Planning a trip to Florida

Sustainable Travel & Ecotourism

Florida's biggest attraction isn't a theme park, but rather its natural resources. Thanks to some of the state's initiatives, keeping Florida green is becoming second nature. The Florida Green Lodging program, for instance, is a voluntary initiative of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection that designates and recognizes lodging facilities making a commitment to conserving and protecting Florida's natural resources. As of February 19, 2010, there were 621 designated Florida Green Lodging properties. In order to be considered for membership in this very exclusive, green group, motels, hotels, and resorts must educate customers, employees, and the public on conservation; participate in waste reduction, reuse, recycling, water conservation, and energy efficiency; and provide eco-friendly transportation. The designation is valid for 3 years from the date of issue, and all properties are required to submit environmental performance data every year as well as implement at least two new environmental practices from any of the six areas of sustainable operations. For a list of these properties, go to www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging/lodges.htm.

Eco-tourism isn't just a trendy catchphrase when it comes to tourism in Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates that outdoor activities have almost a $10-billion impact on the state's economy. The Everglades is an eco-tourism hot spot where responsible tourism isn't an option but a requirement for anyone visiting or working there. In fact, in 2010, the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan began a process that will return some lands previously squandered for development to their formerly pristine, natural conditions.

Similar efforts can be seen throughout the state, such as in North Florida, where the new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama Beach is the nation's first Leadership in Energy and Design (LEED)-certified passenger terminal. This "green" airport encompasses 4,000 acres donated by the St. Joe Company that will be part of a landmark conservation effort to include a National Audubon Nature Center. visit www.frommers.com/planning for more tips on responsible travel.

Eco-Adventures

If you don't want to do it yourself, you can observe Florida's flora and fauna on guided field expeditions -- and contribute to conservation efforts while you're at it.

The Sierra Club, the oldest and largest grass-roots environmental organization in the U.S., offers eco-adventures through its Florida chapters. Recent outings have included canoeing or kayaking through the Everglades, hiking the Florida Trail in America's southernmost national forest, camping on a barrier island, and exploring the sinkhole phenomenon in North-Central Florida. You do have to be a Sierra Club member, but you can join at the time of the trip. Contact the club's national outings office at 85 Second St., 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105-3441 (tel. 415/977-5500; www.sierraclub.org).

The Florida chapter of the Nature Conservancy has protected 578,000 acres of natural lands in Florida and presently owns and manages 36 preserves. For a small fee, you can join one of its field trips or work parties that take place periodically throughout the year; fees vary from year to year and event to event, so call for more information. Participants get a chance to learn about and even participate in the preservation of the ecosystem. For details on all the preserves and adventures, contact the Nature Conservancy, Florida Chapter, 222 S. Westmonte Dr., Ste. 300, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 (tel. 407/682-3664; fax 407/682-3077; www.nature.org).

A nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental research, the Earthwatch Institute, 3 Clocktower Place, Ste. 100 (P.O. Box 75), Maynard, MA 01754 (tel. 800/776-0188 or 978/461-0081; www.earthwatch.org), has excursions to survey dolphins and manatees around Sarasota and to monitor the well-being of the whooping cranes raised in captivity and released in the wilds of Central Florida.

Another research group, the Oceanic Society, Fort Mason Center, Building E, San Francisco, CA 94123 (tel. 800/326-7491 or 415/441-1106; fax 415/474-3395; www.oceanic-society.org), also has Florida trips among its expeditions, including manatee monitoring in the Crystal River area, north of Tampa.

Getting There

By Plane

Most major domestic airlines fly to and from many Florida cities. Choose from American, Continental, Delta, Northwest/KLM, United, and US Airways. Of these, Delta and US Airways have the most extensive network of commuter connections within Florida.

Several so-called no-frills airlines -- with low fares but few amenities -- also fly to Florida. The biggest and best is Southwest Airlines, which has flights from many U.S. cities to Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and Panama City.

Others airlines flying to Florida include AirTran, JetBlue,Virgin America, Midwest Airlines, and Spirit.

The major airports in Florida are Miami International Airport (MIA), Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), Key West International Airport (EYW), Melbourne International Airport (MLB), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), St. Augustine Airport (SGJ), St. Petersburg Clearwater International Airport (PIE), Tampa International Airport (TPA), the brand-new Northwest Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama Beach, and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI).

By Bus

Greyhound (tel. 800/231-2222; www.greyhound.com) has more than 50 stops within the state of Florida and more than 2,400 service locations in North America.

By Car

Florida is reached by I-95 along the East Coast, I-75 from the Central States, and I-10 from the west. The Florida Turnpike, a toll road, links Orlando, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami (it's a shortcut from Wildwood on I-75 north of Orlando to Miami). I-4 cuts across the state from Cape Canaveral through Orlando to Tampa.

International visitors should note that insurance and taxes are almost never included in quoted rental-car rates in the U.S. Be sure to ask your rental agency about additional fees for these. They can add a significant cost to your car rental.

Most car-rental companies in Florida require that you be 25, but if not, there's a hefty surcharge applied to renters 21 to 24 years old.

And because Florida isn't exactly known for stress-free driving, The Florida Department of Transportation has come out with the Florida 511 Traveler Information system, a free traffic and travel info system that offers advice on routes, airports, and even traffic to avoid -- for free. Just call 511.

By Train

Amtrak (tel. 800/USA-RAIL [872-7245]; www.amtrak.com) offers train service to Florida from both the East and West coasts. It takes some 26 hours from New York to Miami, and 68 hours from Los Angeles to Miami.

Amtrak's Silver Meteor and Silver Star both run twice daily between New York and either Miami or Tampa, with intermediate stops along the East Coast and in Florida. Amtrak's Thruway Bus Connections are available from the Fort Lauderdale Amtrak station and Miami International Airport to Key West; from Tampa to St. Petersburg, Treasure Island, Clearwater, Sarasota, Bradenton, and Fort Myers; and from Deland to Daytona Beach. From the West Coast, the Sunset Limited runs three times weekly between Los Angeles and Orlando. It stops in Pensacola, Crestview (north of Fort Walton Beach and Destin), Chipley (north of Panama City Beach), and Tallahassee. Sleeping accommodations are available for an extra charge.

If you intend to stop along the way, you can save money with Amtrak's Explore America (or All Aboard America) fares, which are based on three regions of the country.

Amtrak's Auto Train runs daily from Lorton, Virginia (12 miles south of Washington, D.C.), to Sanford, Florida (just northeast of Orlando). You ride in a coach while your car is secured in an enclosed vehicle carrier. Make your train reservations as far in advance as possible.

By Boat

While you can't hop on a cruise ship to Florida, you can from Florida with cruise ports located in Miami, Port Everglades, Cape Canaveral, and Tampa.

Special-Interest Vacations

For Art & Design Fanatics -- Explore the galleries and showrooms in Miami's hip Design District, loosely defined as the area bounded by Northeast 2nd Avenue, Northeast 5th Avenue East and West, and Northwest 36th Street to the south. Just south of the Design District is yet another burgeoning arts district, a sketchy strip of Miami bounded by Northeast 2nd Avenue to the east and Northeast 36th Street to the north, known as Wynwood. Explore at your own risk, preferably during the day.

For Foodies -- Hungry for knowledge or just hungry? Whatever the case, these comprehensive tours of some of Miami's most delicious neighborhoods and districts will make sure you fill up on all sorts of local and global delicacies. Sure, your souvenir may come in the form of a few extra pounds, but if you like to eat, this is the tour for you. tel. 786/942-8856. www.miamiculinarytours.com.

For a Taste of Pre-Castro Cuba -- Take a ride to Miami's Little Havana, aka Calle Ocho, or Southwest 8th Street. Stroll past Maximo Gomez Park, aka Domino Park, command central for Cuban retirees who sit here all day playing dominoes. Stop and check out the hand rollers at Moore & Bode Cigars, and find trinkets of Yoruba culture at Botanica Begra Francisca before getting perky with a Cuban coffee at Versailles. If you're laying off the caffeine, then head to El Palacio de los Jugos and order a fresh-squeezed mamey, papaya, or guava juice.

For Bird-Watchers -- A 70-mile drive from the Jacksonville area is Gainesville's Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, home to more than 263 bird species, not to mention bison, gators, and snakes. tel. 866/778-5002. www.floridastateparks.org/paynesprairie.

For Kayakers -- If you can bear the mosquitoes, take a nighttime kayak tour at Merritt Island National Refuge and catch a glimpse of one-celled organisms called dinoflagellates whose lights will guide you on your way -- along with an expert guide too, of course.

For Enlightenment -- Visit the most powerful lighthouse on the East Coast in Fort Lauderdale's Hillsboro Beach, under which sits a statue of a barefoot mailman. The statue is of Ed Hamilton, who was killed while crossing Hillsboro Inlet. The Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society gives special tours of the grounds and lighthouse four times a year from nearby Pompano Beach. www.hillsborolighthouse.org.

For Dog Lovers -- With appearances on CNN and MTV, it's amazing that Lotta the Surfing Dog even has time to show off for her fans. But if you're in Key West, head to the island's South Beach, where the rat terrier, who learned to surf because she didn't like being in the water, hangs ten on an almost daily basis.

For a Total Time Warp -- Head 30 minutes north of Fort Myers and you'll eventually end up in the land that development forgot -- Pine Island. There are no chain restaurants, no condos, just palm trees, mango orchards, fishing villages, and mom-and-pop restaurants. If the Bahamas hadn't already snagged the name, we'd call this Paradise Island.

For a Hell of a Good Time -- A trip to Northwest Florida isn't necessarily complete without a stop at Tate's Hell State Forest, where legend has it a farmer was lost for 7 days and lived to tell about it. Dubiously named or not, the state forest is heaven for those into outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing, with 35 miles of rivers, streams, and creeks ideal for canoeing, boating, and fishing. Endangered species including the bald eagle, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, and red-cockaded woodpeckers also call this Hell their home.

For Military Buffs -- Turns out, alligators weren't always the most powerful things in the Everglades. Opened for the first time in 2009 is the Nike Hercules Missile Site in the heart of the national park, which was built during the Kennedy years as a result of the threat of a Soviet-armed Cuba. The 90-minute walking tour takes you through the missile assembly building, the three barns where 12 missiles were stored, and an underground control room. Fascinating!

Money

Frommer's lists exact prices in the local currency. However, rates fluctuate, so before departing consult a currency-exchange website such as www.oanda.com/currency/converter to check up-to-the-minute rates.

Beware of hidden credit-card fees while traveling. Check with your credit or debit card issuer to see what fees, if any, will be charged for overseas transactions. Recent reform legislation in the U.S., for example, has curbed some exploitative lending practices. But many banks have responded by increasing fees in other areas, including fees for customers who use credit and debit cards while out of the country -- even if those charges were made in U.S. dollars. Fees can amount to 3% or more of the purchase price. Check with your bank before departing to avoid any surprise charges on your statement.

For help with currency conversions, tip calculations, and more, download Frommer's convenient Travel Tools app for your mobile device. Go to www.frommers.com/go/mobile and click on the Travel Tools icon.

What Things Cost in Florida US$

Taxi from the airport to major destination $18-$25

Double room, moderate $179

Double room, inexpensive $99

Three-course dinner for one without wine, moderate $25-$50

Bottle of beer $3-$6

Cup of coffee $2-$6

1 gallon of gas $3.75-$4.25

Admission to most museums Free-$20

Admission to most national parks $2-$8

Tips for Senior Travelers

With one of the largest retired populations of any state, Florida offers a wide array of activities and benefits for seniors. Don't be shy about asking for discounts, but always carry some kind of identification, such as a driver's license, that shows your date of birth. Mention the fact that you're a senior when you make your travel reservations. In most cities, people 60 and older qualify for reduced admission to theaters, museums, and other attractions, as well as discounted fares on public transportation.

Members of AARP, 601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049 (tel. 888/687-2277; www.aarp.org), get discounts on hotels, airfares, and car rentals. Anyone 50 or older can join.

The U.S. National Park Service offers an America the Beautiful -- National Park and Federal Recreational Lands Pass -- Senior Pass (formerly the Golden Age Passport), which gives seniors 62 years or older lifetime entrance to all properties administered by the National Park Service -- national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas, and national wildlife refuges -- for a one-time processing fee of $10. The pass must be purchased in person at any NPS facility that charges an entrance fee. Besides free entry, the American the Beautiful Senior Pass also offers a 50% discount on some federal-use fees charged for camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, and tours. For more information, go to www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm or call tel. 888/467-2757.

Many agencies and organizations target the 50-plus market. Elderhostel (tel. 800/454-5768; www.elderhostel.org) arranges worldwide study programs for those age 55 and older. ElderTreks (tel. 800/741-7956 or 416/558-5000 outside North America; www.eldertreks.com) offers small-group tours to off-the-beaten-path or adventure-travel locations, for travelers 50 and older.

Tips for Families

Florida is a great family destination, with Walt Disney World leading the list of theme parks geared to young and old alike. Consequently, most Florida hotels and restaurants are willing, if not eager, to cater to families traveling with children. Many hotels and motels let children age 17 and younger stay free in a parent's room (be sure to ask when you reserve).

At the beaches, it's the exception rather than the rule for a resort not to have a children's activities program (some will even mind the youngsters while the parents enjoy a night off!). Even if they don't have a children's program of their own, most will arrange babysitting services.

Recommended family-travel websites include Family Travel Forum (www.familytravelforum.com), a site that offers customized trip planning; Family Travel Network (www.familytravelnetwork.com), an online magazine providing travel tips; and TravelWithYourKids.com (www.travelwithyourkids.com), a comprehensive site written by parents for parents, offering sound advice for long-distance and international travel with children.

When to Go

To a large extent, the timing of your visit will determine how much you'll spend -- and how much company you'll have -- once you get to Florida. That's because room rates can more than double during so-called high seasons, when countless visitors flock to Florida.

The weather determines the high seasons. In subtropical South Florida, high season is in the winter, from mid-December to mid-April, although if you ask tourism execs, the high season is now creeping further into spring and even, in some parts, summer. On the other hand, you'll be rewarded with incredible bargains if you can stand the heat, humidity, and daily rainstorms of a South Florida summer between June and early September. In North Florida the reverse is true: Tourists flock here during the summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and, as seen in 2005, the most active hurricane season on record, and 2009, the quietest, you never know what can happen. Pay close attention to weather forecasts during this season and always be prepared.

Presidents' Day weekend in February, Easter week, Memorial Day weekend, the Fourth of July, Labor Day weekend, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's are busy throughout the state, especially at Walt Disney World and the other Orlando-area attractions, which can be packed any time school is out.

Northern and southern Florida share the same shoulder seasons: April through May, and September through November, when the weather is pleasant throughout Florida and the hotel rates are considerably lower than during the high season. If price is a consideration, these months of moderate temperatures and fewer tourists are the best times to visit.

Weather

Northern Florida has a temperate climate, and even in the warmer southern third of the state, it's subtropical, not tropical. Accordingly, Florida sees more extremes of temperatures than, say, the Caribbean islands.

Spring, which runs from late March to May, sees warm temperatures throughout Florida, but it also brings tropical showers.

Summer in Florida extends from May to September, when it's hot and very humid throughout the state. If you're in an inland city during these months, you may not want to do anything too taxing when the sun is at its peak. Coastal areas, however, reap the benefits of sea breezes. Severe afternoon thunderstorms are prevalent during the summer heat (there aren't professional sports teams here named Lightning and Thunder for nothing), so schedule your activities for earlier in the day, and take precautions to avoid being hit by lightning during the storms. Those storms, by the way, often start out fierce and end with a rainbow and sunshine, so don't worry, just don't stand under a tree or on a golf course during the main act.

Autumn -- about September through November -- is a great time to visit, as the hottest days are gone and the crowds have thinned out. Unless a hurricane blows through, November is usually Florida's driest month. These days, however, one can never predict 100% sunshine. June through November is hurricane season here, but even if one threatens, the National Weather Service closely tracks the storms and gives ample warning if there's need to evacuate coastal areas.

Winter can get a bit nippy throughout the state and, in recent years, downright freezing, especially in northern Florida. Although snow is rare, the end of 2009 saw flakes falling as far north as Pensacola and as far south as Kendall in South Miami! Speaking of cold in Miami, locals have been known to whip out the coats, hats, and boots when the temperature drops below 80. The "cold snaps" usually last only a few days in the southern half of the state, however, and daytime temperatures should quickly return to the 70s (20s Celsius). Again, that was before all the El Niño/La Niña global warming took effect, so whenever you travel to Florida, bring a jacket. Even in summertime you may need it indoors, when air-conditioning reaches freezing temperatures.

For up-to-the-minute weather info, tune in to cable TV's Weather Channel or check out its website at www.weather.com.

Holidays

Banks, government offices, post offices, and many stores, restaurants, and museums are closed on the following legal national holidays: January 1 (New Year's Day), the third Monday in January (Martin Luther King, Jr., Day), the third Monday in February (Presidents' Day), the last Monday in May (Memorial Day), July 4 (Independence Day), the first Monday in September (Labor Day), the second Monday in October (Columbus Day), November 11 (Veterans' Day/Armistice Day), the fourth Thursday in November (Thanksgiving Day), and December 25 (Christmas). The Tuesday after the first Monday in November is Election Day, a federal government holiday in presidential-election years (held every 4 years, and next in 2012).

Tips for Travelers with Disabilities

Florida is exceptionally accommodating to those with special needs. In addition to special parking set aside at every establishment, out-of-state vehicles with disability parking permits from other states can park in these spots. Florida state law and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) require that guide dogs be permitted in all establishments and attractions, although some ride restrictions do apply. For those who have hearing impairments, TDD service is available by dialing tel. 711 via the Florida Relay Service. There are several resources for people with disabilities who are traveling within Florida, including special wheelchairs with balloon tires provided free of charge at many Florida beaches. For the best information on traveling with disabilities, go to www.visitflorida.com/Disablities_Travel.

Regions in Brief

Contrary to popular belief, Florida is not all sun, sea, and sand. Here's a brief rundown of the state's regions to help you plan your itinerary.

Entry Requirements & Customs

Passports

Virtually every air traveler entering the U.S. is required to show a passport. All persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport. Note: U.S. and Canadian citizens entering the U.S. at land and sea ports of entry from within the western hemisphere must now also present a passport or other documents compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI; visit www.getyouhome.gov for details). Children 15 and under may continue entering with only a U.S. birth certificate, or other proof of U.S. citizenship.

Australia -- Australian Passport Information Service (tel. 131-232, or visit www.passports.gov.au).

Canada -- Passport Office, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G3 (tel. 800/567-6868; www.ppt.gc.ca).

Ireland -- Passport Office, Setanta Centre, Molesworth Street, Dublin 2 (tel. 01/671-1633; www.foreignaffairs.gov.ie).

New Zealand -- Passports Office, Department of Internal Affairs, 47 Boulcott St., Wellington, 6011 (tel. 0800/225-050 in New Zealand or 04/474-8100; www.passports.govt.nz).

United Kingdom -- Visit your nearest passport office, major post office, or travel agency, or contact the Identity and Passport Service (IPS), 89 Eccleston Sq., London, SW1V 1PN (tel. 0300/222-0000; www.ips.gov.uk).

United States -- To find your regional passport office, check the U.S. State Department website (http://travel.state.gov/passport) or call the National Passport Information Center (tel. 877/487-2778) for automated information.

Visas

The U.S. State Department has a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allowing citizens of the following countries to enter the United States without a visa for stays of up to 90 days: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. (Note: This list was accurate at press time; for the most up-to-date list of countries in the VWP, consult http://travel.state.gov/visa.) Even though a visa isn't necessary, in an effort to help U.S. officials check travelers against terror watch lists before they arrive at U.S. borders, visitors from VWP countries must register online through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before boarding a plane or a boat to the U.S. Travelers must complete an electronic application providing basic personal and travel-eligibility information. The Department of Homeland Security recommends filling out the form at least 3 days before traveling. Authorizations will be valid for up to 2 years or until the traveler's passport expires, whichever comes first. Currently, there is a US$14 fee for the online application. Existing ESTA registrations remain valid through their expiration dates. Note: Any passport issued on or after October 26, 2006, by a VWP country must be an e-Passport for VWP travelers to be eligible to enter the U.S. without a visa. Citizens of these nations also need to present a round-trip air or cruise ticket upon arrival. E-Passports contain computer chips capable of storing biometric information, such as the required digital photograph of the holder. If your passport doesn't have this feature, you can still travel without a visa if the valid passport was issued before October 26, 2005, and includes a machine-readable zone; or if the valid passport was issued between October 26, 2005, and October 25, 2006, and includes a digital photograph. For more information, go to http://travel.state.gov/visa. Canadian citizens may enter the United States without visas, but will need to show passports and proof of residence.

Citizens of all other countries must have (1) a valid passport that expires at least 6 months later than the scheduled end of their visit to the U.S., and (2) a tourist visa.

For information about U.S. visas go to http://travel.state.gov and click on "Visas." Or go to one of the following websites:

Australian citizens can obtain up-to-date visa information from the U.S. Embassy Canberra, Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600 (tel. 02/6214-5600), or by checking the U.S. Diplomatic Mission's website at http://canberra.usembassy.gov/visas.html.

British subjects can obtain up-to-date visa information by calling the U.S. Embassy Visa Information Line (tel. 09042-450-100 from within the U.K. at £1.20 per minute; or tel. 866/382-3589 from within the U.S. at a flat rate of $16; payable by credit card only) or by visiting the "Visas to the U.S." section of the American Embassy London's website at http://london.usembassy.gov/visas.html.

Irish citizens can obtain up-to-date visa information through the U.S. Embassy Dublin, 42 Elgin Rd., Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 (tel. 1580-47-VISA [8472] from within the Republic of Ireland at €2.40 per minute; http://dublin.usembassy.gov).

Citizens of New Zealand can obtain up-to-date visa information by contacting the U.S. Embassy New Zealand, 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington (tel. 644/462-6000; http://newzealand.usembassy.gov).

Customs

Every visitor 21 years of age or older may bring in, free of duty, the following: (1) 1 U.S. quart of alcohol; (2) 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars (but not from Cuba), or 3 pounds of smoking tobacco; and (3) $100 worth of gifts. These exemptions are offered to travelers who spend at least 72 hours in the United States and who have not claimed them within the preceding 6 months. It is forbidden to bring into the country almost any meat products (including canned, fresh, and dried meat products such as bouillon, soup mixes, and the like). Generally, condiments including vinegars, oils, pickled goods, spices, coffee, tea, and some cheeses and baked goods are permitted. Avoid rice products, as rice can often harbor insects. Bringing fruits and vegetables is prohibited since they may harbor pests or disease. International visitors may carry in or out up to $10,000 in U.S. or foreign currency with no formalities; larger sums must be declared to U.S. Customs on entering or leaving, which includes filing form CM 4790. For details regarding U.S. Customs and Border Protection, consult your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, or U.S. Customs (www.customs.gov).

Medical Requirements

Unless you're arriving from an area known to be suffering from an epidemic (particularly cholera or yellow fever), inoculations or vaccinations are not required for entry into the United States.

Tips on Accommodations

Florida accommodations are as varied in personality as the weather is in mid-July. All sorts of stays line the Sunshine State, ranging from swanky, five-star luxury hotels and beach resorts to cozy one-room cottages, posh penthouses, B&Bs, and beachfront high-rise condominiums to back-to-nature-style Everglades cabins and campsites. For sports or nature lovers there are hotels and motels located on golf courses, marinas, or surrounded by nature preserves and hiking trails. For families and admirers of kitsch, there are themed hotels that transport you from Florida to, say, Colorado, or even the Cartoon Network. For the hipster, there's the requisite boutique hotel with mandatory celebrity sightings. And for those who just want to get away from it all, there are countless hidden hotels, motels, and cottages, even a few on private islands.

Easy Rider: Camping Out Old School

As time goes by and the remnants of Old Florida become as rare as natural blondes on South Beach, it's nice to jump on the vintage bandwagon -- or in this case, the vintage Volkswagen, when the opportunity presents itself. Thanks to Florida Oldschool Campers, your nostalgic journey through the Sunshine State begins on tricked-out VW mini RVs, complete with two-burner propane stove, icebox, table, cabinet space, and two surprisingly comfy beds with clean linens. Owners Mike and Dixie keep the rides stocked with cookware, linens, and flashlights, and even a water tank.?Each of the two buses has full hookups including water and standard 110-volt outlets.?Even the prices are pretty vintage and, uh, far out, at?$80 a day,?making for a trippy way to explore?what's new and old in the state of Florida. Florida Oldschool Campers, Tampa (no street address), www.floridavwrentals.com.

Fast Facts

Area Codes -- 239: For the Southwest coast, including all of Lee County, Collier County, mainland Monroe County, and excluding Florida Keys; includes Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, and the Everglades.

305: All of Miami-Dade County and the Florida Keys of Monroe County: Miami, Homestead, Coral Gables, Key West; 786: A newer area code covering those Miami-Dade numbers not covered by 305.

321: Orlando, Cocoa Beach, St. Cloud, and central eastern Florida. Is also the exclusive code for the Space Coast: Cape Canaveral, Melbourne, Titusville, Cocoa Beach.

352: Gainesville, Ocala, Inverness, Spring Hill, Dunnellon, and central Florida.

386: Daytona Beach, Lake City, Live Oak, Crescent City, and northern and eastern Florida.

407: Parts of Orlando, Cocoa Beach, Kissimmee, St. Cloud, and central-eastern Florida not covered by 321.

561: Palm Beach County: West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Belle Glade.

727: Majority of Pinellas County including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Dunedin.

954: All of Broward County: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Coral Springs.

754: All of Broward County that isn't covered by 954.

772: Vero Beach, Port Saint Lucie, Fort Pierce, Sebastian, Stuart, and central-eastern Florida.

813: All of Hillsborough County, including Tampa and Plant City; inland areas of Pasco County; and parts of Oldsmar in Pinellas County.

850: Pensacola, Tallahassee, Panama City, and the Florida Panhandle.

863: Lakeland, Avon Park, Clewiston, Bartow, Sebring, Winter Haven, and south-central Florida.

904: Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Starke, Green Cove Springs, and northeastern Florida.

941: Gulf Coast immediately south of Tampa Bay: all of Manatee County, Sarasota County, and Charlotte County; includes Bradenton, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, and Punta Gorda.

Business Hours -- "Normal" business hours are usually 9am to 5pm, but in certain parts of the state -- Miami, especially -- hours range from "whenever" to "whenever." Always call ahead to ask for hours, as, like the weather, they can change in an instant.

Drinking Laws -- The legal age for purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages is 21, though, strangely and somewhat hypocritically, a person serving or selling alcohol can be 18; proof of age is required and often requested at bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, so it's always a good idea to bring ID when you go out. Do not carry open containers of alcohol in your car or any public area that isn't zoned for alcohol consumption. The police can fine you on the spot. Don't even think about driving while intoxicated. Florida state law prohibits the sale of alcohol between 3am and 7am, unless the county chooses to change the operating hours later. For instance, Miami-Dade County liquor stores may operate 24 hours. Alcohol sales on Sundays vary by county; some, such as Palm Beach and Miami-Dade County, can start serving booze as early as 7am while other counties such as Monroe don't start popping corks until noon. Check with your specific county to see what time spirits start being served. Supermarkets and other licensed business establishments can sell only beer, low-alcohol liquors, and wine. The hard stuff must be sold in dedicated liquor stores, which may be in a separate part of a grocery or a drugstore. Beer must be sold in quantities of 32 ounces or less or greater than 1 gallon. Forty- and 64-ounce alcoholic beverages are illegal.

As for open container laws: Having open alcoholic containers on public property, including streets, sidewalks, or inside a vehicle, is prohibited, though opened bottles of liquor are allowed inside a car trunk. Drivers suspected to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs must agree to breath, blood, or urine testing under "implied consent laws." Penalties for refusing testing can mean suspension of the driver's license for up to 1 year. In Florida, the first conviction carries a mandatory suspension of the driver's license for 6 months; for the second offense, 1 year; for the third offense, 2 years. Underage drivers (20 or younger) have a maximum legal blood-alcohol content percentage of .02%. Above this amount, they are subject to DUI penalties. At .20% above the legal limit of .08%, a driver faces much harsher repercussions. This also applies to drivers refusing chemical testing for intoxication.

Electricity -- Like Canada, the United States uses 110 to 120 volts AC (60 cycles), compared to 220 to 240 volts AC (50 cycles) in most of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Downward converters that change 220-240 volts to 110-120 volts are difficult to find in the United States, so bring one with you.

Embassies & Consulates -- All embassies are in the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. Some consulates are in major U.S. cities, and most nations have a mission to the United Nations in New York City. If your country isn't listed below, call for directory information in Washington, D.C. (tel. 202/555-1212) or check www.embassy.org/embassies.

The embassy of Australia is at 1601 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036 (tel. 202/797-3000; www.usa.embassy.gov.au). Consulates are in New York, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

The embassy of Canada is at 501 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001 (tel. 202/682-1740; www.canadainternational.gc.ca/washington). Other Canadian consulates are in Buffalo (New York), Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle.

The embassy of Ireland is at 2234 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel. 202/462-3939; www.embassyofireland.org). Irish consulates are in Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, and other cities. See website for complete listing.

The embassy of New Zealand is at 37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel. 202/328-4800; www.nzembassy.com). New Zealand consulates are in Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, and Seattle.

The embassy of the United Kingdom is at 3100 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel. 202/588-6500; http://ukinusa.fco.gov.uk). Other British consulates are in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle.

Emergencies -- To reach the police, ambulance, or fire department, dial tel. 911 from any phone. No coins are needed.

Internet & Wi-Fi -- When it comes to Internet and Wi-Fi, we're pretty connected. Most major cities offer free Wi-Fi hot spots. To find cybercafes in your destination, check www.cybercaptive.com and www.cybercafe.com. Also, most public libraries throughout the state offer free Internet access/Wi-Fi.

Language -- Although English is obviously the language of choice in the United States, when it comes to some cities in Florida, namely Miami, there are certain parts of the city and people who refuse to speak it. It can be trying on your patience, but it happens. Just a warning.

Legal Aid -- While driving, if you are pulled over for a minor infraction (such as speeding), never attempt to pay the fine to a police officer; this could be construed as attempted bribery, a much more serious crime. Pay fines by mail, or directly into the hands of the clerk of the court. If accused of a more serious offense, say and do nothing before consulting a lawyer. In the U.S., the burden is on the state to prove a person's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and everyone has the right to remain silent. Once arrested, a person can make one telephone call to a party of his or her choice. The international visitor should call his or her embassy or consulate.

Mail -- At press time, domestic postage rates were 28¢ for a postcard and 44¢ for a letter. For international mail, a first-class letter of up to 1 ounce costs 98¢ (75¢ to Canada and 79¢ to Mexico); a first-class postcard costs the same as a letter. For more information go to www.usps.com.

If you aren't sure what your address will be in the United States, mail can be sent to you, in your name, c/o General Delivery at the main post office of the city or region where you expect to be. (Call tel. 800/275-8777 for information on the nearest post office.) The addressee must pick up mail in person and must produce proof of identity (driver's license, passport, and so forth). Most post offices will hold mail for up to 1 month, and are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm, and Saturday from 9am to 3pm.

Always include zip codes when mailing items in the U.S. If you don't know your zip code, visit www.usps.com/zip4.

Newspapers -- Thanks to technology, you can likely read your own hometown daily newspaper on your mobile. But for those who like to engage in what's going on in their vacation surroundings, the following is a list of some of Florida's more major newspapers: Florida Times-Union (Jacksonville), Gainesville Sun, Key West Citizen, Miami Herald, Naples Daily News Online, El Nuevo Herald (the Miami Herald's Spanish paper), Orlando Sentinel, Palm Beach Post, Pensacola News-Journal, the St. Augustine Record, St. Petersburg Times, Sarasota Herald-Tribune, South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale), Tampa Tribune, and Tallahassee Democrat.

For a comprehensive list of major Florida newspapers, daily and otherwise, go to http://dlis.dos.state.fl.us/fgils/flnews2.html.

Police -- To reach the police, dial tel. 911 from any phone. No coins are needed.

Smoking -- In November 2002, 71% of Florida's citizens voted for a constitutional amendment to prohibit smoking in all enclosed indoor workplaces. The smoke-free law became effective July 1, 2003. All establishments making more profit from food than from beverages are also smoke free, though some renegade bars and restaurants defy the law despite the hefty fees and allow smoking indoors.

Taxes -- The Florida state sales tax is 6%. Many municipalities add 1% or more to that, and most levy a special tax on hotel and restaurant bills. In general, expect at least 9% to be added to your final hotel bill. The United States has no value-added tax (VAT) or other indirect tax at the national level. Every state, county, and city may levy its own local tax on all purchases, including hotel and restaurant checks and airline tickets. These taxes will not appear on price tags.

Time -- The Florida peninsula observes Eastern Standard Time, but most of the Panhandle, west of the Apalachicola River, is on Central Standard Time, 1 hour behind the rest of the state.

Daylight saving time is in effect from 1am on the second Sunday in March to 1am on the first Sunday in November, except in Arizona, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Daylight saving time moves the clock 1 hour ahead of standard time.

The continental United States is divided into four time zones: Eastern Standard Time (EST), Central Standard Time (CST), Mountain Standard Time (MST), and Pacific Standard Time (PST). Alaska and Hawaii have their own zones. For example, when it's 9am in Los Angeles (PST), it's 7am in Honolulu (HST), 10am in Denver (MST), 11am in Chicago (CST), noon in New York City (EST), 5pm in London (GMT), and 2am the next day in Sydney.

For help with time translations and more, download our convenient Travel Tools app for your mobile device. Go to www.frommers.com/go/mobile and click on the Travel Tools icon.

Tipping -- In hotels, tip bellhops at least $1 per bag ($2-$3 if you have a lot of luggage), and tip the chamber staff $1 to $2 per day (more if you've left a big mess for him or her to clean up). Tip the doorman or concierge only if he or she has provided you with some specific service (for example, calling a cab for you or obtaining difficult-to-get theater tickets). Tip the valet-parking attendant $1 every time you get your car.

In restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, tip service staff and bartenders 15% to 20% of the check, tip checkroom attendants $1 per garment, and tip valet-parking attendants $2 per vehicle.

Keep an eye on your bill in tourist hot spots such as South Beach, where as much as an 18% auto gratuity could be already added to the total check.

As for other service personnel, tip cab drivers 15% of the fare; tip skycaps at airports at least $1 per bag ($2-$3 if you have a lot of luggage); and tip hairdressers and barbers 15% to 20%.

For help with tip calculations, currency conversions, and more, download our convenient Travel Tools app for your mobile device. Go to www.frommers.com/go/mobile and click on the Travel Tools icon.

Toilets -- You won't find public toilets or "restrooms" on the streets in most U.S. cities, but they can be found in hotel lobbies, bars, restaurants, museums, department stores, railway and bus stations, and service stations. Large hotels and fast-food restaurants are often the best bet for clean facilities. Restaurants and bars in resorts or heavily visited areas may reserve their restrooms for patrons.

Getting Around

Having a car is the best and easiest way to see Florida's sights or to get to and from the beach. Public transportation is available only in the cities and larger towns, and even there, it may provide infrequent or inadequate service. Getting from one city to another, cars and planes are the way to go.

By Plane

The commuter arms of Continental, Delta, and US Airways provide extensive service between Florida's major cities and towns. Fares for these short hops tend to be reasonable.

Cape Air flies between Key West and Fort Myers, which means you can avoid backtracking to Miami from Key West if you're touring the state. (You can also take a 3-hour boat ride btw. Key West and Fort Myers Beach year-round, or Marco Island during the winter months;)

Attention visitors to the U.S. from abroad: Some major airlines offer transatlantic or transpacific passengers special discount tickets under the name Visit USA, which allows mostly one-way travel from one U.S. destination to another at very low prices. Unavailable in the U.S., these discount tickets must be purchased abroad in conjunction with your international fare. This system is the easiest, fastest, cheapest way to see the country. Inquire with your air carrier.

By Car

If you're visiting from abroad and plan to rent a car in Florida, keep in mind that foreign driver's licenses are usually recognized in the U.S., but you should get an international one if your home license is not in English.

Jacksonville is about 350 miles north of Miami and 500 miles north of Key West, so don't underestimate how long it will take you to drive all the way down the state. The speed limit is either 65 mph or 70 mph on the rural interstate highways, so you can make good time between cities. Not so on U.S. 1, U.S. 17, U.S. 19, U.S. 41, or U.S. 301; although most have four lanes, these older highways tend to be heavily congested, especially in built-up areas.

Every major car-rental company is represented here, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty.

State and local taxes will add as much as 20% to your final bill. You'll pay an additional $2.05 per day in statewide use tax, and local sales taxes will tack on at least 6% to the total, including the statewide use tax. Some airports add another 35¢ per day and as much as 10% in "recovery" fees. You can avoid the recovery fee by picking up your car in town rather than at the airport. Budget and Enterprise both have numerous locations away from the airports. Competition is so fierce among Florida rental firms that most have now stopped charging drop-off fees if you pick up a car at one place and leave it at another. Be sure to ask in advance if there's a drop-off fee.

To rent a car, you must have a valid credit card (not a debit or check card) in your name, and most companies require you to be at least 25 years old. Some also set maximum ages and may deny cars to anyone with a bad driving record. Ask about requirements and restrictions when you book, in order to avoid problems once you arrive.

International visitors should note that insurance and taxes are almost never included in quoted rental car rates in the U.S. Be sure to ask your rental agency about additional fees for these. They can add a significant cost to your car rental.

Regular unleaded prices at press time were heading toward the $4 a gallon range for regular unleaded (ouch!). Taxes are already included in the printed price. One U.S. gallon equals 3.8 liters or .85 imperial gallons. For an up-to-the-minute listing of gas prices at stations throughout Florida, go to www.floridastategasprices.com.

By Train

International visitors can buy a USA Rail Pass, good for 15, 30, or 45 days of unlimited travel on Amtrak (tel. 800/USA-RAIL [872-7245] in the U.S. or Canada; tel. 001/215-856-7953 outside the U.S.; www.amtrak.com). The pass is available online or through many overseas travel agents. Reservations are generally required and should be made as early as possible.

By Bus

Greyhound (tel. 800/231-2222 in the U.S.; tel. 001/214/849-8100 outside the U.S. with toll-free access; www.greyhound.com) is the sole nationwide bus line. International visitors can obtain information about the Greyhound North American Discovery Pass. The pass, which offers unlimited travel and stopovers in the U.S. and Canada, can be obtained outside the United States from travel agents or through www.discoverypass.com. You can travel between Florida's cities fairly easily on Greyhound.

Staying Connected

Telephones

Many convenience groceries and packaging services sell prepaid calling cards in denominations up to $50, as well as inexpensive cellphones for which you pay as you go. Many public pay phones at airports now accept American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. Local calls made from most pay phones (if you can find one) cost either 25¢ or 35¢. Most long-distance and international calls can be dialed directly from any phone. To make calls within the United States and to Canada, dial 1 followed by the area code and the seven-digit number. For other international calls, dial 011 followed by the country code, the city code, and the number you are calling.

Calls to area codes 800, 888, 877, and 866 are toll-free. However, calls to area codes 700 and 900 can be expensive -- charges of 95¢ to $3 or more per minute. Some numbers have minimum charges that can run $15 or more.

For reversed-charge or collect calls, and for person-to-person calls, dial the number 0 and then the area code and number; an operator will come on the line, and you should specify whether you are calling collect, person-to-person, or both. If your operator-assisted call is international, ask for the overseas operator.

For directory assistance ("Information"), dial tel. 411 for local numbers and national numbers in the U.S. and Canada. For dedicated long-distance information, dial 1, then the appropriate area code plus 555-1212.

Mobile Phones

Someone without a cellphone in Florida is as rare as an albino crocodile. But it happens. Reception varies from excellent to spotty, depending on where you are. The Everglades used to be an abysmal place to use a mobile phone, but thanks to new cellphone towers, reliable service is almost as guaranteed as a gator sighting. Typically, however, the more remote in the state you are, the less chance your phone will work. But it is getting better.

If you need to stay in touch at a destination where you know your phone won't work, rent a phone from InTouch USA (tel. 800/872-7626; www.intouchglobal.com) or a rental-car location, you'll pay $1 a minute or more for airtime. Or you can purchase an inexpensive pay-as-you-go mobile phone -- they're all but ubiquitous at convenience stores and other retail outlets.

If you're not from the U.S., you'll be appalled at the poor reach of our GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) wireless network, which is used by much of the rest of the world. Your phone will probably work in most major U.S. cities; it definitely won't work in many rural areas. To see where GSM phones work in the U.S., check out www.t-mobile.com/coverage/national_popup.asp. And you may or may not be able to send SMS (text messaging) home.

Health & Insurance

Health

Florida doesn't present any unusual health hazards for most people. Folks with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, diabetes, and stomach ailments, should avoid eating raw oysters. Cooking kills the bacteria, so if in doubt, order your oysters steamed, broiled, or fried.

Florida has millions of mosquitoes and invisible biting sand flies (known as no-see-ums), especially in the coastal and marshy areas. Fortunately, neither insect carries malaria or other diseases. (Although there were a few cases of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in the Panhandle, it's really not a problem in Florida.) Keep these pests at bay with a good insect repellent.

It's especially important to protect yourself against sunburn. Don't underestimate the strength of the sun's rays down here, even in the middle of winter. Use a sunscreen with a high protection factor and apply it liberally.

Insurance

Hurricane season (June 1-Nov 30) is a time when travel insurance may come in handy.

For information on traveler's insurance, trip-cancellation insurance, and medical insurance while traveling, visit www.frommers.com/planning.

Safety

While Florida's a far cry from Juárez, it pays to use common sense when traveling throughout the state. When on beaches, keep close watch on your personal items; when in South Beach, Key West, Fort Lauderdale, and pretty much any other Sunshine State hot spot, watch your drinks and never leave them unattended. And while we completely encourage exploration, avoid areas not heavily trafficked -- not the off-the-beaten-path areas, but ones that have sadly remained impervious to gentrification and modernization. Our biggest safety tip, however: sunscreen. Use it generously. You'll still get a tan. Trust us.

Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers

The editors of Out and About, a gay and lesbian newsletter, have described Miami's South Beach as the "hippest, hottest, most happening gay travel destination in the world." Today, however, Fort Lauderdale -- where gays own more than 20 motels, 40 bars, and numerous other businesses -- steals its rainbow-colored crown. For many years, that could also be said of Key West, which still is one of the country's most popular destinations for gays.

You can contact the Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Community Services of Central Florida, 946 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 (tel. 407/228-8272; www.glbcc.org), whose welcome packets usually include the latest issue of the Triangle, a quarterly newsletter, and a calendar of events pertaining to the gay and lesbian community. Although not a tourist-specific packet, it includes information and ads for the area's gay and lesbian clubs.

Watermark, P.O. Box 533655, Orlando, FL 32853 (tel. 407/481-2243; fax 407/481-2246; www.watermarkonline.com), is a biweekly tabloid newspaper covering the gay and lesbian scene, including dining and entertainment options, in Orlando, the Tampa Bay area, and Daytona Beach.

The International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA; tel. 800/448-8550 or 954/776-2626; www.iglta.org) is the trade association for the gay and lesbian travel industry, and offers an online directory of gay- and lesbian-friendly travel businesses and tour operators.

Visitor Information

For the most comprehensive visitor information in the state, check out Visit Florida, www.visitflorida.com, a comprehensive site featuring deals, maps, and all sorts of excellent information on the state's beaten- and off-the-beaten-path hot spots. You can also find a list of Frommer's travel apps at www.frommers.com/go/mobile.

Packing -- Florida is typically a warm-weather state, but not always. Be sure to pack a sweater, long sleeves, and pants in case the weather cools or, more likely, you go into a place where the A/C is arctic. Long sleeves and pants also come in handy during pesky mosquito season.

Calendar of Events

For an exhaustive list of events beyond those listed here, check http://events.frommers.com, where you'll find a searchable, up-to-the-minute roster of what's happening in cities all over the world.

January

Discover Orange Bowl (tel. 305/341-4700; www.orangebowl.org), Miami. Football fanatics flock to the big Orange Bowl game (now held at Sun Life Stadium, which is much nicer than the recently razed Orange Bowl) on New Year's Day, featuring what seems to be a different corporate sponsor every year and two of the year's best college football teams. Call early if you want tickets; they sell out quickly. First week of January.

Key West Literary Seminar (tel. 888/293-9291; www.kwls.org), Key West. Literary types have a good reason to put down their books and head to Key West. This 3-day event features a different theme every year, along with a roster of incredible authors, writers, and other literary types. The event is so popular it sells out well in advance, so call early for tickets. Second week of January.

February

Everglades City Seafood Festival (tel. 239/695-2561; www.evergladesseafoodfestival.com), Everglades City. What seems like schools of fish-loving people flock down to Everglades City for a 2-day feeding frenzy in which Florida delicacies from stone crab to gator tails are served from shacks and booths on the outskirts of this quaint Old Florida town. Free admission, but you pay for the food you eat, booth by booth. First full weekend in February.

Speedweeks (tel. 386/254-2700; www.daytonaintlspeedway.com), Daytona. Nineteen days of events, with a series of races that draw the top names in NASCAR stock car racing, culminate in the Daytona 500. All events take place at the Daytona International Speedway. Especially for the Daytona 500, tickets must be purchased as far as a year in advance; they go on sale January 1 of the prior year. First 3 weeks of February.

Miami International Boat Show (tel. 954/441-3231; www.miamiboatshow.com), Miami Beach. If you don't like crowds, beware, as this show draws a quarter of a million boat enthusiasts to the Miami Beach Convention Center. Some of the world's priciest megayachts, speedboats, sailboats, and schooners are displayed for purchase or for gawking. Mid-February.

South Beach Wine & Food Festival (tel. 877/762-3933; www.sobewineandfoodfest.com), South Beach. A 3-day celebration featuring some of the Food Network's best chefs, who do their thing in the kitchens of various restaurants and at events around town. In addition, there are tastings, lectures, seminars, and parties that are all open to the public -- for a price, of course. Last weekend in February.

March

Bike Week (tel. 800/854-1234; www.officialbikeweek.com), Daytona Beach. This international gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts draws a crowd of more than 200,000. In addition to major races held at Daytona International Speedway (featuring the world's best road racers, motocrossers, and dirt trackers), there are motorcycle shows, beach parties, and the Annual Motorcycle Parade, with thousands of riders. First week in March.

Winter Party (tel. 305/538-5908; www.winterparty.com), Miami Beach. Gays and lesbians from around the world book trips to Miami far in advance to attend this weekend-long series of parties and events benefiting the Dade Human Rights Foundation. Travel arrangements can be made through Different Roads Travel, the event's official travel company, by calling tel. 888/ROADS-55 (762-3755), ext. 510. Early March.

Spring Break, Daytona Beach, Miami Beach, Panama City Beach, Key West, and other beaches. College students from all over the United States and Canada flock to Florida for endless partying, wet-T-shirt and bikini contests, free concerts, volleyball tournaments, and more. Three weeks in March.

Calle Ocho Festival (tel. 305/644-8888; www.carnavalmiami.com), Little Havana. What Carnaval is to Rio, the Calle Ocho Festival is to Miami. This 10-day extravaganza, also called Carnival Miami, features a lengthy block party spanning 23 blocks, with live salsa music, parades, and, of course, tons of savory Cuban delicacies. Those afraid of mob scenes should avoid this party at all costs. Mid-March.

April

Conch Republic Independence Celebration (tel. 305/296-0213; www.conchrepublic.com), Key West. A 10-day party celebrating the day the Conch Republic seceded from the union. Events include a kooky bed race and drag queen race to mini-golf tournaments, cruiser car shows, and booze, lots of it. Mid-April.

July

Lower Keys Underwater Music Fest (tel. 800/872-3722), Looe Key. When you hear the phrase "the music and the madness," you may think of this amusing aural aquatic event in which boaters head out to the underwater reef at the Looe Key Marine Sanctuary, drop speakers into the water, and pipe in all sorts of music, creating a disco-diving spectacular. Considering the heat at this time of year, underwater is probably the coolest place for a concert. Early July.

Blue Angels Air Show (tel. 800/874-1234 or 850/434-1234; www.visitpensacola.com or www.blueangels.navy.mil), Pensacola. World-famous navy pilots do their aerial acrobatics just 33 feet off Pensacola Beach. Early July.

September

NKF Labor Day Pro-Am Surfing Festival (tel. 321/459-2200; www.nkfsurf.com), Cocoa Beach. One of the largest surfing events on the East Coast draws pros and amateurs from around the country. There are also rock-'n'-roll bands and swimsuit contests. Labor Day weekend.

October

Biketoberfest (tel. 386/253-RACE [253-7223]; www.biketoberfest.org), Daytona. Road-racing stars compete at the CCS Motorcycle Championship at Daytona International Speedway. There are parties, parades, concerts, and more. Mid-October.

Clearwater Jazz Holiday (tel. 727/461-5200; www.clearwaterjazz.com), Clearwater. Top jazz musicians play for 4 days and nights at bayfront Coachman Park in this free musical extravaganza. Mid-October.

Halloween Horror Nights (tel. 800/837-2273 or 407/363-8000; www.universalorlando.com), Orlando. Universal Studios transforms its grounds for 19 nights into haunted attractions with live bands, a psychopath's maze, special shows, and hundreds of ghouls and goblins roaming the streets. The studio closes at dusk, reopening in a new macabre form at 7pm. Full admission is charged for the event, which is geared toward adults. Mid-October to Halloween.

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (tel. 407/934-7639; www.disneyworld.com), Orlando. At Walt Disney World, guests are invited to trick-or-treat in the Magic Kingdom, starting at 7pm. The party includes parades, storytelling, live music, and a bewitching fireworks display. End of October.

Fantasy Fest (tel. 305/296-1817; www.fantasyfest.net), Key West. Mardi Gras takes a Floridian holiday as the streets of Key West are overtaken by costumed revelers who have no shame and no parental guidance. This weeklong, hedonistic, X-rated Halloween party is not for children 17 and under. Make reservations in Key West early, as hotels tend to book up quickly during this event. Last week of October.

November

American Sandsculpting Festival (tel. 239/454-7500; www.sandfestival.com), Fort Myers Beach. Some 50,000 gather to sculpt and to see the world's finest sand castles. First weekend in November.

Miami Book Fair International (tel. 305/237-3258), Miami. Bibliophiles, literati, and some of the world's most prestigious and prolific authors descend upon Miami for a weeklong homage to the written word, which also happens to be the largest book fair in the United States. The weekend street fair is the best attended of the entire event, in which regular folk mix with wordsmiths such as Tom Wolfe, Nora Ephron, Salman Rushdie, and Jane Smiley while indulging in snacks, antiquarian books, and literary gossip. All lectures are free but fill up quickly, so get there early. Mid-November.

Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show (tel. 800/874-1234 or 850/434-1234; www.visitpensacola.com or www.blueangels.navy.mil), Pensacola. World-famous Navy pilots do their aerial acrobatics just 33 feet off the beach. Second weekend in November.

December

Art Basel Miami Beach (www.artbaselmiamibeach.com), Miami Beach/Design District. Switzerland's most exclusive art fair and the world's most prominent collectors fly south for the winter and set up shop on South Beach and in the Design District with thousands of exhibitions, not to mention cocktail parties, concerts, and containers -- as in shipping -- that are set up on the beach and transformed into makeshift galleries. First or second weekend in December.

Edison & Ford Winter Homes Holiday House (tel. 239/334-7419; www.efwefla.org/home.asp), Fort Myers. Christmas music and thousands of lights hail the holiday season here. At the same time, candles create a spectacular Luminary Trail along the full length of Sanibel Island's Periwinkle Way. First week of December.

Christmas at Walt Disney World (www.disneyworld.com), Orlando. As you would imagine, all of the Disney properties get into the holiday spirit. In the Magic Kingdom, Main Street is lavishly decked out with lights and holly and an 80-foot glistening tree. Call tel. 407/824-4321 for holiday events, or 934-7639 for travel packages. Throughout December.

Seminole-Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade (tel. 954/767-0686; www.winterfestparade.com), Fort Lauderdale. People who complain that the holiday season just isn't as festive in South Florida as it is in colder parts of the world haven't been to this spectacular boat parade along the Intracoastal Waterway. Forget decking the halls. At this parade, the decks are decked out in magnificent holiday regalia as they gracefully -- and boastfully -- glide up and down the water. If you're not on a boat, the best views are from waterfront restaurants or anywhere you can squeeze in along the water. Mid-December.