Tampa International Airport. Credit: Tampa International Airport
Thanksgiving travel is already picking up across the country, and Florida is one of the busiest starting points and destinations. Hundreds of thousands of passengers will pass through Miami, Orlando, and Tampa this week, and that means traffic, crowds, and long lines. A little extra planning makes the difference between a smooth start and a hectic one. Here are some tips and reminders to help you have as stress-free an experience as possible:
Clearwater Beach and Sand Key (L) Photo: Mark Stone/FMN
Florida is a state that lives and breathes its coastlines. With more than 1,300 miles of shoreline and some 825 miles of accessible beaches, it’s no wonder the Sunshine State has built its reputation on sand and sea. Ask any local, though, and you’ll quickly find that “the best beach” depends on what you’re after. Do you want nightlife and neon? Quiet seclusion? Water as clear as glass? Or maybe you’re looking for a family-friendly destination where the kids can build castles while you relax with toes in the sand.
The Anclote River flows to the Gulf of America Photo: Mark Stone/FMN
Florida is known for sunshine, theme parks, and frolicking in the water. It all makes for a great vacation. But you might want to rethink that “frolicking in the water” part…. or at least pay more attention to where you do it.
Delta Air Lines is taking a bold step to retool its fare-setting engine: by the end of 2025, AI will determine ticket prices on one out of every five domestic flights. And if that goes well (for Delta) they may roll out the system to all potential passengers. Some will pay more, while others may pay less, all depending on what the new system comes up with.
After a brief spring spike, drivers across Florida are experiencing lower gas prices compared to last year, but costs still differ widely by region, according to new AAA data released Monday. Some areas of the state fare better than others, but overall, with the summer travel season in full swing, motorists are doing very well.
Breeze Airways, the Salt Lake City-based ultra-low-cost carrier founded by David Neeleman, is expanding its footprint in Florida this fall by adding two nonstop routes from Tampa and Orlando.
Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas, Florida Photo: Charles Boyer / FMN
If you are headed down to Key West anytime soon, consider taking a side trip to the least visited, yet one of the most impressive National Parks in the United States. It’s a bit off the beaten path though…way off….
Every year in Florida, as predictably as afternoon thunderstorms and high temperatures arrive in early summer, a biological phenomenon unfolds that turns the air into an airborne lovers’ lane. It’s called Love Bug Season, and it is as romantic as it is disgusting. If you’re new here in Florida, here’s their story:
The largest of the small flies called lovebugs are the females, which are about 1/3 inch. The smaller males are 1/4 inch in length. Photo by Tim Donovan, Florida Fish and Wildlife
As I sat sipping my morning coffee and checking emails today, I noticed that my monthly Sun Pass toll statement popped up. Like many Floridians, I have a transponder that automatically charges my account whenever I use one of the Florida toll roads, and my bank account is automatically drafted whenever toll funds need to be replenished. So things are pretty much on autopilot, and honestly, I haven’t paid much attention to that aspect of my finances. I mean, when you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go, right?
As of May 7, 2025- just one short month from now- significant changes will take effect regarding identification requirements for Americans. With the coming enforcement of the REAL ID Act, individuals who want to board US domestic flights or enter government facilities will need to possess a REAL ID-compliant form of identification (And yes, Florida’s cruise terminals count as a government facility). There are only a few exceptions, such as states that issue what is known as “Enhanced ID” – Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont. The government says REAL ID requirements will be strictly enforced. Here’s how to make sure you are ready.
Florida is famous for its sunshine, beaches, and theme parks – but it also hides some truly quirky stuff. Beyond the usual attractions, the Sunshine State boasts odd historical tales, unique geography, curious wildlife, and cultural surprises. Here are ten fun and little-known places and facts about Florida that might just amaze you. If you’re looking for things to do or see in Florida, here’s a good start.
