Fantastical Florida

Florida isn't just Disneyland and theme parks and for this reason many people pass up on visiting one of the most beautiful of American states. Americans know the attractions and it is the preferred destination not only home vacationers but also retired people.

With a terrific tropical climate and over 1350 miles of coastline it's no wonder. The Florida Keys, a series of small islands that drop off the end of the State like green jewels in a pool of blue satin, are just as attractive and driving the road bridges between the islands in a hire car has to be one of the most dramatic and exhilarating ways to get anywhere.

The geography of Florida is as dramatic as its personality. From its pristine beaches, massive swamps, known as the everglades, sinkholes and underground cave systems, its major cities have naturally developed mainly in coastal areas or on flat Savannah plains.

Everyone has heard of Orlando and Miami, some will know of Fort Lauderdale and Tampa but few would immediately recall Jacksonville as the state capital. Unfortunately, the cities lose out in the sightseeing stakes to the absolute wealth of attractions that have defined the state for the rest of the world, except perhaps Miami with its distinctive pastel coloured art deco aspect for Florida is not just the global capital of theme parks it's the trailblazer.

Ever since Walt Disney made the prodigious decision to build Disneyland, the scene was set for a multitude to follow. Today, The Magic Kingdom is joined by Epcot, Sea World, Universal Studios, Silver Springs and Busch Gardens amongst others. If those aren't exciting enough watch launches of the Space shuttle from Kennedy Space Centre or ride the swamp waters of the Everglades in unique fan boats.

Florida is no fantasy, it's a dream come true.

Safe Driving in Florida For UK Visitors

Driving a car in Florida is the same in many ways as driving a car in the UK, but there are some important points you need to be aware of, especially if this is a new experience. Driving regulations and laws are strictly enforced, and there are no special considerations for being a tourist. The following information and suggestions will help to ensure your trip to Florida is pain free, at least on the road.

When booking a vehicle, plan your needs (or desires) and ensure you make a decision with all the facts. The vehicle should be big enough to carry passengers and luggage. Both will be bigger on the return flight. You will need to decide whether you want to have an initial tank of petrol (gas). This can be a benefit if your flight arrives in the early hours of the morning. Don't skimp on insurance, as bills for 3rd party damage and injury can be high in the US. When collecting your vehicle at the airport you should again know what you want and don't be upgraded unless it's free. You might want to investigate whether the company you book through has a frequent user club, or similar. Membership can give privileges in avoiding queues.

Driving on right is easier than you think. Driving in Florida is often quite relaxed in spite of the volume of traffic. A useful technique is to simply remember that the driver should be to the center of the road. No matter which country you're driving in keep driver in middle of road.

Speed limits and other traffic regulations in Florida are strictly enforced.



Stop at lights and junctions for 3 seconds. If you do not come to a physical stop, but creep forward, the traffic police will penalize you. An option we don't have in the UK is to turn right on red traffic lights. You need to come to a stop first, watch out for oncoming traffic and ensure there are no notices prohibiting the option.

Gas stations used to be simple to negotiate. Lately they have got fussy about payment. At most gas stations now you need to prepay indoors before pumping. Credit cards not accepted outside without a local zip code. This means unfortunately that you can't simply fill the tank. You need to guess the space available - in dollars. Don't go on long journeys when low on gas. Gas stations can be far apart.

When visiting the coast, be wary of driving onto quiet beaches where the car can get stuck. Only drive on beaches where the use of vehicles is allowed, and do it at busy times when help is available. Daytona is one beach where cars are allowed, and there is good support from officials and the public.

Keep change available and easily accessible for toll roads. You will probably encounter them when driving from the airport. If I4 is busy, look for alternatives. Memorize the main road structure. Be prepared to take wrong turns. You won't get it right all the time, and you will end up in unexpected places. If asking for directions, stop in a well lit, public area. It's a good idea to memorize the maib road structure in the area. When you get lost, drive in the direction of a road you know well. If you rely on satellite navigation fo all your journeys you will never get used to the road layout, so only use it when necessary Driving in Florida is something all UK drivers can do, and after initial uncertainty you wiil enjoy the experience. Drivers in Florida tend to be very forgiving - it's not Italy. Give it a go and have fun!