Experience the real Florida using tips from the people who've been there – they've experienced the rides in the theme parks, been to the Everglades searching for alligators and relaxed on the miles and miles of white sandy beaches. Here are their tips to help you make the most of your adventure.
Florida uncovered
Our customers shared with us photos and videos of their favourite things about Florida. Take a look and see what Florida has to offer:
Naples
Highly commended for its spectacular beaches, Naples offers something for everyone. Chill on the pier watching pelicans and anglers competing for fish, or take a dip in the safe Gulf of Mexico waters. The city also provides the perfect gateway to the nearby Everglades National Park, where you can go alligator-spotting, or why not visit Marco Island - voted by Trip Advisor as #1 Island in USA and #4 in the WORLD.
Our customer's top tips:
- Visit Naples pier for spectacular sunsets and dolphin, stingray and pelican spotting. Tip from Teresa @badbrillo.
- Enjoy the West Coast and feed the giraffes at Naples Zoo. Tip from @mrsacmby.
- Thinking of getting married in Naples? Have your ceremony in the evening whilst the sun is setting on the beach at Naples Beach. Tip from Caroline Leah.
Fort Myers
Fort Myers is popular with native Floridians, drawn to the seven-mile sandy beach in the resort town that's been dubbed the state's 'tropical - island getaway'. It's an ideal spot for nature-lovers – miles of mangrove swamps to kayak through, well-preserved parks to explore (such as Lovers Key State Park), and the barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, both renowned for their excellent beaches.
Our customer's top tips:
- Visit Fort Myers beach at sunset – this was one of the highlights of our trip: stunning. Tip by Julie Chalmers.
- Sanibel Island is roughly about 15 minutes' drive away-it's extremely pretty with miles of white sand. Tip by Toby's Proud Mummy Toys.
- Take time out away from the theme parks to visit other places; Fort Myers Beach is a must. Tip by Robin Moseley.
Fort Lauderdale
With intricate canals and waterways, it is also known as the 'Venice of America', and is a destination that sets sail with upscale shopping, fine dining, beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets. Take a tour on the inter-coastal waterways or head to the sun kissed, palm tree lined beachfront that has been attracting tourists for years.
Our customer's top tips:
- If you travel to Fort Lauderdale beach in Jul/Aug you might be lucky enough to see the baby turtles hatching! Tip from Katherine McAlpine.
- Visit a 'Drive in' movie at Fort Lauderdale, a fantastic experience. Tip from Kerry Webster.
- Fort Lauderdale Jungle Queen Sunset bbq cruise is a must. Tip from Victoria Harrison.
Disney, Orlando
With six Disney Parks, two exciting night-time entertainment districts, over 20 Disney Resort Hotels, a state-of-the-art sports complex and countless opportunities for dining, shopping, recreation and relaxation, it's easy to see why Walt Disney World Resort® is the holiday of your dreams. And these dreams can come true - just like magic.
Our customer's top tips:
- Fireworks at Magic Kingdom are a must along with the electric parade. Disney at night is a whole new world. Tip from Claire McCarthy–Reid.
- Book fast pass+ at the Disney parks. Walk straight in to all popular rides. Avoid queues and spend more time visiting Mickey and other characters! Tip from Joanne Webb.
- Make the most of the park photographers to get shots of the whole family. Tip by Janine Pipe.
St Pete
Only a 90-min drive from Orlando, St Pete Beach is an increasingly desirable holiday destination. With award winning beaches, a great selection of restaurants and an abundance of watersports and cruises available there's plenty to keep you busy.
Our customer's top tips:
- Make sure you spend a day at St. Pete's beach - possibly the best beach in the world. Tip from Sara Ockwellsmith.
- Best tip for seeing Dolphins: Clearwater beach boat ride and lovely inlet restaurants in St Petersburg Tip from @ActuallyMummy.
- A must do, a glass of wine at sunset at the pier St. Petersburg. Tip from David Sharp.
Florida cruises
Cruise & Stay holidays merge everything that rocks about a cruise with a fun-filled stay in an extraordinary place. You could be exploring the theme parks, amazing beaches and national parks of Florida one day, before sailing off into the sunset the next.
Our customer's top tips:
- If you can try to take a trip on the Disney cruise line- you also meet all the characters close up. Tip from Alan Bull.
- Why not spend a week exploring what Florida has to offer then the other on a cruise exploring the delights of the Caribbean. Your mojo would be rocking! Tip from Jennifer Mitchell.