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AnIntroductiontoFlorida

An Introduction to Florida

Welcome to the Sunshine State! Florida’s biggest success story continues to be Orlando, the undisputed theme park capital of the world. However, step away from the well trodden tourist trail and you’ll find Mother Nature has more than matched the man made wonders. This long narrow southern state is blessed with 1,100 miles of stunning beaches, natural lagoons, deep orange sunsets and primeval swamps.

 

Florida - The Sunshine State

From the excitement of Disney, and the thrills and spills of Orlando's other theme parks, to the cosmopolitan city of Miami and the many popular beach resorts such as Naples, Fort Myers, St Pete's and Clearwater and the beautiful Gulf Coast Islands of Sanibel and Captiva. Not forgetting the jewel in Florida's Crown - the Keys, the most southern point of Mainland America, just 80 miles from Cuba.one visit will never be enough, hense the reason people return year after year.

Featured in our Southern Florida Explorer, Florida's Finest and Georgia Florida Line Itineraries.

 

For further recommendations or a full quotation please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or telephone (01892) 779900

Mustache Hear the Music Miami Florida IW2 1848

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Southern Florida Explorer

Welcome to the Sunshine State! Florida's biggest success story continues to be Orlando, the undisputed theme park capital of the world. However, step away from the well trodden tourist trail and you'll find Mother nature has more than matched the man made wonders. This long narrow southern state is blessed with 1100 miles of stunning beaches, natural lagoons, deep orange sunsets and primeval swamps. This exciting new tour takes in the State's cosmopolitan cities such as Miami and Sarasota, as well as affluent beach resorts like Naples and Sanibel. Finally your journey will take you to the Florida Keys, the most southern point of Mainland America just 90 miles from Cuba.

Highlights Include

  • Long Beach
  • The Everglades
  • Key Largo
  • Key West

Itinerary

1

Miami

 "12 miles"

Depart London on your direct flight to Miami. Upon arrival collect your hire car or take a shuttle transfer to your chosen hotel in the Miami Beach Area. Enjoy two full days at leisure exploring this exciting city. Miami is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers much to see and do. South Beach, your base for your stay in Miami with it's trendy shops, cool bars, see-and-be-seen restaurants, and hip clubs offers much to see and do. However it's when the sun goes down that things really start to heat up! Put on your walking shoes and learn more about the city on one of Dr Paul Georges Walking Tours. Take time to explore some of Miami's other interesting districts like Little Haiti, Little Havana and Coral Gables as each has it's own individual character and something to offer the first time visitor.

4

Fort Myers

"161 miles"

Spend the next few days relaxing on the beautiful Gulf Coast and enjoy all this friendly resort has to offer. Visit the nearby islands of Captiva and Sanibel, famous for its large wildlife and bird refuge. Join the locals and scour the beach for colourful conchs shells before heading out to the Sanibel Island Lighthouse.

6

Sarasota

"77 miles"

Your next port of call is Sarasota, one of the states larger and wealthier towns. The town is also one of Florida's leading cultural centres, both home to numerous writers and artists and several performing arts companies. Probably the most visited attractions in Sarasota is the world-class art museum, Venetian mansion and the museum built by John Ringling, of circus fame, in the early 20th century. Enjoy the beautiful white sandy Gulf Coast beaches and visit Sarasota Jungle Gardens, where you can hold an alligator. Nearby Historic Spanish Point, a nature preserve with historic and archaeological exhibits is also worth a visit.

7

Naples

"117 miles"

Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Sunny Naples, on the south west gulf coast is a popular, sophisticated and charming beach destination. Boasting miles of white sand beaches and world class hotels, Naples also boasts some great boutique shopping where you can pick up antiques, home furnishings, clothes and jewellery. This charming town originates from a thriving fishing community. In 1887 a group of wealthy Kentuckians bought the whole town, they built a 600 feet long T shaped Pier to allow large ships to dock, enabling the town to become a holiday destination. Today the town is still a favourite with the rich and famous.

With two full days at leisure this stunning area of Southern Florida is yours to discover. As Naples offers easy access to secluded islands and the wilderness of the nearby Everglades you can enjoy one or more of the local activities available from here, including a number of exciting trips to the National Park, such as Kayaking, Airboats, boat charters and jungle cruises. You could also enjoy a visit to the Caribbean Gardens, a zoological garden, go fishing, shelling and bird watching, or just relaxing on the wonderful white sandy beaches.

9

Key Largo

"150 miles"

Stretching 126 miles south towards Cuba, the stunning Keys are a perfect escape and the next stop on your Florida Adventure. Follow Highway 1 south as this spectacular road road ties together the islands and atolls of this paradise between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic. Get up close with an amazing array of fish while snorkeling, diving or fishing in the warm turquoise waters. Creeks, coral and costumed spectacles are other lures along the way.

11

Key West

"98 miles"

From Key Largo, you will continue your journey south to the irrepressible Key West, the southernmost point of the United States and embraces a fascinating mix of history, eccentricity and lush island charm. Famous Duval Street is full of restaurants, bars and boutiques. Mallory Square host the 'Sunset Celebration' where people gather at sunset, fire eaters, street performers and artists selling their wares, a great way to see the sunset and watch the boats arrive into the harbour. Explore the town either by foot or by bicycle. Alternatively, and for a more leisurely pace just hop on and off the trolley buses.

14

Islamorada

"81 miles"

‘Village of Islands’ Islamorada is probably best known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World. Frequently translated from Spanish as "purple isles." the area’s four islands also offer numerous tranquil spots to relax or enjoy a sunset cruise. The area also has many unique shops and galleries.

15

Miami & Home

 "79 miles"

Enjoy a last day relaxing or shopping in Miami Beach before heading back to Miami Airport later today for your overnight flight home.

What's included?

  • Direct return flights from London (please ask about other departure airports)
  • 14 nights hotel accommodation and room tax
  • Fully insured compact car hire (larger vehicles are available)
  • A detailed travel pack containing a day by day itinerary, driving instructions, maps and suggested excursions

How to book

Daily departures throughout the year.

Please call us on (01892) 779900 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. stating your travel dates, and preferred standard of accommodation for a detailed & competitively priced quotation.

Augusta

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Georgia Florida Line

This unique tour takes in the best of the Georgian and Floridian coast line over a two week period. Benefiting from direct London flights to Atlanta, our tour starts here, where you can visit the World of Coca Cola or browse Ponce Market for local arts and crafts. Charleston, Savannah and St. Augustine are home to vast amounts of the history and culture of the area; take a trolley tour around the historic districts and even visit the Fountain of Youth! Soak up the opulence of Jekyll Island and marvel the amazing feats happening inside the Kennedy Space Station while staying at Cocoa Beach; who knows, you might even see a launch! Finish your journey in the world-famous city of Miami, certainly a city that knows how to show you a good time!

Highlights Include

  • Atlanta
  • Charleston & Savannah
  • Jekyll Island
  • Miami

Itinerary

1

Atlanta

A metropolis that attracts the height of culture, sport, shopping and rock and roll, Atlanta is the crossroads of the South and is growing and changing at a constant rate. One of Atlanta's most famous attractions is the World of Coca-Cola where you can taste over 100 varieties of the drink from different countries in their Sampling Room. Also here is the CNN Centre as well as the Centre for Civil & Human Rights, the College Football Hall of Fame and the Georgia Aquarium. Much of mid & downtown Atlanta has undergone renovation and is now an interesting area with great shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.

3

Augusta

147 miles

Augusta is probably best known as the host of one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world; the annual Masters Golf Tournament, which was first played in 1934. Augusta was founded on the banks of the Savannah River and the Riverwalk serves as the central point in the city. The park hosts the Augusta Market every Saturday throughout most of the year and is a great place to pick up a souvenir to take back home. The Morris Museum of Art and Augusta Museum of History are also within walking distance of the park. The latter offers an interesting insight into the colonial history of the town, dating back to the 18th century.

4

Charleston

 "151 miles"

Charleston boasts 73 pre-Revolutionary buildings, 136 late 18th century structures and over 600 others built prior to 1840. You can wander cobblestone streets lined with antique shops and boutiques and browse the Old City Market. Take a guided horse drawn carriage tour and learn tales of Charleston’s more infamous characters. House museums, plantations and gardens recall the city’s antebellum period and the role of African-Americans in shaping the state’s history. Neighbouring resort islands offer miles of unspoiled beaches and marshlands, superior golf and tennis, and fine dining. Look for Southern favourites such as Charleston’s she-crab soup and shrimp and grits at local restaurants.

6

Savannah

 "108 miles"

Savannah: Rows of European townhouses border cobblestone streets and shady squares full of Grecian fountains, obelisks, and towering magnolias. You will see gold domes and Corinthian columns, wrought-iron balustrades and sweeping staircases. Savannah is a walker’s town; a good variety of lively, good-time entertainment is available in Savannah from cultural arts to melancholy karaoke at the bawdy sailors’ dives. Savannah’s answer to Bourbon Street in New Orleans, River Street, fills with partygoers walking along the pedestrian promenade popping into bars and clubs offering live music; a giant party is held on the first Saturday of every month from February to December – an event not to be missed. Savannah is famous for its upscale dining; try “gourmet Southern” concoctions such as broiled flounder in cream, crab and sherry sauce, pecan-almond tart topped with praline ice cream and Gentleman Jack caramel sauce are just a few favourites.

8

Jekyll Island

 "94 miles"

The southernmost island of the Golden Isles. This 5,700 acre island started as a private retreat for some of America’s most influential families; by 1900 the Jekyll Island Club could count the Rockefeller, Morgan, Crane and Gould families among its members, representing over one-sixth of the world’s wealth. Today, much of the island is still filled with many of the opulent mansions of the time, which can be visited on a tram tour of the area. The island also has 10 miles of white sandy beaches, the largest public golf resorts in the state, with 63 holes of golf to be played. There is also the Summer Waves Water Park, opportunities to embark on horse-riding or dolphin watching tours and the Georgia Sea Turtle Centre, a place for the rehabilitation of injured turtles.

10

St. Augustine

 "111 miles"

Saint Augustine is a luxurious, romantic holiday spot but what sets Saint Augustine apart is its history—it’s the oldest European settlement in the U.S. and much of the influences left behind by the Spanish, English and Native Americans can still be seen today. Nowhere else in the world can you taste the waters of the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where Juan Ponce de Leon is thought to have landed when he arrived in Florida in 1513. You can also visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the country. If history isn’t so much your thing, take the children to swim with dolphins at Marineland Dolphin Adventure Park, take a walking tour or simply relax at the beach.

12

Cocoa Beach

 "133 miles"

Cocoa Beach, along Florida's Space Coast, makes for an out-of-this-world family holiday; ride the waves, check out the world-famous pier, marvel at Ron Jon's, the world's largest surf shop, hike through nature preserves, and explore mankind's greatest journey at the nearby Kennedy Space Center. NASA's launch headquarters is the only place on Earth where you can tour launch-pad areas, meet a veteran astronaut, see giant rockets, train in spaceflight simulators and – if your timing is just right – even view a launch. Don’t miss Historic Cocoa Village, a revitalized, nostalgic riverside community with more than 50 shops, restaurants, galleries and artist studios.

13

Miami

 "197 miles"

Miami’s South Beach is one of the coolest destination in Florida. Enjoy your pick of stylish boutique hotels all within walking distance of the wide, white sand beach. Dance ‘till dawn in many of the latino-influenced bars and nightclubs and experience a fantastic range of restaurants, from ocean-front 24 hour eateries to some of the new fusion restaurants on Lincoln Road. Bal Harbour is just a short drive up the coast from Miami and home to designer boutiques, fabulous restaurants and great beaches. Spend the day soaking in the sights and sounds of Little Havana, explore the Art Deco District or take the children to the zoo.

What's included?

  • 14 nights’ accommodation and room tax.
  • International flights from London (please ask if regional airports are required).
  • Fully insured compact car (larger vehicles are available).
  • A detailed and comprehensive travel pack with driving directions and maps.

How to book

Daily departures from May to September.

Please call us on (01892) 779900 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. stating your travel dates, and preferred standard of accommodation for a detailed & competitively priced quotation.

FloridasFinest

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Florida's Finest

Welcome to the Sunshine State! However if you thought Florida was all about a certain mouse, then think again! Affluent beach resorts, cosmopolitan cities, world class shopping and a rich cultural heritage are now as much of the Sunshine States appeal as the well-honed 'fun and sunshine' formula that has captivated children and grown ups alike for decades. This exciting new 14 night tour will allow you to savour some of the best that Florida has to offer, and without any doubt, leave you wanting to return for more.

Highlights Include

  • Orlando
  • Cedar Key
  • Everglades National Park
  • Key Largo
  • Key West
  • Miami

Itinerary

1

Orlando

Depart London on your direct flight to Orlando. Upon arrival collect your hire car or take a shuttle transfer to your chosen hotel in the Orlando area. After you've checked into your hotel, spend the rest of the day relaxing by the pool and begin to plan the rest of your stay. Orlando is home to an unrivalled choice of world renowned theme parks, attractions, and thrilling water parks and offers an unforgettable adventure.

The world's favourite playground beckons so it will be a difficult decision as to what to do first! Perhaps start by visiting Walt Disney World Resort which comprises of four theme parks, two wonderful water parks and an endless array of shopping and dining opportunities. Meantime Universal Orlando Resort is a spectacular destination encompassing two more amazing theme parks including Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure. Seaworld is the worlds most popular marine life adventure park and brings you face to face with polar bears and leaves you breathless after the all new Shamu killer whale spectacular. Meantime, nearby Discovery Cove allows you to get up close with wildlife and experience a once in a lifetime opportunity to swim with dolphins. This is limited to just 1000 visitors a day and must be booked well in advance to avoid disappointment. Most visitors choose to spend their time at the theme parks and other attractions, but you can also spend time discovering off the beaten path adventures in nearby small towns and nature preserves.

5

St Augustine

"104 miles"

Departing Orlando today your journey will take you north west to America's oldest city, St. Augustine. Savor a restorative drink in St. Augustine's Fountain of Youth National Archaeological Park, site of the conquistadors arrival in what is now the United States. Signs of the country's origins appear throughout the city, from 17th-century fortress Castillo de San Marcos to the watchtower of Fort Matanzas National Monument. Take a break from history at a local beach or indulge in some retail therapy among the many arts and crafts stores. Old-fashioned carriages, trains and trolleys offer narrative tours.

6

Tallahassee

"204 miles"

Friendly State capital, Tallahassee’s historic buildings and museums evoke a strong sense of the past in a place that was once a high society gathering place for wealthy plantation owners.

8

Cedar Keys

"148 miles"

Florida’s second oldest city, Cedar Key’s main industry today is tourism and clam farming. Explore this historic seaport with several fine seafood restaurants and interesting shops and galleries.

The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, with all kinds of birds and fish frequently spotted here, including Dolphins and Manatees.

10

Tampa

"134 miles"

Tampa is a surprisingly small city that’s also home to as many as twenty thousand mainly Cuban migrants, who over the years have rolled enough Cigars to make the city the ‘Cigar Capital of the World’.

11

Fort Myers

"125 miles"

Spend time relaxing on the beautiful Gulf Coast and visit the nearby island of Captiva and also Sanibel, famous for its large wildlife and bird refuge. Collect colourful conchs shells on the beach before heading out to the Sanibel Island Lighthouse.

13

Naples

"43 miles"

Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is a sophisticated resort, with miles of white sand y beaches and world class hotels, it’s also particularly great for boutique shopping. Spend a day at the nearby Everglades and enjoy an exciting Airboat or Kayaking trip.

15

Key Largo

"150 miles"

Stretching 126 miles south towards Cuba, the stunning Keys are a perfect escape. Follow Highway 1 south as this spectacular road ties together the islands and atolls of this paradise between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic.

16

Key West

"98 miles"

From Key Largo, continue south to the irrepressible Key West -the southernmost point of the USA. Key West embraces a fascinating mix of history, eccentricity and lush island charm.

19

Miami Beach

"168 miles"

Miami is a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination that offers much to see and do. From your base in South Beach you will be able to explore the trendy shops, cool bars, world class restaurants and hip clubs. When the sun goes down that’s when things really start to heat up! Put on your walking shoes and explore the city on one of Dr Paul Georges Walking Tours.

22

Miami & Home

 "12 miles"

Enjoy a last day relaxing or shopping in Miami Beach before heading back to Miami Airport later today for your overnight flight home.

What's included?

  • Direct return flights from London (please ask about other departure airports)
  • 21 nights hotel accommodation and room tax
  • Fully insured compact car hire (larger vehicles are available)
  • A detailed travel pack with a day by day itinerary, driving instructions, maps, & suggested excursions

How to book

Daily departures throughout the year.

Please call us on (01892) 779900 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. stating your travel dates, and preferred standard of accommodation for a detailed & competitively priced quotation.

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