Stay, Cruise and Explore: The Tampa Bay Area

The sun, sand and sea are what draw people to the Sunshine State. Despite the fact that Maine is nicknamed Vacationland, Florida’s broad appeal makes it the number one vacationland in the United States. Children love Florida for its theme-park rides and fairy-tale amusement parks. Seniors adore the state for its fountain of youth type of weather and world-class golf courses. Nature lovers can find an array of outdoor options. From deep-sea fishing and bird watching to exploring the Everglades, Florida’s exotic ecosystems and wildlife are irresistible. Spring break revellers have been flocking to the beaches in Daytona, Panama City and Fort Lauderdale since the end of World War II. Florida is a place where all age groups can happily bask in 365 days of sunshine a year.

Florida is a year-round holiday venue, but for many travellers it is only the beginning of their tropical journey. Florida’s piers and cruise terminals are a launching pad into the emerald waters of the Caribbean. A stay and cruise combines the best of a land and sea holiday. In other words, before you debark o a 10-day cruise through the Lesser Antilles, you have the added luxury of hanging out for a few days at one of Florida’s ports of call. A stay and cruise affords you the opportunity to sample some of Florida’s must-see highlights and mega-attractions. Tampa, Miami and Key West are popular stay and cruise ports. If you find yourself staying in Tampa before setting sail into the Caribbean, then be sure to enjoy these one-of-a-kind attractions.

The Tampa Bay Area

The Bay Area is composed of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. From white sand beaches and barrier islands to arts districts and Cuban culture, these three cities in the northern bay offer an array of activities. Of course, the most popular attraction in the area is Bush Gardens. This 335-acre theme park opened in 1959, and its roller coasters, water rides, live entertainment and animal safari are popular with children and adults alike.

Tampa’s best beaches include Madeira Beach and North Redington Beach. The waves are calm and gentle in this part of Florida, and the shelling is some of the best in the world. After a morning of sunbathing and shelling, take a short ride over to St. Petersburg. This city has an excellent arts district and a popular zoo. Be sure to visit the Salvador Dali Museum. Ybor City, which is located in downtown Tampa, is one of four National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida. Once a Cuban cigar making industry, this Latin Quarter is Tampa’s trendiest neighbourhood. Boutiques, galleries, restaurants and nightclubs now fill the vacant cigar factories.