FloridaThe Sunshine State

After WWII – swampy, flat, marshland began to change with the development of agriculture and urbanization

Land drained and used for crops and large cities began to grow. Cheap air conditioners also introduced and brought retirees and tourists.

History of Settlement

40 million tourists per year - 45 billion $ generated 3rd only to California and Vegas in tourist numbers

& $ Winter is the Peak Season – Why?: Climate,

holidays, spring break Autumn / Spring season best deal – rates are

lowest & facilities are least crowded Florida’s rise to prominence as an economic region

founded on tourism is largely due to its climate, beaches and barrier islands

FLORIDA’S TOURIST INDUSTRY ECONOMIC

REGION

1. Georgia2. Ohio3. New York4. Tennessee5. Michigan6. Texas7. Alabama8. Louisiana9. Ontario10.Pennsylvania

Origin of Tourists

Most tourists travel by car – less expensive, personal freedoms

150,000 campsites, 1000 campgrounds, trailer parks, motels & hotels

Florida pioneered the car rental business and computerized reservations

1. Magic Kingdom2. Epcot3. MGM Studios4. Universal Studios5. Sea World6. Spaceport USA – Kennedy7. Busch Gardens8. Cyprus Gardens9. Florida Silver Springs10.National & State Parks

Florida’s top 10 tourist Attractions

Miami Largest metropolitan area Florida, major

economic centre and travel hub. Famous for its’ beaches, hotels, night life and

water activities Little Havana (population: Cubans– migration

after Castro took control) – culture

Major Cities of Florida

Orlando Central / interior of Florida, one of the fastest

growing cities Many lakes used for recreational purposes Famous for its theme parks (Walt Disney

World) and entertainment complexes

Tampa Central Gulf Coast – major port city Famous for cruises, shopping, Busch Gardens

& beaches in the surrounding area

Jacksonville Located on the northern Atlantic coast, the

largest city. Historical attractions are prevalent: 1564

French Fort, oldest existing plantation, oldest fishing village, jazz festivals, Mayport Naval station

St. Petersburg Located next to / across the bay from Tampa,

the city is known as a vacation destination With a purported average of some 360 days of

sunshine each year, it is nicknamed "The Sunshine City." For that reason, the city is a popular tourist and retirement destination