Why Go To Florida

A sun-lovers paradise nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico; it’s in a great location to make the most of sun, sea and sand. Florida is of course the home of the theme park, but it’s also renowned for its fantastic coastline, lined with some of the world’s best beaches. Indeed, 2 of them make it into the top 10 of Dr Leatherman’s annual and much anticipated list of America’s best beaches – considering over 650 vie for inclusion, that’s no mean feat! From star-studded Miami Beach to the castaway surrounds of Marco Island, there’s a beach to suit every type of holidaymaker in this sunshine state. A fantastic destination, as diverse as it is beautiful!

A Brief History Of Florida

Brief History

In 1971, when Walt Disney opened the gates to the Magic Kingdom the holiday industry really took off. After enjoying all the ‘fun of the fair’, people started heading to the coast to relax, discovering stunning beaches fringed with warm, clear waters. Today, the state attracts over 40,000,000 visitors per year – more than 2 ½ times its resident population!

Passports & Visas

Most British and Irish passport holders can use the Visa Waiver scheme – you can check out the full entry requirements at www.usaembassy.org.uk

Time zone

GMT -5

Vaccinations

There are no major requirements for vaccinations.

How to get there

Virgin Atlantic fly to Orlando from London Gatwick or Manchester, or for the south of Florida, from London Heathrow to Miami. For a supplement you can fly into Fort Myers via Atlanta with Delta Air Lines.

If life’s a beach, this is where you live it!

The chill factor is very much in evidence on Florida’s beaches, so forget your everyday cares, throw on your swimming costume and enjoy! An exciting vibrant city, Miami is home to South Beach – pristine white sands frequented by the rich and the famous – so keep your eyes peeled. Further south still are the Keys, home to around 1700 islands, 42 of which are linked by bridges. Water sports are popular here and you can swim with dolphins or enjoy a sunset sail. The festive atmosphere of historic Key West is great for couples and groups whilst the quieter pace of the Upper and Lower Keys will suit families. On the north-east coast is world-famous Daytona with 23 miles of shoreline, great surf and a 500-foot wide beach which served as a speedway in yesteryear! The boardwalk at Daytona is an attraction in its own right with amusement centres, arcades, snack bars, restaurants, discos and nightclubs dotted along it. Close by, historic St Augustine is the nation’s oldest continuously settled city. Founded in 1565, it has done a wonderful job of preserving its heritage by restoring buildings, shops, homes and streets – many of which are centuries old. Further down the east coast is Fort Lauderdale boasting 23 miles of sun-drenched beach as well as sidewalk cafes, chic boutiques and trendy restaurants. It is also known as the ‘Venice of America’, due to its extensive canal system. On the Gulf Coast is Clearwater and St Pete’s – 35 miles of sparkling shoreline with an average temperature of 23 degrees. This holiday wonderland offers swimming, boating and fishing all year round. There’s also great golf, theatre, shopping, dining, nightlife and some of the world’s most significant museums. If you fancy something more active Busch Gardens® is only a short drive away, for a day the whole family will love. Naples boasts beautiful white sand beaches and beach parks that range from those with full facilities to those more off-the-beaten tracks. Those keen on a Robinson Crusoe experience will also love Marco Island, the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands it is just 4 miles wide by 6 miles long and features superb fishing, abundant wildlife and, of course, those all-important beaches. Sarasota, Sanibel and Fort Myers are other favourite destinations, bursting with spectacular natural beauty.

Virgin Holidays has been arranging holidays since 1985 and are the largest, most successful transatlantic tour operator, and market leader for travel to the USA and the Caribbean.

For great deals on Florida holidays, and all inclusive holidays, visit www.virginholidays.co.uk