| All Questions for Lucy Beebe Tobias |
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| What is there for Seniors to do in February in Florida? |
| Asked by DOREEN HOSS on June 27, 2009 |
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Q: COMING TO FLORIDA IN FEB. WHAT IS THERE FOR SENIORS TO DO?
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A: Dear Doreen,
Oh, my! So much for seniors to do, so little time!
Let's start with what I think is a big plus - Florida is a great place to do things at your own pace. Like to sleep late? No problem, tours of places are given often throughout a day. Don't feel like walking? No problem, for example in St. Augustine see the sights by horse carriage or tram ride.
And you picked February, when the temperatures are mid 70s during the day and mid 50s in the evening. Perfect! On to things to do - The Renaissance Festival takes place in Deerfield Beach for five weekends in February and March. The Strawberry Festival in Plant City celebrates their famous crop - have strawberry shortcake, the best! In Tampa the Gasparilla Pirate Festival takes over downtown. Universal in Orlando celebrates Mardi Gras during February. See VISIT FLORIDA's Calendar of events for festival and event times and dates.
And did I mention we have wonderful botanical gardens and award-winning parks? If you like seeing tropical beauty, walking along nature paths and sifting sand between your toes on the beach, we've got plenty of choices.
Last, certainly not least, Florida is a BIG state, over 1,000 miles from tip to tip. I'd suggest picking an area that appeals to you, say, for example, Central Florida then making a list of wanna gos - in Orlando, there are theme parks and also Leu Gardens, one of our botanical beauties, plus the beaches are ever so close and you can go see the Space Coast. Through all of this, Florida is senior-friendly by its geography -we're flat! Well, almost flat.
Enjoy, Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Where to Get in the Cockpit of a Blue Angel Plane? |
| Asked by Amy on June 15, 2009 |
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Q: I heard an ad. for your blog on the radio, it advertised getting to sit in the cockpit of a blue angel plane. Where would I find more information on this opportunity?
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A: Dear Amy, In Pensacola take a look at the National Naval Aviation Museum. This is where I sat in the cockpit of a Blue Angel airplane. So many dials! After that, you might enjoy trying out the flight simulator. Enjoy the museum. (And take a look at my latest video; it shows me in the plane and much more!) Lucy Beebe Tobias Authentic Florida Expert
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| Where Can I Find Quaint and Places and Swimimng/Scuba? |
| Asked by Elizabeth Pryor on June 14, 2009 |
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Q: Hi there... I will be making my first visit to Florida in early August of this year. I would love advice about where to stay where I can do some of the following: stay in a quaint local accomodation for reasonable price... hopefully with a place to swim. Take an airboat swamp tour. Get some delicious Florida fare. Take nice walks with fabulous nature, but not terribly physically taxing. Love plants, nature, friendly local folks, good food, great art and crafts, good music. Would also like to do some scuba diving if there is a place which can accomodate all or most of these ideas... please advise! Thank you so much!
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A: Dear Elizabeth, wow! I like to do all the things you've wished for but putting them all in one place, well, let's try to get some together. For the maximum amount of things nearby - scuba, swim, swamp tour, I'd suggest the Fort Myers and Sanibel area. You have beaches, chances to learn or do scuba, nearby swamp tours and you'll see the plants plus a slice of history at the Edison/Ford Winter Estates. Local restaurants have fresh seafood. Check the listings under both places for quaint places to stay. Be advised that none of the walking is terribly taxing as it is all fairly flat. The Florida Keys are full of great places to scuba - from the Upper to the Middle to Lower Keys and of course, the swimming is awesome on both sides. It is easy to travel up and down the Keys. In Key West do visit the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, the only frost free botanical garden in the continental United States. This next suggestion doesn't cover all your wants, but relates to when you are visiting - August. I'd recommend scalloping at Steinhatchee Landing Resort. Scalloping only happens in the summer months, especially August. The Resort is built Old Florida style and delightful. Enjoy. Lucy Beebe Tobias Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Historic Homes To Visit in Florida |
| Asked by David Dickeson on June 12, 2009 |
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Q: I have taken my wife to Edison/Ford houses, Flagler House, Deering House Vizaya House, Bok Tower house. Is there any other houses in Florida you can think of? My wife loves to go to these older houses.
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A: Dear David,
what a grand adventure - visiting older, historic homes in Florida and you've taken your wife to some great ones. Here are more suggestions:
The Knott House Museum in the Park Avenue Historic District in Tallahassee. Call 850-922-2459 for days they are open and tours. The Knott House was built in 1843. At the end of the Civil War, General Edward McCook read the Emancipation Proclamation from the front steps.
The Tallahassee Garden Center in the Calhoun Historic District in Tallahassee is in a home built for Henry Rutgers in 1840. It is open to the public. Call 850-224-3371.
I'd visit Monticello, go to the Monticello -Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, get their free walking brochure of the historic district. Several of the houses are now B&Bs and you can go inside.
In St. Augustine I'd take your wife to see Villa Zorayda Museum, a pretty amazing house - it is a replica of part of the Alhambra and loaded with unique antiques.
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West is always a treat, and you'll see six-toed cats, descendents of the ones Hemingway had when he lived and wrote in Key West for ten years.
I'd make a trip to Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings home in Cross Creek near Gainesville
Lots of places to go and homes to see! Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Getting Around Orlando with Public Transportation |
| Asked by Merete Nordstrom on June 10, 2009 |
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Q: HelloMy son 12 are and I are going to Orlando in November for 8 days. We come from Copennhagen, Denmark. Since I don't drive myself I would like to know if you have any good ideas on how we can get around without spending a fortune on taxies? We would like to go to Disney, Ecpot, Kennedy Space Center, shopping in a mall or outlet and maybe to a beach? Is it possible to hire a reliable person as driver or can we get around by public trafic or shuttle buses? Please help.
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A: Dear Merete
While we don't have the amount of public transportation you have in Denmark, Orlando does have some good offerings for public transportation, there is no need to take taxis everywhere.
A trolley, called the I-Ride runs the entire length of International Drive (famous for its shops) every day, so that is good for shopping in a mall or outlet. A one-day pass is $4.
Bus tours go from Orlando to Kennedy Space Center a lot, here is a tour bus link.
And here is a link to the Lynx Bus Route Schedules and maps - it looks like they go to Disney, Epcot and much more. A day pass is $4.50. Read more about Orlando Public Transportation here.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Small Town Where Everything is on a Smaller Scale |
| Asked by Angela on June 08, 2009 |
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Q: We are taking a family vacation in a couple of weeks and going to Destin. My grandmother is going with us and says she heard of a "little town" about 50 miles east of Destin where everything is on a smaller scale. Apparently you have to drive and park at a lot somewhere and walk around the town. You can go in and out of shops and people actually live in these small scale homes. I can't find the name of the town or anything like this on the internet. Can you please help?! My grandmother will be ever so greatful.
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A: Dear Angela,
Hummm, I'm hoping we can make your Grandmother happy, so I'm going to make a guess that might be that small town where you park and walk around, and people live there.
It sounds like Seaside,a walkable town developed in the 1980s along Victorian lines with houses close together, picket fences and shops all within walking distance. You park and walk around. Seaside is about 24 miles east of Destin.
Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Dry and Sunny Months in Florida |
| Asked by mike mansley on June 08, 2009 |
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Q: Hi Lucy,my wife and I are intending to visit your sunshine state for the first time,we had planned to fly to orlando,[from Scotland]hire a car and see florida for ourselves for a period of 3 wweks, orig. planned to come over in Sept this year but on reading more and more info about your weather in Sept we were dismayed that this is traditionally the stormiest part of the year,what month would you suggest is the best time for a dry and sunny [not too hot[ to enjoy Florida,would you agree that sept is not an ideal time to see flotida at its best,we dont want our first visit to florida to be spoilt by bad weather as you can understand.look forward to hearing from youtake caremr mike Mansley [from Scotland[
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A: Dear Mike,
I'm delighted you and your wife are coming this way! September is the one month of the year that no one, not even with years of experience, can predict. Is summer over in September? Sometimes it is. Does it still feel like July in September? Some years it does. Do the rains and winds come? Could be that month, or not.
For dry and sunny months almost every year without fail, go for October, November, December, January February, March and April. That is, as they say on television. our prime time.
And we welcome the Mansleys from Scotland whenever you arrive!
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Where are the Nature Parks in Orlando Area? |
| Asked by chris on June 06, 2009 |
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Q: traveling to orlando area in 2 weeks not into theme parks but nature parks several options appreciated. thanks Chris
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A: Dear Chris,
Nature parks are my kind of parks. Here you go in the Orlando area - Blue Spring State Park in Orange City is a prime place for the West Indian manatees. They've left for the summer but the crystal clear spring is great for snorkeling, swimming and tubing.
Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka has trails, canoeing and swimming.
In Orlando itself, visit Lake Eola Park on N. Rosalind Avenue with a sidewalk that circles the lake for about a one mile walk. You can see, and feed the live swans and enjoy flowers in bloom.
Speaking of flowers in bloom, one of my favorite places in Orlando is Harry P. Leu Gardens with three miles of walkways through southern-styled gardens. Fun!
Enjoy them all.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Apalachicola Calling - Where to Find Information? |
| Asked by Raul Lopez on June 04, 2009 |
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Q: My wife & I are planning a vacation for the beginning of July & we are interested in traveling to Apalachicola. Would you please provide us with info. on beaches, hotels, restaurants, fishing, etc. in this area...please be mindful that we are senior citizens & we would be coming from South Florida. Sincerely, Raul.
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A: Dear Raul,
Can I get packed in your suitcase? Apalachicola is wonderful. I'll give you some of my personal picks, but better than that - let me give you a real person in Apalachicola who is most helpful. Her name is Anita Grove and she is the Executive Director of the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce - she is delightful and so in tune with all things Apalachicola. The Chamber number is 850-653-9419. And the Chamber will know the best fishing, etc.
I've stayed at both the Coombs House Inn and the Gibson Inn, both were excellent. The Gibson Inn has a new restaurant called Cafe Momi which is getting good reviews. At at recent visit to Apalachicola I had great seafood right off the boat at Boss Oyster.
For beaches, we enjoyed St. George Island State Park.
Bring your walking shoes. Apalachicola is a relaxed (one stoplight!) town with wide sidewalks and plenty of cafes. And, you'll like this, it is FLAT. You'll want to wander and meander the entire downtown historic district.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Park and Walk in St. Augustine |
| Asked by Jacki Shoyeb on May 28, 2009 |
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Q: We only have one week in Central Florida and plan to spend one day visiting St. Augustine. What's parking like in the city? We're not sure if we should take the trolley tour or just park and walk around the city ourselves.
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A: Dear Jacki,
You are in luck. St. Augustine used to have a horrendous parking problem but now they've built a four-story parking garage just two blocks from the Castillo de San Marcos, yeah!
My preference is to just park and walk (but then I wrote '50 Great Walks in Florida', you can see where I'm coming from; one of the chapters is custom-designed walk in St. Augustine). I'd park, go to Castillo de San Marcos, then continue along the bay to the main square, turn right, see the inside of the Catholic cathedral, walk up to Flagler College (they give a tour twice a day, check the times) and also see Flagler Museum across the street and Villa Zorayda.
On your way back, meander on the side streets and be sure to walk along St. George Street. Plenty of lunch choices (I'd recommend the A1A Ale House, upstairs across from the square) and, pat yourself on the back, you did it all your way! Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Three Sisters Springs & Restaurants in Citrus County |
| Asked by joni on May 23, 2009 |
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Q: I would like information on swimming in 3 sisters springs in Citrus County and restaurants in the area. Good ones, not tourist traps. Thanks Joni
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A: Hi Joni,
Here is a link to the Three Sisters Spring in Citrus County and here's another link to the Three Sisters, this one has lots of photos.
I'd recommend Peck's Old Port Cove on Ozello Trail in Crystal River. See Trip Advisor's reviews on 12 Crystal River restaurants to get more descriptions from who went there, ate what . . .
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Realtors to Rent a House in 2010 |
| Asked by joan kestin on May 23, 2009 |
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Q: Please give me the names of a few realtors from whom we can rent a condo or small house for Jan-March of 2010.
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A: Hi Joan,
You didn't mention where in Florida you'd like to rent a condo or small house. My suggestion, if you don't mind doing it yourself, is the VRBO Web site- vacation rental by owner. It is very robust, lots of listings and easy to contact owners.
As for Florida Realtors go to their Web site and look under Consumers: find a Florida property, find a Florida realtor.
When you have a specific part of Florida in mind, another resource is to contact their Visitor and Convention Bureau and Chamber of Commerce. I find both of these groups to be most helpful.They want you to come to their area! Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Beach and fu n break away |
| Asked by dawnburingrud on May 21, 2009 |
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Q: 4 women need a break away. Can we find a beach and fun for 4 nights and 5 days for $2000.oo?
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A: Dear Dawn,
yes, very doable. Start packing your bags. You don't say what season of the year, but beaches are great any time. My recommendations: St. Pete Beach, check out the Don CeSar Beach Resort, a wonderful and quite grand historical hotel the locals call 'the pink palace' and it is right on the beach. I found a Don CeSar Loews As You Wish stay for four nights - room rate starting at $274 (for a two person room) and you get a $150 food an beverage credit for staying for four nights. Check the offer here.
In Northwest Florida Sandestin Beach & Golf Resort has a summer Bayside Inn Standard Room for $169 a night that includes breakfast for two at Another Broken Egg Cafe. Sandestin is on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast in Destin, between Pensacola and Panama City.
On the Atlantic side, I'd take a look at Delray Beach and consider Cranes BeachHouse Hotel & Tiki Bar. They have a GIrls Night Out package that is in addition to room rates. Also look at the Colony Hotel on Atlantic Avenue. They have a shuttle to their beach cabana - you can spend time on the beach, then shower and change in the cabana. Enjoy!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Rodeo in Tampa Area in December or January |
| Asked by maura noone on May 10, 2009 |
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Q: do you have rodeo in december/jan in tampa area.
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A: Dear Maura,
I looked in the Tampa calendar of events for Dec/Jan and did not find a rodeo. But you can check back with VISIT FLORIDA's events calendar to see if anything gets added at a later date.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Enough to do in the St. Augustine Area for One Week? |
| Asked by Dorothy Walkup on May 09, 2009 |
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Q: My husband and I would like to travel to Florida June 11th. We're not sure what area to visit. We're in our 50's and don't want to do the Disney thing. St. Augustine was recommended. We only have 1 week, will we find enough to do in the St. Augustine area or do you recommend another area?
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A: Dear Dorothy,
One week? Oh, yes, the St. Augustine area has plenty of interest. Founded in 1565, the Ancient City shows its age gracefully. Bring walking shoes and a camera. My suggestion: stay in a historic B&B to really get the flavor. Walk around the Castillo de San Marcos. Take the guided tour of Flagler College and see early Tiffany windows in the dining room, climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse, visit the Alligator Farm, walk down St. George Street (pedestrians only, closed to traffic) and enjoy the international flavor, tour Flagler Museum (more Tiffany here), enjoy Villa Zorayda (I loved the Cat Rug upstairs) - and these are just some daytime things to do.
I'd take a sunset cruise around Matanzas Bay, perhaps dolphins will swim in the bow wake. Then consider a ghost or pirate tour at night.
Nearby places to see include Marineland, Washington Oaks State Park, Fort Mose Historic State Park, Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (they have a great environmental center, very visitor friendly). Have you got more than a week? This is all authentic Florida, my favorite. Enjoy!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Moving to Florida and Being Close to the Water |
| Asked by Shannon on May 06, 2009 |
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Q: Hello! I plan to move to Florida later this year. I want to be close to the water, in a nice city or neighborhood that's relatively calm--no party central, definitely not close to any college or university. I've checked out the Gulf Coast as well, and I'll I've concluded so far is that I want to be mid-upper Florida. Suggestions on good areas?
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A: Dear Shannon,
ah, so many choices. Isn't this kind of research fun? On the Gulf Coast - I'd take a look at Gulfport (the link is to a blog I wrote about Gulfport). Perhaps if you are coming this way to check things out, stay at the Sea Breeze Manor in Gulfport. As the blog says, I haven't been there yet, but I'm enthused about going. Every weekend they have something great or green going on - they are close to the beach and major cities (Tampa, St. Pete) but off the usual beaten path (read beach towns right on the Gulf), and definitely nice.
Also check out Dunedin with its pedestrian-friendly downtown (wide sidewalks), connection to the Pinellas Trail and beaches galore nearby. See ViSIT FLORIDA's beach expert David McRee's video on Florida beaches and a winning beach near Dunedin.
Like you I am partial to mid-upper Florida, but then this is where I live!
Another place to look is Bradenton. The city is revitalizing the downtown area and it is minutes away from Anna Maria Island with its wonderful wide beaches. Let me know how this progresses! Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Castle on the Highway near St. Augustine |
| Asked by Jeanne Costner on May 06, 2009 |
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Q: Greetings, Lucy, Two years ago I was in Jacksonville for my niece's college graduation. We took a day trip to St. Augustine, and I loved the area. Along the highway, we spotted what looked to be a real castle. It was right off of the main highway. There was a Real Estate sign near the entrance, but I cannot find the phone number now. Anyhoo, a few minutes ago, I was thinking it would be nice to take a road trip and thought of St. Augustine. I clicked on a link looking for a new Summer do, and the video of you at St. Augustine popped up! I am hopeful that you have information of this lovely little castle that is on my mind these days. Thank you. Jeanne Costner, Virginia Beach, Va.
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A: Dear Jeanne,
I know just the castle you mean. It is Castle Ottis, built to be an impression of an Irish castle some 1,000 years ago. Closed to the public, you can call for a private tour for a group. The number is 904-824-3274.
This castle is included in my VISIT FLORIDA story on Funky Florida
After all, what could be more funky than a castle sitting off the highway on A1A near St. Augustine?
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Festivals in Florida in August & September |
| Asked by Jon Ellery on May 06, 2009 |
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Q: I am travelling in Florids Aug 23rd until Sep 20 this year. Do you know of any fetes, fairs, festivals that we could visit?
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A: Dear Jon,
Oh, yes. Wind it up and bring an appetite. We've got festivals. How about the Florida Catfish Classic Festival on Aug. 28 in Wewahitchka (Northwest Florida) or the Bayshore Art and Craft Festival on Sept. 19 in Charlotte Harbor. See Florida Festivals and Events for more information.
And don't forget the ongoing celebrations, like farmer's markets, regular music gatherings and more. Check out VISIT FLORIDA's event calendar.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| German Speaking Hotels in Orlando and Miami |
| Asked by marsha baker on May 04, 2009 |
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Q: My German family who speak limited english are toufing orlando to miami. Are there any German speaking hotels/attractions/ services?
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A: Dear Marsha,
Nein. I tried different ways of Googling your request and did not find answers. Some comments on Trip Advisor spoke of German-speaking hotel employees but I didn't find a central reference that would give me lists of German-speaking services at hotels or attractions.. I'd suggest that when you are researching places to go and stay in Orlando and Miami that you call and ask if they have German speaking services. That slows down the process but you will have a definite answer for each location.
By the way, did you know the VISIT FLORIDA web site has a Deutsch version? Yes! Here is the link, Hab SpaB!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Low Key Things to do in Tampa and Nearby |
| Asked by Gwen on April 27, 2009 |
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Q: I have a friend coming in at the end of May. I live in Tampa and am looking for something to do that is kind of low key, but not theme parkish. He doesn't like to shop, so maybe a park or zoo or something off the beaten path. Any ideas for us?
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A: Dear Gwen,
Oh, yes, I've got ideas for you two - let's get off the beaten path.
I'd start by celebrating the cigars. On Saturday morning take a guided walking tour of Ybor City led a native. It starts at 10:30 a.m. at the Ybor City Museum State Park (this walk is ch. 35 in my book '50 Great Walks in Florida')
It is major cool to see the cigar rollar inside the museum, rolling cigars by hand (he is there Friday, Saturday and Sundday from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more on Ybor City, and to get inispired for your visit, watch my VISIT FLORIDA video
Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo is a good visit. At the end of May the zoo offers several events - Monday, May 25, Memoria Day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. all service personnel, active or retired, with ID, get in free. On May 29 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. is Summer Safari Night and all rides are free after 5 p.m. along with live entertainment and speical animal encounters. On May 31 they have FiestaZoo, a cultural celebration for the whole family.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Seasonal Rental Tax on Private Homes in Florida |
| Asked by Elaine Rockwell on April 17, 2009 |
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Q: Good morning, does Florida or its "beach" towns have a seasonal rental tax on private homes/condos? If so, what is the rate? many thanks.
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A: Dear Elaine,
Florida does have sales tax on vacation rentals of facilities and living accommodations for periods of six months or less. Here is the link that explains the process and has a podcast you can hear. As for individual beach towns, you'd have to check the particular location.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Seeing Historic Areas of Florida |
| Asked by Catie Lynch on April 15, 2009 |
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Q: Hi, Husband &I will be visiting in Nov for first time and want to see hostorical spots. Can you tell what area of state I should be looking at?Thank you for your time
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A: Dear Catie,
Florida is a state rich with history. I'd start with St. Augustine in northeast Florida, founded in 1565, way before the Pilgrims got their feet wet on that rock in Plymouth. Plan to spend a few days, perhaps staying at a historic B&B
Some of your 'must see, must do' things in St. Augustine include visiting the Castillo de San Marcos, walking St. George Street, maybe climbing the St. Augustine lighthouse and taking the tour of Flagler College, formerly the Flagler Hotel.
And here is a November events with historical interest:
Dudley Farm Historic State Park near Gainesville in October and November has visitors help harvest heirloom crops of field corn, sweet potatoes, pumpkins. Corn shucking, corn shelling, corn grinding and winnowing will be going on too.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Looking for Quiet Beach betweem Pensacola & Ft. Walton |
| Asked by Carol on April 06, 2009 |
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Q: We are looking for a QUIET beach between Pensacola and Ft. Walton. We want an efficiency room on the oceanfront. Cannot afford luxury! Just want quiet ocean sounds and sun.
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A: Dear Carol,
Ah, quiet ocean sounds and fun and affordable - my kind of vacation! My recommendation is slightly east of Ft. Walton but it has all the things you want. I'd recommend Grayton Beach State Park. They have cabins. The state park cabins are truly fab, complete with kitchens that have everything ready to go, just add
food. Last time I looked, prices were $100 a night. Wonderful beach at the park.
And the small, unpretentious quiet village of Grayton Beach is a possibility. There is a Blue Wave beach right over the sand dunes. Lots of places to stay - all small houses, nothing over two story. Don't know rental prices. I drove through Grayton Beach recently, it feels like you've dropped back in time, and I would like to go back and stay. For a story one another expert's stay at a B&B in Grayton Beach, read this story by VISIT FLORIDA Beach Expert David McRee
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Getting Information on REAL Florida |
| Asked by angela on April 02, 2009 |
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Q: My husband and I are coming to Florida in October,we want to see the REAL Florida,people,food and wildlife.Where can I get information on all these things please?
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A: Dear Angela,
You've come to the mother lode. Right here at VISIT FLORIDA is a good start. I'd suggest the VISIT FLORIDA 'Been there, haven't done that' project map of Florida with many places off the beaten path (read theme parks).
My Authentic Florida stories and video and blog here on VISIT FLORIDA can help you. I'd recommend my story 'Finding the Real Florida'
and any of my videos, particularly the one on Apalachicola and the video on the Edison & Ford winter estates in Fort Myers (a must see, must do!)
And, humbly, I recommend my book '50 Great Walks in Florida' published by University Press of Florida, 2008. Everything is authentic! And you don't need a backpack to go - the state is divided into five areas and each area has ten walks including a walk in a historic area, a botanical garden, a walk on the wild side and more.
Enjoy Real Florida
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Taking an Orange Grove Tour in North Florida |
| Asked by David on April 01, 2009 |
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Q: Hi there,My wife and I are driving from Ontario, Canada to orlando at the end of April and we were wondering if there are any Orange Groves in the Northern or Central parts of Florida that are open to the public?Please let me know!ThanksDavid
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A: Dear David,
Ah, perfect time for oranges. The largest quantities are available from December through May. Check out this Website with a listing of all groves in Florida that do public tours.
Just giving it a quick glance I see several groves in Northern and Central Florida including ones in Brooksville, Daytona Beach, Belleview, Weirsdale, Haynes City, Citra. Whew!
I've been to the one in Ctira, the Orange Shop and the grove is right next to the shop. I was surprised at some of the jams, sauces and things you can make with oranges!
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Visiting Orange Orchards Near Fort Lauderdale |
| Asked by Fiona on April 01, 2009 |
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Q: Where is the best place to visit grapefruit/orange orchards whilst we are in the Fort Lauderdale area. Is there an inland area devoted to agriculture etc.?
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A: Dear Fiona,
Here is a link to orange groves in the Fort Lauderdale/Miami area. And this link tells you what groves all over Florida give public tours
VISIT FLORIDA has a great FAQ about Florida Citrus. I learned a lot from this. Most of the state's citrus is grown in the southern two-thirds of the Florida peninsula where the weather is warmer and the chances of a freeze are few.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Is October a Good Time to Visit Florida! |
| Asked by Elena on March 24, 2009 |
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Q: Dear Marianne, I'm an italian girl planning to visit Florida this autumn; the idea is to leave from Boston and then drive until Key Wast, taking then the flight back to home in Tampa.Could Ocotber be a good period?thanks in advance for your help, Elena
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A: Dear Elena,
Oh yes, October is a wonderful time to visit Florida. Average daytime temperatures are low 80s and night time is high 60s to low 70s. We're talking short sleeves during the day and a light jacket in the evening. Perfect.
Since you're driving from Boston to Key West, let me suggest taking A1A when possible along the Atlantic Ocean. You'll have lots of beach access right next to the road and go through some funky beach towns. I'd definitely stop and stay in St. Augustine
and soak up history walking in the Ancient City founded in 1565 plus enjoy great food.
Check out VISIT FLORIDA's 'Been There, Haven't Done That' for lots of places to discover along your way to Key West.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Hike and Camp Area in Central Florida |
| Asked by Jill Dilorenzo on March 23, 2009 |
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Q: Where in Central Florida could one find a great long walk/hike and camp area for an overnight? Thank you. WHAT A GREAT BLOG OF IDEAS!!!
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A: Hi Jill,
I'd recommend Juniper Springs in Ocala National Forest. Lovely swimming area, nice camp grounds and plenty of nearby walks.Part of the Florida National Scenic Trail goes through Ocala National Forest.
To find out more at a visitor center not far from you - visit the Ocala National Forest Visitor Center, also called the Ocklawaha Visitors Center, at 10863 E. Highway 40, Silver Springs, phone 352-236-0288. They have lots of free brochures and volunteers who know the forest well. Visitor Center hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. seven days a week.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Authentic Florida Fourth of July Celebration |
| Asked by Keith Parkhill on March 22, 2009 |
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Q: my family and I will be in Florida over th 4th July period and would be interested in visiting an authentic American 4th July celebration. I would be obliged if you could advise me of a suitable venue.PS. we will be staying in the Orlando area but any venue within a 100 mile radius would be feasible.
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A: Dear Keith,
In checking Fourth of July in Orlando, all the theme parks are having celebrations. And nearby towns with long Fourth of July traditions like Christmas and Kissimmee and Apopka are planning parades, festivals and of course, fireworks. I'd suggest Googling the towns in June to see how plans are shaping up.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Festivals and More in June in Tampa/St. Pete |
| Asked by Carol Ann Short on March 21, 2009 |
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Q: My girlfriends & I are coming to stay in Florida in June. i would like a list of Festivals,Concerts,& Flea markets. We will be in the St. Pete & Tampa area. Thank you for all your helpCAS
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A: Dear CAS (what a great nickname!),
check out these Websites for festivals :
VISIT FLORIDA events
Florida Festivals and Events
for concerts try Tampa Bay Newspapers
and a listing of Tampa flea markets but I didn't find any listings for flea markets in St. Pete.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Looking to Beach Areas to Relocate Someday |
| Asked by Ann T. on March 20, 2009 |
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Q: Job relocation to Florida requires driving to mostly Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jax, the entire state. Where is nice beach area with rec, theatre, medical, adult ed, to live? Need hwy convenience to travel, desire beach, safety, other permanent residents. Where would you suggest we consider? Thanks so very much. We are mid-50's, ultimately would retire there. Any help is most appreciated. Thank you.
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A: Dear Ann T.,
In the past year I have spent time in the Ponte Vedra Beach area, north of Saint Augustine, speaking to different groups about my travel book 50 Great Walks in Florida. This is a great area, one I was not familiar with previously, and there are a number of residental communities along A1A that fit your criteria for recreation, theater, medical and adult ed. I've met wonderful people here - retirees who call this part of Florida home now. The most recent community I visited was Sawgrass. All of these areas north of St. Augustine along A1A are easily beach accessible and not far from Jacksonville.
Just one example - check out the Ponte Vedra Beach Library for all the things happening for adult ed.
In the Tampa area you will see a large number of surrounding beach communities. I have friends who live in Safety Harbor and they would never consider leaving. I've visited them and like the laid back atmosphere there yet it is close to everything major, including medical. Contact local Chamber of Commerces for resident community brochures.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Seeing Wildlife and Staying in Bungalows |
| Asked by Ann on March 20, 2009 |
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Q: Hello!I am planning on swimming with wild dolphins close to Panama city in May. I would like to spend one more week somewhere to enjoy somethingelse with my 8 year old daughter. We enjoy nature and my daughter has a specail interest in animals and wildlife. Can you recommend something "djungle-like" or a beach with more bungalow like style. I am not so much into the high building hotels...Thanks for all your ideas!Ann
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A: Dear Ann,
First, let me say that swimming with dolphins is the dream of a lifetime come true! How wonderful.
Recommendations for you and your daughter to see animals and wildlife but not be in the high rise hotels = Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park near the Gulf of Mexico has manatees, and manatee feedings, every day, plus a park full of widlife including a hippo (I'm not making this up!). You can see the manatees when they come up for feedings and there is a really cool Fish Bowl - go down into the fish bowl, it is all glass, and see the manatees and fish underwater. Nearby is the Homosassa River and some very fine river resorts - nothing highrise.
Consider staying in a beach cottage on Sanibel Island or Fort Myers Beach. Plenty of shelling, swimming and great sunsets. Then take the Everglades Day Safari out of Fort Myers, an eco tour that will take you on a search for alligators, birds, snakes and plants. Plenty of wildlife!
Enoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Exploring local site after visiting Orlando |
| Asked by Annette on March 17, 2009 |
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Q: My mom and I are traveling to Orlando for her work and we would like to take a couple of days to explore other areas that we could get to with a rental car. We enjoy agriculture, gardening, antiques and seeing the local sites any suggestions on where to go from Orlando? Mom really wants to see the Everglades too. We also enjoy exploring small towns with lots of little shops.
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A: Hello Annette,
I think you and your Mom would enjoy Dunedin, a small Florida town with a zest for antiques, art galleries and good local restaurants. Dunedin has one of the most walkable downtowns you can find anywhere. It is due west of Orlando on the Gulf of Mexico.
Another small town with lots of shops is Tarpon Springs, not far from Dunedin. The Greeks settled here to be sponge divers in the last century. There are two areas - the sponge docks and the downtown area - connected by a trolley ride. Don't pass up a chance to have some great Greek food.
Nearby, in Largo, is Heritage Village, a 21 acre-history museum that includes Florida Botanical Gardens.
As for the Everglades, I recommend the Everglades Trail Website which shows the many places that are part of the Everglades and links to accomodations.
You are in for some wonderful discoveries. Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Coming to Florida for a honeymoon in August |
| Asked by Angie on March 15, 2009 |
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Q: Hi, my fiance and I are getting married August 8th of this year and then we'll be headed to Florida for our honeymoon. I've never been there and I have no clue what there is to do. What places would you recommend visiting. Hint: we both like to visit: museums, zoos, theme parks, and the beach. Can you please offer any advice.
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A: Dear Angie,
First, congratulations!
For your interests - museums, zoos, theme parks and the beach - here are some places in different parts of Florida:
On the West Coast of Florida - In the Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg area (on the Gulf of Mexico in the center of the state) consider staying in any of the beach towns - St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach, Indian Rocks Beach (you get the idea, lots of choices) or a little off the beaten path, consider Sea Breeze Manor, an elegant bed and breakfast inn just across from the beach in Gulfport. One big plus for staying anywhere on the Gulf of Mexico - the glorious sunsets.
Once snuggled in you are ideally located to visit the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Peterburg, the Sunken Gardens in St. Peterburg. Then head for nearby Tampa and the theme park favorite - Busch Gardens Visit Ybor City , part of Tampa, and have a meal at the original Columbia restaurant and enjoy the history of cigar making at the Ybor City Museum
On the East Coast - check out and check into one of the many historic B&Bs in St. Augustine Lots of museums to see in St. Augustine, in fact the Ancient City is full of living history like the Castillo de San Marcos and across the bridge is the Alligator Farm Zoological Park
The beaches are ever so close including a lovely stretch of beach and access to water sports inside Anastasia State Park.
This will get you started. Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| How far Miami Beach to Everglades Safari Park? |
| Asked by Marianne on March 15, 2009 |
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Q: How far is it from Miami Beach to Everglades Safari Park? Is ESP closest to Miami Beach? Thank You.
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A: Dear Marianne,
Everglades Safari Park is about 17 minutes or 10.8 miles west of Miami Beach. ESP is actually `closest to Miami - about 10 minutes or 3.7 miles.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Taking a driving tour along the Florida Coast |
| Asked by Robbie Jones on March 11, 2009 |
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Q: Want to take a driving tour along the Florida coast. Got any ideas?
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A: Dear Robbie,
I recommend the book 'Highway A1A: Florida at the Edge' by Herb Hiller, it shows you the road and the history of what happened politically along the way.
Taking A1A along the Atlantic Coast is a facinating ride. I've done parts but not all of it. Another recommendation is 'Been There, Haven't Done That' by VISIT FLORIDA. Great map if the state with lots of ideas, including along both coasts.
This may surprise you - From Pensacola to Key West is a distance of about 1,000 miles. Starting in the Northwest, drive along Highway 98 for best coast views. Then down the Gulf of Mexico coast, It is a bit harder in the Southwest area to get close to the water all the time, but possible in some areas. Next is the drive down the Florida Keys with wonderful water views on both sides of the road. And A1A will take you up the Atlantic Coast. So many choices! Enjoy.
I'd start with the Northwest section - lots of reasons to linger.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Where is the best employement area in Florida |
| Asked by Elizabeth on February 22, 2009 |
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Q: I want to relocate to Florida. I love the water and palm trees. Where is the best employment area?
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A: Dear Lizzy,
Hummmmm, 'best' employment area would depend on the type of employmen you are looking for and qualified for and who is hiring at this time. The best resource for Florida business news - what's in, what's out - is Florida Trend
I too love water and palm trees. The neat thing is you can live inland in Florida, like I do, and when the urge for sand between the toes strikes, I am an hour and a half away from the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean. Good luck with your research.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Old Florida Near the Water for Retirement |
| Asked by Cheryl on February 03, 2009 |
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Q: Just got back from 3 weeks driving the entire SW of FL, Palm Beach to the Keys, vacationing but also scouting for retirement resettlement. Where are the other older funky laid back little islands or villages that's Old Florida and Old Hippie. Would love Key West of course, but out of my price range. Thanks@
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A: Dear Cheryl,
Retirement Resettlement Requirement: Older, funky laid back little islands or villages that is Old Florida and Old Hippie. A tall order!
For at least some of the ingredients I'd check out the town of Cortez near Bradenton, the Crystal River area, the town of Cedar Key, all these are on the Gulf of Mexico, then visit Apalachicola in Northwest Florida and see Grayton Beach near Grayton Beach State Park on the Florida Gulf Coast between Destin and Panama City. Be sure to drive Scenic 30A, the 17 mile stretch that has a mixture of old Florida and new walkable communties. It also has a bike path that runs the entire lenth of Scenic 30A.
I'd also try traveling up and down A1A on the East Coast. Many small beach towns facing the Atlantic Ocean have gone upscale urban but there are still pockets of Old Florida along the way.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Distance from Miami to Key West |
| Asked by Ken Webster on February 01, 2009 |
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Q: My wife and I are visiting Florida on holiday next month (March 2009) and would like to know how far it is to drive from Miami to Key West
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A: Dear Ken,
It is about 3 hours 32 minutes from Miami to Key West, depending on traffic and construction. I've included the Google link for starters.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Getting Information on Hotels, Attractions in Florida |
| Asked by Emmanuel on February 01, 2009 |
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Q: Please send all information to Hotels and attraction in Florida
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A: Dear Emmanual,
You can order VISIT FLORIDA print guides on line. This way you have hard copy to study and bring with you. I'd recommend the Official Florida Vacation Guide for starters. It is absolutely loaded with hotel and attraction information from all sections of the state.
And here you are, on our Website. Have you ever come to the right place. In cyberspace, our VISIT FLORIDA Website is the mother lode of information on all things Florida.Just type in the name of any Florida destination and up comes all the information.
Enoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Golf, Walking, Fishing in Miami for a Short Visit |
| Asked by kathy on January 30, 2009 |
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Q: We are flying into Miami and will have a car but will only be there two days. Any pointers? We like golf, walking, fishing, not very urban or metropolitain.
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A: Dear Kathy,
North Miami Beach has Newport Fishing Pier at 16701 Collins Avenue. Miami
has Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables. My son Martin and I really enjoyed walking there - something's always blooming.
Our VISIT FLORIDA Miami page lists five golf courses
A lot for two days!
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Getting from Orlando to Everglads by Plane? |
| Asked by Lynne English on January 28, 2009 |
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Q: Hi Lucymy family are holidaying in orlando in october, however my husband and I would like to visit the everglades, can we arrange to fly from orlando int airport as it does seem a long way to drivemany thanksLynne
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A: Dear Lynne,
It is true that the Everglades is located four hours south of Orlando. But, here's the reason I'd recommend a car -just for starters Everglades National Park is huge, some 1.5 milliion acres. There is the main entrance in Homestead and then another entrance at Sharks Valley and more. If you download the National Park Service's Trip Planner, this is a helpful resource.
And you'll want to spend time on the Tamiami Trail, visiting BIg Cypress, the Miccosukee Reservation and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park called "the Amazon of North America"
To answer the airport question, the closest I found was Miami
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| A Venue with Sightseeing and Ease of Walking |
| Asked by Abigail on January 27, 2009 |
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Q: I'd like to take my 86 year old Mother to Florida for her birthday on 2/21. It would be for a couple of days or so. My problem is that I can't find the right location or venue - a nice hotel with shopping, sightseeing close by and a nice tour that would pick up from the hotel. she can walk but not for long distances. Can you help us? Thanks!
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A: Dear Abigail,
In Deerfield Beach there is a 90-minute sightseeing trip around Fort Lauderdale area aboard a trolley. It is called South Florida Trolley Tours and they pick up at most area hotels. See this link for the tour information and hotels near the South Florida Trolley Tours.
St. Augustine
has Old Town Trolley Tours that go through historic downtown and our Website at VISIT FLORIDA has lots of lodging information (see St. Augustine above)
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| When is the Time to Enjoy Smell of Orange Blossoms? |
| Asked by Alex on January 24, 2009 |
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Q: We love the smell of orange blossoms. When and where is the best time to enjoy them?
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A: Dear Alex,
When I Googled orange blossoms and blooming times in Florida, I got a range from fall to spring. That was way too vague for me so I called Pete Spyke, owner with his wife Cindy of The Orange Shop in Citra (north of Ocala). The shop and the groves next door have been a Florida favorite since 1926. Their oranges come from these groves and their grapefruit comes from the Indian River area.
Pete says the time orange blossoms bloom every year is weather dependent. He predicts for this year in their groves that there should be plenty of orange blossoms by mid-February and lasting through March. There you have it, from an orange expert.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Things to See in Orlando Other than Theme Parks |
| Asked by Cindy on January 23, 2009 |
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Q: I will be in Orlando for a petsitters convention 2/17-2/22 and would like to see older sites like Gatorland since I am not into amusement parks. Do you have any other suggestion
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A: Dear Cindy,
My personal favorite destination in Orlando is Harry P. Leu Gardens. Wonderful strolling through the gardens, especially the demonstration gardens that show different ways to garden, including beds raised to table height. And I love the butterfly garden too. Harry P. Leu and his wife donated their home and gardens (50 acres in all) to the City of Orlando. Their home is now a museum inside the gardens.
Check their website for any one-time classes that might be offered while you are in town. We went to a two-hour Italian cooking demonstration class that was fabulous, and they used herbs picked from the garden that morning!
Be forewarned that Leu has a great gift shop, located in the White House, right where you first enter the gardens. My advice: see the gardens first, save the gift shop for last.
Also plan visit the Orlando Museum of Art, listed by Newsweek as one of the best art museums in the South.
And I'd head for Wekiwa Springs State Park, 20 minutes north of Orlando. You can rent canoes, swim, walk trails - a beautiful park. Cooler wiinter months, like February when you will be here, are perfect park times.
Nearby Kissimmee has Green Meadows Petting Farm with over 300 animals you can see and touch.
That's a start for what to do outside convention hours.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
author of "50 Great Walks in Florida"
(just FYI, chapter 29 in the book is about Leu Gardens)
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| Festivals in Florida during Cooler Months |
| Asked by Robyne on January 22, 2009 |
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Q: where can I find out about all the different festivals that are held here in florida during the cooler monthes?
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A: Dear Robyne,
Here are several sites that list festivals by dates - Florida Festivals & Events and our very own VISIT FLORIDA's calendar of events.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Touring a Citrus Grove near Ormand/Daytona Area |
| Asked by Jen on January 22, 2009 |
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Q: Hi! I wanted to tour a citrus grove with my family when we visit next month but everything I can find is 2 hours or more away. I can't coop my 7 children up in the car again after the 2 day drive down from PA. Can you think of somewhere closer to the Ormond beach/daytona area?Thanks~
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A: Dear Jen,
I found an organic citrus grove called Hickory Tree Grove located just 25 miles west of Daytona Beach in DeLeon Springs. They said you could come visit and pick your own oranges but to please call ahead of time to make sure they are there. David and Sheila Fedor are the owners of Hickory Tree Grove, 4510 Audubon Avenue, DeLeon Springs, phone (386-985-1655)
Might I suggest bringing along bathing suits - after the citrus grove, there is a wonderful springs swimming area for your seven children at DeLeon Springs State Park . Also inside the park is a great restaurant called the Sugar Mill Restaurant that has griddles embedded in the tables and you cook your own pancakes and eggs. Yes, they serve breakfast all day.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Staying in Panama City Beach in July 2009 |
| Asked by Lisa on January 22, 2009 |
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Q: Hi Lucy we are planning a vacation to PanamaBeach in July 2009, what is the weather like,I am concerned about hurricane season.Could you suggest any good resorts/condos.Thanks, Lisa
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A: Dear Lisa,
July is listed as the warmest month in Panama City but then remember there are those sugar white beaches and emerald green waters calling! It is always a good day at the beach. Hurricane season is something you keep an eye on but cannot predict. Fortunately it has been relatively quiet and hopefully that will continue this year.
I personally haven't stayed in Panama City overnight. The Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau has several really cool tools you can use to find places to stay and things to do - an interactive map where you can pull down areas of interest, including resorts/condos and a 96-page free vacation planner. Send for that now as you have lots of time for research before your July arrival.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| "Can't Miss" Places on Both Coasts of Florida |
| Asked by Roberta on January 21, 2009 |
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Q: My husband and I plan a driving trip down one coast and back up the other coast of FL. What are on your list of "can't miss" places we should see? We have no time limit.
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A: Dear Roberta,
No time limit! Wahoo! What fun. My first recommendation is to get a copy of VISIT FLORIDA's brochure called "Been There Haven't Done That". It is free. The print publication has a great map. You'll find it at Florida's welcome centers. This gigantic brochure, beautifully put together, has 104 places to stop and enjoy along with specialized lists - Florida's Shipwreck Preserves, lighthouses, wineries.
Well, I'm going to toss out some things on my list of "can't miss". Starting on the Atlantic Ocean side, I'd stay in Fernandina Beach (the Florida House is a possibility), walk the downtown area, then head south, wander down A1A and enjoy beach towns, spend time in St. Augustine, visit the Castillo de San Marcos, climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse, move south and hang out with dolphins at Marineland, visit the Space Coast, see Cape Canaveral and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (maybe you will see manatees).
Stop at Delray Beach (try the historic Colony Beach Hotel) for an experieince of Florida as it was in the 1940s and 1950s. Like orchids? The American Orchid Society has its headquarters in Delray Beach and you can visit their gardens. The Take the Art Deco tour in North Miami. Make Everglades National Park a destination. Head for the Keys and plan to stay a while, it is all interesting. Whew! And those are just some highlights of the East Coast of Florida.
Might I suggest you carry with you a copy of my book "50 Great Walks in Florida" published by University Press of Florida, Feb. 2008, that has short but significant jaunts in places like botanical gardens, historic areas, beaches, off the beaten path - many of them near the coasts.
Moving right along - Back from the Keys, visit Everglades Alligator Farm and Fruit and Spice Park, both in Homestead. Coming up the West Coast, visit Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, sift sand between your toes on Sanibel Island, see layers of history at Spanish Point in Osprey (Ch. 37 in 50 Great Walks), take in all the sights at Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, enjoy a promanade around (and through) the shops at St. Armands Circle, visit Mote Marine Lab & Aquarium. Stroll around Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota. Take in a sunset over the Gulf of Mexico (perhaps stay at the Harriington House Beachfront Bed & Breakfon in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island). Watch Cuban cigars being rolled in Ybor City and see Greek culture in Tarpon Springs .
Entering Northwest Florida, take in St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, then spend time in Apalachicola (I recommend the Gibson Inn) - do have the local seafood, especially oysters. Going west, take Route 30-A also known as "Scenic Route 30-A" , an 18 mile stretch that drops below US 98 and runs along the Gulf of Mexico. If you can, stay in a cabin at Grayton Beach State Park. Hang out in Pensacola and nearby beaches. There is lots more, oh yes, ever so much more, this is a start.
What a trip this is going to be.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Requirements for Getting Married While in Florida |
| Asked by Laura on January 17, 2009 |
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Q: travelling to Orlando from Canada end of February with Fiancee and friends, would like to get married while there, what is required for a destination wedding?
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A: Dear Laura,
Check out The Knot Website for getting married in Florida. No residency requirements for U.S. citizens. Necessary documents: Couples must obtain a marriage license from any Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court. Both parties must provide the Clerk's Office with a valid photo ID. You can use a driver's license, passport, military ID, Alien Registraton Card, and state of Florida ID. If either party has ever been married and divorced, or widowed, the date of the divorce or date of the spouse's death must be supplied.
Both you and your fiancee must be present to apply for the license. See the ido4ever.com website for a good summery of requirements for getting married in Florida. This Website says the standard license fee is $93.50 and there is a three-day waiting period before the ceremony can be performed.
since you are coming from Canada,I am assuming non-US resident. The same site says non-U.S. residents may provide an Alien Registration Card, License, Passport or any other legal form of identification.
Enjoy and congratulations,
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Information on Bryn Mawr RV Resort near St. Augustine |
| Asked by Nelda on January 12, 2009 |
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Q: Can you give me any information on Byrn Mawr RV Resort near St. Augustine FL. How is it rated and is the ocean beach within walking. am in my 60's and want to spend time at the beach, thanks.
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A: Dear Nelda,
Here is Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort's Web site It is described as the only RV park on the beach near St. Augustine but I couldn't find out exactly how far the beach is from the resort. From the map it looks like the site faces directly to the ocean. It is an easy walk. You can definitely spend time at the beach.
Note that on their Website you can download a printable brochure.
I found one review of the resort at this Web site. Someone named Monica gave it five stars. By the way, this resort is pet friendly.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Doing Day Trips from Hollywood Without a Car |
| Asked by Mary Southgate on January 09, 2009 |
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Q: I have booked hotel accommodation at Hollywood beach one week end June. I am about to book my flights to Fort Lauderdale. Please can you tell me where i can find day trips to other parts of Florida? Miami and other places of interest? I am only visiting for a week, do not want to book car hire.Thank you
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A: Dear Mary,
Who needs a car? Take the Water Taxi day cruise from Hollywood to Miami's South Beach or Bayside Marketplace on their catamaran ferry.
In Hollywood rent a bike and cruise along the seven miles of beaches. Tri Rail has a number of daily train schedules to nearby towns. Broward County Transit has bus service that includes Hollywood,though I confess I found their Web site confusing and could not figure out when they stopped in Hollywood, but they do.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Staying near Orlando Airport and Leaving the Car |
| Asked by Kathy on January 08, 2009 |
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Q: we have a 6:30AM flight and want to drive to Orlando the night before, take a hotel shuttle to the airport and leave our car at the hotel while we're gone 2 weeks. How do we find out what hotels offer this service and the costs. Thank you.
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A: Dear Kathy,
The Renaisssance Orlando Hotel Airport, a Marriott Hotel, has a Park Here, Fly There package. I have not used this but several friends have and find it most convenient. Do call ahead to make sure of the package and the conditions - such as staying the night before you leave and how to pick up your car and if it can be left for two weeks.
The Wingate by Wyndham at Orlando International Airport has a Park and Fly Package where you can park for seven days at a parking lot one block from the hotel. That doesn't fit your two week plan but they may do longer if you talk with them.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Spoiling family with a high end July vacation |
| Asked by Toni on January 04, 2009 |
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Q: Hi....looking for the most high-end place to spoil our 1 LT's who will home on R and R from serving overseas (a July vacation)! There will be eight adults---from 3 families, and all of us can afford to spend the money. We are looking for a top spa, golf, tennis, great cuisine....and swimming, too---a beach location would be a PLUS. Some of us are from West Palm Beach and the others are from Miami...so we have stayed at the Breakers and the ritzy Miami/Ft. Lauderdale places....and although we love them dearly----please recommend places other than there. I sent fro many brochures, etc....but I am confused!!! Thanks, Toni
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A: Dear Toni,
Let's look at places that have it all - spa, golf, tennis, great food, beach location a plus and, as you requested, are located in places other than Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm - these are all fun but close to home for you.
Sandestin Golf and Florida Beach Resort on Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast is located between Pensacola and Panama City, eight miles east of Destin. They have five different beach resort areas - Beachfront, Beachside, Village, Bayside and Dockside.
Steinhatchee Landing Resort in Steinhatchee, 36 miles south of Perry. While this isn't going to have all the items on the all inclusive list you sent (no golf course), their private cottages (think upscale townhouses that can sleep up to ten) are wonderful (I enjoyed my stay immensely) and you are surrounded by natural habitat plus they spoil you with their fitness center, pool and sauna. This is a special place.
Did I mention that the Resort is on the Steinhatchee River and three miles from Gulf of Mexico and scallop season is July 1 through through September 10? Wahoo, you and your crew can go scalloping - great fun on your July vacation.
The Don CeSar Beach Resort, a Loews Hotel at St. Pete Beach, fondly known as the Pink Palace, has seven and a half miles of beach. Sigh. Think sunsets. That is, if you can break everyone away from the beach yoga, volleyball, two pools, shops. . . and a nearby golf course. Oh, and they have a spa. In addition to human treatments they have a canine massage for your special family member. Please don't tell my dogs or they'll want to sign up.
I'd like to suggest a VISIT FLORIDA article to you about Florida's Grand Dames, storied hotels of yesteryear that still welcome guests, often in beautiful surroundings that pamper you with elegance - just some more ideas at this link As you check these suggestions out, I'm sure one or more will "speak" to you.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Is There a Castle near Arcadia? |
| Asked by Carolyn on December 22, 2008 |
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Q: There is suppose to be a castle in or near Arcadia - any info? Thanks.
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A: Dear Carolyn,
Indeed. There is a castle 22 miles northwest of Arcadia. It is Solomon's Castle
Check out their Web site for directions, hours and fees.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Victorian Houses in Florida |
| Asked by Dafne on December 17, 2008 |
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Q: I'm nuts for Victorian houses and was wondering whether you could kindly direct me to historical districts in Florida exhibiting this style of architecture for me to explore, since it seems to me these areas are rather scarce. I understand your hometown of Ocala is a prime area, as is St. Augustine, and perhaps Jacksonville. Would you know of any others? My goal is to eventually settle in one of these places and purchase a Victorian home requiring renovation. Thank you! Dafne in Fort Lauderdale
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A: Dear Dafne,
You are a kindred spirit. I love historical districts and it would be pretty amazing to live in one. Here is a link to the National Register of Historic Places in Florida. I like their tag line: "232 years, 144 days since July 4, 1776 getting older every day . . ."
You click on any county in Florida and get the listing of historic districts with brief descriptions including if they have Victorian homes. Yes, Ocala has a large historic district, well worth a visit. Some others you might enjoy - Fernandina Beach has 50 blocks on the National Register. Check with the Amelia Island Museum of History, they give Victorian home walking tours.
Lakeland has the Munn Park Historic District. Tallahassee has several including the Park Avenue Historic District and Calhoun Historic District (both are in my book "50 Great Walks in Florida").
Honestly, you have opened Pandora's box. So many historic districts to visit!
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Condo Near Beach in February/March |
| Asked by ray rovinsky on December 16, 2008 |
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Q: 2 br condo, balcony, near beach, near great restaurants, 2 months feb&mar not in Ft myers are prefer east coast 2 adults for rent
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A: Dear Ray,
Ummm, I'm confused, you are looking for a condo near the beach, not in Fort Myers but prefer East Coast. Fort Myers is on the West Coast.
Whatever coast attracts you, look for rentals near the beach under Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO)
This site has 110,000 rentals in all kinds of places. Click on Florida on their map. Of course, Florida is very popular, especially in February and March when the weather is wintery up north.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Stayng in a +55 resort in Southwest Florida |
| Asked by on December 10, 2008 |
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Q: Hi,We are interested in staying at a +55 rv resort in southwest florida for the various activities offered but we not have a rv. Do any offer short term rental say a month or less?Thank youBill
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A: Dear Bill,
You have me stumped. I don't know the RV world but I do know when I meet people with RVs they love their freewheeling, travel-when-you-want way of life. Here is a link with many RV resort address in Southwest Florida. Contact a few to see if they do short term rentals.
I also found a Florida www.floridarver.com/monthly email RVer newsletter that will give current news about places to stay and the contact people in the newsletter can be very helpful to you. They are the real deal - RVers.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Weather in Florida in February |
| Asked by Nick on December 10, 2008 |
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Q: will be on vacation 3rd week of feb. wondering how weather usually is in Fl. Tampa area or any other area. do enjoy beach
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A: Dear Nick,
Here is a link with February temperatures in places around Florida. For Tampa the high is 72 and the low is 54. That means a jacket in the evening and early morning, short sleeves and sandals during the day. The beach will be glorious.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Shopping and Casinos in Orlando Would Be Nice |
| Asked by v key on December 05, 2008 |
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Q: My best friend and I will be looking for things to do while her husband play's golf. Shopping and casinos would be nice. We will be staying a week starting 12/8---in Orlando----HELP---
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A: Dear V Kay,
Never fear. While hubby tees off, you and your best friend have tons of options. Here is a City Search link to the casino options in Orlando.
For shopping, well, buckle up. The sky is the limit. For starters, Orlando is well known for its sheer number of outlet stores. Check out the Prime Outlet on International Drive.The Drive itself is one long shopping experience.
Malls you might like are Mall at Millenia, Florida Mall and Downtown Disney. Here is an article on the 10 best Orlando Mall Reviews.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Warm Beach Experience in December |
| Asked by Elizabeth on December 03, 2008 |
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Q: Is there anywhere to get the warm beach experience in FL over Christmas? We are 60 but young in heart and body. I am dying for some sunshine and an uncomplicated, last minute travel plan.
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A: Dear Elizabeth,
I live inland in the middle of the state and lately it has been nippy in the mornings, fleece weather, then back to short sleeves and sunshine by noon. Beaches are the same this time of year.
My inclination would be to head for South Florida and stay in the Upper or Middle Keys. For the best advice on a warm beach experience, go to our VISIT FLORIDA Beach and Surf Expert David McRee He wrote the book on Florida beaches, literally!
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Senior Discounts in Fort Lauderdale |
| Asked by Mary Jane Wilson on December 03, 2008 |
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Q: I am planning to take my elderly (mid-80's) to the Fort Lauderdale area over the Christmas break. Can you advise of any seniors discounts or coupons for hotels, meal, entertainment? Any information you can give me is appreciated. Thnx
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A: Dear Many Jane
Is this family a member of AAA or AARP? Both offer senior discounts. In Fort Lauderdale, I found the "Marriott Senior Discount" that takes 15 percent off room rates.
And I would call the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 22-SUNNY and ask them to point the way to discounts.
In traveling I find when you arrive almost every hotel, visitor center and many businesses have booklets about the local area and these are loaded with coupons for attractions, meals and more. These coupons are often for all ages, some for kids and seniors.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Picking Accomodations in Naples in March |
| Asked by Linda Gredley on December 03, 2008 |
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Q: We are visiting Florida in March and are thinking of spending some time in Naples. I would rather arrive without booking accommodation so that I can choose where I like the look of and for how long I want to stay. Would you advise this at peak season? I'm boogled eyed at the choice. Thank Linda
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A: Dear Linda,
It is easy to get boogled eyed (or is it Googled eyed?) at the choices. But isn't it wonderful to have choices? I'd say you are right - March is high peak season.You could arrive and be disappointed at not getting a room. Or, being brave, you could find the perfect place and there is still space.No way to know ahead of time.
Let's try a slightly different approach while you are still at home Googling or Yahooning. Think about what is important for you - want to be near the beach? Then try "Naples, Florida hotels b&bs near beaches" or key words like that. Want to be in the heart of downtown? "Naples, downtown accomodations" and do an accomodations search in Naples on our VISIT FLORIDA web site and narrow down the search to your "Must Haves"
Or, here's the plan I would do - pick one place ahead of time for the first night or two (I like a destination with a bed) then look around for where you will stay next!
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Historic Florida Homes to Visit |
| Asked by David on November 29, 2008 |
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Q: OK, my wife loves! these places: Flagler Museum, Deering Estate, Vizcaya, Ford/Edison homes and Bok Tower (the house!). Are there any other homes in Florida similar to these houses that I can take her to?
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A: Dear David,
Let's up the ante. Book a stay at Don CeSar Beach Resort located in St. Pete Beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Known as the Pink Palace since it was built in 1928, staying there is a step into Florida's elegant past laced with today's comforts.
Then on to South Florida to Sunday Champagne Brunch or a traditional English High Tea at Afternoon Tea at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. The Biltmore, built in the 1920s, is both a museum of Florida's past and a golf and spa resport.
Here are suggestions of historic homes/places to visit, but one can't stay overnight (although I'd certainly like to):
In St. Augustine, right across the street from Flagler Museum is Flager College, used to be the Flagler Hotel. Check out the Legacy Tours of Flagler College (check out the times, then pay at the college before the tour). Especially amazing is the huge dining room with its curved windows that feature early Tiffany stainded glass work.
In Tallahassee, check the days the Knott House Museum is open. Luella Knott, a temperance believer, wrote poems and affixed them to pieces of furniture around the house. They are still there!
And I think she would like Ernest Hemingway's House in Key West.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Romantic Getaway on Short Notice |
| Asked by Tamara on November 26, 2008 |
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Q: HELP! My trip home for the holidays fell through and I am looking for a 2 nt. getaway for Christmas or New Years here in FL for a romantic couple. Do you have any ideas at this late date. Budget is an issue this year. Thank you so much.
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A: Dear Tamara,
Let's try Anna Maria Island near Bradenton and Sarasota. Anna Maria Island has three towns - Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach and Anna Maria. Here are two suggestions of places to stay: Harrington House Beachfront Bed and Breakfast in Holmes Beach (I've stayed here, right on the Gulf of Mexico, perfect for sunset watching and beach walking ) and Haley's Motel and Resort
Harrington's Garden View Rooms (you'd walk around the corner to see the sunset - are $209 on all weekends, holidays and from Dec. 17 through April 30).
Haley's Motel in Holmes Beach never left the 1950's but has 21st century convenience and close to the beach - wonderful white sand beaches. Rates go from $99 to $219 from September to January but you'll want to check that as the Web site goes to January 1, 2008 and we're almost to the end of 2008.
Many fine dining choices, Haley's or Harrington's can help with suggestions. These will be within walking distance.
It is not too late for booking a romantic getaway at Christmas or New Years!
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Taking a trip from Clearwater to the Keys |
| Asked by Deborah on November 23, 2008 |
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Q: Hi Lucy,I'm definitely getting your book on the walks!My question today is my sister and I, in our fifties, will have 4 days for a road trip starting from Clearwater and were thinking about going south on the west coast, maybe the Keys (never been). She is military and coming in from Baghdad and we'll have this time before she returns to duty. We like good dining, arts, museums, walks, antiques, the new and never seen, and maybe stay at little bed & breakfasts. What do you suggest? Thanks for your time!
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A: Dear Deborah,
Thank you for getting my travel guide "50 Great Walks in Florida." In fact, depending on the moon, you and your sister could start in the Clearwater area with Chapter 32 "A Full Moon Walk with T'ai Chi/Du Gong" on North Clearwater Beach. I recommend the guided walk. No matter the moon phase, do have dinner at Frenchy's Rockaway Grill and try the She Crab Soup. Stay to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Moving south to Sarasota, visit Ringing Museum of Art and be sure to walk around the grounds and take in the Ca d'Zan Mansion (loaded with antiques) and the Circus Museum. There are two restaurants on the estate grounds.
Not far from Ringling is Selby Botanical Gardens (Ch. 36 in the book) with the most beautiful collection of orchids I've ever seen. A few blocks from the Gardens you come to downtown Sarasota with numerous art galleries and antique stores and lots of dining choices. Across the bridge is St. Armands Circle with a full range of shopping and dining.
Under "new and never seen" I'd put Spanish Point (ch. 37), south of Sarasota on US 41 in Osprey. Indian mounds, settler's homes and recent history are all preserved here. With "50 Great Walks" iIt is the first time Spanish Point has been in a travel guide. When I was there they complained about being off the beaten path, well, not any more.
Now, still heading south, there is something I've never done but would like to do - stay at the Cabbage Key Inn in Pineland. On its Web site it says "A Little Out of the Ordinary: Ordinary is highly overrated." This inn is on an isalnd, accessible only by boat and water taxis run regularly from Pine Island, Captiva Island and Punta Gorda. Their restaurant is known for a "Cheeseburger in Paradise".
By the way, this Inn is one of many destinations mentioned in a fabulous VISIT FLORIDA brochure you can get called "Been There Haven't Done That."
Going south to Naples, you'll turn east to cross the Everglades on the Tamiami Trail (US 41) and be sure to stop at Shark's Valley in Everglades National Park.
When you get to the Florida Keys, the beaches will be calling you. Read Chapter 50 in "50 Great Walks" on Key West, it will be a help getting around.
Please give your sister a hug from me and my family and tell her thank you, thank you for serving in the military. She is appreciated.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Well-Rounded Miami Visit in Two Days |
| Asked by Marty Denk on November 17, 2008 |
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Q: My husband and I are fyling in to FLL in Feb. We want to stay in Miami for 2 days before we head to the keys.I need advice for 1st timers to have a well rounded 2 day visit. Thanks
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A: Dear Marty,
First timers. Miami for two days. Heavens! You need more time! But two days it is. Let's give it a go. Here are suggestions:
the Art Deco walk in Miami Beach, starts at the Miami Design Preservation League office on the beach. Takes about an hour. You'll want to wander around afterwards. Come back in the evening for the promanade stroll around the area and a late supper outdoors.
Visit Miami Metrozoo rated in the top 10 in the United States and/or the venerable Monkey Jungle. Having run wild, repair to the Bayside Marketplace on Biscayne Boulevard for dining, entertainment and shopping.
I highly recommend Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens in Coral Gables. Give yourself a good three hours. Bring a camera - really fine photo opportunities.
From February 1 to 14, 2009 you can celebrate the arts at the SoBay Festival of the Arts at Deering Estate at Cutler in Miami.
Take a Miami City Tour by bus or boat - a great way to sightsee, get an overview, and then come back later for places you highlight on the tour.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Looking for Quiet Place with Beautiful Beaches |
| Asked by monica on November 17, 2008 |
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Q: First time visitor to Florida planning a trip in dec (17th to 24th)Looking forward to a quiet place with beautiful beaches where I can rest with my parents, husband and 8 month old son.Does'nt have to be a big city.Would prefer being in a place where I can enjoy nature.thanks
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A: Dear Monica,
For me that would be Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island. Not only are the beaches fine here (be sure to visit the beach at Fort Clinch State Park) but also just down the road, south of Amelia Isalnd on A1A is Little Talbot Island State Park.
For more suggestions, the true guru on all things beachy is our VISIT FLORIDA Beach and Surf Expert David McRee.
Take a look at his video on Nature Beaches. and his take on state park beaches.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| B&Bs and Speciality Shops Close to Bradenton |
| Asked by Kathy Brooks on November 17, 2008 |
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Q: My mother, 27-year old daughter and I want to spend a day or two somewhere within 3-1/2 hours of Bradenton where we can shop, see nature, and be entertained (see some attraction or a show at night, etc.). I love B&B's and specialty shops (not really into antiques). We've been to Tarpon Springs, Silver Springs, Mt. Dora, St. Augustine, Key West. So we'd like something different. Any ideas?
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A: Dear Kathy,
Shop, see nature, be entertained. My kind of tripl! And I love the fact that three generations of your family are doing this together.
Here is a suggestion for something different - Sanibel Island. It is 120 miles south of Bradenton. Google maps say it takes 2 hours and 22 minutes to get there so it is within your 31/2 hour limit. There are many B&Bs, along with the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge (the water birds are starting to arrive for the winter), lovely beaches and a fine collecton of speciality shops. (for comments on place to eat and a speciality shop, see my recent VISIT FLORIDA blog on visiting Sanibel with my four-legged friend Obi).
Right next to Sanibel is Fort Myers. There is always a weath of cultural things going on. Coming up soon: From Dec. 12 through Jan. 3 the Edison & Ford Winter Estates has Holiday Nights. The Fort Myers Woman's Community Club has Holiday House - two renovated historic homes open for tours from 5 p.m. to 9 .p.m from Sunday, Dec. 7 through Saturday, Dec. 20.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Gospel Music in South Florida on Sunday |
| Asked by JOYE on November 16, 2008 |
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Q: Is there a church in south Florida where we can hear gospel on sunday service ? Thanks a lot
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A: Dear Joye,
Can you hear the sound of music? It is Sunday morning and there is a lot of gospel music going on.I don't know a specific church. If you could narrow your search down to a specific city in South Florida, it would be easier to find the services. While it is not a Sunday service, there is a Web site that lists upcoming gospel music events in South Florida. And did you know a museum is under construction in Lauderhill called the Gospel Complex for Education and Preservation?
Readers, can you help?
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Go to the Keys or take a Cruise? |
| Asked by Jan on November 12, 2008 |
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Q: My hisband and I are flying to Orland Nov. 30th, the plan is to rent a car and end up in Miami for a cruise, we're trying to decide if we should just go down to the keys. Any must see's on the way? Any romantic hot spots?
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A: Dear Jan,
I'm a little bit biased. My vote - For romance, you can't beat the Florida Keys. Something about the blue green water makes you want to slow down, forget the cell phone and work world,and get lost in each other. And then, there are the sunsets.Sigh.
Must sees along the way - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State park in Key Largo - go on a snorkeling trip. In Key West get cozy with six-toed felines living at Ernest Hemingway's house. Stroll through Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden
Possible places to stay - for something totally different, Jules' Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, or consider Casa Morada locaated on a bay in Islamorada and then indulge yourself at one of the many B&Bs in Key West, which, by the way, is a wonderful walking town - easy to get around.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Getting from Tampa to Orlando after Hockey Game |
| Asked by Christian on November 11, 2008 |
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Q: I shall be in the Hockey game of December 30th, 2008 at Tampa . The game finish at 23:00 pm .It is necessary that I leave for orlando after the game. What do you recommend me as transport??
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A: Dear Christian,
I checked Amtrak and the Silver Star leaves Tampa for Orlando at 5:17 p.m. so that does not work for you. Then I tried to check Greyhound schedules and was unable to come up with times (not the most user-friendly web site).
Considering the late hour and the fact that you must leave then, my best recommendation is to rent a car.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| First Time Visitors looking for Authentic Experience |
| Asked by Andrew on November 10, 2008 |
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Q: For first time vistors to Florida, which of the following would you recommend to get an authentic experience of Florida: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa? My wife and I have only 3 nights available, and we are over 50 years old.
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A: Dear Andrew,
I'm going to recommend Tampa for you. Here's why:
On your first day, visit Ybor City, part of Tampa, where cigars were rolled by hand. Go to the Ybor City Museum for a great overview of that history. Have lunch at the original Columbia restaurant in Ybor City, family owned for over 100 years. Now that's authentic!
If you plan to be there on a Saturday, there is a Saturday market right across the street from the museum. Take the Ybor City Trolley ($2 each way) from the market to the cruise port near the Florida Aquarium - a great place to visit.
Second day - so many choices, so little time! Id' go to MOSI, the Museum of Science and Industry and the largest science center in the southwest. See whatever is currently showing at the IMAX Dome Theater. Go to the Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel and now home to the University of Tampa. You will see the onion domes sticking up on the skyline. Pretty cool place.
Third day - Let's go to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and maybe see Legends Field, Spring Home to the New York Yankees, depends on the time of year. The Lowry Park Zoo is another good walking destination.
enjoy, and then come back to explore Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Recipe for Coconut Shake? |
| Asked by mingy on November 09, 2008 |
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Q: a few years ago i visited ft. lauderdale and had a coconut shake type drink that they sold at a fruit stand on rt. 1 on a corner i can't seem to find out how to make it or where to buy them at in new england please help i would love a website or recipe thanks so much mingy
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A: Dear Mingy,
It sounds wonderful. I'd try one in a heartbeat. Unfortunately, I went to my favorite recipe site (www.epicurious.com) and they had nothing.
Let me refer you to VISIT FLORIDA's dining expert Barb Freda. She is a former professional chef and life-long foodie. If anyone can find a recipe for a coconut shake type dring - Barb is the one!
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Asked by Stu on November 07, 2008 |
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Q: Hello Lucie. Really appreciate your insight. I am taking my wife and two young children from South FL to the Orlando area over Winter Break and wanted to see what additional outings you could suggest from the usual Disney fun? My kids are 6 and 8...really up for anything fun. My kids have expressed interest in visiting a farm to do things hand-on like milk a cow or pick vegtables, etc. Anything like that you can suggest either in and around Orlando or on our way to/from South FL?Thank you,Stu
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A: Dear Stu,
I love that your kids are up for anything fun - you will have great family outings .
Here are farm suggestions:
Green Meadows Petting Farm in Kissimmee has a two-hour tour. Not far from Orlando. Green Meadows has pigs, donkeys, cows and sheep and has hands-on experiences like milking a cow!
Long & Scott Farms has a corn maze through November. They do hayrides and farm tours. Located in Mt. Dora, north of Orlando.
The Little Farm in Goulds (Miami-Dade County) is a small farm that gives private tours by appointment from one to two hours where children can help feed animals and milk their goats.
This next suggestion is a different kind of farm - Everglades Alligator Farms in Florida City where you can see feeding demonstrations and take an airboat ride (very loud, my boys loved it).
And finally, on the West Coast, should you be meandering up to Orlando from South Florida, is Dakin Dairy Farms in Myakka City. Open on weekends. Get a dairy tour, walk the corn maze, watch goats race, even stay and roast marshmallows by a campfire. The weather is perfect for this kind of adventure.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Experiencing Florida from Orlando to Miami |
| Asked by christie on November 06, 2008 |
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Q: We are driving from orlando to miami and back to orlando. We want to see beautiful sights and experience Florida. Do you have a recommended route?
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A: Dear Christie,
What a great drive. Here are suggested routes to discover the sights and experience Florida. From Orlando head due east to A1A. This is the old beach route. The Atlantic Ocean will be on your left and you'll go through delightful beach towns. Many public access points to the beach. At Melbourne turn inland to get off A1A and go to downtown historic Melbourne,nicely restored and great fun to walk around and have lunch (Suggestion: Mustard's last stand for the ultimate hot dog).
Further down the coast on A1A be sure and stop at Delray Beach , another great walking town and this one is what Florida looked like in the 1950s. At any time you can leave A1A and get on US 1 or an Interstate.
On the way back, let's take an inland route. Head west out of Miami on US 41(Tamiami Trail). Stop at Everglades National Park Shark Valley to experience a bit of of the Everglades - the Everglades are the heartbeat of Florida. There is nothing else like it in the world. Another stop would be Micoosukee Indian Village, just west of Shark Valley.
From US 41 take CR 29 north to connect with US 27. Sights to see include a stop at Lake Placid to see all the wonderful murals. Visit their Chamber of Commerce for a mural booklet. In Lake Wales go to the Bok Sanctuary and walk the beautiful gardens. Before long, you are back in Orlando.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Place to go this Christmas full of Christmas fun |
| Asked by Wendy on November 06, 2008 |
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Q: Hi, I have lived in Florida my entire life but I am always looking for a place to take the kids that isn't very expensive. I am looking for a place to go this Christmas that is full of Christmas fun. I was trying to stay away from the theme parks since I live close to all of them and visit them often. I have a 6yoa, 7yoa and 9yoa and would like to have a load of fun this Christmas. Please help me find this wonderland. I don't mind staying a couple nights here and there with some traveling involved. We just want to have some of that great family holiday time together that my kids will look back on in the later years. Maybe even make it family tradition. Thank you in advance for helping
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A: Dear Wendy,
It is a well-kept secret that Santa and his reindeer, contrary to popular opinion, do not go straight home to the North Pole after their long sleigh ride on Christmas night. No, instead they take a detour to Florida's beaches. Santa takes off his boots and gets his feet wet. The reindeer like to splash water. I've heard it said their tracks have been seen on the beach at Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine.
Look for the tracks when you go there. The park has campsites for RVs and tent camping if that is your thing. Nearby St. Augustine Beach has a number of motels. I looked at Holiday Inn with room rates about $100 a night in December. The B&Bs in St. Augustine do a lot of Christmas fun things.
The Castillo de San Marcos is a fort your kids would enjoy. Every weekend in December on Saturdays and Sundays they are doing historic weapons demonstrations (things go boom) at least five times a day.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse has a nighttime Dark of the Moon tour on a number of nights during December including every weekend. Obviously holiday time means staying up later than usual!
Ah, the nights. Here is where the holiday memories will shine. On Nov. 22 St. Augustine flips the switch and begins NIghts of Lights which lasts every night for ten weeks. When the sun goes down, the Ancient City lights up with more than two million tiny white lights that fill every corner of downtown historic St. Augustine. It is magical. Walk through the old streets, have dinner outside and I'll bet if you take a nighittime tour at the lighthouse, you'll see all those lights from up high.
By day, get sand between your toes, build sandcastles, visit the fort, the lighthouse, Ripley's Believe it or Not, take a drive down to Marineland,visit the Fountain of Youth, yes, all kinds of possibilities. Then enjoy the Nights of Lights.This could easily become a family tradition.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Getting to Bushnell from Toronto without Flying |
| Asked by Linda Macken on November 04, 2008 |
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Q: I don't fly - how do I get to Bushnell Fla. from Toronto, Canada?
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A: Dear Linda,
take Amtrak's Maple Leaf service to New York City then Amtrak's Silver Star or Silver Meteor to Florida. There are a number of stops, including Lakeland and Orlando, not very close to Bushnell. Here's where I ran into a question mark. Your next move would be to take a bus to Bushnell but I don't see that location on the Greyhound web site. I would call them at (800) 231-2222.
An alternative would be taking the trains to Florida, then renting a car in say, Orlando and from there it is an easy drive to Bushnell.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Asked by Alisa on November 04, 2008 |
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Q: I am getting married on New Years Day in Key West. We would like to take the ferry from Miami but understand that Key West Express is not doing this route. Are there any other ferry companies doing this route? Thanks!
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A: Dear Alisa,
Congratulations on getting married on New Years Day in Key West! Unfortunately, you are quite right, Key West Express is not doing the route to Miami at this time. I couldn't find an alternative but here is a suggestion - call the "Getting Here Key West Florida Official Tourism Website" at 1-800-LASTKEY. If there is a ferry company doing this route, they will know.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Where to go in Florida in February for Nature? |
| Asked by sue on November 01, 2008 |
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Q: Good afternoon, we are planning to visit Florida in February 2009 but have no idea where to go. We do not want theme parks, love nature and animals. Will the weather be nice then? Where would you suggest we visit. We live in France running holiday homes so need to relax on holiday.
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A: Dear Sue,
Welcome! Yes, the weather in February is quite wonderful. Sunny days, cooler evenings, need a sweater at most.
Ah, you will be ready for pampering, someone else to take care of you because you've been running holiday homes! Here are some ideas:
Delray Beach (http://www.visitflorida.com/Delray_Beach) in Southeast Florida on the Atlantic Ocean is a Florida beach town that still thrives today the way Florida beach towns were in the 1950s - laid back with touches of elegance. A suggested place to stay is the Colony Hotel (http://www.thecolonyhotel.com/florida/about.html) built in 1926 and within walking distance of the beach.
In February Delray Beach hosts the Garlic Fest. If you like garlic, this is the place to be.
Nearby nature outings include the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach an the Arthur R. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, a good place to go birding, in nearby Boynton Beach. Also, the American Orchid Society (www.aos.org) has their world headquarters in Delray Beach and you can visit their gardens.
Now since you mentioned animals, here are some ideas about manatees. Crystal River (http://www.visitflorida.com/Crystal_River) on the Gulf of Mexico in Central Florida is the only place where it is legal to have a supervised swim with manatees. Nearby Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park has manatee feedings everyday that you can watch - they are a sanctuary for rehabilitating manatees, and they have an underwater fishbowl where you can go down and see the fish and manatees, plus the park has many other kinds of wildlife.
Consider staying at the Plantation Golf Resort and Spa in Crystal River or the Pine Lodge Country Inn B&B in Inglis.
Tampa is closeby with Cypress Gardens to satisfy both your love of nature and animals.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| What not to miss in Southwest Florida |
| Asked by Bernie and Lucie on October 27, 2008 |
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Q: Bonjour ! Lucie (my wife) and I bernard, will be exploring Florida for the first time next january 18th to February 22nd 2009. Will be starting from Fort Lauderdale hoping to direct our trip towards Miami South Beach, Key West, Naples and Fort Myers (Captiva island) . We think this would give us a good first appreciation of Southwest Florida . We intend to rent a beachfront property in Captiva island for a few weeks and from there investigate the area such as the Everglades, Sanibel island and possibly taking a houseboat for a few days . Q: Do you think this is a good way to proceed to get a first "Feel" of southwest Florida. Are there any special interests you may suggest not to miss? We are 52 and 57 Years old .RegardsLucie and Bernie
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A: Dear Bernie and Lucie,
Bonjour! Ca va? You have an excellent trip mapped out. I like the way you are traveling across the state and then also experiencing the Gulf of Mexico by boat. You will indeed appreciate both Southwest and Southeast Florida. Here are some suggestions not to miss:
When in Southeast Florida at Miami South Beach, do consider signing up for the walking tour of the Art Deco District given by the Miami Design Preservation League(www.mdpl.org) . My son Martin and I did the walk and loved it. The walk became a chapter in my book "50 Great Walks in Florida"(www.lucytobias.com).
Also visit Fairchild Botanical Gardens in Coral Gables.
And Everglades National Park with the main entrance in Homestead is a world heritage site.
In Southwest Florida be sure to spent time at the Edison Ford Winter Estates(www.efwefla.org) in Fort Myers including the houses, the gardens, lab and museum. In a few weeks, check back here at Authentic Florida to see a VISIT FLORIDA video the crew and I did on the Edison Ford Winter Estates.
On Sanibel Island take the five-mile drive at J.J. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Bring binoculars to see the wading birds up close.
If you like to bike, this is heaven. Wide, flat sidewalks and bike rentals everywhere. The prefered mode of transporation for your laid back island living.
a la prochaine
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Does Florida have a Windward and a Leeward? |
| Asked by Charlotte Languedoc on October 26, 2008 |
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Q: Planning to stay a year in Florida we would like to know if the West coast has least mosquitoes than the East coast, like the South Pacific, is there Windward and Leeward ? Thank you.
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A: Dear Charlotte,
I understand the windward and leeward approach (my dad designed boats) but I'm thinking it doesn't work for Florida. Here's why: Florida is a peninsula, not an island. On the West Coast is the Gulf of Mexico with its weather patterns. On the East Coast is the Atlantic Ocean having its own agenda. What's happening in the Atlantic can cross over to the Gulf side and visa versa.
I do know this, as you do too - when an offshore breeze is pointed at the mainland, there are less mosquitoes on the beach.
Finally, I looked on the National Weather Service site to see if I could find typical wind patterns for Florida East and West coasts for different times of the year. I didn't find that information but there was a contact e mail to ask questions.
Here it is:
sr-tbw.webmaster@noaa.gov
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| What is Winter Park Like? |
| Asked by lillian Morley on October 25, 2008 |
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Q: winterpark whats the town like?
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A: Dear Lillian,
Winter Park, north of Orlando, is a lovely, walkable town started in 1885 as a winter resort. It is home to Rollins College and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Natural Art and renowned for a vibrant arts and culture scene.
For example, the Bach Festival Society calls Winter Park home. It is located on the Rollins College campus. Events are ongoing including a Bach Festival with featured performances in 2009 on Feb. 15, 21, 22 and 28.
Every year the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival is a big draw. The 50th Annual Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival is March 20,21 and 22, 2009.
Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Getting from Sarasota to Fort Lauderdae by bus |
| Asked by Angie on October 21, 2008 |
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Q: Hi there,I'm exciting about visiting Florida. I will be spending some time in Sarasota but I would like to visit Fort Lauderdale during my stay. What would be the cheapest way to get there?? Is there a bus service?? I'm alittle nervous about driving there?!?
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A: Hi, Angie,
I'm excited you are coming to visit Florida! Greyhound Bus does go from Sarasota to Fort Lauderdale. The trip takes a little over five hours. The cost was $49. I typed in a day and they gave me the schedule. It sounds like that would be the cheapest way. You'd have to type in your possible days to see if they have service then.
Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Mailing Christmas cards from Christmas Florida |
| Asked by Julie on October 16, 2008 |
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Q: I read about Christmas FL on your page and was wondering if you know if there is a way to mail your cards to the post office there and have them postmark them or if you have to actually visit the post office. Thank you.
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A: Dear Julie,
Good question! I called the Christmas, Florida post office and they said, sure, send them on, they get these requests all the time. They will put the Christmas postmark on your cards and put them in the mail.
The postal clerk suggested these steps: put your addressed and stamped christmas cards in a large envelope or box or whatever holds them best. Send to: Post Office, Christmas, Florida 32709. If you want them to put stamps on too, they will do that. Include a check for the right amount of postage. First class postage is 42 cents. The Post Office has different kinds of stamps and you can specific a specific holiday stamp.
what fun!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Quiet place to stay near Holiday |
| Asked by Mike on October 16, 2008 |
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Q: After 4 days at Disney, me, my wife, and our 2 school age daughters will visit the gravesite of my father in Holiday, Florida. We are trying to find a place to stay nearby. What we want is a quiet cozy place right on the beach, shell collecting, and some attractions nearby. We want an undeveloped area that is really beautiful. Any suggestions? We are really stumped. Thank you for any information.-Mike
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A: Dear Mike,
Holiday is very close to Tarpon Springs. Under the VISIT FLORIDA "Places to Stay" listings for the area, I found a number of beachside options of places to stay, for example, Away to Mandaley Beach Houses in Clearwater Beach.
These are developed areas with beautiful beaches. Sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico are spectacular. For an undeveloped beach area for a day visit, go by ferry to Anclote Key Preserve State Park, You can take the ferry out of Tarpon Springs.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Best time to visit Florida |
| Asked by Rita on October 16, 2008 |
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Q: Hey, I'm writing from Italy. I'd like to plan a stay in your country (Florida). Which is the best period of the year to do this? We generally are on holyday during August but this could be a bad period owing to the weather: isn't it? What do you suggest? Thanks a lot for your help
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A: Dear Rita,
August could be a bad period, that is correct. Then again, as the locals say, "wait five minutes and the weather will change". Speaking of summertime (June and July) is the time loggerhead turtles nest and you can make reservations to go out with a turtle group (need to make them early, like in May for June they fill up fast) at night and perhaps see this amazing event. Here is a VISIT FLORIDA story about turtle watches.
The other three seasons, fall, winter and spring, are all amazing.I love every one. In every part of the state, many flowers in bloom for each season and wonderful weather both for visiting beaches and putting on walking shoes for exploring off the beaten path small towns and historic areas.
If seeing botanical gardens interests you, do go to individual Web sites - most have a planting guide that tells you when certain things are in bloom. One example, here is the page from Leu Gardens in Orlando that tells what blooms year round and what is seasonal. That might help you pick a time to come visit.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Sunny beach not too far from Orlando |
| Asked by Melynda Harman on October 11, 2008 |
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Q: My family will be visiting Orlando for 2 weeks over Christmas. We would like to take a day off from the crowds and relax on a sunny beach. Could you please recommend one not too far away? Thank you so much.
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A: Dear Melynda,
My recommendation is New Smyrna Beach with 13 miles of beaches. Readers of the Orlando Sentinel voted this the Best Beach in 2007 and 2008. And if you want more, Canaveral National Seashore is right next door. And do visit our VISIT FLORIDA Beach & Surf Expert David McRee. When it comes to finding the best sunny beaches, David is the best.
enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Asked by Brian on October 03, 2008 |
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Q: what date does the night of light start please
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A: Dear Brian,
On Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008 in St. Augustine there is a musical concert at 4:30 p.m. then at 6:30 p.m. they flip the switch and turn on millions of small lights to begin the Nights of Lights.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Asked by Ulla Wahle on October 01, 2008 |
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Q: Hello Lucy, I`d like to visit Florida, but not only Miami and Orlando, but the not so well known parts, especially the north west of Florida.Do you know, if there is a possibility to travel by bus or coach
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A: Dear Ulla,
Unfortunately, travel by bus or coach doesn't seem to be an option unless there is a group going somewhere on a tour. When I queried Greyhound bus, the site didn't give me schedules, although Greyhound does have Florida routes.
Is a rental car an option? Just a thought.
Northwest Florida is a large area with many delightful surprises. Here is a link to a neat VISIT FLORIDA on walking small historic towns in Northwest Florida. I'd be sure to see and stay in Apalachicola, home to the famous Apalachicola Bay oysters. Consider renting a cabin at Grayton Beach State Park for real Emerald Coast flavor, right on the water and check out Pensacola, which is starting early on its 450th anniversary celebration, coming in 2009. That's for opener . . .
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Information on Hialeah Area Graham's Dairy |
| Asked by William Hurley on September 30, 2008 |
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Q: I am looking for some information on the Miami Hialeah area. My family and I lived there in the early 1950's. My father worked for Graham's Dairy. We know Senetor Bob Graham turned Graham's Dairy into the city of Miami Lakes. We would like to go back to visit the area this winter. We hope you can give us some information on the geographical area today. If you could email me with the name of the roads where Graham's Dairy once was located. We would really appreciate it. Also, if you could let us know if the original home is still there, we would love to see it. Please email me with any information you could give me or let me know who I could contact that would know this information. Thank you very much!Bill
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A: Hello BIll,
Doing a Google search I found Graham's Dairy road in Miami Lakes but not the Dairy. I suggest contacting the Senator himself. Bob Graham is retired from public office since 2005 and works on training the next generation of public leaders through the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at University of Florida in Gainesville.
His contact information:
Senator Bob Graham
6843 Main Street
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
Office: (305) 817-4060
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| How cold is Florida in December? |
| Asked by Jessika on September 29, 2008 |
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Q: Me and my parents (I'm 15) are going to Florida for the fifth time in December - but we've never been there during the winter before! How cold is it usually in December in Florida?
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A: Dear Jessika,
How cool you are coming to Florida in December. The weather is positively delightful . Leave the snowshoes at home. Bring short sleeves to wear under a sweater or jacket for starting the day or evenings , good walking shoes, maybe a long sleeved shirt or two just for early morning, bathing suits for mid day swims and shorts for daytime too.
Here are average temperatures:
Daytona Beach: High 70 degrees, low 50 degrees
Fort Myers: High 76, low 55
Jacksonville: High 67, low 43
Key West: High 77, low 67
Miami: High 77-low 62.
See a trend? days in the high 70s and nights in the 60s or a bit lower. Wonderful.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Not So Well Known Places to Go in Florida |
| Asked by Pam Bates on September 26, 2008 |
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Q: Hi... Iam in my first year of studies for International Travel & Tourism at NBCC St. Andrews in NB, Canada. I have chosen Florida as a preferred destination & will be presenting & promoting Florida in December. I was wondering if you can guide me with some interesting, maybe not so well known things to do or places to go. If you have any materials that you may think will help me promote Florida to my classmates, I would certainly appreciate it. Thank you in advance for any assistance you can provide me. Pam
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A: Hi, Pam,
Congratulations on presenting and promoting Florida as part of your studies for International Travel and Tourism.
Interesting and maybe not so well known things to do or places to go:
Florida was first sighted by Don Juan Ponce de Leon on Easter, 1513. He saw flowers blooming, claimed the land for Spain, and named it La Florida, land of flowers.
Did you know that North Florida has more fresh water springs than any place in the world (hundreds of them)?Here is a link to a VISIT FLORIDA article on a four-day trip in undiscovered North Florida.Not only do you discover springs, along the way you uncover wonderful small towns with neat names like Apalachicola. Another resource: here is a link where you can learn all about Florida's springs.
I would definitely surprise your classmates with a few stories about the Ancient City of Saint Augustine. Founded in 1565 by Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles, Saint Augustine was a vibrant Spanish settlement 55 years before the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. Here is a link to some Old City history. And you can walk around and see a lot of that history today like the Castillo de San Marcos (see Chapter 22 in my book "50
Great Walks in Florida", all about authentic Florida. I can recomment it as a resourse!)
Florida has lots of vibrant cultural flavors - two places to visit maybe not so well known - Tarpon Springs with its Greek community that came here to dive for sponges and Ybor City where Cubans, along with Italians and Spaniards came to live and work in the cigar factories.
Look at the map - Florida is surrounded on three sides by water. Oh yes, everyone wants to go to the beach, get sand between their toes, get wet.. Our VISIT FLORIDA beach and surf expert David McRee knows all about beaches, has written a book and his personal Web site called the Beach Hunter tells all.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Visiting Ocala, once her hometown |
| Asked by Toril Espedalen on September 23, 2008 |
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Q: Hello Lucy! When I was younger I used to live in Ocala. I'm thinking of going back to Florida for a visit and I will (of course) like to visit my old hometown. Are there any sights you would recommend? Toril (from norway)
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A: Dear Toril,
Your hometown awaits you! Let's go outdoors first. Check out the two state parks, Silver River State Park in Ocala (ch. 26 in my book 50 Great Walks in Florida is the walk down to the Silver River, very cool) and Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, both state parks were not here when you were growing up in Ocala.
Consider a pontoon boat ride down the Ocklawaha River or the Silver River with Captain Tom - definitely Authentic Florida.
Keep your walking shoes on and head for Sholom Park (yes, that spellilng is right) off of State Road 200. This is a peace and meditation park, one of the few in the United States. Bring a brown bag lunch. Stay a while. Walk the paths, meander through the formal garden and the forest then linger by the pond and feed the koi.
Walk around the downtown square in Ocala, lots of boutiques and antiques, visit Marion Cultural Alliance one block from the square , have lunch at Primary Oven nearby where Kelly has a new menu every day with fresh, local ingredients, find something you must have for your kitchen at Bakers and Cooks and be sure to stop by the Visitors Center at the Ocala/Marion County Chamber of Commerce - they have great stuff on everything local.
Then head out Silver Springs Boulevard and spend time in the Appleton Museum of Art. Yep, that is new too.
what fun! Welcome home.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Driving from Orlando to Panama City Beach in March |
| Asked by Jerry on September 20, 2008 |
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Q: March 20 we'll be driving fm Orlando to Panama City Beach. We've never done the drive before so what sites do you suggest we visit? This is new territory for us.
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A: Dear Jerry,
For seeing authentic Florida, there are several ways to go from Orlando to Panama City Beach. it was hard for me to pick just one - but, let's give it a try.
From Orlando, head northwest on US 27 to Clermont. It is surprisingly hilly here - the remnants of ancient sand dunes that once stood up like a spine along the center part of Florida. Visit the President's Hall of Fame on US 27 in Clermont.
Join up with I 75 going north and exit at Ocala. Visit Silver Springs attraction and go to Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon. Some say, and I think they are onto something, that the headwaters of Rainbow Springs is one of the most beautiful spots in the world.
Continue northwest on US 27, then Alternate US 27 and County Road 339 to Trenton. Visit the Suwannee Valley Quilt Shoppe (it is a lot more than quilts) and the other shops nearby. Continue west on SR 26 to Fanning Springs. Cool off in Fanning Springs State Park. Have lunch at Huckleberry's Bar-B-Que.
Head north on US 19 98 and continue around the bend to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, a great place to stretch your legs and it is the gateway to the Panhandle section of the Great Florida Birding Trail. Consider moving on to Apalachicola and spending the night before getting to your destination of Panama City Beach.
On the way back, go north on US 231, connect with I 10 going east then spend some time in Tallahassee.
Whew! For many more ideas, I highly recomment getting the free "Been There Haven't Done That" map at www.VISITFLORIDA.com/beenthere
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| A beach wedding with 70 degree weather in January |
| Asked by Dana on September 17, 2008 |
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Q: My friend would like to have a Florida beach wedding on January 3, 2009. We live in Hot Springs, Arkansas and we will all be driving since the wedding has been moved up six months. She would like to find a nice beach no more that 15 hours away that has at least 70 degrees weather during January. Can you recommend anywhere that has that kind of weather in January. Pensacola was where she had planned to wed in June but the weather there in January is in the low 60's. If this is not your area of expertice, please let me know who I could contact regarding this. Thank you, Dana
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A: Dear Dana,
A Florida beach wedding - it doesn't get more romantic than this! I'd recommend looking at the wedding planning page of the Don CeSar Beach Resort in St. Pete Beach. This is a Loews Hotel and a fabulous place to be any month of the year - plus, it is right on a wide stretch of beach. In checking out the weather, I found a high of 69 (close to your 70 degree requirement) and a low of 54 for January. And, last but not least, the sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico are fab.
On the Atlantic Ocean side, take a look at St. Augustine with a weather high of 66 and a low of 46 for January. Not quite the temperature you want but the Ancient City has great ambiance and lots of historic B&Bs.
Also, contact our VISIT FLORIDA's Beach Expert David McRee
He wrote the book (literally!) on all the beaches in Florida. David is sure to have some wonderfully romantic suggestions for your friend.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Planning for a Big Convention in Florida |
| Asked by Ktg on September 10, 2008 |
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Q: As an event planner for a national association , should I consider the Gulf Coast and/or Florida for a fall meeting/convention with 500-1000 people? Are there programs offered by Destination Management Organizations to attract my convention during hurricane season?
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A: Dear Ktg,
Yes, Florida is primed and ready for meetings with 500-1000 people during any season of the year. One example - the Harborside Event Center in Fort Myers can accommodate a 2500-person convention. Your best resources are Visitor and Convention Bureaus all around the state. Here is the VISIT FLORIDA page on conventions, lots of ideas on this for you and loads of VCB contacts.
Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Retro Motels on Gulf and Atlantic |
| Asked by Claire on August 26, 2008 |
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Q: We are going to Disney for 3 nights, then look forward to hitting the beach for some down time, shell collecting, nature, etc. AND looking for a charming retro-like motel, first week in December. Do you have any recommendations? Gulf or Atlantic? Thanks!
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A: Dear Claire,
Ah, have I got some retro-like places to stay (not always motels) on BOTH Gulf and Atlantic.
Check out the 1926 Colony Hotel, a Delray Beach Historic Landmark. They also have the Cabana Club on the Atlantic beach. Stay at the Colony, take their shuttle to the Cabana Club, go shelling, doing your beach thing, come back to town. The Cabana even has a salt water pool.
For true 50s charm stay at Haley's Motel in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island. Very Retro Style, even has the original bathroom tiles. You know the colors!
Miami Beach has a number of Art Deco hotels and motels and there are some listings in other areas too.
I like your plans for down town, shell collecting, nature, etc. What fun!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Manufacturing Tour in Orlando Area |
| Asked by Jeff Leader on August 25, 2008 |
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Q: I am interested in the possibility of doing a manufacturing tour. Are there any near Orlando that are open to the public. Thank You.
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A: Dear Jeff,
A toughie. None that I found. I'm thinking you'll need to pick an industry of your choice and call individual companies. Here are some possibilities: Orlando is a big player in the aviation and aerospace industry with lots of flights schools and related aircraft and ground support. Technology-related companies, especially high tech are popular.
Plastics are big. Tupperware has their corporate headquarters in Orlando and a retain store on site open to the public but the plastics themselves are actually manufactured in Hemmingway, S.C.
Nearby is the grand gathering of all things space related at Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral and they certainly do have tours, with launches targeted for October and November.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Arriving at ports of call with a 1 year old |
| Asked by Jose Daza on August 21, 2008 |
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Q: What you will do, if you have a 3 days off after arrive from a caribbean cruise? we have a 1 year old baby and arrive at fort lauderdale.Keys, Orlando, Tampa, Cape Cañaveral, or another places to spend this time? what it's the best recomendation. thanks i'm fan of you
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A: Dear Jose,
Aggggh! That's a lot of port of calls. My thoughts after a cruise are to take a deep breath and get your land legs back. A family-friendly hotel is a good start, get settled, then break out the stroller, go for a walk and see the local parks, cafes, neighborhoods.
I'd like to refer you to Jennifer Michaels, our VISIT FLORIDA Family Expert. She has a Frequently Asked Questions page about traveling with small children in Florida and it is loaded with good advice.
Thanks for being a fan!
Hasta
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Lodging in Fort Lauderdale area in winter months |
| Asked by Therese Michaud on August 20, 2008 |
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Q: My husband his motorbike crasy he has a Hrley,I have some lady friends who pass most of the winter in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood or around, I have been to Florida a few times on vacation, My question his can we rent decent lodgings for 2 to 4 months for under 1800.00$a month for winter months. Thank you for your respose T.Michaud
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A: Dear Therese,
With a Harley to zoom around in and lady friends scouting out the area for things to do, your winter months in Florida will be full of fun.
My recommendation: start with the Vacation Rentals Web site for the Fort Lauderdale area, then expand your search to nearby areas. I found several at $1900 a month, none at your $1800. If you widen your search even 10 miles from a major area, the prices change. Also, anything next to the ocean is el primo.
I'd talk live with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce
Ask for Barbara Steiner, Information Specialist (954) 462-6000. I found her on the Staff page and it says Barbara has been with the Chamber for 15 years as the information specialist/receptionist. Nothing beats local knowledge. Locals like Barbara know their community well and can help steer you to the lodgings that you want.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| From Amelia to Key West on A1A |
| Asked by Dennis Graeber on August 20, 2008 |
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Q: I want to travel fl. from amelia isle. to key west using sr. aia as much as possible. Can i get maps? Or trip guides?thanksDennis
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A: Dear Dennis,
Yes, I like your trip plan. Let me recommend a great guide book "Highway A1A: Florida at the Edge" by Herbert L. Hiller. Here is the Amazon connection for the book and also the University Press of Florida connection, the publishers of the book. The page has a good book review.
You'll have the Atlantic Ocean or the Intracoastal Waterway on your left, and on your right, Florida beach towns with their quirky sense of time (it's always beach time, that means flip flops). Here is a map connection to part of A1A around St. Augustine. Any AAA map will work for you.
You are on a truly authentic Florida journey. Give yourself plenty of time. See also VISIT FLORIDA'S page on A1A things to do. And check out VISIT FLORIDA's "Been There Haven't Done That" brochure or online with a cool Florida map. I counted 29 things to do along A1A and US 1.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Temperatures in Orlando from October to March |
| Asked by Dorothy Johnston on August 15, 2008 |
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Q: I need to know the annual temperature of Oct to Mar in Orlando area. Many thanks.
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A: Dear Dorothy,
Here they are:
annual temperatures in Orlando Area in
October = average temp 75.2, average max 84.6, average min 65.8
November = average temp 68.0, average max 78.5, average min 57.5
December = average temp 62.1, average max 72.9, average min 51.3
January = average temp 59.7, average max 70.8, average min. 48.6
February = average temp 61.2, average max 72.7, average min 49.7
March = average temp 66.7, average max 78, average min 55.2
factor in sunshine and during those months, it is light sleeve days and a jacket or sweater in evening should do it.
You can find lots of Florida temperatures at this Web site for climate.
Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| B&Bs in Northeast Brevard for 55-60year olds |
| Asked by Mrs. Smith on August 15, 2008 |
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Q: do you know of B&B's that are for 55-60 year old folks in the north-east area of brevard? thank-you, mrs. smith
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A: Dear Mrs. Smith,
When looking at B&Bs in Brevard, I didn't find any age restrictions, such as being for 55-60 year olds, innkeepers welcome many ages. The restrictions I did see concerned bringing your best four-legged friend, your dog.
Two good online resources for finding B&Bs are the Florida B&B and Inns site - they break down the state by regions, easy to access Brevard area. And I found a Brevard site for B&Bs. Both sites had lots of choices. I would think calling individual innkeepers would help you decide if that location is right for you. Also check out VISIT FLORIDA's Brevard County page.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Art, Architecture, Food and Love in West Palm Beach |
| Asked by Linéa on August 05, 2008 |
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Q: Dear Lucy,Having only 8 days in West Palm Beach, visiting my old friend whom is based there part time I just want to ask you what I can NOT miss- or a couple in any field from arts/ architech to nature/ or other. We have both cars and boats to use and we are a bit in love too! Best regards from a swedish adventiourus and sportive but also nature, food and party loving woman of 38!
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A: Dear Linea,
Ah, eight days in West Palm Beach, let's make the most of it. Check out VISIT FLORIDA'S page on West Palm Beach for many ideas. Not to be missed - the Norton Museum of Art
and if you like ballet, see what is playing at Ballet Florida, ranked one of the 20 best dance companies in the United States.
Get going outside to John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach, one of my favorite parks. There is a maritime hammock, lots of mangroves, great beaches and often live music, yes! on the weekends. See the park Web site for activities.
Hummm, a bit in love, consider staying at Casa de Rosa, a B&B in Old Northwood, West Palm Beach. I haven't been there but I want to go. The photos show a Tuscany-styled villa. That makes it romantic, right there!
I haven't forgotten the boats - not sure what kind you have - but consider using canoes - contact Canoe Outfitters of Florida about going on the Loxahatchee, a national wild and scenic river with large stands of bald cypress.
As for dining, pull out all the stops and go to The Circle at the Breakers in Palm Beach for Sunday Brunch, or for breakfast any time. Just sitting in a room with frescoed ceilings and murals should make your day - art, architecture and good food!
Enjoy authentic Florida
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| High Season Rentals in Naples or Sarassota |
| Asked by Bonnie Grayson on August 05, 2008 |
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Q: Are there any furnished high season furnished rentals for houses in gated communities in Naples or Sarasota?
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A: Dear Bonnie,
the answer is , it takes some looking, but yes. Try these Web sites:
for Sarasota, the vacation rental by owner (VRBO) page
for Florida, see all listings at For Rent By Owner
CNE Vacation Rentals in Naples should be able to help
also try Sunnyside Properties in Siesta Key
You will find both these listings, and more, on the VISIT FLORIDA pages for lodging in Naples and Sarasota. Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Is Hurricane Season a Concern? |
| Asked by g on August 04, 2008 |
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Q: i'm thinking of visiting southern florida in the beginning of october, will it be hurricane season at that time? is that something i need to be concerned with enough to visit later in the year?
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A: Dear Gretchen,
Hurricane season runs from June1 through November 30. Those are the dates. What happens during the season is up to Mother Nature. 2004 was a really bad year for hurricanes. Since then, things have been quiet. Personally I don't think the season is a reason to stay away and visit later in the year. Having said that, it never hurts to check the National Hurricane Center
in advance to see what's happening, if anything. Quiet is good. We like quiet weather.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Staying in South Beach near Bus Ride |
| Asked by Bonnie Grayson on August 02, 2008 |
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Q: Hi!. I am traveling to Miami Beach in September and would like to stay in a really nice/safe/under $200/night hotel within a half hour public bus ride from south beach. Could you suggest a hotel right by a public bus stop that would allow me to visit the sights during the day and return safely in the late afternoon? Thank you.
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A: Dear Bonnie,
Here is the Web site for the South Beach local bus
You can see from the map the area that it covers. The shuttle runs every 10 to 15 minutes from 7:45 a.m. to 1 a.m. and costs .25 cents. I'd look at the Miami Beach Visitor's Visitor's Center
or call them at (305) 672-1270 to ask about an under $200 a night hotel that is nice and safe (both good things!). Hopefully there is one near the South Beach local bus.
The ViSIT FLORIDA Miami Beach hotel listing have 100 places. I'd think Collins Avenue would be a good bet. My son and I walked that area every day when we visited.
Have a great visit!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Explore Florida and Bahamas cruise |
| Asked by carmen on July 27, 2008 |
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Q: hi lucy, im staying in orlando in September time for 2 weeks but want to explore as much as florida as i can. me and my partner are going to rent a car, and i really want to go on a one or two day cruise to the bahamas. have you got any more information like where to go/travel and find the best deals, the best company to go with etc? Thanks!
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A: Dear Carmen,
What an exciting time to visit and it is great to have a two week chunk of time! You and your partner start your adventure in Orlando - pick your theme parks and don't overlook a visit to one of the best kept secrets in Orlando - Leu Gardens.
Then there are many ways to go, here is a suggested plan. From Orlando, head east to the Space Coast then south to Fort Lauderdale.A number of cruise lines take one or two day cruises to the Bahamas. Here are two that I found on line: Discovery Island Cruises showing a day cruise for $129 and MiamiBeach411 which explains the different ports of call and cruises available.
Upon your return, head south for Miami, check out the Art Deco Walk in Miami Beach and Fairchild Botanical Gardens in Coral Gables, and then, if the weather is cool, visit Everglades National Park. Then onto the Keys and Key West.
Coming back from the Keys, go west on the Tamiami Trail (US 41) to Southwest Florida, Visit Naples and Fort Myers, check out the winter estates of Edison and Ford, then continue on to Sarasota. Be sure to do an overnight here, lots to do from beaches to museums to botanical gardens.
You could continue north to Tallahassee or go east across the state and head up the coast to the Ancient City of St. Augustine.
Any way you go, you are going to have a wonderful two weeks.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Fun things to do in advance in central Florida |
| Asked by Bonnie Wright on July 24, 2008 |
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Q: Can you list events and fun things to do a month in advance? I'm in a Red Hat group a\in north central Florida and we're always looking for fun things to do.
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A: Dear Bonnie,
planning ahead! I love it. Here are two really cool Web sites for you: Florida festivals and events by month and VISIT FLORIDA's Florida events page by date. I looked and saw 1010 events. No reason for the Red Hats to stay home!
Here are some events coming up in Central Florida:
Thursday, Aug. 14 - Tropical Nights, Alive After 5, downtown historic Sanford, live music art and fun (monthly)
sept. 26-28 - Eustis, Mid Florida Balloon Festival with jazz music and face painting.
Oct. 3-5 - Cedar Key, Fifth Birding and Wildlife Experience
Oct. 4 - Palatka, Artoberfest
Oct. 4 - Williston, Fall Harvest & Peanut Festival
Oct. 9-11 - Palatka, Fall Palatka Bluegrass Festival
Oct. 18-19 - Cedar Key, 39th Annual Seafood Festival
Here are some ongoing fun things:
"Oldies but Goodies" Dance at the Pier, St. Petersburg (727) 821-6443, Big Band music the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month
Music Fest on the Water, The Pier, St. Petersburg, every Sunday afternoon from 1-4, live music in the Waterside Courtyard.
Brown Bag Jazz Lunch, historic Cocoa Village (321) 639-3500, a Friday afternoon jazz concert in Cocoa Village
Weekly Farmer's Market on Sundays, in the City Hall Parking Lot, City of Cocoa Beach
First Friday Art Walk (904) 829-0065, St. Augustine, 5-9 p.m.,
over 20 galleries participate, food by the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Association.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Most economical way to see Disney World |
| Asked by Donna Aho on July 16, 2008 |
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Q: I am taking my granchildren to Disney World in Feb. '09 and looking for advice on how to do this most economically. It began with three grandchildren but my daughter has now fostered two more children so financially i want this trip to be special by staying in the Disney resorts so the children can enjoy everything and monorail themselves when necessary. I made this promise to my daughter in 1973 when I took her to Disney World when she reached 7 years of age and promised that when her children turned 7 I would do it again. Didn't know they would have so many though. Any advice would help. Thanks. Donna
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A: Dear Donna,
Jenn Michaels, our VISIT FLORIDA family expert, is the real pro when it comes to seeing theme parks with family. Check out her Family Travel FAQs for ideas on how to save money inside theme parks and more. Jenn recommends checking ticket prices on the main Disney site and also Mousesavers.com
economically yours,
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Where and when will Harry Potter's House open? |
| Asked by gerardo morales on July 15, 2008 |
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Q: necesito saber cuando abren la casa de harry potter y en que lugar
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A:
Parque temático de Harry Potter en la Florida
El mundo de Wizarding del parque temático de Harry Potter se programa para abrirse en Universal' s Islas de la Aventura en finales de 2009.
Incluirá La Escuela de Hogwarts de la Brujería y de la Hechicería, El Bosque Prohibido y La Aldea de Hogsmeade.
El parque dejará a visitantes ver las localizaciones Rowlings creo – la oficina de Dumbledore en Hogwarts y las tiendas representadas en Hogsmeade. Puede también ver otras localizaciones que estén en libros próximos.
La autora J.R. Rowling ha estado trabajando con un equipo creativo para asegurarse que este parque tematico se asemeja a los libros y las peliculas.
La adición de este parque agregará otro componente de la diversión a las vacaciones de la Florida de los parques temáticos de Orlando. “Una experiencia que excederá las expectativas de los millones de Harry Potter entusiastas”, según Tom Williams, ejecutivo en cargo de los parques de Universal en Orlando, FL.
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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens at Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park in Orlando in late 2009. Included ar a Hogwards School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Forbidden Forest and Hogsmeade village.
Visitors can view locations from Rowling's world - Dumbledore's office in Hogwards and the shops in Hogsmeade while some locations may be in upcoming books.
The author J.K. Rowling has been working with a creative team to make sure the park resembles the books and films.
Tom Williams, chairman of Universal Parks and Resorts, said the project cost would be "enough to exceed the expectations of millions of Harry Potter fans around the world."
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Cruise around the Florida shoreline |
| Asked by Joyce on July 15, 2008 |
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Q: Will be on vacation January and February 2009 and staying in the Palmetto area. Do you know of a cruise around the shoreline of Florida that we could take? One or two days is fine.....Thank You for any information you can give me.
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A: Dear Joyce,
What a great way to see Florida - cruising along the shoreline. Here is a Web site with lots of options from charters to short sailing classes to cruises, many on the West coast of Florida. Two that I looked at (checked their Web sites) were Latitude Sailing Charters with afternoon and sunset cruises from the Sarasota Hotel near the Sarasota-Bradenton airport and Enterprise Sailing Charters out of Marina Jacks in Sarasota. You'd have to contact individual charters for the overnight possibilities.
Separately, I found Le Barge Tropical Cruises next to Marina Jack's in Sarasota(they all seem to be in Sarasota!) with a nice double-decker pontoon boat that goes on a Dolphin Watch, Sunset Cruise and narrated Sightseeing cruise. They even have local musicians, a full bar and a light food menu. This will get you started.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Distances between Ft. Myers and Naples and more |
| Asked by Diana on July 15, 2008 |
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Q: I would like to travel from Phila. to Naples-stay in Naples and the flights go to Ft. Myers.How far is Ft. Myers Airport from Naples? How close are the beaches from the Bellasera Hotel?How far is Port Charlotte from Naples as I have relatives there?
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A: Dear Diana,
The Fort Myers Airport (also called Southwest Florida International Airport) is 34.2 miles, about 47 minutes, from Ft. Myers.
The beaches on the Gulf of Mexico are two miles from the Bellasera Hotel.
Port Charlotte is 74 miles from Naples, about one hour and 21 minutes.
Enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Seeing the Keys |
| Asked by Yami on July 14, 2008 |
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Q: I'm visiting Miami in August. I'd also like to visit the keys. Is it possible to rent a car in Miami and drive to all the keys? If so, can it be a day thing, or would I have to spend a night there to see all the keys. If not possible, what's the best way for me to visit the keys?
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A: Dear Yami,
ah, the Keys, white sand beaches, blue-green water and endless blue sky.
Let's go right now!
Here is a VISIT FLORIDA link to the Miami transportation page. Yes, you can rent a car in Miami. Yes, you could drive the Keys in one day but I would not advise it. The distance is 158 miles, about 3 hours and 29 minutes according to Google maps. The scenery would all be a blur and you'd miss lots of good stuff.
Here is a possible plan:
Rent the car, leave Miami, go to Homestead and visit Everglades National Park
Be sure to take in the Visitor's Center (cool, air conditioned, lots of interactive exhibits) and walk the Anhinga Walk (if the weather permits, don't go if really hot and wear bug spray). Then, leave the mainland for the Keys and spend the night in Islamorada
Have breakfast or lunch at Mangrove Mikes, Mile Marker 82.2 in Islamorada,a place all the locals go with great food and lots of it.
Stop at Bahia Honda State Park on Big Pine Key and walk on a beach.
In Old Town Key West, parking can be iffy. Head straight for Old Town Parking Garage (305) 293-6426 at the intersection of Caroline and Grinnell Streets. Bring cash, they don't take credit cards. Parking is $2 an hour. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and suntan lotion.
Start by walking the Historic Seaport Harbor Walk, about one-third of a mile, begins at the Ferry Terminal right near the parking garage and ends at Front Street. Two blocks beyond that is Mallory Square, famous for its sunset celebration every night. Along the way you can pick up tons of free literature or just gravitate to whatever suits your fancy.
Consider staying overnight in Key West at a Bed & Breakfast. Seasonal rates are good in August. If you do that, then your car is tucked in the B&B parking and from then on, the town is yours, easily accessible by foot.
On your way back up the Keys, stop in Key Largo and go snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Seeing Southwest Florida & Keys in one week |
| Asked by paul on July 14, 2008 |
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Q: we would like to see Sanibel island, key largo, key west & the everglades is that realistic to do in one week? any sugestions on things to see & do & places to staythank you,pv
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A: Hi Paul,
It can be done in one week but you'd regret not staying longer! Here's one plan, assuming you are traveling by car: start with staying in Fort Myers (the VISIT FLORIDA section on Fort Myers lists 110 hotels and accomodations) and visiting Sanibel Island just down the road. On Sanibel visit Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, walk the beach looking for shells, eat at a waterfront restaurant and watch a sunset.
If history is your thing, take in the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, side by side, in Fort Myers. Then travel down US 41, also known as the Tamiami Trail. Stop at Shark Valley, Everglades National Park, and take the tram ride. Continue on US 41, then turn south to Homestead. The main entrance to Everglades National Park is here, with a fine visitor center at the beginning, but I'm going to advise holding off for now - the Keys are calling. Continue to Key Largo and spend the night (41 places to stay listed on the VISIT FLORIDA link). Yeah! You are here. Take off the shoes, sand between the toes time. One fun thing to do - sign up for a snorkeling trip at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Take your time wandering down the Keys, there is just one main road and gorgeous water on both sides. Spend the night in Key West, perhaps at a local B&B. Take in the Sunset Celebration on Mallory Square. Walk around town. Check out the shopping on Duval Street. Enjoy the local color.
Going back up the Keys, once on the mainland, you are right at Homestead. Now is good time to visit Ernest Coe Visitor Center, take the drive to Everglades National Park Flamingo Visitor Center. Depending on the time of year (hot summer not a good time), look at the schedule and take the Anhinga Amble to see lots of wildlife. Everywhere you will have good views of the river of grass.
Then it is back across the state to Sanibel where you began.
For something a bit different, take a look at Fort Myers Tours. They have a Key West Boat Shuttle that gets you there in three hours. Maybe stay a day in Key West, come back on the boat shuttle. They also have Everglades boat tours, where you see the interior of the Everglades. The rest can be done by car.
enjoy.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding a furnished winter rental |
| Asked by Kay on July 11, 2008 |
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Q: Where can I find a furnished winter rental for 55 plus?
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A: Dear Kay,
Check out the VISIT FLORIDA page on furnished winter rentals
I saw 15 entries in different parts of Florida. A good place to start.
Another suggestion: Pick an area of the state you want to visit, then contact the local Chamber of Commerce and the Visitor and Convention Bureau
Good luck!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Drive Adventure in Florida |
| Asked by Rose on July 05, 2008 |
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Q: My hubby and I would like go on a drive adventure in Florida (in November). We need to know if its safe to do so and also, what would be the best way to get accommodation. Is it easy to get on-the-spot overnight accommodation as we travel around or is it better to pre-book it all. We have never been to Florida (or the US) before. Any information you have would be valuable. Thanks. Rose
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A: Dear Rose,
How exciting you are coming in November! Cool, crisp weather, a perfect time. Yes, a drive adventure is safe. Use the same safety precautions as you would at home, like lock your car when you are away from it.
Florida has an excellent interstate highway system with a number of welcome stations, plus a good secondary road system through some fabulous small towns. I speak from personal experience both as a newspaper reporter and a freelance writer. In 2005-2006, for example, I traveled 14,000 miles in ten months, all over the state (going to the same areas more than once) doing research for a travel book. Most of the time I drove by myself and met family and friends at a destination. Along the way I was overwhelmed at how gracious and helpful people were.
Florida is a BIG state. To go from end to end, say from Pensacola in Northwest Florida to Key West at the bottom of the Keys is 790 miles. By comparison, in the UK, the distance from end to end, say Carlisle to Plymouth is 390 miles.
I don't know how long you will be visiting. To get started: visit a great Web site created by a partnership between VISIT FLORIDA and AAA (American Automobile Association. It is called "Worth the Drive." Here is the link
"Worth the Drive" divides the state into three areas North Region, Central Region and South Region. My suggestion: concentrate your drive adventure in one of those areas. Perhaps you pick the Central Region. One of the drive suggestions takes you on coastal adventures while another lays out a route to take you through some fabulous small towns, and along rivers and springs.
Oh, they also have a virtual e book you can read online called "Worth the Drive" at the same site.
You can also plan your drive adventures by your interests. For example, if you are into antiques there is an antique drive adventure in the North Region. Or if beaches capture your heart, the a drive adventure on both coasts will put lots of sand between your toes.
As for accomodations I'd start out with pre-book but not lock yourself in for every night. An example: St. Augustine has a great selection of Bed & Breakfast places. Just checking them out staugustineinns.com/ online is fun. Let's say you book two nights there in St. Augustine to start with then are flexible with where you go next. If you have a really firm idea of where you want to go every day, then pre-booking works. If you want to meander, then on-the spot can work, especially combined with asking for suggestions from Chambers of Commerce and Visitor and Convention Bureaus along the way. I'd do lots of online research ahead of time.
Another suggestion: state parks have wonderful cabins, that might be an option of place to stay. Be advised that November is a VERY popular month, so many spots are taken, especially around Thanksgiving weekend. That weekend will definitely be booked everywhere.
Let's stay in touch as the time gets closer and you have more questions. I'll help any way I can.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| A little Spanish |
| Asked by yanice collins on July 02, 2008 |
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Q: can you speak spanish?
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A: Un poco. Tiene algunas preguntas?
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Ghost tours and haunted B&Bs in St. Augustine |
| Asked by Ellen Lee on June 29, 2008 |
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Q: I want to take my husband and 9 year old son to St. Augustine. My son is very interested in staying at a haunted hotel or inn. He would also like to take a ghost tour, if there are any. Can you make any recommendations for places to stay, money is not a problem, and activities? Thank you so much for your advice.Ellen L. Lee
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A: Dear Ellen,
Get ready to shiver. Ghost Tours of St. Augustine has three trembling opportunities - a walking tour, a sailing tour and a riding tour. The Ancient City of St. Augustine has 27 B&Bs, many of them on the National Register of Historic Places. That's good for ghost hunters like yourselves. You have to be a bit old, well, very old, to have ghosts lingering in the halls and attics.
The oldest continuously operating inn in America is the St. Francis Inn, a favorite haunt of mine.Built in 1791 they have a sad, romantic ghost, a young man from generations ago who fell in love with a servant but then had to stop seeing her. At the Casablanca Inn, they will tell you there is a ghost called the Lady with the Lantern and she has her story. When you call any B&B in St. Augustine, ask if they have resident ghosts. The chances are good they do.
While in St. Augustine, continuing in the shiver vein, I would add a visit to Potter's Wax Museum. Some of the figures are so real they are well, scary. And take in Ripley's Believe it or Not with 800 bizarre or unusual artifacts. When I was eight years old my parent took me to Ripley's and I saw the shrunken heads, conveniently placed lower, right about my eye level. It is not something you forget. But then my parents whizzed right by them. So there you have it.
In the evening, take a cruise around Matanzas Bay when the sun is setting. Sometimes dolphins come by and ride the bow waves. And walk around the Castillo de San Marcos, a national monument - a fort made out of coquina shells. Sometimes on weekends reenactors fire off the cannons. Be sure and walk down St. George street for some international shopping.
Let's get real and find authentic Florida.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Fishing, biking, shopping and fireworks at Port Charlotte |
| Asked by mum on June 27, 2008 |
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Q: Hi, we arriving on sunday 29th june from the Uk staying in South Gulf Cove nr Port Charlotte. I would be really grateful for any must do suggestions please for the neighbouring area, we are a family of 4, middle-aged mum, dad and 2 sons 21 and 23. Thanks so much, what a great site this is.
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A: Dear Mum,
Delighted you like the site. Here are some suggestions: check out the Florida wildlife at Peace River Wildlife Center (941-637-3830) and visit Cedar Point Environmental Park (941-475-0769) in Englewood. Get your toes wet at Stump Pass Beach State Park in Englewood. Sharks teeth and shell wash up onshore. You can also fish there.
Pick a beach, any beach, and watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico.
Rent a bike and see Southwest Florida life in the leisure lane. ACME Bike Shop in Port Charlotte (941-639-ACME) can help. Go shopping at Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda.
South of Port Charlotte
Head for Fort Myers and tour Thomas Edison's Winter Home - be sure and go across the street to the museum loaded with his inventions. Did the man never sleep? Right next door is Henry Ford's Winter Home.
Cross over the bridge to Sanibel Island and visit "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
If you are staying through the Fourth of July. Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda is having their Annual July 4th celebration with live entertainment, music and more starting at 5 p.m. A gigantic fireworks presentation lights up the sky over Charlotte Harbor beginning at 9 p.m. Admission is free.
Let's get real and find authentic Florida
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Authentic Florida in six days |
| Asked by Pat Bridges on June 19, 2008 |
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Q: I am bring a group of 40 (ages 55 to 80) in May /09 for 6 days. What are the best places to take this group?
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A: Dear Pat,
Whew! Six days. Can you persuade them to stay 16 days? They will need that much just for openers. Florida is a large state stretching from the Northwest to the Keys and every area is brimming with surprising diversity - rolling sand dunes, forests, historical sites, great beaches, wonderful small towns, gardens, attractions, big cities, local lore. Ah, the list is long. What is best depends on who is speaking.
For me, some of the best authentic Florida places to visit in a short period include - in the Northeast area, the Ancient City of St. Augustine where your group will be surprised to find this town was founded in 1565 and much of the past still exists. That puts St. Augustine 50 years ahead of the Pilgrims. Surprise!
Pensacola in the Northwest with its fine historical area downtown, numerous art galleries and great restaurants comes highly recommended. And take time to drive along the water's edge, see white sand beaches and visiting neighboring beach towns.
Travel to Fort Myers , known as the City of Palms, and Sanibel Island. Visit the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford in Fort Myers. Go over the bridge to the "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island and walk the beaches looking for shells. Stay and watch a sunset. Sigh. Why wait until 2009. Can we go right now?
Many in the age group you are bringing would definitely enjoy going on an Art Deco Walk in North Miami Beach then visiting Fairchild Botanical Gardens in Coral Gables.
Since you are in the area, keep going south of Miami to Homestead and Everglades National Park There is no other place like it in the world. Then drive down the Keys and experience the towns along the way, ending in Key West.
For suggestions of walking places - historic, natural and cultivated - might I recommend my new book "50 Great Walks in Florida" as a good reference.
you have a full agenda!
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Contact Chambers for advise on where to stay and tour |
| Asked by Nye on June 11, 2008 |
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Q: Friends: I have never visited Florida before, but I am about to undertake a 3-week trip there. I have been told that there may be some areas, particularly in Miami, that it would unsafe to travel in. Do you have any advice? Many thanks.
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A: Dear Nye,
Florida in general is a very safe and fun place to visit. Since I'm not sure what you consider "safe" my suggestion would be to contact the Chambers of Commerce and/or the Convention and Visitor Bureaus in the areas where you want to visit and ask their advice on where to stay and tour around. The best way would be to call their toll free numbers and talk to a live person.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Looking for festival/fireworks with Florida charm near Tampa |
| Asked by Kelly Love on June 11, 2008 |
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Q: I'm looking for a nice festival/fireworks for the 4th of July. My in-laws are coming for a visit, and we are trying to find a place not too far from Tampa. They like old Florida charm, and none of us are big on huge crowds. Any suggestions?
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A: Dear Kelly,
With Florida cities experiencing a budget crunch, to have or not to have fireworks displays is going to be "iffy" in places this year. Plant City, St. Petersburg Beach and Treasure Island, for example, will not light up the skies on July 4.
in Tarpon Springs, famous for its sponge docks and Greek community, the City canceled the fireworks but a private donation by a business means the fireworks will go on. Yeah! The fireworks take place at dusk. Fred Howard Park should be a good viewing point. A picnic at Craig Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. sounds like your kind of charm and hopefully an event without huge crowds.
Fireworks, aided by corporate sponsorships, will light up the night sky in Largo and St. Petersburg.
In St. Petersburg, it all happens at The Pier. Live music starts at 2 p.m. and so does face painting of patriotic icons. Fireworks will be shot at 9 p.m. off Spa Beach. Look for large crowds.
Let's get real and go find Authentic Florida
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Large waterfall in Florida |
| Asked by Shelly on May 31, 2008 |
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Q: I love waterfalls. Does Florida offer any large waterfalls? How about discounts for Floridians?
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A: Dear Shelly,
Ah, have I got a waterfall for you. Large. Authentic. You will think, looking at this waterfall, you are in the Carolinas, but no, this is Florida. Falling Waters State Park in Chipley, in the Panhandle, off Interstate 10 west of Tallahassee. Water from Branch Creek cascades off a cliff and drops 73 feet into a cavern. It is Florida's largest waterfall. Now here is a mystery - where does the water go once it falls into the cavern? Nobody knows.
The state park entry fee is $4 per vehicle, no discounts for Floridians. But I like that idea a lot. We live here year round and so we are, truly, the home town supporters. That is worth something, don't you think? State parks, are you listening?
By the way, two beautiful waterfalls, both manmade, are found at Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, west of Ocala. Both were built when Rainbow Springs was a private attraction. In the spring and early summer impatiens bloom in clusters at the bottom of the waterfalls. It is a picture moment.
Enjoy
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Experiencing Caladesi Island |
| Asked by Kate Merlino on May 30, 2008 |
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Q: What is the best way to see/experience Caladesi Island?
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A: Dear Kate,
For me the best way to experience Caladesi Island is to take the pontoon boat over from Honeymoon Island State Park. The ferry service costs $9 for adults, $5.50 for children. Their phone number is (727) 734-1501. Trips leave on the hour starting at 10 a.m. You get a four-hour stay on the island, then have to return. No pets on the ferry.
Bring your day pack and sunscreen, lots of water, hat and walking shoes, especially if you want to do the nature trail through the old pine snags. Caladesi may be an island accessible only by boat but there are a surprising amount of amenities on the island including kayaks for rent from the Cafe Caladesi. I haven't taken the kayak trail but it is on my list of "want to dos".
On Caladesi, you will find a concession, umbrella rentals, restrooms with showers, a playground and a picnic area. But it is the beach, that long stretch of pure white sand, that is the number one attraction.
On May 22, 2008, Dr. Stephen Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach, named Caladesi Island State Park as the best beach in America. Wahoo! What an honor. Check out VISIT FLORIDA's Beach Expert's video on the award and get a sneak preview of the beach.
enjoy your visit
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Asked by Mike Jarrett on May 22, 2008 |
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Q: My wife and I are planning a trip to visit our daughter and her boyfriend in september to the Brandon area and was curious if there is anything besides the beaches and amusement parks. We've done that our 4 previous trips. We like doing stuff thats not expensive as well as having to spend a buck or two to do it. We also like walking and shell hunting etc. Thanks for your input. Sincerely Mike Jarrett
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A: Dear Mike,
I like your adventuring attitude and doing things that are not expensive. You are singing my song. Here are some Authentic Florida suggestions not that far from Brandon. Visit Ybor City on a Saturday. Start with going to Ybor City Museum State Park.
Admission to the museum is $3 for anyone over the age of six, five and under admitted free. Learn about cigars, watch them being rolled, then go across the street and perhaps the Saturday Market will be in full swing in the park. Wander around Ybor and capture the flavor of this historic place.
On another day, head for Tarpon Springs, a little piece of Greece on Florida's West Coast. Go out on the St. Nicholas Boat Line and watch a sponge diver in traditional garb go down and find sponges (boat trip is less than $10). The boat goes out between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
For shelling try Honeymoon Island State Park near Dunedin. Here is a link to our Beaches Expert David McRee's blog on Honeymoon and Caladesi.
Walking takes on a whole new dimension when you walk around the campus of Florida Southern College in Lakeland with the largest on-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world. In fact, Lakeland is a great walking town. Here is a link to a VISIT FLORIDA story by Alan Macher on walking in Lakeland. He suggests starting with a walking tour around Lake Mirror on the park's wide sidewalks.
Enjoy. September will be cooler. Perfect for seeing beyond beaches and amusement parks.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Asked by Ann Bartlett on May 19, 2008 |
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Q: Hiya we're coming to Florida on the 6th June for 1 week and plan to do some traveling around. Do you know were I could get discount vouchers for hotels or motels. Also I would kike to buy some computer software could you let me know where would be the best place to go. Thank you for your help.
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A: Dear Ann,
Florida has an extensive welcome and visitor center network on major highways all over the state from the Panhandle to the Keys. Check out this map. The blue does are welcome centers, the orange dots are rest facilities. All have booklets with discount coupons for hotels, motels, restaurants and attractions. Also, every Chamber of Commerce in every city and town has the same discount booklets.
I don't know software to buy to find the best place to go but you are already at the Web site with the most information. VISIT FLORIDA is the mother lode. Go to the main menu on VISIT FLORIDA and type in the name of any city. For example, Jacksonville. Everything you ever wanted to know about vacation information will pop up. I like the way it is organized - you can search outdoor recreation, shopping, museums, attractions, golf, campgrounds, places to stay and more. So many choices! So little time!
Enjoy your visit.
Lucy Beebe Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Something interesting and different to do over Memorial Day |
| Asked by Pat C. on May 18, 2008 |
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Q: Hi--We are looking for something interesting and different to do over Memorial Day. Any suggestions? We live in Naples.
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A: Dear Pat,
You picked a great weekend for something interesting and different. It is a bit of a drive but if you like folk music the place to be May 23,24 and 25 is Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs (In Central Florida just north of Lake City of I 75). All the best talent will be coming to the 56th Annual Florida Folk Festival. This the great granddaddy of them all, the real McCoy. In fact, Nashville recording artist Charlie McCoy performs Saturday night.
Children under the age of six admitted free. Advance prices for ages 6-16 (good for all three days ) is $4. Advance prices for adults are $20 for one day, $40 for the weekend. Check out all the prices and schedule at the Florida Folk Festival Web site.
Or head for Palatka for their 20th anniversary Blue Crab Festival.
Ah, fresh caught and cooked blue crab. My favorite!
Have fun
Lucy Tobias, Authentic Florida
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| Asked by Terri Bunting on May 18, 2008 |
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Q: Could you recommend any cities in Florida (other than Daytona) that cater to bikers? My husband & I just purchased motorcycles and he is suggesting that we take them on a trip to be able to avoid the rising gas costs and also be able to enjoy our new found hobby. We vacation every year but are clueless which cities in Florida are scenic & safe for bikers and also cater to them. Thanks so much. I figured since you travel around so much, you might've noticed some cities with "biker favoritism" in your travels. Thankd.
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A: Dear Terri,
I talked with a biker who was getting a latte at our local coffee shop. He recommended riding the back roads in Marion County, said he and some friends did just that over the weekend, spending five hours going past horse farms and over rolling hills.
Next I called Harley Davidson of Ocala
This is a big gathering place for bikers. You certainly will feel welcome. Ocala likes bikers. I asked the same question - where to ride? They suggested starting in Ocala and go west to Cedar Key or go east on US 40 through Ocala National Forest towards Daytona, either way the riding is scenic.
Enjoy your new found hobby.
Lucy Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Finding Smaller Inns in Florida |
| Asked by Gail on May 15, 2008 |
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Q: I had received a booklet of smaller inns in Florida a few years ago, but have misplaced it. Is that something I can get another copy of? Thanks!
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A: Dear Gail,
Hummm, I think I had that same book or close to it. Yep. I looked at my Florida collection and found "Guide to the Small and Historic Lodgings of Florida" by Herbert Hiller, published by Pineapple Press in 1988. Quite some time ago. When I Googled the book this morning, I only found used copies but they are out there and very reasonable.
On Amazon I found a book by Bruce Hunt published in 2001 called "Florida's Finest Inns and Bed & Breakfast". I personally haven't read it but it is a current guide.
Hope this helps. Smaller inns are my favorite.
Lucy Tobias, Authentic Florida
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| Farmers Market in Fort Lauderdale |
| Asked by Sam on May 12, 2008 |
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Q: Thanks a bunch Lucy for the detailed info on Farmers Market in Ft. Lauderdale on Memorial Day Weekend. This is great!
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A: Dear Sam,
You are welcome.
Enjoy the weekend.
Lucy Tobias, Authentic Florida
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| What is the weather like? |
| Asked by vanessa on May 12, 2008 |
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Q: what would the weather be like in florida between the 1st/2nd week?
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A: Dear Vanessa,
Can you be more specific? What month? The best I can do is tell you what it is like in the four seasons in Florida:
fall - beautiful
winter - wonderful
spring - it doesn't get any better than this
summer - hot and humid
Florida is a land of micro climates. Wait five minutes and the weather, whatever it is, will change. Plus, it is not unknown for it to be raining on one side of town and dry on the other at the same time. Go figure.
Lucy Tobias
Authentic Florida Expert
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| Farmers Market in Ft. Lauderdale on Memorial Day Weekeknd |
| Asked by Sam on May 08, 2008 |
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Q: Can you tell me where i can find locally grown tropical fruits like guava, mangoes, jackfruits near Miami/Ft. Lauderdale like a farmers market on the memorial day weekend?
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A: Dear Sam,
The Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop at 3501 Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale is open every day and they have two farmer's markets (one small and one large) as part of the Swap Shop. When I called today, their receptionist said they are open Memorial Day Weekend (in fact, she pointed out, they are even open on Christmas). Hours are 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.
She advises coming in the 34th Avenue entrance to get close to the big farmers market that carries all kinds of fruits and vegetables and even has trees for sale. The 34th Avenue entrance is the only entrance with a traffic light.
Swap Shop is free on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. There is a per car charge on other days including weekends.
I think it would be cool to have a mango tree in the yard!
enjoy
Lucy
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| Rodeos around Florida in September |
| Asked by Sue Canfer on April 30, 2008 |
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Q: We are travelling around a part of Florida in September and would like to know if there are any rodeos at that time. Is there somewhere we could get this info. Our itinerary is Orland, St Petes, Naples, Miami, Key West, West Palm Beach, St Augustine.
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A: Dear Sue,
I couldn't find a central place for calendar information about rodeos in Florida in September. But I did find that Arcadia seems to be a rodeo hotbed. Here are their September dates: Monday, Sept. 1 (Labor Day) SBRA Barrel Race; Saturday, Sept. 6, Little Cowpokes Rodeo; Saturday, Sept. 27, Arcadia Youth Rodeo Association Rodeo Series. See their Web site for more information.
Lucy
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| Art Deco and famous people home tours in Miami |
| Asked by Sue Canfer on April 30, 2008 |
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Q: Could you tell me if there are tours in Miami that cover the art Deco district and also famous peoples homes.
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A: Dear Sue,
Yes, indeed. Here are some tour suggestions: The Duck Tours go for 90 minutes on land and sea past Star Island and homes of famous people. The GotoBus tour of Miami is four hours including getting off the bus and having a chance to take the Star Island boat ride, a short trip that goes by houses of famous people including Gloria Estafan and formerly famous Al Capone. Also check out our VISITFLORIDA page on Miami that has a wealth of tour possibilities.
The Miami Design Preservation League does great Art Deco tours - you can take a tour with a guide or rent audio tours in a variety of languages. Just FYI, the guided Art Deco walk is Chapter 44 in my book "50 Great Walks in Florida" published by University Press of Florida. My son Martin and I did the Art Deco walk with a guide. I'd go again in a heartbeat.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Quiet Romantic Place to Stay |
| Asked by Robyne on April 17, 2008 |
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Q: Dear Lucy,
I am looking for a nice quiet romantic place to stay for a long weekend. My husband is not much for the beaches but we do enjoy the outdoors. We live in the Bonita Springs area and we don't want to travel more than an hour or two. We go to Orlando alot so we really would like some place different. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank yoyu for your time
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A: Dear Robyne,
Ah, second honeymoons. My first suggestion is the Herlong Mansion Historic Inn & Gardens in Micanopy, 12 miles south of Gainesville. Florida Trend Magazine called the Herlong "Easily Florida's most elegant bed and breakfast." The best B&Bs are wonderful for both privacy and pampering.
Since you enjoy the outdoors, you only have a short drive from Micanopy on US 441 to visit Paynes Prairie State Preserve. Start at the Visitors Center for an overview of natural and cultural history. Take in the view of the preserve from the 50-foot-high observation tower. You may see wild horses or bison. Honest!
Ah, but I see by Googling it that Micanopy is three hours away, a bit more than you want to travel.
Closer to you is Chalet Suzanne in Lake Wales, two and a half hours away.
To know more about Chalet Suzanne and other getaways, check out a VISITFLORIDA article by Lisa Fowler in 2007 on the best honeymoon spots and romantic getaways in Florida.
enjoy
Lucy
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| All about Fort Lauderdale |
| Asked by Bonnie Seaton on April 09, 2008 |
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Q: all information regarding relocation to Fort Laurdel FL
(rental properties, taxes, etc
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A: Dear Bonnie,
the official site for the City of Fort Lauderdale is loaded with information about relocation. Under the menu, for example, I found the Property Appraiser and that page had booklets about homes and taxes you could download.
For rental property listings try Rental Homes Plus.
also take a look at our Visit Florida Fort Lauderdale page for a good overview of Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area and what they have to offer for art and history, sightseeing, outdoors, hotels and restaurants.
Isn't research fun?
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Getting a Florida Highway Map |
| Asked by Julaine Anderson on April 09, 2008 |
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Q: I have requested a Florida State Highway map 2 times already. We are leaving on April 30. HELP! Why can't I get a map?? Julaine Anderson, N5270 2nd St., Medford, WI 54451
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A: Dear Jullaine,
Hummm, I don't know who you asked for a map. But help is near. Here is our Visit Florida link for maps
And to be on the safe side, a map (slightly wrinkled because it has been used) is on its way to you from me.
walk in peace
lucy
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| Authentic Night Tour in Miami |
| Asked by miriam levy on April 08, 2008 |
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Q: I'm interested to find a authentic night tour in miami.Any suggestions?
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A: Dear Miriam,
How about twilight? On Friday, April 18 the Historical Museum of South Florida is giving a "secrets of Coconut Grove twilight walking tour" from 6-8 p.m., bring a flashlight. They offer other twilight and night tours and keep a three month calendar so you can check what's coming up next.
The Miami Design Preservation League in Miami Beach does a "Deco Underworld Tour" about the gangster days in Miami. I'm not sure if this is a night tour. Call them at (305) 672-2014.
Ghost Tours of Coconut Grove
gives nightly walks through old tropical streets and along Florida Bay. Coconut Grove is in the heart of Miami. This is billed as a walk into the past that is family friendly.
walk in peace
lucy
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| Exploring Island Waterways |
| Asked by Patti R. on April 07, 2008 |
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Q: We are planning on trailering our 15 foot Caribe boat to Florida next spring to explore the inland waterways. Where would be the best location to do this from and is there a condo or resort with docking facilities that anyone recommends?
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A: Hello Patti,
This is out of my know-how area. I recommend asking our Boating and Fishing Expert Doug Sease
In looking for reading material about the waterways, I saw two possibles - "Cruising Guide to Western Florida", 2004 by Claiborne Young and "Atlantic Cruising Club's Guide to Florida's East Coast" by Bridget Morton, Elizabeth Smith and Richard Smith.
walk in peace
lucy
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| Old Hotel Where Presidents Stayed |
| Asked by Bill Rodgers on April 02, 2008 |
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Q: There was an old hotel, I think in central Florida, where presidents and movie stars stayed. I seem to recall it was an octagon and on a river or lake. Any ideas?
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A: Dear Bill,
I was stumped so I asked a film commission friend Jude Hagin who wonders if it was the old Langford Hotel in Winter Park. A history page on the hotel certainly has the presidents and movie stars - Lillian Gish stayed there, so did Eleanor Roosevelt and Ronald and Nancy Reagan celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary at the Langford. The hotel boasted that a Langford family member was always on site.
hope this helps,
Lucy
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| Off Beat Festivals in Panhandle in April |
| Asked by Jack Helwig on April 02, 2008 |
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Q: Any off beat festivals during april 7-14 in the panhandle of florida?
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A: Dear Jack,
How off beat do you want to go? Way off? This one ought to do it - the Worm Grunting Festival in Sopchoppy in Saturday, April 12 (I am not making this up).
Is wine your thing? Tallahassee has the Florida Wine Festival on April 10,11 & 12. Events on the 10th and 11th are ticket events (reception on the 10th at the Brogan Museum, and wine and dinner pairings on the 11th) while Saturday, April 12 is free. The events on Saturday are from 12-4 at Kleman Plaza. Eight different Florida wine growers will be there with samples. Celebrities are going to compete stomping grapes. Local cultural organizations are doing make-and-take activities for kids.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Dee Dee on March 31, 2008 |
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Q: My husband's cousin is making her first trip to the US in April and will be spending it with us in FL. We are natives born in Miami but now live in Tallahassee so we are familiar with all sections of the state. She will be here a little over 3 weeks and has asked to see "Authentic Florida" saving the large tourist attractions for her next visit. We will be spending as much time as possible acting as her personal tour guides, like she does for us in Scotland, but would like to know if there are organized tour companies operating in FL so she could tour on her own part of the time.
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A: Dear Dee Dee.
You are going to have such fun showing your husband's cousin authentic Florida.
The organized tour companies that I looked at are mostly one day trips (example, exploring St. Augustine), some have two-day excursions but not longer.
Here are some examples:
Gold Coach Tours has two day tours of several areas including Key West, Orlando, Naples/Fort Myers and Tampa.
West Central Florida Day Trips, Tours and Excursions has lots of choices, all one-day as far as I could see.
By the way, since you are in Tallahassee, it is an easy ride down to Apalachicola, a truly authentic Florida town that has been named one of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations for 2008 by the Trust for Historic Places.
If the cousin is still here later in the month, Tuesday, April 22 is Earth Day at the Capitol in Tallahassee.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by KCopeland on March 27, 2008 |
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Q: Best place to fly in to tour Key West. We are from Houston,Tx.
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A: Dear Kcopeland,
Here is the link for the Key West International Airport (EYW). I flew into Key West once as part of a package tour on a vintage plane. My guess as to how to proceed is to fly fromHouston to Miami then take a shuttle plane to Key West.
Lucy
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| Asked by Robert Biloy on March 27, 2008 |
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Q: I am planning to visit Spring Hill and would like a street map of the city,where can I get one?
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A: Dear Robert,
I found several on the Web. Take a look at City Data
for an overview then get closer with this Florida hometown locator
It will show you Hernando County. Look in the right hand corner and you will see a blue rectangular box - move it until it is over Spring Hill and it will bring up every street.
Then again, it might be easier to call the Hernando Chamber of Commerce at (800) 601-4580 or (352) 796-0697 and ask for a Spring Hill Street Map (hopefully one exists), or visit their Web site.
Lucy
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| Asked by Chris Muggeridge on March 27, 2008 |
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Q: Our family of 2 adults, 3 kids is thinking of coming to Florida with pop up trailer in the first 2 weeks of July. Want to visit a citrus grove(farm vacation)on our way to Disney. Would there be facilities on farms that allow for visitors in trailers? Is there a directory of farms? And is it reasonable to expect to camp without the benefit of air conditioning in trailer at that time of year?
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A: Dear Chris,
let's take the last question first - camping without air conditioning in a trailer in hot, muggy, humid July when mosquitoes thrive. It would be really difficult. Some old-time natives do do it. they live in houses without air conditioning. It is easier if you live near the coast where there are breezes. I'm a transplant. Been here 39 years and I couldn't camp in July for two weeks without air conditioning. All right, I'm Ms. Whimpette but there it is. Did I mention hot, muggy, humid days and nights? And the mosquitoes?
As for citrus, I spoke with Ernie Neff, editor of "Citrus Industry Magazine" and he said he didn't know any growers that allow campers (agri tourism) but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist somewhere. Neff noted that in July there will be oranges (and other ctirus) but they will be small, green and not yet edible. He also doubts that growers would want anyone in their groves touching trees because everyone is very sensitive to the issue of spreading any citrus diseases from tree to tree.
But there are alternatives. Here are several:
Lake Placid Citrus Tower
gives a good view of surrounding orange groves and there is a petting zoo at the foot of the tower.
The Orange Shop in Citra (north of Ocala on US 301) opened in 1936 and still has a down homespun flavor. Their orange grove is right out back and they hand pick their oranges. You are welcome to walk around their grove.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by heather on March 25, 2008 |
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Q: Coming to Kissimmee in April. Looking for non-touristy day trips. Any suggestions?
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A: Dear Heather,
Yes, there are non-touristy day trips around Kissimmee waiting to be discovered. Wekiwa Springs State Park is about one hour north of Kissimmee/Orlando. If you like bicycling, this is a good spot and canoeing and kayaking are quite beautiful on the Wekiwa River and Rock Springs Run. You can rent canoes there. Here is a link to the park's activity page
Also check out our VISITFLORIDA page on Kissimmee. Something I found on that page that I've never done but would love to try - hot air ballooning. The Magic Sunrise Ballooning will show you Central Florida in a whole new way.
if you are bringing kids, a popular destination is Green Meadows Farm in Kissimmee, where you can see and pet farm animals - it is fun and educational.
About one hour south of Kissimmee is Lake Kissimmee State Park where they bring Florida's cowboy heritage back to life with living history demonstrations of early Florida "cow hunters" (the cows were left by the Spaniards centuries earlier).
Lake Wales is nearby (15 miles from the park) and you will enjoy historic Bok Sanctuary. It is spring - everything is blooming. Bok's carillion is one of only four in Florida. Carillion concerts take place daily at 1 and 3 p.m. plus there are usually clock music pieces playing starting at 9 a.m. and every half hour after t hat. During April they have a Colors of Florida Art Exhibit featuring the work of Brennan Gorrie of Sarasota.
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by April on March 22, 2008 |
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Q: Hi Lucy
I really would like a little advise. I currently live in St Louis Mo. I am 32 yrs old and I am really interested in moving to Jacksonville Florida in the next yr or so. I just wanted to know do you have any suggestions on how I can find information on neighbohoods/zipcodein Jacksonville. I want to make sure that I will be moving to a safe neighborhood. Thanks Lucy
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A: Dear April,
you ask a tough question, one only the locals can answer.
I'd ask everyone you talk to as you do research - where do you live in Jacksonville? What do you like about it? What don't you like? Call the chamber for a relocation packet, ask whoever you talk to your questions. The chamber divides places to live under "downtown", "historic" and "suburban".
here is another web link http://www.visitjacksonville.com/
look at the menu under "neighborhoods" and click on the name of each one - that gets you started with the names of neighborhoods. Another set of links is our VISITFLORDIA jacksonville listing under visitor services. And Realtors should be able to help.
If it is possible for you, nothing beats going to Jacksonville ahead of time for a personal visit and checking out the "vibes". Also, I'm a big believer in libraries and reference librarians. My advice - Try Jacksonville's main library,
or call them and ask for the reference librarian. They may say they can't answer your question but then you ask "where do you live and what do you like about it? "And so the conversation, and the research, begins.
walk in peace
Lucy
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| Asked by Cindy N on March 21, 2008 |
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Q: Hi,
My family will be staying in Largo, FL the week of the 25th of March, we will be joined by our German relatives for the week also, my son wants to treasure hunt he is almost 5 and his cousin is 8 is there a cheap place to rent ametal detector for them to look on the beach. I also have a 2 1/2 year olsd and 10 month old, any exciting kids activites in the area for the week?
Thank you,
Cindy N
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A: Dear Cindy,
Hummm, everywhere I looked there were metal detectors for sale but I couldn't find rentals. Largo is near Indian Rocks Beach and the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary
all the children might like seeing the sea birds. Sand and surf are irrisistable to all ages and nearby Honeymoon Island State Park has miles of beaches, good restrooms, plenty of parking. Go for a sunset at Pier 60 park in Clearwater Beach. They usually have face painting, live music, a dog-trick show. It is the Gulf Coast version of the sunddown celebration nightly in Key West.
Check out Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo. Your German relatives might see some tropical plants that are new to them! On Sundays they have free guided tours. On Saturdays there is a Saturday market.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater has hands on activities for children.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by scott eagleston on March 20, 2008 |
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Q: did palm trees always grow in florida
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A: Dear Scott,
Yes and no. Many of the palm trees growing in Florida are not natives, they were imported from China, Cuba and elsewhere, but some, a mere 12 out of about 2700 different varieties in the world, are natives.
Two famous natives are the Florida Royal Palm that can grow to 80 feet tall and are often seen lining the streets of older Florida towns, plus the Sabal palmetto or cabbage palm that is designated the Florida State Tree.
We know Native American Indians in Florida were making rope and mats from palm tree fibers so they've been around for a long time. Palm trees are a Florida trademark - it is practically required to have a palm tree in any postcard background.
To see the list of native palm trees, go to this Web site for native palms put up by the Central Florida Palm & Cycad Society.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Arlene Gardner on March 18, 2008 |
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Q: A friend and I would like to visit Florida and would like a trip around the loop from Tampa on the gulf back up to St. Augustine. Can you recommend a tour guide or how to plan this trip? Are there any escorted tours. There was one from where we live but it got canceled. Thanks.
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A: Dear Arlene,
A number of tour companies offer escorted tours but the ones I looked at took in more than you want to see - going, for example, from Miami to the Keys then up to Fort Myers, Tampa and across to Orlando and St. Augustine - one like this by American Sky is a self-drive tour, they take care of everything else.
For planning your own trip, I recommend going to our VISITFLORIDA page on Seven Counties in Seven Days.
It starts in St. Augustine then goes to Tarpon Springs then goes to Tarpon Springs, Ybor City and Tampa. You could quit there or continue on and do it all.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by robert bucheit on March 15, 2008 |
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Q: condo rental in seabring for the month of may?
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A: Dear Robert,
You got me. I know nothing of condo rentals in Sebring. But I did find some interesting vacation rentals. Start with our VISITFLORIDA Sebring Web site Under Visitors Services, the Highlands County Visitors and Convention Bureau has a listing for vacation rentals. One that looked good for you was Villa Lotela, a large lakeside home converted to apartments. There is one apartment that is a detached two-bedroom. Not quite a condo but close.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Anne M on March 13, 2008 |
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Q: We will be staying at Grayton Beach in one of the cabins April 6. Would you advise about what we should expect for day and evening temperatures? Also, is there any good snorkeling in that area?
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A: Dear Anne,
The Emerald Coast usually has warm temperatures year round. The high in April in Grayton Beach is 77 degrees F and the low is 52 degrees F . What does that mean? Short sleeves during the day, a light sweater in the evenings. Maybe some deer flies around by then but beach breezes should make short work of them. Here is a weather connection.
Grayton Beach is amazing. And I love everything about Grayton Beach State Park. Swimming along the park's one mile of shoreline is popular. I didn't find a specific reference to snorkeling, but if you can swim, you can snorkel.
Set aside time to visit nearby Eden Gardens State Park with its antebellum mansion and ancient live oak trees.
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by Nieves Barber on March 12, 2008 |
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Q: My husband and I would like your opinion on finding a place in Florida, preferly by or close to the beach where we can get away and do some fishing and just walk the beach w/out all the tourist attaction. We would like to maybe rent a home so if some of our grown children want to stop for a day or two they can do it w/out the hassle of a hotel/motel. Do you have any place you can think of that fits this description. Another thing is we don't want to pay a arm or a leg so nothing fancy just beachy type place.
Thanks,
Mrs. Barber
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A: Hello Nieves,
Let me start by recommending our Beach & Surf Expert David McRee
He is awesome and would have really knowledgeable answers to your questions.
Speaking from personal experience, my family (grown children and in laws) and I rented a house in the St. Augustine Beach area and walked the beach every day. It didn't cost an arm and a leg. We shared expenses including the house rental. They even said we could even bring our well-behaved dog. We felt far removed from busy tourist attractions. What fun it was to bring shells and other beach finds back to the house, go shopping for food, cook meals, sit out on the terrace, hang out with each other, walk the beach some more, make a fire in the fireplace in the evening.
Places like St. Augustine and Fernandina Beach have double attractions for those like yourselves who like to go fishing - there is salt water fishing in the ocean, and fresh water fishing in the Intracoastal Waterway, bays and rivers.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by jane on March 11, 2008 |
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Q: we will be lehigh acres, fl the middle of april. we are renting a compact car - this is our 1st visit to florida. we enjoy the out of the way places - not commercialized. we do snorkel and want to see as much of florida as can in 5 days. any suggestions. thank you. we may make this an annual trip.
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A: Dear Jane,
Nearby Sanibel Island has several snorkeling listings. There is a lot of Florida to see near Lehigh Acres where you are going to stay. For a true swamp experience (on the boardwalk, don't have to walk the swamp itself) go to Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve just south of Fort Myers.
Thomas Edison invented the light bulb and a whole lot more. I've often wondered if that man slept at night. He seemed to be always inventing something! Visit the Edison-Ford winter homes in Fort Myers and be sure to check out the museum that has many of Edison's inventions.
Go to J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island on a low tide and check out the birds, crocodile and other assorted wildlife.
Travel south a short distance and visit the Naples Museum of Art, then stroll around downtown Naples.
End every day of your stay near the water, watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico and planning where to have dinner. Are five days up yet?
If you make this an annual trip, let's talk again about other places in Florida that are not commercialized.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Luisa on March 11, 2008 |
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Q: Im an event planner for a large company that is hosting an event in Ft. Lauderdale. I'm looking for gift items that really "speak" to that area. For example, I'm from Maryland, "the place for crabs" Can you offer any ideas? Preferably below $10/unit as other gifts are being given. THANK YOU!
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A: Dear Luisa,
What a fun job your have! Ft. Lauderdale is known as the "Venice of Florida" for its many canals and the Intracoastal Waterway. A great way to see Ft. Lauderdale is to take an Intracoastal Waterway boat tour and get a gander at the houses along Millionaire's Row. Maybe a small boat and fill it with free literature from the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau
They have a free Ft. Lauderdale Vacation Planner and free Visitors Events Guide. If you could put a palm tree in there too - you've captured South Florida - sun, fun and water.
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| Asked by Rosemarie on March 06, 2008 |
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Q: My daughter,and family will be in Orlando,they are over from UK.I live in SC and will be joining them.
The second week will be spent on Ana maria Island.
We have 18 month old and 14 year old .
Want to leave Orlando travel aprox one hour or so with a stop overnight before going on to Ana Marie.
Any suggestions I thought about Weeki Watche?
Thank you.
Q
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A: Dear Rosemarie,
Weeki Wachee , the only city of live mermaids, is always a great destination. It doesn't quite fit your criteria of traveling about one hour from Orlando. Google maps put Spring Hill (where Weeki Wachee is located) at 1 hour 54 minutes from Orlando. If that's all right for travel time, go for it.
When will you be there? Here are some upcoming dates and events - on March 22 Buccaneer Bay, the water park at Weeki iWachee opens up. That same day they are having an easter egg hunt for all ages - iin the water park! Should be wet and wild and great fun.
consider going south of Weeki Wachee and stopping overnight at Tarpon Springs
It is my belief that when the Greeks are cooking, just show up. Nice walking area downtown past docks with colorful sponging boats. Their annual Fine Arts Festival is April 12.
Then next day - head down south to Anna Maria and its wonderful beaches.
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| Asked by lisa turgeon on March 05, 2008 |
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Q: Hi Lucy, my husband and I are looking to relocate to Orlando because an ideal job offer has come up. I am a huge fan of the Gulf Coast, not too familiar with Orlando. We are in our mid 40's and are very active(biking, running,etc.) Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
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A: Dear Lisa,
Pump up your tires. Orlando is hugely into an active lifestyle. The city has committed to building an interconnected biking trail of 150 miles of paved multi-use and rails trails (rails trails are former railroad tracks that are paved to make great, and safe, riding and running routes). They are well underway with the Wekiwa Trail, West Orange Trail and Cross Seminole Trail. If you are looking for new wheels, Orange Cycle has been in Orlando since 1972. I'm sure they'd have trail advice.
Strap on your running shoes for the same trails then switch to walking shoes and check out some of the awesome state parks nearby like Wekiwa Springs, Rock Springs Run, Lower Wekiva River and Blue Springs.
If you like to run 5ks or do triathions (yep, been there, not in race shape right now), you are going to find lots of company in Orlando. Here is a race link.
Congratulations on your move and the ideal job offer!
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| Asked by p reyat on March 04, 2008 |
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Q: disney tickets and discovery cove tickets, can advice is it easy to get them or arrival.
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A: Dear P Reyat,
Personally I haven't gotten tickets recently to either place so I can't speak from first hand experience.
but I did some research. In doing a Web search, a Web site called the Official Ticket Center in Orlando has both Disney World and Discovery Cove. Their Web site has a number to call and a Google search came up with a variety of other sites with discounted tickets. It looks like getting them ahead of time or right there in Orlando is easy.
Remember if you want to do the dolphin experience at Discovery Cove and you have children, they must be six years old or older.
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| Asked by Vanessa on March 04, 2008 |
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Q: We are staying on Siesta Key from 26th April. It is his birthday on 28th and would like to organise some kind of educational eco tour for the day
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A: Dear Vanessa,
You are near Mote Marine Aquarium in Sarasota which offers a number of eco tours through Sarasota Bay Explorers, a private tour company based at the Aquarium. The Sea Life Encounter Cruise is a one hour and 45 minute cruise taken three times a day on Sarasota Bay in a pontoon boat, lead by a naturalist. Their Nature Safari gets more in depth - taking you to the beach at Lido Key for a walk along the beach and nearby trails, then beaching the covered pontoon boat on a sandbar and wading to grass flats. Call (941) 388-4200 for times and prices, and to make reservations, or visit the Explorers Web site. Your idea of an eco tour will be a memorable birthday present and something that will be fun for everyone.
I couldn't find anything on his birthday, Monday, April 28th, but Oscar Scherer State Park, six miles south of Sarasota, has a number of ranger programs on other days - guided canoe trips on Wednesdays, ranger led walks on Fridays and volunteer led bird walks on Thursdays.
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by Lisa on February 27, 2008 |
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Q: My grandson (5 years old) is coming to Florida to visit in April and he wants nothing more than to visit a maze (don't ask me where that comes from). However, I can't find any mazes near the Orlando area to take him to. Can you help????
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A: Dear Lisa,
Mazes are puzzles to be solved! Family-friendly mazes have low hedges so adults can always see children. The publicity for the 15th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival from March 19 to June 1, 2008 says it has a DogGone Maze that is family friendly. Plus there are a lot of garden things for children to do.
Further away, in Sarasota, Selby Gardens has a children's area with a large family-friendly maze. The last time I was there several children had done the maze and were standing there laughing at their parents who were inside the maze still trying to figure it out. Fun!
Looking ahead to next year, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville is building a children's area with a maze and perhaps it will be finished and ready for children.
Another kind of maze is a seasonal maze, like walking through a corn field that has been made in to a maze. This would be a really tall maze - the family would want to hold hands. There is Scott's Maze Adventures northwest of Orlando at Mount Dora. They have closed their corn maze for 2007 but it will be back in 2008.
A third kind of maze is a floor maze. One example is at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach with its brick floor maze.
hope this helps.
Lucy
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| Asked by Charlie Campney on February 27, 2008 |
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Q: We live in The Villages and want to spend some time onthe gulf coast. Can you recommend some beaches wher my wife can get some sun and I could go metal detecting? Thanks
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A: Dear Charlie,
Load up the metal detector and the suntan lotion and head straight for Fort DeSoto County Park in Tierra Verde. It is west of St. Petersburg on the Pinellas Byway. In 2005 the park's North Beach was voted the best beach in North America by Dr. Beach. We're talking miles of sandy beaches, large parking areas, good amenities.
After that, try Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin and then take a pontoon boat from Honeymoon to Caladesi Island State Park.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Candi Haas on February 25, 2008 |
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Q: I was wondering if you could recommend any "must-see's" or "must-do's" for the Indian Rocks Beach area?
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A: Dear Candi,
You've picked a great place for "must-see's and do's". Visit the shore birds at Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores. Watch a sunset at Pier 60 Park in Clearwater Beach. Spend a morning at Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo, located in the same cultural complex as Gulf Coast Museum of Art and Heritage Village. Learn about Florida marine life at Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater Beach. You are close to Dunedin and Caladesi Island State park.
If you like biking, the Pinellas Trail goes from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. When you are in Dunedin, the Trail cuts right through the center of town.
Watch a sunset at any of the wonderful beaches along Indian Rocks Beach. Did I mention watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico is a "must do?"
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Barbara K from Key Biscayne on February 20, 2008 |
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Q: We want to drive up from KB thru FL in one week. We want to see communities along the inter-coastal. Can you suggest a route?
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A: Hi Barbara,
Highway A1A is right alongside most of the Intercoastal Waterway. Let me recommend a book by Herb Hiller titled Highway A1A: Florida at the Edge, published by University Press of Florida in 2005 (http://www.upf.com)
It tells the story of this amazing coast road running 500 miles from Fernandina to Key West. You can get on it in Miami Beach. Consider contacting the Art Deco Preservation League and talking their Art Deco walk in Miami Beach. Way cool.
Going north, spend a few hours in Delray Beach and walk around the downtown area - a Florida town as they used to be.
Along the way stop at Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area and pick up brochures about loggerhead turtle nestings in July and August and how to sign up for taking a nighttime turtle walk. It is something you'll want to come back and do in the summer.
Visit Cape Canaveral and check out the winter feathered visitors at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
How far can you get in a week? Well, it is not the distance, it is the discoveries you'll find along A1A. I'm guessing you'll want to linger along the way.
If you get north of Cape Canaveral, visit the beautiful gardens at Washington Oaks State Park and check out Marineland. Nest stop - St. Augustine. Ut oh, by now you are running out of time. You could spend a week just in the St. Augustine area.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Mary Zahn on February 18, 2008 |
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Q: Will be staying in Islamorada the first week in March. Each year we go to Key West one day. This year I am interested in seeing some of "real Florida". What sort of day trips north of the keys in lower Florida would you suggest? Not looking for anything strenuous
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A: Dear Mary,
North of the Keys, for a day visit Everglades National Park in Homestsead. Stop at the Coe Visitor Center before the main entrance gate and get a good feel for the Everglades past, present and future.
Then drive into the park (there is only one road in the park with turnoffs for different spots) and do the Anhinga Amble. It is a fourth of a mile on boardwalk and paved road. And totally flat. Easy walk. Lots of wildlife to see including birds and alligators. Plus great vistas of the vast river of grass. It doesn't get any more "real" than this. Next to the Amble is the Gumbo Limbo Trail, another short walk. Gumbo Limbo trees look like they've been sunburned.
Back in Homestead, visit Coral Castle
who would believe it? A man barely over five feet tall built structures back in the 1920s people are still trying to decipher. Using native coral rock he built, among other things, a nine-ton gate that opens easily. The Coral Castle has become part of Florida's folklore. Does that make it real? Yep.
This last suggestion is on the Keys but easy to miss. It is the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical Site (whew! Long name) in Key Largo. From US 1 take County Road 905 north. The park will be on your right. Once slated to be a development, a road was built and an entranceway, and that's it. You park by the entrance and walk the road. It is a one-mile round trip. On Tuesdays and Sundays there's a guided walk, check with John Pennekamp State Park for times. PHone (305) 451-1202. (Pennekamp administers Dagny).
Imagine early explorers coming ashore and trying to go inland. They had to contend with vegetation just like this - so thick you cannot see through it. Only this small remnant remains of the tropical lushness that was . . .
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Eileen Brooks on February 15, 2008 |
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Q: We hope to spend say a week in the Pensacola -Panama City area in early/mid March. What should we be seeking to see?(2 adults)
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A: Dear Eileen,
Let's start with Pensacola. Visit Historic Pensacola Village in downtown Pensacola then walk to the neighboring Seville Square. Several historic houses facing the square have lovely restaurants with seating both inside and outside on the porches.
After lunch, walk to nearby T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum. Originally built in the early 1900s as a City Hall, it is a wonderful, dynamic building and the inside is full of collections.
If your toes itch for sand, try Big Lagoon State Park or Fort Pickens National Park. Both are close to Pensacola.
Between Pensacola and Panama City, there are miles of beach along US 98. My personal favorite spot is Grayton Beach State Park. Take the walk through sand dunes dotted with twisted trees that look like huge bonsai plants, sculpted by wind and weather. Then top the last rise and walk along the beach for the last half of the walk. They call this the Emerald Coast because the water sparkles like green jewels.
Do take a detour off US 98, at Grayton Beach, onto what is called Scenic Route 30-A. This 12-mile stretch of road runs right along the Gulf of Mexico. Like to bike and hike? There is a Hike and Bike Trail on this route. By car, foot or bike, you will go through new urban living towns of Seaside (the first), Watercolor and Rosemary Beach(new), all planned to be walkable communities. All have the beach right across the street.
At Seaside, take County Road395 north to Eden Gardens State Park, with a sweet, two-story mansion and lakefront gardens.
Enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by cynthia steeples on February 13, 2008 |
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Q: We are flying to Orlando and driving to Jensen Beach Feb 20. Would like to see inland Florida. Route suggestions? No kids, just 2 adults.
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A: Hi Cynthia,
Take Route 50 west out of Orlando then turn south on SR 27. Or take Interstate 4 going west, turn south on SR 27. You'll be tempted very soon along SR 27 to turn off at Winter Haven and visit Cypress Gardens plus historic Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales.
Continuing south on 27(and 25, they are joined together) before long you'll be in Lake Placid. Take a leg stretch, walk around, see all the murals. Stop by the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce for a mural brochure.
Just below Lake Placid turn east onto Highway 70. You'll be going past the northern end of Lake Okeechobee that sits on the map like a huge liquid eye. It is the largest lake in Florida and a scenic trail runs all the way around it (110 miles). Detour by turning south onto US 441 in Okeechobee and you'll end up at the lake's edge.
Back on Route 70 heading east, it will connect with US 1. Turn south and head for Jensen Beach. The turn off for Jensen Beach is Route 707.
By the way, while you are in Jensen Beach, go south on US 1 and visit Jonathan Dickinson State Park. There's always something happening there. One Sunday afternoon I stumbled on a bluegrass band playing near the shore. Canoes were pulled up so people could listen to the concert.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Anthony Cotton on February 12, 2008 |
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Q: We will be in Florida the whole of March,the final week will be with the grandkids in Orlando but we want to explore the North. What should we be looking to do/see?
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A: Hi, Anthony,
Start your exploration by leaving Orlando and going north . Your destination: the Micanopy and Gainesville areas. From Interstate 75 take the Micanopy exit (Exit 374). You are going to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park in Micanopy. At the end of the exit ramp, turn right. Now you are going east on CR 234. In just over a mile it intersects with US 441, turn left and the park entrance is a half mile on the right.
Start with the Visitor's Center. It is full of exhibits and an audio-visual program. Walk a short distance to the observation tower. From the top you have a view of the vast prairie. You might catch a glimpse of sandhill cranes, alligators, Spanish horses and buffalo. You read that right! The wild herd of Spanish horses are often seen from the tower. But the buffalo, reintroduced on the prairie in the mid-1970s, have 6,000 acres to roam. And nobody, not even a park ranger, tells a 1,000 pound animal where to be. It is a rare treat to see buffalo (American Bison).
Check out the prairie's schedule of light walks and ranger talks. You may want to come back for some of these. Now is such a great time to explore natural areas like Paynes Prairie with a guide - perfect weather, sunshine and no bugs!
Next go north on US 441 a short distance to Gainesville. See our Gainesville listings to find places to stay, eat and play. I'd recommend visiting the Harn Museum of Art then going next door to the Florida Museum of Natural History. Attached to the Museum is a large outdoor exhibit called Butterfly Forest. Bring your camera. The butterflies are everywhere.
One really unique place in northwest Gainesville is Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park with a sinkhole and streams going down 120 feet. There are stairs all they way to the bottom.
Gainesville is right in the middle of the state. You can go east and be at the Atlantic Ocean in less than two hours, strolling along the ancient streets of St. Augustine and shopping on St. George Street. Check our our St. Augustine listings.
Or go southwest and meet the Gulf of Mexico at Cedar Key. Stay for a fresh seafood dinner and watch the sunset. You might even see the famous flash of green just before the sun sinks beneath the water.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Joyce on February 11, 2008 |
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Q: We're in Port St. Lucie for spring training the last two weeks of March, but want to fill in non-game days with a look at old Florida. Any suggestions?
No kids, just 2 adults.
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A: Dear Joyce,
You are in luck. Port St. Lucie is near the Indian River Lagoon, a place teaming with wildlife - largely because the coastal cities have a strong partnership to protect this natural treasure.
Here are some suggestions: The Manatee Observation and Education Center in Fort Pierce, just north of Port. Saint Lucie, hosts Indian River lagoon boat tours on a pontoon boat. You might see fish, birds, manatees and dolphins. Now that's authentic. Manatees have been in Florida for millions of years. Web site: www.manateecenter.org
Or try the Dolphin Watch Tour on the St. Lucie River. Check out www.floridadolphinwatch.com In Port St. Lucie itself the "River Lilly" does a cruise they call a "taste" of natural Florida. They are in Rivergate Park. Call them at (772) 489-8344.
To get even more up close with Florida water and nature, go to Savannas Preserve State Park in Jensen Beach, just south of Port St. Lucie. Large amounts of rainfall have filled marshes with water. Once there were savannas all along southeast Florida. Canoe and kayak rentals are available every Saturday morning October through May. This is a guided trip and reservations required. Call (772) 398-2779.
I'd recommend dropping down a little further south to Juniper Island and walking around Blowing Rocks Preserve, run by the Nature Conservancy, on Hobe Sound. (see www.nature.org then type in Blowing Rocks Preserve). It is hard to imagine as you walk the dunes that this was the old A1A highway many decades ago. Afterwards, have lunch at the Crab House in Jupiter. Sit outside and catch the great view of Jupiter Inlet and the red lighthouse.
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| Asked by bonny cooper on February 03, 2008 |
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Q: i'm trying to plan clothes for a 2/8 trip. are white cotton pants worn at this time of year or is it too early?
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A: I'm tempted to say it is too early for white cotton pants BUT when I step outside and the temperature is in the 80s, I'd say GO FOR IT
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| Asked by ms on January 28, 2008 |
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Q: do you have any suggestions on fun activities for children in the Ft Lauderdale area, in March? thanks!!
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A: Dear MS,
On March 1-2 is the Las Olas Art Fair in Fort Lauderdale. That sounds fun.
Do your children like to swim? Take them to be inspired at the International Swimming Hall of Fame (www.ishof.org). Lots of amazing stuff plus an IMAX theater with swimming videos.
On the same property is the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center (www.fortlauderdale.gov/flac). On March 2 there is a Master competition. Also, the pool is open to the public, see their Web site for pool hours and cost (reasonable!)
For hands-on fun, visit the Museum of Discovery and Science (www.mods.org)
To get really creative, head for the Young at Art Children's Museum (www.youngatartmuseum.org). They have drop in art classes throughout the week and these classes are included in the price of admission. See the Web site for times and days.
Fifteen miles north of Fort Lauderdale is Butterfly World in Coconut Creek (www.butterflyworld.com)
Pretty amazing place. Butterflies everywhere.
Enjoy
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| Asked by lisa white on January 28, 2008 |
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Q: Hi, i am a collector and like to go to stores with architectural salvage. I heard that Sarasota Architectural Salvage is a good place to visit. Have you been there? What can you reccommend.
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A: Salvage history
No, I haven't been to Sarasota Architectural Salvage but I'd love to go. Like you I gravitate
to places that save Florida history. Here's one place I know that often gets there ahead of the wrecking ball -
Florida Victorian Architectural Antiques, 112 W. Georgia Avenue, DeLand, Florida, phone (386) 734-9300. Web site:
http:www.floridavictorian.com
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| Asked by Dianne Earle on January 23, 2008 |
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Q: We are visiting Dunedin towards the end of Febuary. What adventures are there in Dunedin?
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A: Dear Dianne,
Dunedin is delightful - old Florida ambiance, wide sidewalks, big parks, antique stores, funky eateries.
Bring your bikes. The Pinellas Trail runs from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. See the Web site:http://www.pinellastraills.org. The paved trail goes right through the heart of downtown Dunedin and the town loves the trail. Visit the Box Car right alongside the trail - a railroad car converted to a coffee shop.
Just off Dunedin you'll find Caladesi Island State Park (accessible by ferry from Honeymoon Island) and Honeymoon Island State Park. Check out the Dunedin Causeway and rentals for windsurfing, sailing, kayaking.
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| Asked by john pitchford on January 20, 2008 |
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Q: have visited hollywood the last two years and love it.is there any other place in florida with a boardwalk,small hotels,motels?love the fact that at hollywood beach you can walk to eat right on the beach.
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A: Oh yes. Fill up the gas tank and head for Delray Beach in southern Palm Beach County.You'll drop back in time at the Colony Hotel on Atlantic Avenue, family owned since 1935.
Downtown Delray Beach is fully restored with wide sidewalks, outdoor dining, antique stores. Lots of vibrant buildings built in the 1920s in Mediterranean Revival and Masonary Vernacular.No condos here. This is literally a piece of vanishing Florida.
And the beach? Just a pebble's throw away, across the Intracoastal Waterway to the end of Atlantic Boulevard. Atlantic Boulevard ends at Ocean Boulevard, also known as State Road A1A. You can sit outside at a number of restaurants and two miles of white sandy beach are right across the street.
Try the Luna Rosa Cafe at 34 South Ocean Boulevard. Then go across the street and take off your shoes. It is sand between the toes time. Life is good.
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| Asked by Joan McKniff on January 18, 2008 |
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Q: Can one get email delivery of your wonderful items? Might you include links to maps, i.e., where on earth is chiefville (quilts)?
Plus I'd like to be able to email your entries to my friends. How about adding an email this link? Thank you.
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A: Dear Joan,
You are a mind reader. Even as we speak,VISITFLORIDA's web developer has getting one of those handy-dandy icons "Mail this to a Friend" on the ever growing "to do" list. Look for this and other site improvements soon.The teckies are at work.
walk in peace
Lucy
ps Chiefland is 37 miles west of Gainesville. It is also 125 miles north of Tampa. And adding maps is a good idea. thanks!
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| Asked by Owen Rainford on January 17, 2008 |
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Q: Hi, we are visiting Florida for six weeks and would be interested in any ideas to make the trip interesting, I intend to do a couple of short cruises one in the first week we are there and another week in week 5, we are coming on the 2nd of feb until the 15th of March, we are in our 50s, and have done disney seaworld epcot. So your comments are welcolm. Thanks Owen
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A: Ah, you are so ready for Authentic Florida. Since you like cruises,here are some of my favorite day trips on Florida rivers. Take a river cruise out of Sanford (close to Orlando) on the Rivership Romance (see the Web site: www.rivershipromance.com). I suggest the Sunday brunch cruise from 11-2, then step ashore and stroll around revitalized historic downtown Sanford, loaded with art galleries, book stores and more.
In Ocala, the Silver River, Ocklawaha River, Rainbow River and Withlacoochee River are all the real Florida. Some areas must be just like the explorer William Bartrum saw them in the 1700s. Take a river cruise (three hours or more) with Captain Tom, who has a wealth of history and local lore to share. Or he can do a fishing trip for you. He'll even bait your hook, and he'll still tell you the history. See the Web site: www.captaintom'scustomcharters.com
To really experience a different side, head towards the Tallahassee area and visit Monticello. This is supposed to be the most haunted town in the South. The ghosts don't come out much during the day, but walking around and seeing the historic places they haunt is fun. The Chamber has a brochure(check out www.monticellomadisoncounty.com). You can even stay in a B&B that has ghosts in certain rooms. Sometimes the Big Bend Ghost Trackers give tours, dressed in period costumes from the 1800s. Call (850) 508-8109. Web site: www.bigbendghosttrackers.homestead.com
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| Asked by Helen Ernest on January 14, 2008 |
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Q: Dear Lucy, I am looking for Florida cities that have gateways. Kissimmee, Fl has one, are there any others? Thanks, Helen
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A: The Great Florida Birding Trail has nine gateway sites at outstanding birding locations. Here they are:
East Florida Section: Fort Clinch State Park in Fernandina Beach; Merrit Island National Wildlife Refuge in Titusville and Tenoroc Fish Management Area in Lakeland.
West Florida Section: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park in Gainesville and Fort De Soto Park in St. Petersburg.
Panhandle Florida Section: Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge near Tallahassee.
South Florida Section: Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Naples and Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in West Palm Beach.
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| Asked by bonnie on January 10, 2008 |
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Q: is there a state park in florida near where we can see manatees and that my husband can scuba?
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A: No, there is no state park where you can put scuba and manatees together at the same time. The reason? The sound of scuba gear frightens them and they swim away from the sound. If you must get in the water with a manatee,use snorkel gear.
On the Web check out Crystal River, Florida to find a number of manatee snorkel tours. Manatees congregate in Crystal River during the winter months.
To see manatees up close and personal without getting wet or causing them stress by being in the water with them, visit Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, 4150 S. Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, FL 34446, phone (352) 628-5343.
You can see manatees there every day of the year. Manatee feedings and education program take place daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
A really cool underwater observatory called the Fishbowl puts you in the world of manatees and many kinds of fish.
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| Asked by Mrs Chakrabarty on January 09, 2008 |
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Q: We're a party of 6 Canadians visiting Orlando in March this year. Can you suggest some places which will give us an authentic historical flavour (also which isn't too far from central Orlando - the theme parks which the kids want to visit) which we can visit? I would love some info on Spanish heritage or early Pioneer sites etc. How far is St Augustine from the theme park vicinity? Thank you for your help.
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A: St. Augustine is 104 miles from Orlando. The kids will like the cannons at Castillo de San Marcos. They may even think it is a lark to climb ALL the stairs at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Lots of history everywhere you turn in St. Augustine. Be sure to walk St. George Street. Have lunch at the Columbia Restaurant for a touch of Cuban.
In Ocala, the fourth Saturday of every month there is a tour of the Cracker Village, a reconstructed early pioneer site at Silver River State Park. Ocala is 79 miles from Orlando. Call the park at (352) 236-7148 to know more .
South of Sarasota is the town of Osprey (143 miles from Orlando). Spanish Point is here. There are shell middens from American Indian times, pioneer life and homes and recent history. From time to time there are living history reenactments. Call (941) 966-5214 for more information.
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| Asked by Liz Wilkinson on January 05, 2008 |
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Q: We will be traveling to Florida next month--flying into Orlando, renting a car for 9 days and want to hit the high spots of the state. We want to go to St. Augustine, Cape Canaveral and Miami Beach, but we would like some other suggestions. We just mostly like to sight see. Have been to DisneyWorld, but may go to Epcot for a day and perhaps SeaWorld. Thanks for your help.
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A: While in St. Augustine do visit the fort Castillo de San Marcos and also take a carriage ride - good way to see the Ancient City. Cross the Bridge of Lions, check out St. Augustine Alligator Farm.
Both Epcot and SeaWorld are amazing places. Disney also has Disney's Animal Kingdom Park.
At Cape Canaveral go to nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, next month is a prime time to see winter wading birds including white pelicans.
Be sure to stroll the sidewalks (promenade) in the evenings in Miami Beach, everybody does. Go to Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens in Miami, take the tram for an overview, then walk around.
On the West Coast, sight see to your heart's content at Busch Gardens in Tampa. And take time to visit Ybor City, check out the Ybor City Museum and have a meal at the Columbia Restaurant.
In the center of the state find Silver Springs attraction near Ocala, and do the river cruise.
walk in peace
Lucy
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| Asked by Jeanie on January 01, 2008 |
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Q: We will be visiting Orlando area, and would like to see authentic Florida while in the area.
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A: My recommendations - start with Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, phone (407) 246-2620. Web site: www.leugardens.org.
And check out the Sunday Farmers Market at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando.
Take a short drive north on I4 to Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Avenue, Orange City, phone (386) 775-3663. It is a designated manatee refuge and manatees love it here in the wintertime. This is authentic Florida.
walk in peace, Lucy
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| Asked by sandra riley on December 23, 2007 |
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Q: My husband and I lived in NW Florida many years ago and plan to be in the area in January, any nice housing for active 55+. Many thanks
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A: One suggestion - the duplex cabins at Grayton Beach State Park in Santa Rosa Beach. Reservations are through Reserve America (800) 326-3521. Great bicycle riding and hiking trails nearby.
Another suggestion - since it has been a while,you might want to rediscover Scenic Route 30-A, an 18-mile stretch of road dropping down from US 98 and running along the Gulf of Mexico. New small towns with names like Watercolor, Seaside and Rosemary Beach have a variety of rentals and everything is within walking distance of the beach. Visit www.discover30A.com
Lucy
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| Asked by Nadine Filion on December 20, 2007 |
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Q: Good day, Mrs. Beebe Tobias,
I'm a French Canadian of 38 years old lucky enough to be able to spend the winter in West Palm Beach. It's my 3th year and this season, I would like to discover more about the Authentic Florida. I did the majors Tourist Attraction, but I'm now looking for things that are not listed in the travel books. Any suggestions for me? Some crazy things, some more traditional, any "coup de coeur" for you lately?
Thank you so much for your attention and I wish you a Merry Merry Christmas,
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A: Congratulations for wanting to discover Authentic Florida! Oh, yes, I've done some crazy things lately and some more traditional and gathered up the best "coup de coeur"(lovely phrase) into a book titled 50 Great Walks in Florida.
Published by University Press of Florida, Great Walks will be in bookstores by the second week of January, 2008 or so. You can pre-order it now at www.upf.com, then go to the menu and click on Florida.
What's between the covers is my labor of love for authentic Florida. What is a Great Walk? A short but significant jaunt where you learn new things about Florida's natural spaces, botanical gardens and historic places plus you are done in time for lunch.
Here are some suggestions for you to do right now in South Florida, where you are spending the winter.
Take the Art Deco walk in South Miami Beach. It is about a mile. Sign up for a guided walking tour through the Miami Design Preservation League, cost is $20 for adults.They really know their stuff. Call the League at (305) 531-3484. Web site: www.mdpl.org
While you are in the area, go to North Miami Beach. I got lost (took a wrong turn) while looking for a park and found (stumbled on) the Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monestary, 16711 West Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, phone (305) 945-1461. Web site: www.spanishmonastery.com Admission is $5 for adults.
This is going to sound crazy - the cloisters, originally from Spain and built in the 12the century, were taken apart, stone by stone, and brought to this country in boxes in the 1920s. One stone in a box, each box marked to show where it went. BUT the boxes got lost (you'll read about it) and all that was left was this HUGE pile of stones. Two men with more faith than sense bought the pile of rocks and had artisans reconstruct the monastery (there are ancient drawings to work from).
And the cloisters live again. The stones are beautiful shades of pink and gray and tan, over 1000 years old. Amazing. There is even a small pile of rocks left. Nobody knows where they go. If you look at the cover of the book on the UPF web site you'll see soaring cloister walls as one of the pictures.
I fell in love with this place, so off the beaten path.
That is a start! Enjoy every step of the journey.
Walk in peace,
Lucy
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| Asked by Lorraine on December 20, 2007 |
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Q: Could you recommend a nice campground in Ocala?
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A: Yes, I highly recommend the campground at Silver River State Park, 1425 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala, phone (352) 236-7148. Web site: www.floridastateparks.org. Reservations are through Reserve America, the link is on the park's Web site.
There are 59 sites, all full facility camping with every site having plenty of space. Each one has water, electric hook ups, fire rings, barbeque pits and picnic table. Firewood is available at the Ranger Station.
You can walk the trails down to the Silver River and on weekends, the Silver River Museum and Environmental Center, located inside the park, is open to the public.
Oh,did I mention this state park is less than half a mile from Silver Springs attraction? Lots of folks plan their park visit with a concert they want to see at Silver Springs attraction.
Enjoy. Let me know what you think.
walk in peace
Lucy
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| Asked by David Chamberlain on December 17, 2007 |
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Q: "best" Key Lime cake via mailorder?
Tx,DC
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A: Try www.wetakethecake.com, phone (888) 901-2253. Oprah listed their Key Lime Bundt Cake as one of her favorites.
walk in peace
Lucy
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