Eyewitness Travel Family Guide Florida Read online

  When visiting crowded theme parks or beaches, decide in advance on a meeting place in case you are separated. Advise kids to look for someone in an official uniform for help if they are lost.

  Driving Safety

  Most visitors to Florida get around by car, and while crime is rare, car safety is prudent. Have keys out and ready in order to get into your car quickly, and keep the tank filled to avoid having to search for a service station in an unfamiliar area. It is safer to keep the doors locked and the windows up, using the air-conditioning if necessary. Program an emergency breakdown number into your cell phone and, if an accident occurs, dial 911 to call for police and medical help. If arriving at an airport late at night, it may be best to stay at an airport hotel and pick up a car in the morning, rather than try to reach an unfamiliar destination on dark roads.

  Money

  Banks and Bureaux de Change

  Foreign currency can be changed into dollars at banks and bureaux de change such as Travelex, which are found at major airports, except at Orlando International Airport, which uses Interchange. However, ATMs offer the best exchange rates and the fee is usually lower than at a bureau. Most bank ATMs are part of the worldwide Plus or Cirrus network. ATMs, and almost all businesses and restaurants, accept popular debit and credit cards, though cash advances with credit cards carry interest fees. Check the fees with your own bank or credit card provider before traveling. To guard against crime in towns, use an ATM inside the bank rather than those accessed from the street.

  A City National Bank of Florida ATM, which can be used by most major card holders

  Currency

  The basic unit is the dollar, which equals 100 cents. Coins come in one cent (penny), five cent (nickel), ten cent (dime), and 25 cent (quarter) denominations. Each is of a different size, so it is easy to tell them apart. There is a $1 coin but it is rarely used. The most common bills are $1, $5, $10, and $20, though $50, $100, and larger denominations are available. ATMs give out mostly $20 bills.

  Credit cards, traveler’s checks, and cash cards

  Major credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the US. Large purchases are best paid for by credit card.

  Traveler’s checks are still accepted, but have become less common due to ATMs, and are slowly being replaced by cash cards. As with traveler’s checks, these cards are paid for in advance, and funds are drawn on as the card is used. Cash cards are issued by card companies such as Visa or MasterCard, and are as easy to use as a credit card, but exchange rates are fixed in advance and security is greater as they have a limited value. They are protected by use of a PIN and/or signature. Fees apply to some services, including reloading the cards.

  Currency exchange locations www.us.travelex.com

  Interchange www.interchange.eu

  Visitor information

  Visit Florida is the state’s official tourism bureau and it can provide contact details for local tourist offices.

  Visit Florida 2540 West Executive Center Circle, Suite 200, Tallahassee, 32301; 866 972 5280; www.visitflorida.com

  Communications

  Florida has a number of area codes. Toll-free calls are prefixed by 800, 866, 877, or 888. To call outside the area, dial 1 before the area code, even on toll-free calls.To call overseas directly, dial 011, plus the country code, city area code, and number. For operator-assisted calls, dial 01, country code, city code, and number.

  Cell phones

  The prevalence of cell phones has limited public telephones to airports and rail terminals. Hotels add a hefty charge for phone calls, making cell phones a convenient and economical option. Most modern phones will be compatible with US services, though they may run up high roaming charges; check with your service provider at home. Prepaid phone cards are available at chain stores, such as WalMart and Target, as well as convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven. The phone cards offer lower per-minute rates than most phones.

  Internet and Email

  Most hotels offer Internet access and/or Wi-Fi, some for free. Free Wi-Fi is also available at many city libraries, and at many branches of Starbucks and McDonald’s.

  Postal service

  Many hotels sell stamps and will mail postcards for guests, or they can direct you to the nearest post office. Delivery of mail abroad usually takes 5 to 10 working days.

  7-Eleven www.7-eleven.com

  WalMart www.walmart.com

  Media

  Newspapers and magazines

  Every large Florida city has its own daily newspaper. Among the most widely read are the Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times. National publications such as USA Today and The New York Times can often be found in street dispensers, along with local papers. For foreign newspapers and other publications, a bookstore is the best bet.

  Television and radio

  The major national TV networks are CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS. Several channels, including CNN, Fox, and ESPN, are available on cable. Kids will enjoy Nickelodeon, Disney, and Cartoon Network, while MTV will appeal to teens. Hotels may also offer pay-per-view movie channels.

  Every area has its own radio stations. AM consists mostly of pop music, rock, and talk shows, and some religious stations. In southern Florida, Spanish talk shows and music are popular. Classical music stations are found on the FM band. National Public Radio is popular, with news, talk, and classical music.

  Disabled access

  Most public transportation, public buildings, hotels, theme parks, restaurants, and attractions are accessible to people with disabilities. State parks offer many accessible trails, and many beaches provide wheelchairs that can navigate over sand. Check Visit Florida, or the sites you plan to visit, for specific local information.

  Disability access on the Miami-Dade transit Metrobus

  State parks floridastateparks.org

  Visit Florida www.visitflorida.com/articles/florid-able

  Restrooms

  Most attractions, museums, department stores, and shopping malls have restrooms, complete with baby-changing facilities.

  What to pack

  Florida life is informal, and dressy clothing is rarely needed, even at upscale restaurants. The air-conditioning in restaurants and theaters can be frigid, so taking a sweater along is advisable.

  Hats, insect repellent, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must for everyone. Bathing suits need time to dry, so a few changes are useful. Florida does have cool spells in winter, so if you are visiting then, pack a jacket. Do bring rain gear too, as there can be showers year-round.

  Stores carrying diapers and formula for infants are plentiful, but carry an emergency supply. Pack a favorite game or book, pajamas, a sweater, water, and a snack in a separate small wheeled suitcase or backpack for each child to carry for quick access en route.

  Involving the kids

  Children are more excited about travel when they share in the planning. Look at this book with them in advance, and let them choose and look forward to some of the activities ahead. The Internet also has many resources for planning. An inexpensive camera for each child keeps kids interested and provides wonderful souvenirs of the trip.

  Opening hours

  Business hours are usually 9am to 5pm. Stores open at around 9 or 10am and close at 5 or 6pm, Monday through Saturday, though some may stay open later. Sunday hours vary: some stores open at noon, others do not open at all. Banking hours are traditionally 9am to 3pm Monday to Thursday, and to 6pm on Friday, though several larger banks now remain open until 5 or 6pm during the week. Banks with Saturday hours usually open from 9am to noon. Most museums are open daily, 10am to 5:30pm, but check individual listings.

  Electricity

  The standard US electric current is 110 volts. An adapter is necessary for European appliances, which run on 220–240 volts.

  Florida time

  Most of Florida is on Eastern Standard Time, 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The exception is the western Panhandle, which is in th
e Central Standard Time zone, 1 hour behind EST.

  Etiquette and tipping

  Florida is a favorite family destination and everyone from hotel clerks to bus drivers usually has a friendly smile for young visitors. However, parents should encourage children to be polite and respectful, and if noisy squabbles or loud crying occur in public places, it is best to take kids outside until they calm down.

  Visitors should remember that tips are expected for service personnel in the US. The usual amounts are 15–20 percent for waiters or taxi drivers, as well as barbers or hair stylists. Room service tips are often added to the bill. Hotel bellhops should receive around $1 per bag, hotel maids $1–2 per day, and coat checks $1 per garment. While not mandatory, when waiters or others are especially helpful with children, a small extra tip is always appreciated.

  < Introducing Florida

  Accommodations

  Kitchen, dining, and living area in Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key

  With hundreds of lavish resorts, thousands of condos for rent, and campgrounds that attract millions of visitors every year, Florida truly can accommodate every taste and budget. Families are catered to across the spectrum of accommodations – from Florida’s most exclusive resorts to its most basic motels, which usually have a pool where kids can splash around. Listings of suggested lodgings appear at the end of each chapter in this book.

  Getting the best deals

  The winter months, especially holiday periods, are the most popular and the most expensive. Generally, the closer to the beach, the higher the price, so staying in a basic highway motel and driving to the beach means saving, with rooms lodging four for as little as $150 per night, even in high season. Most places let kids stay free in their parents’ room; but some specify that sharers must be under age 12. Bargains can be found in the off-seasons, spring and fall. Hotels.com, Travelocity, and Expedia are good sources to find the lowest rates, while Kayak compares many discount hotel sites.

  Expedia www.expedia.com

  Hotels.com www.hotels.com

  Kayak www.kayak.com

  Travelocity www.travelocity.com

  Hidden extras

  The state’s 6 percent sales tax, plus tourism taxes, can bring the total up a hefty 12 percent. Remember that tipping is not discretionary in the US. Many hotels also add on a daily resort fee. Ask before you book, or you might be presented with an unexpectedly large bill at the end of your stay.

  Resorts

  Florida boasts resorts with golf, spas, tennis, beaches, and a variety of dining options. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is one that offers a range of accommodations, kids’ programs, and its own shops and restaurants. If budget allows, Ritz-Carlton resorts and hotels are among the top facilities in the state.

  Ritz-Carlton www.ritzcarlton.com

  Hotels and motels

  Space and cooking facilities are two important pluses for families choosing a hotel or motel. All-suite properties offer extra space, kitchens, and sometimes two TVs. Many modest hotels and motels provide microwaves and small refrigerators. Check whether cots or cribs are available and if they are free, if kids’ menus are offered in hotel restaurants, and if the hotel will help with recommended babysitters.

  Condos and apartments

  Florida is filled with condominiums and efficiency or studio apartments whose owners rent out their quarters when not in residence. Condo units provide comfortable space plus kitchens. Many condo buildings are conveniently located, some right on the beach, and usually have a pool. One-, two-, and three-bedroom units are available, and prices are competitive with hotels. However, there is usually no maid service. Condo listings are found in the accommodations guides published by local tourist offices, and also on websites such as HomeAway.

  HomeAway www.homeaway.com

  House-swapping

  Many families report success with house swaps. If you live in Europe, for example, a Florida family might be happy to swap their home for yours, saving each of you a considerable amount of money. Swaps are arranged through specialized agencies such as Home Exchange and Home Link. For a small monthly fee, prospective swappers sign up and list their homes. Members can scan listings for the places they want to go, select properties, and send privacy-protected emails directly to the owners. It is always a good idea to exchange emails, talk on the phone, and trade recent home photos before signing an agreement.

  Home Exchange www.homeexchange.com

  Home Link usa.homelink.org

  Campgrounds

  Many of the campgrounds for RVs across the state offer playgrounds and pools, as well as table tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts. All offer picnic grounds and convenient laundry facilities. Camp Florida has a complete RV Park directory, with hundreds of listings across the state. There are several RV rental agencies. Some campgrounds also provide rustic cabins for those without RVs. Guests staying in the cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campgrounds are offered complimentary coach transfers from the airport, and transportation to all Walt Disney World® attractions is available from the resort’s campground.

  Camp Florida www.campflorida.com

  State parks

  Most of Florida’s state parks have campgrounds for tents, and 19 of them also have cabins for rent at rates below most motels, with access to all park facilities. Lodgings range from well-equipped modern cottages such as those at Grayton Beach State Park to simple log cabins at Myakka River State Park. Bookings are essential and can be made 11 months in advance; check the Florida State Parks website for more information.

  Tents pitched in Little Talbot Island State Park

  Florida State Parks www.floridastateparks.org

  Bed & breakfast

  B&B inns are listed in local tourism directories and can be found through several booking services. These lodgings may be private homes or small inns. While often charming, not all offer the privacy or noise tolerance that families appreciate. Be sure to ask about specifics and family policies before booking.

  B&B agencies www.bedandbreakfast.com

  www.florida-bed-and-breakfasts.net

  www.florida-inns.com

  < Introducing Florida

  Where to Eat

  Fresh tropical fruit at the Lincoln Road Farmers’ Market, South Beach

  Florida dining offers something to please every palate. Bountiful waters and a benign climate produce superb seafood and tropical fruits. A wide variety of cuisines is available, including simple food for those who prefer it. Because families make up such a large share of the state’s visitors, there are plenty of kid-friendly informal restaurants. The price categories in this guide allow for a two-course lunch with a family of four, excluding wine but including soft drinks.

  Eating out

  Formal restaurants usually open from 7 to 10am for breakfast, from 11:30am to 2pm for lunch, and from 5:30 to 10pm for dinner, but many places serve food all day. “Earlybird specials,” for dinner served before 6pm, are economical for families with kids.

  A reservation is usually not needed for lunch or at budget restaurants, but dinner at a popular spot usually requires one, especially during the busy seasons. Most restaurants can accommodate strollers and will offer booster seats, but ask in advance at upscale places. A smoking ban is enforced in all restaurants, cafés, and even bars. Tipping is considered mandatory at any non self-service eatery. The minimum acceptable tip is 15 percent, and the standard tip for good service is 20 percent.

  Catch of the day

  Firm and tender fish such as grouper, mahi mahi, amberjack, pompano, snapper, tuna, and wahoo are staples on the menu, both as entrées and in tasty sandwiches. Large, sweet Gulf shrimp are legendary, and may be served cold with cocktail sauce or used as an ingredient in many dishes. Stone-crab claws are another Florida delicacy, especially prized as they are only available from mid-October to mid-May. Head to Miami’s Joe’s Stone Crab, where these sweet, meaty claws are served chilled, with a melted butter and mustard sauce.

  Tropical trea
ts

  Florida is blessed with a bounty of tropical fruits such as oranges, mangoes, melons, and papayas. Weekly farmers’ markets are good places for sampling them. Stands in the markets offering fresh-squeezed orange-strawberry juice should not be missed.

  Southern comfort

  Northern Florida shows its Southern heritage at stops such as Fish House in Pensacola, which serves a delicious Southern specialty made with grits, a savory porridge made of fine-ground corn, similar to polenta. Farther south, the Latin American influence can be seen on menus featuring ceviche (a first course of raw seafood usually with a citrus sauce), beans and rice, and plantains.