How to become a travel agent in Florida
Becoming a travel agent in Florida can be an exciting and rewarding career path, especially given the state's vibrant tourism industry. As a travel agent, you will have the opportunity to help people plan and enjoy their dream vacations, whether within Florida or to destinations around the world.
To get started, it is crucial to understand the role and responsibilities of a travel agent. Travel agents coordinate the basics of a trip, including booking airfare, hotel accommodations, and car rentals. They also handle more intricate details such as creating itineraries for recreation and activities, assisting with passports and visas, and advising on local customs and culture.
In becoming a travel agent, it's important to know travel trends for customers in your area. Click here to learn more about travel trends in Florida.
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions about becoming a travel agent in Florida.
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There are so many opportunities as a travel agent. Click here to see our preferred suppliers list that shows off what you can sell as a travel agent with Vincent Vacations.
In Florida, while there is no specific license required for travel agents, there are important registration and compliance steps you must take. You need to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) as a seller of travel. This involves completing a registration form, obtaining a surety bond, and paying the necessary application fees. The surety bond, which can be $25,000 or $50,000 depending on whether you offer vacation certificates, ensures that you comply with the Florida Sellers of Travel Act and provides a safeguard for consumers.
Education and training are also vital components of becoming a successful travel agent. While formal certifications are not mandatory, obtaining certifications such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) certification from the Travel Institute can significantly enhance your skills and job prospects. These courses cover a wide range of topics including world travel destinations, customer service, planning methods for different types of trips, and industry-specific software.
Additionally, joining a host business can provide you with the necessary resources and support to start your career. Host agencies often offer access to an International Air Transport Association (IATA) number, which is essential for conducting business as a travel agent. They also provide training, marketing support, and networking opportunities that can help you grow your client base and stay updated with industry trends.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Registration: Register with FDACS and obtain a surety bond.
Education: Consider TAP certification and other training programs.
Host Agency: Join a host business for support and resources.
Skills: Develop customer service, itinerary planning, and industry software skills.
As a travel agent, your primary role involves coordinating and planning trips for clients. This encompasses a wide range of tasks, including booking flights, hotels, and car rentals. You will also be responsible for arranging activities and excursions, handling passport and visa requirements, and providing advice on local customs and culture.
Your duties may also include managing client relationships, addressing customer service issues, and staying updated with the latest travel trends and industry developments. Effective communication and organizational skills are crucial, as you will need to juggle multiple bookings and ensure that all travel arrangements are executed smoothly.
Travel agents can specialize in various types of travel, each with its unique set of requirements and challenges. Leisure travel agents focus on planning vacations for individuals and families, often including destinations like Disney World, the Florida Keys, or international hotspots. They must be knowledgeable about recreational activities, tourist attractions, and package deals that cater to different interests and age groups.
Corporate travel agents specialize in business travel, coordinating trips for executives, conferences, and other corporate events. This requires an understanding of the specific needs of business travelers, such as booking meetings, arranging transportation, and ensuring that all travel is aligned with company policies.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
Government travel agents handle travel arrangements for government officials and personnel. This involves adhering to strict guidelines and regulations, ensuring that all travel is compliant with government standards and budget constraints.
Leveraging your local knowledge can be a significant advantage when planning trips within Florida. As a travel agent, you can offer insider tips and recommendations for the best destinations, activities, and hidden gems that only a local would know. For example, you might suggest a scuba diving trip in the Florida Keys, a family vacation to Orlando's theme parks, or a relaxing getaway to the beaches of Miami.
Your local expertise can also help you tailor itineraries to meet the specific interests of your clients. Whether it's recommending the best seafood restaurants, guiding clients through the Everglades, or suggesting cultural events in Tampa, your knowledge of Florida's diverse regions can make the travel experience more enjoyable and authentic for your clients.
A travel agent's role is multifaceted, involving trip planning, customer service, and local expertise. Specializing in different types of travel and utilizing your knowledge of Florida can enhance your skills and client satisfaction.
To operate as a travel agent in Florida, you must obtain a Seller of Travel License, even though Florida does not issue a traditional travel agent license. This requirement applies to all individuals and businesses selling travel services to Florida residents, regardless of whether the business is based in Florida or not.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
The license is mandated by the Florida Sellers of Travel Act and is administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS There are two types of licenses: a full license for business owners and an Independent Agent license for those working under a host business or as independent contractors.
The registration process involves completing the appropriate application form. For general travel agents, you will need to fill out the Sellers of Travel Registration Application (FDACS-10200), while independent travel agents will use the Sellers of Travel Independent Sales Agents Application (FDACS-10211
You must provide detailed information about your travel business, including your business name, address, and contact details. If you offer vacation certificates, additional supporting documents will be required. Agencies that have been contracted with the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) for three years or more under the same ownership and control may be exempt from registration, but they must obtain a statement of exemption from FDACS.
A key component of the registration process is purchasing a surety bond. This bond ensures that travel agents comply with the Florida Sellers of Travel Act and provides a financial safeguard for consumers. The bond amount is $25,000 for most travel agents and $50,000 if you offer vacation certificates.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality! This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents! I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
The annual premium for this bond is a percentage of the bond amount, typically ranging from 1% to 10%, depending on your credit score. For example, a $25,000 bond could cost between $250 and $2,500 per year.
| Bond Type | Bond Amount | Annual Premium Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Travel Agent Bond | $25,000 | $250 - $2,500 |
| Travel Agent Bond with Vacation Certificates | $50,000 | $500 - $5,000 |
Besides the surety bond, there are several fees associated with the registration process. The application fee for the Seller of Travel License is $300, and if you offer vacation certificates, there is an additional $100 document fee. Independent sales agents must pay a $50 annual fee.
You will need to submit your completed application, supporting documents, and payment to the FDACS. The department will review your application and notify you within 30 days if there are any deficiencies.
To register, you must complete the appropriate application form, purchase a surety bond, and pay the required fees. This process is overseen by the FDACS and is essential for complying with the Florida Sellers of Travel Act.
To become a well-rounded travel agent in Florida, obtaining formal certifications can be highly beneficial. One of the most recognized certifications is the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) certification offered by the Travel Institute. This certification is designed to help you achieve a solid foundation in the travel industry, covering various aspects such as world travel destinations, customer service, and industry-specific software.
Other programs, like the STAR University training by Cruise Planners, also provide comprehensive training. These programs are often accredited by reputable organizations like the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), ensuring you receive up-to-date and industry-relevant knowledge.
The courses you enroll in will cover a wide range of topics essential for a successful career as a travel agent. You will learn about world travel destinations, which will help you advise clients on the best places to visit and what to expect. Customer service skills are also a critical component, as you will need to handle client inquiries, resolve issues, and provide excellent service to build a loyal client base.
In addition, you will be trained on planning methods for different types of trips, including government, corporate, and leisure travel. You will also gain knowledge of airline, cruise line, and hotel pricing, as well as how to use industry-specific computer software to book flights, accommodations, and other travel arrangements efficiently.
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| World Travel Destinations | Learning about various travel destinations around the world. |
| Customer Service | Developing skills to provide excellent customer service. |
| Planning Methods | Understanding how to plan trips for government, corporate, and leisure travel. |
| Industry Software | Learning to use software for booking flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements. |
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.The duration of travel agent training programs can vary, but most programs typically consist of around 100 course hours. This can take approximately 6 months to complete, depending on your pace since many programs are online-based and flexible.
The cost of these programs is generally around $2,300, although financing options are often available, which can break down the cost to about $110 per month
| Duration | Cost | Financing |
|---|---|---|
| Approximately 6 months (100 course hours) | $2,300 | About $110 per month |
In addition to formal training programs, many travel agents learn through on-the-job training and mentorship. Working under the guidance of a manager or senior coworker at a local travel business can provide valuable hands-on experience. You will learn how to conduct phone calls, up-sell travel packages and insurance, create travel itineraries using various templates and software, and process payments efficiently
This practical training helps you understand the specific needs of the business and its clientele, making you more proficient in handling real-world scenarios and building your confidence as a travel agent.
Travel agent training in Florida includes formal certifications like TAP, comprehensive course content, flexible training durations, and on-the-job training. These elements collectively equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the travel industry.
Working with a host business can be a game-changer for aspiring travel agents in Florida. One of the primary benefits is the ability to operate under the host business's existing infrastructure, which includes an International Air Transport Association (IATA) number. This is essential for booking flights, hotels, and other travel services, and it saves you the hassle and cost of obtaining your own IATA number.
A host business also provides you with access to a wide range of travel suppliers and vendors, often at discounted rates. This enables you to offer your clients more competitive pricing and a broader range of travel options. Additionally, host agencies typically handle the administrative and back-office tasks, allowing you to focus more on building your client base and planning trips.
Host agencies offer a plethora of resources and support to help you succeed as a travel agent. These resources include comprehensive training programs, marketing support, and ongoing education to keep you updated with the latest industry trends and developments.
You will also have access to industry-specific software and tools, such as Global Distribution Systems (GDS) like Sabre, Amadeus, or Galileo, which are crucial for booking and managing travel arrangements efficiently. Many host agencies also provide mentorship programs, where experienced agents can guide you through the initial stages of your career.
Furthermore, host agencies often have established relationships with travel suppliers, which can lead to exclusive deals, commissions, and incentives that you can pass on to your clients.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Training Programs | Comprehensive training to get you started and ongoing education. |
| Marketing Support | Assistance with marketing campaigns and client acquisition strategies. |
| Industry Software | Access to GDS systems like Sabre, Amadeus, or Galileo. |
| Mentorship Programs | Guidance from experienced travel agents. |
| Supplier Relationships | Exclusive deals and commissions from established suppliers. |
Choosing the right host business is a critical decision that can significantly impact your success as a travel agent. When evaluating host agencies, consider their reputation, the level of support they offer, and the types of resources they provide.
Look for agencies that are members of reputable industry associations such as the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or the International Air Transport Association (IATA These affiliations often indicate a higher level of professionalism and compliance with industry standards.
Also, check the business's commission structure and ensure it aligns with your business goals. Some host agencies offer higher commission rates but may charge higher fees, while others provide more comprehensive support but with lower commission rates.
It is also important to read reviews and ask for referrals from other travel agents to get a sense of the business's culture and level of support.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
When choosing a host business, consider its reputation, level of support, resources provided, and commission structure. Ensuring these align with your needs will help you make an informed decision and set you up for success in the travel industry.
Obtaining certifications is a great way to enhance your career as a travel agent in Florida. One of the most prestigious certifications is the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) designation, offered by the Travel Institute. This certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the profession, making you more attractive to potential clients and employers.
In addition to the CTA, you can also consider other certifications such as the Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) or the Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE). These certifications cover a wide range of topics, including world travel destinations, customer service, and industry-specific software, helping you to stay updated with the latest industry trends and best practices.
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| Certified Travel Associate (CTA) | Demonstrates expertise and commitment to the profession. |
| Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) | Advanced certification for experienced travel agents. |
| Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) | Focuses on executive-level skills and industry leadership. |
Continuing education is essential for professional growth and staying competitive in the travel industry. Many organizations, such as the Travel Institute and the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), offer ongoing educational programs and workshops. These programs help you stay updated with new travel trends, technologies, and industry standards.
Participating in webinars, conferences, and trade shows is also a great way to network with other professionals and learn about new opportunities and best practices. Continuous learning ensures that you can provide the best possible service to your clients and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the travel industry.
Staying educated and updated is key to providing exceptional service and maintaining a competitive edge in the travel industry.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.If you specialize in travel within Florida, programs like the VISIT FLORIDA Training and the Sales Companion can be highly beneficial. These programs provide in-depth knowledge about Florida's diverse regions, attractions, and local experiences, enabling you to offer tailored and authentic travel recommendations to your clients.
The VISIT FLORIDA Training program covers topics such as Florida's natural attractions, cultural events, and family-friendly destinations. The Sales Companion program focuses on how to effectively market and sell Florida-based travel packages, ensuring you can maximize your sales and customer satisfaction
Certifications like CTA, ongoing education, and specialist programs such as VISIT FLORIDA Training are crucial for professional development and growth as a travel agent in Florida.
As a travel agent in Florida, you will need to be proficient in using various booking systems and partner programs. These systems, such as Global Distribution Systems (GDS) like Sabre, Amadeus, or Galileo, are essential for booking flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements efficiently. Host agencies often provide access to these systems, along with training to ensure you can use them effectively.
In addition to GDS systems, you will also work with partner programs from airlines, cruise lines, and hotels. These partnerships can offer exclusive rates, special promotions, and enhanced commission opportunities, which you can pass on to your clients to make their travel experiences more rewarding.
| System/Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Global Distribution Systems (GDS) | Sabre, Amadeus, Galileo - for booking flights, hotels, and travel arrangements. |
| Airline Partner Programs | Exclusive rates and promotions from airlines. |
| Cruise Line Partner Programs | Special offers and commissions from cruise lines. |
| Hotel Partner Programs | Discounted rates and amenities from hotels. |
Effective marketing and client acquisition strategies are crucial for the success of a travel agent. This involves understanding the principles of marketing, including reaching, promoting, and persuading potential clients. You will need to create compelling marketing campaigns to attract new clients and retain existing ones.
Utilizing social media, email marketing, and local advertising can help you reach a wider audience. Additionally, offering special promotions, discounts, or exclusive deals can attract more clients and build your reputation as a reliable and knowledgeable travel agent
Building a strong online presence and engaging in targeted marketing efforts can significantly boost your client base.
Managing client relationships and providing excellent customer service are at the heart of being a successful travel agent. This involves developing strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with clients, understand their needs, and provide personalized travel recommendations.
You will need to handle customer inquiries, resolve issues promptly, and ensure that clients are satisfied with the services provided. This includes pre-trip planning, during-trip support, and post-trip follow-up to ensure client satisfaction and build long-term relationships
Financial management and payment processing are critical operational aspects of being a travel agent. You will need to manage client payments, process transactions efficiently, and ensure that all financial records are accurate and up-to-date.
This includes handling deposits, final payments, and any refunds or cancellations. You may also need to manage your own business expenses, such as marketing costs and software subscriptions, to maintain a profitable operation
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Client Payment Processing | Handling deposits, final payments, and refunds. |
| Transaction Management | Ensuring accurate and efficient transaction processing. |
| Business Expense Management | Managing marketing costs, software subscriptions, and other business expenses. |
The operational aspects of being a travel agent involve mastering booking systems, implementing effective marketing strategies, managing client relationships, and handling financial transactions. These skills are vital for delivering excellent service and running a successful travel business.
As a travel agent in Florida, offering vacation certificates and discounts can be a great way to attract and retain clients. These certificates often include perks such as discounted transportation services, complimentary meals, or special accommodations. To offer these benefits, you may need to increase your surety bond to $50,000 and pay an additional $100 document submission fee as part of your registration with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS
These certificates can be tailored to various types of trips, whether it's a family vacation to Disney World or a romantic getaway to the Florida Keys. By providing these extra incentives, you can make your travel packages more appealing and enhance the overall travel experience for your clients.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Discounted Transportation | Reduced rates on flights, car rentals, or other transportation services. |
| Complimentary Meals | Free or discounted dining at select restaurants or hotels. |
| Special Accommodations | Upgraded hotel rooms or exclusive access to amenities. |
Offering travel insurance and other benefits is crucial for providing comprehensive service to your clients. Travel insurance can cover unexpected trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or travel delays, giving your clients peace of mind and financial protection. You can also offer additional benefits such as travel assistance programs, concierge services, or loyalty programs to enhance their travel experience.
These benefits not only add value to your services but also help build trust and loyalty with your clients. By ensuring they are well-covered and supported throughout their trip, you can differentiate yourself from competitors and establish a strong reputation in the industry.
Providing travel insurance and other benefits is a thoughtful way to show your clients that you care about their well-being and are committed to their satisfaction.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Customizing travel packages and itineraries is a key aspect of being a successful travel agent. By understanding your clients' preferences, interests, and budget, you can create personalized travel plans that cater to their unique needs. This might include arranging special activities, booking unique accommodations, or recommending local hidden gems that only a knowledgeable travel agent would know.
Using your local knowledge of Florida, you can tailor itineraries to include visits to popular attractions like the Everglades, theme parks in Orlando, or the vibrant cultural scene in Miami. This personalized approach ensures that your clients have an unforgettable and tailored travel experience.
Offering vacation certificates, providing travel insurance, and customizing travel packages are essential for enhancing the travel experience and building client loyalty. These services add value to your offerings and set you apart as a dedicated and knowledgeable travel agent in Florida.
Becoming a travel agent in Florida is a rewarding and exciting career path that offers the opportunity to help people create unforgettable travel experiences. From understanding the role and responsibilities of a travel agent to navigating the legal requirements and obtaining the necessary certifications, each step is crucial in building a successful career.
By registering with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), obtaining a surety bond, and completing the required training programs, you lay a solid foundation for your career. Programs like the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) certification and specialist programs such as the VISIT FLORIDA Training can enhance your skills and knowledge, making you a valuable asset to your clients.
Working with a host business provides you with the resources, support, and networking opportunities necessary to grow your business. It also gives you access to industry-specific software, marketing support, and ongoing education, all of which are essential for staying updated with the latest trends and best practices in the travel industry.
Remember, becoming a successful travel agent is not just about the technical skills; it's also about providing exceptional customer service, building strong client relationships, and continuously improving your knowledge and skills.
To summarize, becoming a travel agent in Florida involves registering with FDACS, obtaining necessary certifications, working with a host business, and continuously enhancing your skills. By following these steps, you can build a successful and rewarding career in the travel industry.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Register with FDACS | Comply with Florida's Seller of Travel law by registering and obtaining a surety bond. |
| Obtain Certifications | Consider certifications like TAP and specialist programs to enhance your skills. |
| Join a Host Agency | Benefit from the resources, support, and networking opportunities provided by a host business. |
| Focus on Customer Service | Build strong client relationships and provide exceptional customer service. |
As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that your passion for travel and your commitment to excellence will be the keys to your success. Good luck, and happy travels 🌟✈️
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Brought to you by Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau.
Polk County, ‘Florida’s Sweetest Spot’ is nestled in the heart of Florida between Orlando and Tampa. It is close enough to all the great attractions of Central Florida while being an affordable option for families, foodies, golfers and adventure travelers alike.
We’re the place for family fun in the sun. No matter where you are, you are just minutes from a cruise on the historic Chain of Lakes, minutes from sampling the burgeoning food scenes in Winter Haven or Lakeland, steps from catching a foul ball of a Detroit Tiger baseball player during Spring Training, a short stroll from the 205-foot-tall legend that is Bok Tower, or a breath away from the largest collection of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s work on the campus of Florida Southern College.
And when it comes to theme parks, we are home to both the 150-acre interactive theme park LEGOLAND Florida Resort and the only theme park devoted to everyone’s favorite pink preschooler, Peppa Pig.
Unique accommodations abound including the hotels at LEGOLAND ®, or guests can go glamping or stay in a Luxe Teepee at Westgate Rover Ranch Resort & Rodeo or take the whole troupe to one of our 8,000 professionally managed vacation homes, or even have the perfect weekend stay in the art deco classic hotel The Terrace in Downtown Lakeland. While Streamsong Resort and Spa is one of nation’s top bucket list golf resorts and is home to four of Florida’s top-rated restaurants.
New highlights include the 168-acre Bonnet Springs Park with a plethora of incredible experiences, and the fabulous new Florida Children's Museum, both in Downtown Lakeland. New accommodation includes Camp Margaritaville and the mind-blowing ‘attraction homes’ at Fantasy Island. Your invitation to experience the best of Florida has arrived.
Lakeland is a hidden gem for weekend stays, Winter Haven is home to LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Davenport is your choice for vacation home stays and Bartow is your glimpse of old Florida.
Plan the perfect Central Florida vacation while you sip a sunshine sour by the lake at sunset. Visit Bok Tower Gardens, go on safari, experience a rodeo or take the kids to the theme park.
Polk County is a rural oasis nestled between Orlando and Tampa. Its home to endless acres producing high quality natural local foods and is a haven for citrus.
Get a glimpse into early Florida. Learn about the early struggles of the people who built the Florida we have today, and about the proud diversity of our people.
Where adventure begins at check-in. Stay is covered wagons, luxury teepees, modern cabins, themed resorts or in our own vacation home with a pool.
For those who live in northern climes, Florida takes on an almost mythical stature. Long before visiting the state, travelers are regaled with tales of its warm sun, exotic creatures and golden beaches.
Once they actually visit Florida, visitors tend to find that these ideas are oversimplified. Golden sand there is, but mangrove thickets, barren coral islands and reedy estuaries are just as common.
Reality matches the myths in many ways, though. In the middle of the state, Orlando stands as the undisputed capital of fun, at least when it comes to theme parks. Along the Atlantic coast, Miami simmers with Caribbean and Latin American flair, and sights such as alligators in the Everglades and rocket launches at the Kennedy Space Center allow you to combine education with vacation.
Anyone convinced that Florida's history commenced with NASA, NASCAR and Mickey Mouse need only head to St. Augustine or St. Marks to find living proof that the state's historical roots are some of the deepest in the U.S. On the Gulf coast, a stop in Tampa and St. Petersburg will provide all the comfort and entertainment you would expect from a booming metropolis. Yet just a few hours down the highway, on Sanibel Island, you can explore a region of wild Florida that has changed little over the past few centuries.
Several Native American tribes—the Apalachees, Timucuans, Calusa and Tocobaga—settled in Florida 10,000-20,000 years ago. The Timucuans left burial mounds that are preserved at several historic sites. Later, the Seminoles—an offshoot of the Creek tribes—moved into the area from present-day Georgia and Alabama.
In 1513, explorer Ponce de Leon arrived at what he would later dub Florida near St. Augustine, where the Spanish founded their first true settlement in the U.S. about 50 years later. Spain laid the strongest colonial claim, but France and Great Britain also controlled the peninsula over the years before it was turned back over to Spain in 1783. Soon, expansionist settlers from the newly independent U.S. began eyeing Florida. With mounting pressure from the U.S., Spain finally gave up Florida to the fast-growing country in 1819, and settlers poured in.
Resistance from the Seminoles resulted in armed confrontations between the Native Americans and U.S. government forces in the early 1800s. Most of the Seminoles were eventually exiled to Oklahoma, although a small core refused to surrender or be captured. These survivors are ancestors of the 15,000 Seminoles who now live on three Florida reservations.
In 1845, Florida joined the U.S. as a slave state. Economic recovery after the Civil War was long in coming, but it was speeded by the growth of the citrus industry and the state's development as a vacation destination. In more recent years, its popularity has come to pose its biggest challenge. The throngs who vacation and retire in the state have brought massive population growth and development; an estimated 1,000 people move to Florida each day. No state income tax also entices people to move. This has strained some of the state's natural resources, including the coastal beaches, the Everglades and the water table.
The state's challenging seasonal weather conditions create a completely different kind of strain, most notably in the hurricanes that often pound the Sunshine State. More storms hit Florida than any other state. Hurricanes Irma and Michael are some of the most damaging to hit the state in recent decades, and hurricanes have caused more than US$120 billion in damages in this century alone.
If you're planning a trip during hurricane season (June-November), pay attention to forecasts, and be prepared to rearrange plans if a hurricane is headed toward your vacation destination.
Florida's foremost attractions are sun and sand, freshwater and saltwater fishing, tropical wetlands and forests, Orlando and Walt Disney World Resort, the Florida Keys, the Kennedy Space Center, Miami, Tampa and St. Petersburg, Native American culture, Caribbean and Latin American cuisine, lots of fresh seafood, unlimited watersports and a wide variety of day and night activities.
It's hard to imagine there's a person alive who won't find something to enjoy in Florida, though those who prefer to avoid heavily commercialized attractions will have to work a bit to find less-traveled areas. Those who love the sea, the beach and warm weather will get the most out of a Florida vacation.
Key West's average temperature, 78 F/26 C, is the highest in the U.S.
The manatees that frequent the Gulf Coast are an endangered species: Only about 3,000-4,000 survive in Florida waters. Run-ins with pleasure boat props are the main cause of death, but strict boating regulations have helped to increase their numbers.
Before constructing The Breakers, Florida pioneer and railroad baron Henry Flagler built a 55-room mansion in Palm Beach in 1902 and gave it to his wife, Mary Lily Kenan, as a wedding present. The house rivaled any palace in Europe at the time it was built. Today it is a museum called Whitehall and is adorned with artifacts from the Golden Age.
The largest concentration of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's work is in Lakeland.
The first racially integrated professional baseball game was played in Daytona Beach at City Island Ballpark in 1946, with Jackie Robinson, who would later be inducted into the Hall of Fame. This historic ballpark now bears his name and features a public museum.
Florida consistently racks up the highest annual number of lightning strikes in the world.
Florida is famous for many air feats. Among them: The world's first scheduled passenger airline flight took place on New Year's Day 1914, from Tampa to St. Petersburg. The first Pan Am office was in Key West.
The beaches in the Fort Myers and Sanibel Island area have some of the best shelling in the world (only the Sulu Islands in the Philippines and Jeffreys Bay in South Africa are considered better). They have more varieties of shells than anywhere else in North America.
Florida is truly the land of perpetual sunshine: St. Petersburg/Clearwater claims 361 days of sunshine each year.
Minnesota's claim to fame may be 10,000 lakes, but Florida has more than 30,000 freshwater lakes to call its own.
Opened in 1982, The Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg boasts the largest collection of the Spanish surrealist's work outside of Europe, with more than 200 paintings, prints and sculptures.
Upon his retirement, circus impresario John Ringling built his family estate and a museum in Sarasota. Later donated to the state, The Ringling Museum and former residence, Ca' D'Zan, now contain his magnificent collection of circus memorabilia and European art.
Miami is the only U.S. city to border two national parks—Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park.
The coast of the far-western part of the state—known as the Florida Panhandle because of its geographical shape—is a popular summer vacation spot for visitors from the neighboring states of Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. They go there for good reason: It's one of the most beautiful stretches of white-sand beach and clear blue-green water in the U.S.
Sometimes called the Emerald Coast, the Florida Panhandle extends more than 100 mi/160 km from Apalachicola to Pensacola.
Beginning on the eastern end, the town of Apalachicola is famous for its oysters and for being the place where Dr. John Gorrie pioneered the technology of air-conditioning in the mid-1800s. A replica of his machine is in the John Gorrie State Museum on Gorrie Square. Apalachicola Maritime Museum celebrates more than 100 years of the American South, particularly Apalachicola's maritime history.
Just off the coast, St. George Island State Park is particularly attractive, with forests and coves for camping and hiking.
To the northwest is Panama City, one of the larger resort towns along the Panhandle coast, and just to the west of Panama City is Seaside.
Right next door to Seaside is Grayton Beach, the oldest town between Pensacola and Apalachicola (settled in the early 1900s). Beach fanatics should be aware that Grayton has been rated one of the best beaches in the U.S. in the annual rating compiled by the University of Maryland, one of the highest honors for a sandy shore. West of town is Grayton Beach State Park, a 355-acre/145-hectare oceanfront preserve with camping facilities.
Not far from Grayton Beach, in the northeast corner of Choctawhatchee Bay, the state has established Eden State Gardens Park at the homestead of a 19th-century lumberman, William Henry Wesley. After his death, Wesley's home fell into disrepair until it was refurbished by the late Lois Maxon in the 1960s. After restoring the antebellum mansion and its beautiful garden, Maxon gave it all to the Florida park system as a gift.
Highway 98 becomes scenic as you continue west from Grayton Beach. You'll get good views of the white-sand beaches as you near Destin and Fort Walton Beach. You'll probably want to spend most of your time in or near the water, but do visit the Indian Temple Mound Museum National Historic Landmark in Fort Walton Beach, which has exhibits on the Native Americans who lived in the area and a ceremonial mound that dates from the 1400s. Destin is especially popular as a fishing destination.
To the west is Gulf Islands National Seashore, which stretches 150 mi/240 km from Fort Walton Beach through Alabama to Gulfport, Mississippi. Accessible by bridge or boat, these islands have beautiful beaches and also some historic forts.
Near the Florida-Alabama border is Pensacola, a city that is older than many in Florida, with a rich and diverse history dating from before Civil War days.
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