Theme Parks and more – Florida holiday 2012

by Carlos
(London)

Orlando, Florida, is possibly the theme park capital of the world – and while it offers a great range of entertainment options for the kids there is also an interesting range of options for adults in the area. Apart from the city of Orlando itself, which boasts a massive range of shopping, eating and entertainment options to suit just about any age, the nearest beaches are located on the 72-mile stretch of coastline known as the “Space Coast”, just 35 miles to the east. The space coast gets its name as the home to the Kennedy Space Center – the iconic launch site for moon exploration and the NASA’s shuttle programme. The Space Coast also features some hidden delights that offer a change from the normal theme park-themed holiday for the whole family.

Gone Fishing

Seafood is a constant feature on the menu in many Floridian restaurants, thanks to the State possessing the longest coastline of any mainland US state. If you like to see your food before you eat it, it should be no surprise that there are ample opportunities for some fantastic fishing experiences – for adults and kids alike. Sebastian Inlet State Park, to the southern end of the Space Coast offers pier fishing where the catches can be more impressive than those brought ashore by the fishing boats. For those who prefer to find themselves up a creek with fishing rod, try Faver-Dykes State Park where both freshwater and saltwater fishing is available. Both parks feature camping facilities for those who feel the call of the wild as an antidote from the high life of Orlando and the surrounding area. If the call of the open sea is something you cannot resist, charter boat sailings from Port Canaveral offer the chance for a little deep sea fishing in the warm sub-tropical waters off the coast.

Gone Shopping

Oh Girls! Treats await. Yes, I know it’s sexist, but what the heck. Shopping in Orlando should be planned well in advance mainly because the opportunities are endless. The theme park theme seems to be everywhere in Florida and in Orlando it’s clear that shopping is designed to be fun. Mall culture is certainly prevalent but the choice of recreational shopping facilities is what makes the experience worthwhile, from boutique and high-class stores to flea markets and just about everything in between. The malls are designed for living (in) with restaurants, bistros, shows and the odd spa thrown in. Orlando holidays also has more than its fair share of factory outlet stores with excellent discounts available. When it’s time to pick up the boys from the boat, don’t panic; the Space Coast rivals Orlando with its range of stores and again features high-class boutiques but in addition there are numerous small, unique stores, galleries and craft centres.

Common Themes

Apart from the obvious theme parks, throughout Florida both the emphasis on water sports, fishing, and shopping are fairly common. All the major cities combine the elements of designer stores and local speciality shopping. There is always a range of sailing, diving, fishing and kayaking opportunities and for the wildlife-mad the number of protected national parks and state parks. If you are still wondering where to book your cheap Florida holidays, for relaxation combined with thrills, Florida cannot be beaten.