Florida Travel Tips
Florida Travel Tips
VISITOR INFORMATION
Every city in the state of Florida and every destination offers local visitor information centers that can provide you with helpful area information, as well as maps and public transportation information. Visit the Florida Association of CVBs website for a list of Florida convention and visitor bureaus by region, or visit the city pages within this website for a direct link to each city's bureau.
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
To reach the police, ambulance, or fire department dial 911 from any phone.
FLORIDA TOURIST SEASONS
To avoid unfavorably busy and crowded areas on your Florida vacation, beware of peak seasons. During certain high-volume months (especially holidays) theme parks, hotel and restaurant capacity, and heavy traffic can delay your activities. In the southern region of the state, winter is the peak season. In the northern region, where temperatures are less extreme, the summer is peak season. Of course, holidays are the most crowded in any tourist area, with theme parks and beaches at full capacity. The best times to travel in Florida are during in-between months, such as April through May and September through November. Temperatures and prices tend to be more manageable. January through March is a good time to schedule your visit, when you can expect the temperature highs to be in the mid-70s. Remember that Florida is one of the country's most popular destinations, so always book early no matter what time of year you choose.
FLORIDA TIME ZONES
West of the Apalachicola River is on Central Standard Time, one hour behind the rest of the state, which observes Eastern Standard Time. An easy way to tell on a map is: if your location falls below Georgia you're in Eastern, if it falls below Alabama you're in Central.
LOST OR STOLEN PROPERTY
If you are robbed call the local non-emergency number for the police. Most attraction's or accommodation's front desk staff can assist you in finding this number for your area. Remember, most insurance claims require a police report. Be sure to write down the toll-free phone number of your credit card's customer service line, in the case of lost or stolen credit cards.
DRINKING LAWS
To purchase or consume alcohol in the State of Florida you must be 21 years of age. Carry photo identification that gives your date of birth. Remember, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is against the law. If you plan on drinking, arrange a taxi to take you to your next destination.
SMOKING LAWS
Due to recently passed laws, smoking is no longer allowed in establishments that serve food. However, most have outdoor smoking areas.
SALES TAX
The Florida state sales tax of 6 - 7% is added to all prices in restaurants, shops and attractions.
GRATUITIES
Gratuity is not included in your bill in restaurants, bars or lounges within the US. An exception to this rule may be large groups that exceed 5-10 patrons per check. It is customary to leave an additional 10% to 20%, depending on how pleased you are with the staff that has served you. Travel USA: Get Lost In the Big City New Orleans, Louisiana: Bed and Breakfast Inns That Revitalize Travelers Ferry Trips Melbourne Five Star Hotels - Perfect Couple's Holiday In The Garden City Down South Mexico City Hotels - Types of Tourist Lodgings at El Defectuoso Miami Beach Hotels - Finding for Cheap Hotels in the Magic City Miami Beach Hotels - Choosing a Hotel at the Magic City Miami Beach Hotels - Surviving the Magic City Miami Beach Hotels - Types of Tourist Lodgings in the Magic City Africa Escorted Tours Bring the Continent to Life Australia Escorted Tours Will Let You See It All Down Under Luxury Escorted Tours Will Make Your Holiday Sweeter North America Escorted Tours Let You See the World You Already Know