The sunshine state of Florida is vast and varied, best known for its larger than life theme parks on International Drive, its Latin-American influenced cities such as Miami and its long stretches of pristine beaches.

Florida is the southernmost continental state of the US bordered by Alabama and Georgia to the north, it’s situated in between two oceans, the Gulf of Mexico on the west and the Atlantic ocean to the east. The state is the 4th most populous with a population of around 21 million people. The main economic driving force in the area comes from tourism, mainly due to its long stretches of beautiful coastline, crystal clear waters and vibrant cities as well as some of the world’s top theme parks and attractions.

The climate is generally subtropical, with mild winters and hot and sunny summers.

The best time to visit Florida generally is November to May as there is lower chances of rain and more comfortable temperatures especially if you’re visiting Orlando and waiting in lines at theme parks.

If you’re visiting South Florida or the Florida Keys then December to April is the best time to visit as the sunshine is plentiful with barely any rain.

There are chances of hurricanes affecting Florida from June to November due to the Caribbean’s hurricane season. 

The currency is US Dollars (USD), note denominations are $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

ATM’s are widespread and there are many Allpoint ATM’s which offer surcharge-free withdrawals around the state of Florida but your own banks may still charge a foreign transaction fee.

Tipping is standard practice across America, with expectations of 15% to 25% of the bill being left as a tip in restaurants. Whether the service is satisfactory or fantastic a tip is required. Bartenders expect $1 per drink and hotel porters expect $1 per bag. If you are spending a few nights in the same hotel, it is common to leave a few dollars tip for the cleaning staff.

Orlando

A city in central Florida that is geared towards entertainment and leisure and is best known for its many huge theme parks and water parks at Disney World and Universal Studios. There are also plenty of other activities to keep you entertained such as shopping, boat trips, shows and varied nightlife. If you want to know more about this action packed city, check out our Orlando travel guide.

Miami

A popular port city on the Atlantic Coast of south Florida. It’s known for its Art Deco buildings, white, sandy beaches, party atmosphere and Cuban influence. South Beach, Little Havana, Coconut Grove and Biscanye Bay are just some of the must see areas in this alluring city. If you want to know more about this sunny city, why don’t you read our Miami travel guide.

• Florida is the flattest state in the USA with its highest point being 105 metres (345 ft).
• Florida has more golf courses than any other US state.
• No matter where you are in Florida you are never more than 60 miles (96 km) from the ocean.
• South Florida is the only place in the world where crocodiles and alligators coexist in the wild.
• Florida is the only state that has two rivers both with the same name – Withlacoochee in north central Florida (Madison County) and Withlacoochee in central Florida.
• Florida produces 70% of the U.S. oranges and supplies 40% of the world’s orange juice.