Top 5
Captains Top 5 Tips
1) Explore Outer Space on earth at the Kennedy Space Center, situated less than 50 miles from Orlando.
2) Take the daily Bahamas Day Cruise to Grand Bahama to arrive in time for lunch and an afternoon on the beach.
3) Go deep sea fishing off the coast of Florida for a day in what is deemed the ‘Fishing Capital of the World’.
4) Take an airboat tour of the Everglades National Park.
5) Breakfast at the News Café on Ocean Drive, Miami then take a stroll down the beach past Versace’s famous home.
Top 5 - USA Florida
Experience the Thrills of Florida
More Brits flock to Florida than any other state in the USA. Known as the 'Sunshine State' its white sandy beaches, relaxed islands off the Gulf coast, thrilling theme parks, art deco city of Miami and the Caribbean flavours of the Keys attract families and couples alike.
Florida is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and a trip to the Everglades National Park is a must. There are also excellent golf courses and those seeking great shopping will find it in the discount malls of Orlando and Miami.
Whether you want a sophisticated city break, long for the thrills and spills of some of the world’s best theme parks, or simply want to relax on a beach, Florida offers something for everyone. We have experienced travel consultants who are USA specialists and can tailor make your perfect Florida holiday.
Top 5 places to Visit
Orlando
Orlando's most famous resident is Mickey Mouse and Walt Disney World Resort is probably the number one holiday destination in the world. Located only 30 minutes from Downtown Orlando this magical place is home to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios as well as Universal Studios and Seaworld. Orlando also offers fantastic shopping malls, gourmet restaurants, lively nightlife and a number of theatres galleries and museums.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the theme parks and spend a few days chilling out on the Gulf Coast. The sheltered warm waters are perfect for families, especially around Clearwater and St Petersburg or those wanting something more upmarket should try the islands of Sanibel and Captiva.
Fort Lauderdale is on the Atlantic Coast and offers fantastic beaches and the possibility of exploring further up the coast to Palm Beach and Amelia Island.
Miami is a stylish city with palm fringed beaches, designer boutiques, million dollar mansions and vibrant nightlife. South Beach and the historic Art Deco district are like a living museum with the best collection of Art Deco buildings in the world. For those interested in wildlife the Everglades National Park, a World Heritage Site is driving distance from Miami.
The 150-mile Highway One from Miami to Key West connects this collection of tiny islands. The best way to see them is to drive the entire stretch, preferably in a convertible car. The Florida Keys will appeal to water enthusiasts, beach babes and those on the Hemmingway trail as the author lived and wrote in Key West for almost a decade.
Florida Villas
If you are travelling with your family or a large group renting a villa or apartment in Orlando is the perfect choice. What better way to spend your holiday than relaxing by the pool, with all the comforts of your home-away-from-home just steps away?
"I would definitely recommend a villa for families or groups visiting Florida, whether it is Orlando or any one of the resorts along the Gulf Coast. The Villas are generously appointed, most with private pools that provide you a safe and comfortable environment for your family and complete flexibility for your holiday - choose to dine in or dress up and head out - the choice is totally yours"
Stewart, Flight Centre Clapham
USA Specialist
Orlando
Orlando is the ultimate family destination. Nowhere on earth will you find such a high density of dazzling theme parks and attractions, fantastic water parks and a wide choice of dining, shopping and entertainment.
"There's a great selection of accommodation options, you can choose from the themed hotels of Disney and Universal to all-suite properties and luxury private homes - The choice is yours."
Sam, Flight Centre Chelmsford
USA Specialist
Gulf Coast
The Gulf Coast of Florida, with its warm, gentle waters and beautiful sand beaches is the perfect antidote to a week of thrill-riding, exploring and shopping in Orlando.
"Wildlife along this coast is amazing and watching the Manatees feeding or the pelicans diving adds to that sense of relaxation you will feel here."
Andy, Flight Centre Glasgow
USA Specialist
Miami
Beautiful people, fast cars, great restaurants and funky bars are what epitomises Miami. The heart and soul of the city is Miami Beach, South Beach in particular. Surrounded by the best examples for Art Deco in the World, South Beach is the place to be seen, to dance, to eat and to shop.
"Visit 'The Mall by the Ocean', Bayside Marketplace, featuring exclusive shops, restaurants, bars, outdoor entertainment and a relaxing atmosphere."
Nicola, Flight Centre Horsham
USA Specialist
Fort Lauderdale
With miles of blue waterways, soft golden sands and gentle ocean breezes, Fort Lauderdale is demanding of your attention. If it is art and entertainment you want, head to Hollywood Beach and Downtown Riverwalk. Golf and Spa are specialties here and for that extra special trip, visit during the World Famous boat show in October.
"Make sure you visit historic Stranahan House as Fort Lauderdale's history as a city began here. It was built as a trading post in 1901 but ended up as the local post office, community centre, town hall and even a restaurant."
Emma, Flight Centre Hampstead
USA Specialist
Florida Keys
Home to North America's only living coral reef the Florida Keys are a mecca for divers and snorkellers alike. The Keys stretch 120 miles south from Miami, starting with Key Largo, the best place to dive in the Florida reef, all the way down along the Overseas Highway, past duck Key and Islamorada to the fun-loving resort town of Key West lying just 90 miles from Cuba.
"Divers and snorkellers will love the Florida Keys as it has North America's only living coral reef running the whole length of the Keys. There are plenty of dive schools for those who fancy giving it a try, and it’s well worth it, as the marine life is amazing."
Jess, Flight Centre Brighton
USA Specialist
Events 2008-2009
17-18 Nov Ramble – A garden festival, Miami
31 Dec Key West New Year’s Eve Celebrations
18-20 Jan Miami Art Deco Festival
01-29 Feb Silver Spurs Rodeo, Kissimmee
07 Feb Fiesta Day, Tampa
22-23 April Great Sunrise Balloon Race, Miami
01-04 May Sunfest, West Palm Beach
