By Paul Oswell
There's so much more to Florida than cartoon mice! Virgin Holidays gives you
five of the best ways to meet the state's amazing array of wildlife.
Swimming with Dolphins
Who can do it? Anyone who likes water and these friendly creatures.
You don't even need to be a particularly strong swimmer as most of the swimming
takes place in shallow waters and under close instruction.
Let's go! The warm azure waters of the Florida
Keys are perfect for getting up close and personal with dolphins. Learn
all you need to know at the Dolphin Research centre in Marathon before heading
to Key Largo for a 'hands on' encounter. If you're staying closer to Orlando
Discovery
Cove adventure park offers swimming with dolphins and rays in a safe environment
perfect for younger nature-lovers.
Top tips: Don't be tempted by cheaper operators who may stress
the dolphins, and pay attention to the instructors who will outline acceptable
behaviour in the water.
Canoe the Everglades
Who can do it? Anyone who wants to see a wide variety of creatures
in their natural habitat. Forget noisy airboat rides which frighten the wildlife,
paddle a canoe instead and get much closer.
Let's go! The Everglades stretch for miles along the southern
tip of Florida. Turtles, dolphins and manatees are all resident, so keep your
eyes peeled and don't get too close to the alligators! Make sure to go with
a properly-licensed tour operator.
Top tips: Talk to the local tourist office about preferred
companies and remember your camera.
Meeting manatees
Who can do it? To see these mysterious beasts up close, you
really need to like snorkelling, but you can watch from viewing platforms and
boats, too.
Let's go! The manatee is a shy animal, but head for hotspots
such as Crystal
River, north of Tampa, where around 300 spend their winters. Local dive
shops can rent equipment if you want to organise your own trip, or contact local
tourist offices for reputable tour companies.
Top tips: Never swim towards, chase or harass the manatees
- they are protected and you could end up with a fine.
Swamp walking
Who can do it? Not for the squeamish – you’re
up to your knees in swamp - but totally safe.
Let's go! The most famous swamp walking tours take place around
the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve on the west edge of the Everglades. The main
draw is the unrivalled access to over 40 varieties of orchid. It's growing in
popularity as people discover that it's a perfectly safe yet adventurous way
to experience the natural beauty of the Everglades up close.
Top tips: Only ever venture out into the swamp with a qualified
guide - it's easy to get lost on your own.
Head out fishing
Who can do it? Not for the squeamish – you’re
up to your knees in swamp - but totally safe.
Let's go! Once you've found your company, it's easy to pick
up the basics from the instructors, and you'll soon be hooking snook, redfish,
mackerel and flounder, among others. The beauty of fishing around the Florida
flats is that you'll also see amazing birdlife and of course, the odd friendly
dolphin.
Top tips: Again, ask the local tourist office for family-friendly
fishing boat charters - that way you'll know they're qualified and insured.
If exploring Florida's wildlife sounds like the perfect holiday for
you and your family - find out about the latest
VHOT DEALS to Florida.
Paul Oswell is a freelance travel journalist who regularly writes for The Guardian, The Daily Mail, Time Out and The Sunday Times.
The information presented and opinions expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of the author. Virgin shall not be liable for damages of any kind arising out of a third party's use of, or reliance upon, this article or its contents.