Florida, USA Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Florida, known as the Sunshine State, offers a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant cities to pristine beaches. Miami’s glamorous lifestyle, with its art deco architecture and lively nightlife, contrasts with the natural beauty of places like the Everglades and the Florida Keys. Here you can enjoy world-famous theme parks in Orlando, relax on the tranquil beaches of the Gulf Coast, or explore the cultural charm of St. Augustine. Florida also offers exceptional outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and water sports. With luxury vacation homes, fine dining, and endless sunshine, Florida promises an unforgettable and diverse vacation experience.

Why Florida, USA?

  • Florida is the only state in the continental United States to have a tropical climate.
  • Florida has more than 8,000 miles of coastline.
  • Florida is the most visited state in the United States, with over 116 million visitors in 2019.
  • Key West, Florida is the southernmost point of the continental United States.
  • The Florida Keys are made up of over 1,700 islands and islets.
  • Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida is the most visited vacation resort in the world.

History

Florida, located in the southeastern United States, has a diverse and dynamic history shaped by indigenous cultures, European exploration, and its position as a crossroads for trade and migration. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Seminoles, Apalachee, and Timucua. In 1513, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León became the first European to land in Florida, naming it “La Florida” due to its lush, flowering landscape. Over the next several centuries, Spain established settlements, most notably St. Augustine in 1565, which remains the oldest continuously inhabited European-established city in the U.S.

Florida changed hands between Spain, Britain, and the United States, with Spain ceding the territory to the U.S. in 1821. It became a state in 1845, and throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Florida grew rapidly due to its warm climate, attracting settlers, and tourists. It became a major agricultural center, particularly known for its citrus production, and later developed into a global tourism hotspot, with Miami and Orlando becoming renowned for their beaches, resorts, and theme parks.

Transportation on Florida, USA

Getting to Florida, USA and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA required).
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-English licenses.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, with highways and interstates offering easy access across the state.
  • Speed Limits: 25-30 mph (40-48 km/h) in urban areas, 55-65 mph (88-105 km/h) on rural roads, and up to 70 mph (113 km/h) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious of pedestrians, especially near beaches and tourist areas. Tolls are common on major highways; many use electronic systems like SunPass. Parking is widely available but can be expensive in urban and beach areas.

Local Transportation

Florida offers a variety of transport options to explore its vibrant cities, picturesque beaches, and famous attractions. Public transit systems, including buses and the Metrorail in cities like Miami, provide an affordable way to get around urban areas. However, renting a car is often the best option for exploring Florida’s vast landscapes, from the sunny beaches of the Gulf Coast to the theme parks in Orlando, as public transport can be limited in rural regions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available in larger cities and tourist areas for quick and easy travel. For those looking to explore the state’s coastline, ferries provide scenic routes between islands like Key West and Fort Myers.

Know Before You Go...® - Florida, USA Travel Tips

Before making their way to Florida, USA , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Florida, USA even more relaxing.

Capital: Tallahassee.
Population: 21.8 million (estimated)
Size: 65,758 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 120
Official Language: English is the official language, though Spanish is widely spoken in some areas.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD)
  • ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted at most establishments (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).
  • Contactless payments are common in restaurants, shops, and public transport.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is customary in Florida. In restaurants, leave 15-20% of the bill.
  • Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, typically $1-2 per service.
  • Sales Tax: 6% is the base sales tax, but this can vary slightly by county. It is not included in displayed prices.
Dress Code: Florida has a casual and tropical dress code. Lightweight clothing is ideal for the warm climate, and comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring. Swimwear is perfect for beaches and pools but should be covered in public areas. Smart casual attire is appropriate for dining at upscale restaurants.
Topography: Florida, known as the 'Sunshine State,' is characterized by its flat terrain, extensive coastline, and tropical and subtropical climates. It is home to pristine beaches, the Everglades, and vibrant cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +1 * Area Codes: Florida has multiple area codes, including 305 (Miami), 407 (Orlando), and 813 (Tampa). * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage throughout the state. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces.

Florida, USA Weddings and Honeymoons

In Florida, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at any County Clerk’s Office in Florida. Both parties must appear in person.

Required documents include:

  • Valid photo IDs (passport, driver’s license, or state ID).
  • Social Security numbers (if applicable).
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).

There is no waiting period for non-residents, but Florida residents must wait three days after receiving their license.

The marriage license is valid for 60 days, and ceremonies can be conducted by a notary public, judge, or religious officiant.

Costs: Marriage license fees are approximately $93.50, with a discount for Florida residents who complete a premarital course.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Florida offers stunning venues for weddings, including beaches in the Florida Keys, luxury resorts, and scenic parks like Everglades National Park. Popular locations include Miami Beach, Orlando resorts, and historic venues in St. Augustine.