As readers of this space know, I’m a big fan of Florida. Do I always like the positions taken by politicians? No. But I don’t think this is the place to analyze politics.
My job, as I see it, is to talk about great destinations and what I like to see and do when I’m away. If you feel you don’t want to go to destination X because of its politics, I totally understand. But that’s not what I’m here for.
I also think it’s important to note that most tourism jobs are on the lower end of the pay scale and are largely filled by women, new immigrants and students. If you skip a trip to City X or Country Z because of politics, you’re making a statement. But you’re also hurting people whose livelihoods depend on tourism.
It’s complicated, so that’s why I try stay neutral.
Which brings me to something I spotted today on Main Street News about visitation to The Sunshine State. The publication quoted an online survey by the University of Florida, which asked a roughly equal number of Floridians and Americans from other states what they like most about Florida.
Both groups said beautiful scenery, price competitiveness, destination images, varieties of culture and history, tourist attractions, level of hospitable communities/residents, and level of crowdedness all impacted their travel decisions. Respondents mentioned Orlando, Miami and the beaches most frequently when asked to provide their top three destinations.
Kayaking to a small key near Dunedin, Florida. JIM BYERS PHOTO
Asked what impacts their travel, 40% answered social media, followed by 18% who said TV/travel related programs, and 14% who said travel articles and news when they made their destination decisions.
As a writer, I’m disappointed in the 14% figure. But I’m also quite active on social media, so that’s not so bad.
Here are a few of my fave spots in Florida:
New Smyrna Beach: A delightful, artsy community on the Atlantic Coast, not far from Orlando.
Apalachicola: Another small, enjoyable Florida town with fun shopping, great beaches and an old-school vibe. It’s in the Florida panhandle.
The Florida Keys: I love the sparkling ocean views as you head south from Miami. Key West is always a hoot, and there’s great food in the Keys, as well as fabulous fishing.
Cedar Key, Florida at sunrise. JIM BYERS PHOTO
Dunedin: I’m a huge fan of the Toronto Blue Jays spring training home, which has a great, walkable downtown, good food, craft beer and fine beaches. Try a ferry ride to Caladesi Island for a real treat.
Winter Park: This is a lovely city just north of Orlando, with lovely shops, fine restaurants and boats that take you through narrow canals and across broad lakes.
Cedar Key: A delightful, remote island a couple hours north of Tampa, which feels like a throwback to a simpler time. Good food and friendly locals make it a great getaway spot.
