1. Florida
The Sunshine State

2. 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.

3. 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

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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

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

10. 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

11. 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