Destination Florida

America is a vast country and so deciding where to choose can be a daunting task. Having been fortunate to spend time as a student ravelling across the States, I would recommend Florida as a great holiday destination. Here are my top choices for a visit to the Sunshine State.

1.     Florida Keys

Key West is an island in the Straits of Florida and marks the southernmost tip of the United States. Only 90 miles from Cuba, Key West is like no other place in America. Famous for its Key Lime Pie, the local atmosphere is laidback, perhaps more Caribbean than American. A perfect destination for couples, the keys offer the ideal mixture of relaxation and activities. Turquoise seas and beautiful beaches are abundant, as is the opportunity to take a canoe through the marshlands to watch the sunset. If you’re lucky you’ll spot a few turtles.  Ernest Hemmingway also resided here, calling it home for over ten years. To reach Key West, fly into Miami and take a 4 hour drive, incorporating a seven mile long bridge.

2.     Miami

Miami is a surprising place. The picture of the place I had in my head was not the place I

visited. It’s located on the Atlantic coast in south eastern Florida. Nicknamed the "Capital of Latin America,” Florida is the second-largest US City with a Spanish Speaking majority and consequently, the cuisine is as diverse as the language. The Miami Beach Architectural District is certainly worth a visit – take this walking tour before enjoying South Beach, often called the American Riviera.

3.     Amelia Island

Named for Princess Amelia, daughter of George II of Great Britain, the island has changed colonial hands a number of times. It is claimed that eight flags have flown over Amelia Island: French, Spanish, British, Patriot, Green Cross, Mexican, Confederate, and United States. What you will find here today is a beautiful resort filled with great restaurants, shops and activities. I prefect for families or couples, this peaceful, relaxed seaport community offers 13-miles of beautiful beaches, abundant native wildlife, and pristine waters.

The weather in Florida is pretty good all year round. However, you can typically get some good deals on hotels and travel in September through to November as this is hurricane season. It might also be a good idea to sign up for flight alerts and as an Amex Cardholder you can normally get some major perks when booking through American Expresstravel online.