Peninsular Florida is the south easternmost U.S. state, with the Atlantic on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. Nicknamed the “Sunshine State,” it has hundreds of miles of beaches. Miami is known for its Latin flavour and influential arts scene, as well as its nightlife, especially in upscale South Beach. Orlando is famed for theme parks, including Walt Disney World.

Top places to visit

Universal Studios: Divided geographically by region-specific architecture and ambience and marvellously themed with as a Hollywood backlot, Universal Studios' simulation-heavy rides and shows are dedicated to silver screen and TV icons. Drink Duff beer, a Homer favorite, in Springville; ride the Hogwarts Express into Diagon Alley; and sidle up to Lucille Ball on Hollywood Blvd. And if you're looking for thrills, you'll find two of Orlando's best roller coasters, Revenge of the Mummy and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

Epcot: An acronym for 'Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,' Epcot was Disney's vision of a high-tech city when it opened in 1982. It's divided into two halves: Future World , with rides and corporate-sponsored interactive exhibits, and World Showcase , providing an interesting toe-dip into the cultures of 11 countries. Epcot is much more soothingly low-key than other parks, and it has some of the best food and shopping. Don't miss Soarin' and, for little ones, Turtle Talk with Crush is delightful.

Daytona International Speedway: The Holy Grail of raceways has a diverse race schedule. Ticket prices skyrocket for good seats at big races, headlined by the Daytona 500 in February. It's worth wandering the massive stands for free on non-race days. First-come, first-served tram tours take in the track, pits and behind-the-scenes areas. The 30-minute Speedway Tour covers the basics. Die-hard revheads may wish to up the ante with the hour-long All Access Tour or three-hour VIP Tour ; the latter covers everything NASCAR from the comfort of an air-conditioned coach. Real fanatics can indulge in the Richard Petty Driving Experience, where you can either ride shotgun around the track or take a day to become the driver.

Weather

The climate of the north and central parts of the US state of Florida is humid subtropical. South Florida has a tropical savannah climate. There is a defined rainy season from May through October, when air mass thundershowers that build in the heat of the day, drop heavy but brief summer rainfall.

For up to date weather in Florida visit our partner site World Weather Online.

Culture

The culture of Florida is similar to the rest of United States of America culture, but as a coastal state, Florida culture has been influenced by immigrant populations, especially those from Europe and Latin America. Florida is a melting pot as well as an international crossroad to the United States. As one of the Southern states, Florida has long been influenced by Southern culture. Some Southern culture remains partly prominent in the state, particularly in the Panhandle, North Central Florida, the First Coast and the Florida Heartland. More recently the state has been influenced by the cultures of people moving in from foreign countries and other parts of the United States. Florida culture is also influenced by its economy, most notably from the effects of tourism, a highly important industry in the state. Also, as one of the New Spain states, it shares history, culture, food and other things with the Spanish, especially Cuban and Puerto Rican.

Ideal for…?

Florida is ideal for families, mates and for that romantic break with your partner. With lots to offer, Florida caters to every need.

Adrenaline junkies out there will have a whale of a time with the vast variety of roller coasters to choose from.