Florida The Sunshine State

History of Settlement After WWII – swampy, flat, marshland began to change with the development of agriculture and urbanization Land drained and used for crops and large cities began to grow. Cheap air conditioners also introduced and brought retirees and tourists.

FLORIDA’S TOURIST INDUSTRY ECONOMIC REGION 40 million tourists per year - 45 billion $ generated 3rd only to California and Vegas in tourist numbers & $ Winter is the Peak Season – Why?: Climate, holidays, spring break Autumn / Spring season best deal – rates are lowest & facilities are least crowded Florida’s rise to prominence as an economic region founded on tourism is largely due to its climate, beaches and barrier islands

Origin of Tourists Georgia Ohio New York Tennessee Michigan Texas Alabama Louisiana Ontario Pennsylvania

Most tourists travel by car – less expensive, personal freedoms 150,000 campsites, 1000 campgrounds, trailer parks, motels & hotels Florida pioneered the car rental business and computerized reservations

Florida’s top 10 tourist Attractions Magic Kingdom Epcot MGM Studios Universal Studios Sea World Spaceport USA – Kennedy Busch Gardens Cyprus Gardens Florida Silver Springs National & State Parks

Major Cities of Florida Miami Largest metropolitan area Florida, major economic centre and travel hub. Famous for its’ beaches, hotels, night life and water activities Little Havana (population: Cubans– migration after Castro took control) – culture

Orlando Central / interior of Florida, one of the fastest growing cities Many lakes used for recreational purposes Famous for its theme parks (Walt Disney World) and entertainment complexes

Tampa Central Gulf Coast – major port city Famous for cruises, shopping, Busch Gardens & beaches in the surrounding area

Jacksonville Located on the northern Atlantic coast, the largest city. Historical attractions are prevalent: 1564 French Fort, oldest existing plantation, oldest fishing village, jazz festivals, Mayport Naval station

St. Petersburg Located next to / across the bay from Tampa, the city is known as a vacation destination With a purported average of some 360 days of sunshine each year, it is nicknamed "The Sunshine City." For that reason, the city is a popular tourist and retirement destination