the lodging choices in the Keys. There will be hotel and resort options that seem pretty safe, but that doesnt mean thats all thats out there. Break away from convention and consider renting a vacation home, where you might literally find yourself off the beaten path.

You might never have heard of Seabird Key, but it likely has the potential to be the site of your greatest vacation ever. Located off the shores of Marathon, this ten acre tropical island is the home of a hardwood beach house outfitted with bamboo furniture, French doors that open onto patios and balconies, ceiling fans over every bed, and an outdoor shower among the palm trees.

The private beach and panoramic views will make you feel like youve been transported to your own world where you make the rules. However, if you long for a little taste of civilization, just sail for half a mile and youll be back to where the people are. Reserving a vacation home like this will keep you close to the Heart of the Keys yet far enough away to imagine yourself a castaway. Its the best of both worlds here at Seabird Key, and the chance to take advantage of this novelty is yours if you so desire it.

Another way to do things differently is to stay in Key West. Since youve decided to walk on the wild side this vacation, you must certainly spend some quality time on the most eclectic and imaginative Key. Here is the place where weirdness is celebrated along with the famed sunsets, and art and originality are encouraged. Crazy costume festivals, Ernest Hemingway look-alike contests, and nearly constant merrymaking make Key West the best place to let loose and rediscover your inner party animal.

Choose a funky garden house to complement your Key West adventures for the ultimate experience. You might find yourself so pleased with the place that you end up inviting your new friends back for a dip in the hot tub, and as they comment on the tropical dcor and private sundeck, youll be proud of yourself for trying something new.

These are only two examples of the types of vacation rentals that exist out there. For every personality and set of whims, there is surely a villa or beach side condo that exists as the perfect counterpart. Pick a home base that truly makes you feel at home, and the only problem youll have is the sense of regret that will come with returning to the mainland.

Go online to start perusing the vast number of Florida Keys Vacation Rental listings, and remember to strive for an experience unlike any youve ever had.

http://www.homeaway.com/ is a great place to look if you're thinking about reserving a vacation rental in any part of the world.

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Reasons to Tour Florida by Tour Bus

Reasons to Tour Florida by Tour Bus
By Marsha Maung

There are many reasons why the best way to travel and tour Florida is by tour bus and were going to list them here. For one, if youre traveling in a group, especially so if the group is especially large, get a tour bus so that everyone comes and goes in a group. This way no one gets left behind while the others are busy exploring the richness of Florida. The tour bus will take care of all your traveling needs while ensuring that you are comfortable in the tour bus. Why bother with having to drive yourself there individually when you can hire a tour bus to get to where you want to go in Florida. And Florida is much too beautiful a place to spend worrying about traveling so, thats the number one reason why hiring a tour bus in Florida makes perfect sense.

Another reason why you should hire a tour bus whenever you get to Florida is because Florida tour bus fees are not expensive at all! Most people are turned off the idea because the first impression that they get about Florida tour bus is that theyre expensive. This doesnt have to be so. There are many different types of tour buses being offered and all you have to do is to pick a tour bus that is suitable for your group of people. The smaller the tour bus, the cheaper it is.

And besides, having a tour bus at your beck-and-call in Florida means that you get that special personalized service that is not possible otherwise. I mean, a whole tour bus in Florida just for you! You dont this kind of feeling driving yourself around in a rented car. Imagine the kind of memories you will have of Florida if you hired a tour bus.

Remember, the most important thing is that everyone needs to be happy and everyone should get the chance to explore Florida as much as they can. The only way to do this is to hire a tour bus and take traveling woes out of your holiday. Throw the compass and map away because with a Florida tour bus you dont need them. Just sit back and relax while the tour bus takes you all around Florida and you lap up as much sun-bathing time as you can.

UsCoachways is a leading US-based charter bus service provider with an impressive list of charter bus service clients. Check out http://www.uscoachways.com

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Take a Look at the Florida Panhandle Part 3 The Apalachicola National Forest and Barrier Island

Take a Look at the Florida Panhandle - Part 3 - The Apalachicola National Forest and Barrier Island
By Tim Burton

Enjoy the Apalachicola National Forest is a mix of swamp,spring, savannah, hiking and canoeing terrain - perfect forexploring.

The most exhilarating way to explore is to hike along one ofits many trails or to canoe, from one of its many boatlaunches, down the Ochlockonee River.

The Apalachicola National Forest is the largest nationalforest in Florida consisting of two great rivers, theOchlockonee and the Sopchoppy.

There are numerous campgrounds and picnic areas throughoutthe Forest so you do not have to be an athlete to enjoy it.

Take a look at Wakulla Springs which is west of the forest,and is one of the deepest natural springs in the world. Thescenery is primitive and has understandably, been thesetting for films such as the Tarzan films.

Apalachicola Barrier Islands

Apalachicola, an old town south west of the forest, is thestate's oyster capital. The three marvellous Barrier Islandsare across the bay.

One of these is St George Island - a 28 mile barrier island.It is still the least inhabited and is unspoilt, even thoughyou can get there by road. Its miles of white sand beachesare uncrowded, great for swimming and catching a variety offish. You can see many gracious wildlife like turtles.

Take a break from the beautiful seashore and visit one ofthe many restaurants serving fresh local seafood such asoysters of course.

Or go shopping on the Island for clothing, beach stuff,gifts and art.

Another of the Barrier Islands is Little St George Island.Perfect for those who like a measure of isolation. Theisland is about 75 miles from Tallahassee and is reached bybridge and causeway from US 98.

You can camp for free, but bring your own facilities. Thereis of course, the white sand beaches, bird watching (ospreysand eagles), wildlife (yes, and racoons) and last butdefinitely not least - fantaastic fishing.

The third of the Barrier Islands is the St Vincent Island.You can only get there by boat.

But it has many fresh water lakes and salt water swamps. Itis a birdwatchers paradise.

Tim Burton writes travel articles for the popularOrlando Villas Florida website at http://www.milkriver.co.uk andVacation Rentals Worldwide website at http://www.worldwidevillas.net

Copyright 2006 by Tim BurtonArticle may be reprinted but must include the all the author information

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