Florida’s pushing hard for you to spend your travel dollar in its neck of the woods. And who can really blame the state given the recent oil spill and the impending storms?
Frankly, I find it hard to believe that the state is actively seeking out visitors, given that it is home to some of the largest and most popular tourist attractions on Earth. Some rodent named Mickey… ahem… Mouse.
Still, in a previous blog I promised that I would spotlight some of the state’s non-over-commercialized hot spots, so here we go:
MIAMI
Not the Kardashian sisters’ Miami; rather, the one that attracts foodies like cheese to burgers. Miami is a melting pot of diverse cultures and home to one of the hottest culinary scenes in North America. You can eat your way through the city and never be offered the same dish twice. If you are unfamiliar with the city and don’t have a ton of time to explore on your own, then consider hooking up with Miami Culinary Tours. The company offers two food tours, one focusing on the creative fusion cuisine of South Beach and the other on authentic Cuban dishes. The tours include food and drink samples, as well as brief history lessons about each of the neighborhoods you visit.
TAMPA
Two of my college pals live in Tampa, so you know the city can’t be all that bad. Seriously, the area has something for everyone in your family despite their age or interests. Tampa is home to fabulous Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, where the whole family can pig out on traditional fair food, and then scream themselves silly on dozens of thrill rides. You and your family can even take a safari on the Serengeti Plain.
Another popular Tampa attraction is a bit more subdues. The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) is full of hands-on educational displays and unique artifacts that will entertain even the pickiest kids. Finally, for nature lovers, the area boasts several gorgeous white sand beaches. Clearwater Beach is a crowd pleaser, as is Pier 60 where you can fish, play or sign-up for a pirate cruise.
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