Overview

Bok Tower Gardens is situated on Florida’s highest peninsular point. It has a wonderful 205 foot tower with 57 bells that play to the public every day.  The tower itself stands in a fabulous landscape of over 200 acres with magnificent woodland gardens which offer a good variety of tropical plants and gives visitors the opportunity to see some central Florida wildlife.

A good site map can be obtained at the gate and this will help you find a quiet relaxing area for those who are looking for peace and solitude whilst at the same time enjoying the tower bells.  The white garden is a popular backdrop for weddings, there is a grove of live oaks and a reflection pool that mirrors the tower itself.  Just find a bench, sit quietly and admire the stunning views. 

With 20 rooms, the property’s Pinewood Estate is considered to be one of the state’s finest examples of Mediterranean Revival architecture.

The tower and gardens have nonprofit status as an educational institution.  They operate a program for fourth graders as well as an adult Garden Campus with 60 programs offered to the public.  Included are day tours, classes, workshops and slide lectures.

There is also a café and gift shop to buy your souvenirs.

The address of Bok Tower Gardens is 1151 Tower Boulevard, North of Lake Wales, Florida 337853.  It is also a National Historic Landmark that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

History

It was in 1869 that a young Edward William Bok (born 1863 – died 1930) arrived in Brooklyn, New York from Den Helder, in the Netherlands.  At the tender age of 13 he left school to work as an office boy and free lance writer to earn money to help his struggling family.  He wrote many reviews and also edited a church newspaper.  By the time he had reached age 22, his own company called Bok Syndicate Press, was selling women’s features to newspapers.  In 1889, at age 25 he was hired as the editor of the very popular women’s magazine called The Ladies Home Journal.  It was here that he enjoyed a brilliant career lasting 30 years.  By the turn of the century his magazine was the most popular in the country and Mr. Bok had amassed a fortune.

He retired in 1919 and in 1922 he purchased a large tract of scrub and pine land on Iron Mountain, a 298 feet prominence located near Lake Wales.  Advise in his youth by his mother to “Make the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it”, Mr. Bok now had both the time and the money to carry out his mothers wishes.  It was his desire to do nothing less than to create an American Taj Mahal.  His book of that same name carries this dedication to the tower’s designer: “To Milton B. Medary, for his architectural conception of a Tower with no ancient, medieval or modern precedent and of surpassing beauty, nativeness and originality…”

Gardens

Frederick Law Olmsted, Junior designed the beautiful gardens at Bok Tower.  It contains acres of ferns, palms, oaks, pines, and wetland plants.  It should also be mentioned that Mr. Olmsted also designed New York Central Park. The plantings also include bunya-bunya trees, camellias, tree ferns, creeping fig, yaupon and dahoon holly, Asiatic jasmine, justica, crinum.and spider lily, wax myrtle, date and sabal plams, papyrus, philodendron, blue plumbage, and horsetail rush.  The site is a haven for more than a hundred bird species, the most prominently featured of which is the group of swans, who tend to stay near the reflection pool.

Although the gardens provide an assortment of native wildlife including birds, reptiles, and butterflies, the gardens also are well known for a large population of squirrels that show no fear of humans and often can be hand fed.

Singing Tower

The Singing Tower is the centerpiece of the gardens, and was designed by Milton Medary.  It was built at the highest elevation of the site, south of a reflection pool that allows the water to reflect its full image.  A 60 bell carillon is set within the 205 foot tall Late Gothic Revival tower.  Construction on the tower began in 1927 and was completed for the dedication of the gardens in 1929, when it was dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge.  The tower is 51 feet square at its base, changing form at 150 feet high to an octagon with 37 feet sides that include sculptures designed by Lee Lawrie.  The tower is surrounded by a 15 foot moat that serves as a Koi carp fish pond.  It is built of pink Etowah marble and gray Creole marble, mined in Tate, Georgia, and Florida native coquina stone, from Daytona Beach, Florida.

Although the tower’s interior is not open to the public, it contains the Anton Brees Carillon Library, said to be the largest carillon library in the world.

Inside the bell chamber is a playing room that houses a clavier, or keyboard, that is used for playing the carillon bells. Recitals are given daily from the 60 bell carillon set.

Pine Ridge Trail 

The Pine Ridge Nature Preserve and Trail is a Longleaf Pine turkey Oak habitat.  Pine communities similar to this one used to cover millions of acres in the southeastern United States.  However, over the years, these have gradually disappeared and are now in danger of totally disappearing.  However, a small portion has been preserved in the Pine Ridge Nature preserve.

This habitat is an ecosystem typified by the overstory of Longleaf Pine and a dense groundcover of perennial grasses.  Visitors can experience this natural habitat on a three quarter mile trail that begins at Window by the Pond and ends at the parking lot.  There are many shaded benches along the route which serve as places for relaxation and time to think.  Along the trail, you will see a bog garden, an open glade and a sand hill forest community that is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the world.

Pinewood Estate

Pinewood was built between 1930 and 1932 under the original name of “El Retiro”.   Taking a tour through the magnificent Mediterranean style Pinewood Estate lets you experience the luxurious lifestyle of C. Austin Buck, a 20th century industrialist who was vice president of Bethlehem Steel Co. in Pennsylvania.  Pinewood was his winter home.   The estate covers around eight acres of Bok Tower Gardens and is enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year.   The mansion has 30 rooms and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  It is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mediterranean style architecture in Florida.  From time to time, special musical performances are features at Pinewood Estate.  

Events

Throughout the year, there are numerous events designed to draw visitors to the Gardens.  These events include various concerts featuring folk music, jazz, orchestras, and the carillon bells of the Tower.  The most popular is the semi annual Concert Under the Stars, given in the evening once in the Fall and once in the Spring.  The event draws hundreds of visitors to the large field in front of the Tower for an outdoor picnic; and features music from both the symphony orchestra and carillon bells.

Bok Sanctuary is open daily and an admission fee is charged.  It comprises the gardens, the Singing Tower with its carillon bells, Pine Ridge Trail, Pinewood Estate, and a visitor center.

By car, take Interstate I-75 to Exit 131, Daniels Parkway, and then West to Summerlin Road to the Sanibel Causeway ($6.00 toll road).  Then take the small bridge which crosses at Turner Beach.

Captiva Island will captivate you with the serene paced lifestyle, family activities to enjoy, beautiful sugary white sand beaches sprinkled with pastel colored seashells and glistening tropical azure blue seas.  In the village of Captiva Island there are quaint shops to explore and a variety of restaurants to experience.  Golf courses in the area where you can test your mettle on the green, and the fishing and boating are unequalled.  To end a perfect day witness breathtaking brightly colored sunsets.

You will be enchanted by beautiful, alluring Captiva Island, where once, it is said, pirates roamed, conquistadors explored and Calusa Indians called home.  The mystery and adventure is still here.  Treasures to be found in the way of a good life, spectacular white sand beaches scattered with “treasures from the sea”, pastel colored seashells and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.  There are superb accommodations, restaurants and shopping.  Golfing, tennis, fishing, boating, children’s activities.

Captiva Island, is sister to larger Sanibel Island, and is just over a small bridge which crosses at Turner Beach.  Turner Beach is a great place for catching that prize fish and also for finding the colorful shells that these islands are famous for.  The beach stretches 5 miles to the northern tip of Captiva Island at Redfish Pass.  From the bridge at Turner beach, Captiva Drive is a scenic drive past giant cactus, colorful bougainvilleas and other tropical flora along a stretch of sea and sand ending at “downtown” Captiva, which is more of a village than a town.

A truly fun vacation, holiday, memorable wedding, honeymoon or just a get-a-way awaits young and old alike on Captiva Island.

Captivating Captiva Island is the perfect place for you and your family to spend a day or two of your vacation.  With Florida’s sub tropical climate Captiva Island has sunshine all year round.  Sugary white sand beaches littered with pastel colored seashells for which the area is world renowned.  The seas are a clear Caribbean azure blue.  Play golf until your heart desires, and the fishing and boating are unequaled.  For your dining pleasure there are restaurants offering “Floridian” cuisine and from casual, funky fun to fine dining.  Shopping in the village of Captiva Island is exhilarating and you will find something for everyone.

Your visit to Captiva Island is not complete without sampling some of the local fare and succulent fresh seafood.  You will find a wide selection of ethnic foods in the area.  Dine in one of the fine restaurants where chefs cook up some of the freshest, tastiest dishes you have ever tasted.  Whether you are looking to enjoy a lavish six course meal or a more casual dining scene, you will find just what you’re looking for. Bon apetit !

It is time for fun on Captiva Island.  Enjoying a sub-tropical climate and being able to be outdoors in the sunshine all year around.  There are so many activitities to choose from, fishing, golf, boating, kayaking, canoeing, tennis, swimming, bike riding.  Go boating down the waterways and view a variety of wildlife such as, dolphins, blue herons, racoons and many different species of colorful birds.  Wonderful memories for all times for everyone.

Shelling is so much fun and Captiva Island has such a variety of shells to find, just to collect and admire or use in a craft, on a mirror, lamps, boxes etc.  Captiva is one of the islands that is literarily made up of shells, created over thousands of years, and is one of the islands that is considered best in the world for shelling.  The islands geography of lying east and west rather than north and south, as most islands, allows Captiva and its sister islands to catch abundant sea shells from the Gulf of Mexico.

“Shop ’til you drop” is a motto of some island visitors.  Captiva Islands shops are clustered at the north end of Captiva Drive and on Andy Rosse Lane.  Strolling along the village paths from shop to shop, you will find antiques, casual fashions, pottery, hand painted furniture and many unique gifts for that special someone.  Then try a restaurant to have that refreshing break.

Captiva Island is such a romantic place.  Couples come from all around the world to celebrate their “special” day.  It can be a formal wedding or very informal on the sugar sand beach.  Couples come to renew their vows or celebrate an anniversary or some special date.  It can be a time fondly remembered.

By car, take Interstate I-75 to Exit 131, Daniels Parkway, and then West to Summerlin Road to the Sanibel Causeway ($6.00 toll road).

Have you ever dreamed of being on a tropical island, your toes in the soft white sand, an expansive beach, swaying coconut palms, lush tropical foliage and beautiful crystal blue water.  Imagine watching the pelicans and herons fish for their dinner, collecting “treasures from the sea,” pastel colored seashells, while the sandpipers scurry along the surfs edge.

Sanibel Island has everything one could wish for.  Excellent restaurants, accommodations, golfing, tennis, fishing, boating, shopping, bike paths, canoes, theatrical productions, the renowned J.N. “Ding Darling” National Wildlife Refuge and Bird Sanctuary.  Since 1884 Point Ybel Lighthouse has guided seafarers to Sanibel Island’s shores.

Sanibel Island is world renowned for its shelling beaches and the “Sanibel Stoop”.  In the travel industry Sanibel Island is a top Florida destination for visitors.  If you want a truly unforgettable family vacation, wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or just to get away from it all, this is the place to be.  Visit Sanibel Island and do it all, or just lay back on the beach with the book you have been waiting to read or do just absolutely nothing.

Your visit to Sanibel Island will not be complete without sampling some of the local fare and succulent fresh seafood.  You will find a wide selection of ethnic foods in the area.  Dine in one of the fine restaurants where chefs cook up some of the freshest, tastiest dishes you have ever tasted.  Whether you are looking to enjoy a lavish six course meal or a more casual dining scene, you will find just what you’re looking for. Bon apetit!

You can test your mettle on the golf courses in the area and fishing and boating are unequalled.  There are twenty five miles of bike paths for you to explore the island.  Shopping on Sanibel Island is an exhilarating experience with so many unusual items to purchase. 

Sanibel Island is home to world famous J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge its 6,000 acres of mangrove jungles and wetlands encompass a large portion of the island, it is home to dozens of endangered species, see manatees, alligators, raccoons, tropical birds and much more.  You can explore the refuge by car, foot, bicycle, kayak or guided tram.  An experience the whole family will enjoy.

The fun never stops on Sanibel Island.  Having a sub-tropical climate, visitors and can residents enjoy the outdoors and sunshine all year long.  Whether you choose to be boating, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing or fishing from one of the favorite spots.  Play a round of golf on the challenging scenic courses, there are over 70 of them, the perfect place to tee off and test your mettle on the green.  A set of tennis, bike riding on the miles of bike paths, or explore the waterways by boat where you will see an abundance of wildlife from frolicsome dolphins, graceful blue herons, inquisitive raccoons and colorful birds of all species, you will enjoy a memorable experience to cherish for all time.

What fun to go shelling along the surf and beaches of Sanibel Island, unique in that it lies east and west, different than most islands which lie north and south, this direction allows Sanibel Island to catch abundant sea shells that the Gulf of Mexico brings to its shores.  Sanibel Island is world renowned for its shells.  People from all over the world come to collect and admire the colourful “Treasures From the Sea”.  You will find young and old with buckets, bags and nets shuffling long, stooping over, this stance has come to be know as “The Sanibel Stoop”

Shopping is such a fun time on Sanibel Island.  With an array of charming boutiques and gift shops, a variety of art galleries, fine jewellery, colourful shells and shell art and an exorbitant supply of souvenirs and tee shirts. You will be sure to find just what you are looking for, for that special person.

Sanibel Island offers the perfect places to get married.  An unforgettable wedding in a tropical paradise.  Couples come to Sanibel Island from all over the country to ‘tie the knot.’.  Renew your vows or celebrate your anniversary.  Whether it is formal, just family and a few friends or even barefoot on the white sand beach with pelicans as witnesses.

At Daytona Beach, you will enter a laid back world where you can don blue jeans, wear flip-flops and eat at the fanciest restaurant in town without a jacket.

Daytona Beach is a Florida getaway that does not put on airs and graces.  It is a place where you can relax and enjoy yourself at your own speed.  It is also a place where you can enjoy the finest beaches, world-class sports attractions, excellent museums, and first-class restaurants.

The beach itself is world famous.  As soon as you put on your swimsuit and step on the white sand, you will be in a different world.  Everything seems so calm.

The beach is super wide, so wide and flat that cars and trucks ride on it.  Many years ago cars actually raced on it.  The ocean is unbelievably calm and very shallow when you go in and so you do not have to fight the waves.

There are 23 miles of beautiful beaches in the Daytona Beach area. As you look down the beach in either direction, it appears that all of the waves are breaking in unison.  This symmetry is intriguing. The waves breaking slowly over and over create a calming, relaxing effect.  However, for those who to like to surf there are beaches where the waves are high and strong.

There is also a boardwalk on the beach with some exciting rides.  You could spend everyday of your vacation on the beach and many visitors do.  However, there is so much more to do and see in Daytona Beach.

The Daytona International Speedway is a must see on your visit to Daytona Beach. The Daytona 500 race is the most watched motor sports event in the world when attendance at the track and television viewing are combined.  Estimated attendance for the Daytona 500 is 200,000 and more than 29 million watch it on television.

There are tours of the Speedway, but that is only a small part of it.  Located at the Speedway is DAYTONA USA.  This is an interactive motor sports themed attraction.  This is an interesting and exciting entertainment experience for hard core race fans and also for casual observers.  It offers lots of fun for the whole family.  In addition to the thrilling interactive features, there are historical exhibits such as the Goodyear Heritage of Daytona history walk.

A good place to start your visit to DAYTONA USA is by taking a 30 minute guided tour of the Speedway.  The tour takes guests on an open-air tram through the Speedway’s garage area.  The tour is narrated and you see Pit Road, Victory Lane and the world-famous 31 degree high banks where cars race at over 200 miles per hour.

There are two new motion simulator rides at DAYTONA USA.  These are “Daytona Dream Laps” and “Acceleration Alley”.  “Daytona Dream Laps” is a ride that seats 32 guests for a full range motion experience racing at the high banks of the Speedway.  On the “Acceleration Alley” ride you hop inside a racecar, buckle up and take a simulated ride at high speeds that combines motion, video, and sound.  Other activities include going over the wall at Ford’s 16 second pit stop challenge to test your skills in a live pit stop.

One of the most popular attractions is the Daytona 500 movie, a large-screen format film presented on a screen 55 feet wide and almost three stories tall in the Pepsi Theatre. You see the movie in the realism of 3D, and with the accompanying sounds you feel as though you are behind the wheel of one of the racing cars.

Tickets for DAYTONA USA including the Speedway tour are around $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and $14 for children 6-12.

If you want the real thing, for an additional charge of about $130 you can first don a racing outfit including helmet.  Then climb through the window of a racing car on the Speedway track, strap yourself in, and ride next to a race driver at high speeds around the track.

Whether or not you are a baseball fan, the Jackie Robinson Ballpark is an interesting place to visit in Daytona Beach.  This is where baseball legend Jackie Robinson played in the first integrated baseball game.  The ballpark was built in 1908, seats 3800 fans, and is the Class A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.

It is also a museum with plaques and photos documenting the life of Jackie Robinson. It explains Robinson’s childhood, how he excelled in many sports in college, and the humiliating experiences he faced as the man who broke the colour barrier in major league baseball.  It also lists many of his accomplishments such as playing in six world series and being voted MVP in 1949 in the National League.  But the one that tells it all, was that after Robinson’s retirement from baseball, his “number 42” was also retired by every major league baseball team.  It’s a real pleasure to visit this historical ballpark and watch the Daytona Beach Cubs play.  Tickets are only $5.

Another fun way to see Daytona Beach is by an amphibious adventure on a trolleyboat.  It leaves daily from the Ocean Walk Shoppes and takes you on a drive through historic Daytona Beach.  It then enters the Halifax River where you are given a narrated tour of the history and wildlife of the area with great views of the riverfront mansions.  The trolleyboat then leaves the river and drives you back to the Ocean Walk Shoppes.

At the Ocean Walk Shoppes there is lots to do.  There is a new Bandshell featuring concerts with an ocean view and a beachside theatre showing ten movies.  There is also a delightful Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant for some casual fun, good food, based on the Forrest Gump movie with plenty of Forrest’s favorite fixins.

A visit to the Museum of Arts and Sciences is a wonderful way to spend some relaxing and interesting hours in Daytona Beach.  All six permanent collections are excellent.

The Centre for Florida History collection tells the story of Florida’s historical and cultural development from prehistory to the present complete with interactive features.  It centres around a 13 foot tall skeleton of a Giant Ground Sloth which was excavated in 1975 in a fossil site called the Daytona Bone Bed.  This huge vegetarian could have weighed three to five tons and eaten a daily ration of 300 pounds of plants abundant in the area.

The Cuban Museum collection is the largest Cuban Museum in the world outside of Cuba.  It contains rare 18th, 19th, and early 20th century maps, documents, lithographs, paintings, furniture, sculpture, and ceramics arranged chronologically.  Rare photographs help establish a sense of time and place.

The Root family’s collection is not only interesting, but it also brings back a lot of memories.  This is an astounding display of more than 800 Teddy Bears, ranging from seven feet tall to only a few inches in height.  Each Teddy Bear represents a different time period or theme, and portrays everyday scenes such as a “Teddy Bear Wedding”, complete with bridesmaids, grooms, and a minister.

The Root family has also amassed one of the most historically important anthologies of the American soft drink, Coca-Cola, on which their family fortune was founded. The collection includes just about every conceivable item relating to bottling, advertising, and consumption of Coca-Cola.

The Root’s collection also includes an impressive array of decorative arts, china, silverware, and glasses collected from 85 of the nation’s railroads, hotels, and restaurants.  Two actual railroad cars are also displayed in this permanent collection.

There are still lots of other fun things to do in Daytona Beach. You can spend an hour or two at the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, and climb to the top if you wish.  It is the tallest lighthouse in Florida.

Not far from the lighthouse is the Inlet Harbor Marina and Restaurant.  The seafood is fabulous. There is a lot of freshly caught fish on the menu.  It is a nice place for lunch or dinner (they have sunset specials if seated by 6 p.m.) with a lovely waterfront view.  You can dine inside or on the riverfront outdoor deck.  It is casual dining.  A live band playing on the outdoor deck added to the festive Caribbean like setting.

Greyhound racing is also another exciting attraction in the area. They race at the Daytona Beach Kennel Club. Children are welcome with a parent or guardian.

Medieval Times

Get ready to be blasted into the past with the Medieval Times Dinner Show.  It recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in North America and now you can see this highly successful, entertaining, and festive show live in Orlando. It embraces the experience of medieval celebrations, taking you back to the time of King Arthur and his royal table.

This attraction is inspired by the true medieval tradition of royal families inviting their guests to feast and watch knights compete on horseback.  You are personally invited as a guest of the king.  Sit back and enjoy the horseback jousting competition from the comfort of your stadium seating view.  There is never a bad seat in the house.  Divided up in to several sections, you will be assigned to a particular knight.  Cheer him on as loud and a proud as you like as he battles it out for the heart of the princess.

As you view the competition from your stadium view, you will be treated to a feast fit for a king. Guests will be able to dine on garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, spare ribs, potatoes, and pastries. A vegetarian meal is also available, upon request.  Drinks are included and include coffee, two rounds of select beverages and a full-cash bar is available to your every need.

With exceptional equestrian skills, swordsmanship, hand-to-hand combat, acting, costumes, and pageantry, you will feel as if you are back in the past.  Authentic costumes and weapons are used throughout the show and it is as if you have never left the medieval times.  Even the horses are the same authentic breed that were used in the medieval times. Medieval Times uses Quarter Horses, Friesians, Menorcans, and Spanish Andalusians (the horses originally used by medieval royalty).

Arabian Nights Dinner Show

Explore a magical story filled with fantasy, romance, and adventure at Arabian Nights.  Voted the number one dinner show in Orlando, Arabian Nights unfolds a fairy tale right before your eyes, set in a 140,000 square foot indoor climate controlled equestrian arena, which is the largest in the world. Watch as the expert riders perform incredible feats astride magnificent stallions, all the while enjoying a sumptuous feast fit for an Arabian prince.

In Arabian Nights, the entire audience is invited to celebrate the birthday of the beautiful Princess Scheherezade.  However, the party is threatened when an unexpected guest arrives.  In order to save the day, the princess’ genie must summon the power of the Black Stallion.  Love will fight to overcome evil in this classic, touching tale of a princess and her prince that combines the glamour of Broadway, the adventure of the West, and the excitement of Ancient Rome.

The Black Stallion is the star of Arabian Nights, Walter Farley’s famous horse that has starred in several films and a television series.  Along with 65 other horses from around the world, including several Arabian and Andalusian horses, 40 incredible performers put on a unique spectacle in this one hour and thirty-minute production. Twenty-two distinct acts transition into each other flawlessly, with incredible spectacles such as a Chariot Race from ancient Rome, square dancing cowboys, and gypsies performing daredevil stunts.

Enjoy a sumptuous meal fit for a king at Arabian Nights.  This four course feast includes:

Fresh vegetable lasagna, green garden salad, New York steak strips, Chicken tenders, grilled chicken breast, Black Angus steak, Garlic mashed potatoes, Fresh vegetable medley, rolls with butter, unlimited house beer, wine and soft drinks, a delicious slice of the princesses wedding cake.

Pirates Dinner Adventure

Ahoy Mateys, and welcome to Pirates Dinner Adventure.  Jump aboard and follow us on a swashbuckling dinner adventure to the high seas.  Enjoy the talented cast and a meal fit for a king, as you watch the colorful story unfold right before your eyes.

At Pirates Dinner Adventure, you do not just watch the show; you are put right into the action.  Enter the lagoon, where your pirate ship and team captain await you.  As we set sail out on to the high seas, cheer on your team captains and teammates as they battle for the fight of good and evil, all with one goal in mind, the pirate’s booty.  Interact with the crew in pirate games, songs, and challenges.  Acclaimed as “the world’s most unique interactive dinner show,” you will be amazed by the incredible sword play, aerial artists, and acrobatics.  It is a perfect show for all ages, even the little ones will be able to get involved in all of the fun.

Following the pre-meal pirate party, enjoy the show as you wine and dine on the delectable meals provided by your friendly and hospitable wait staff.  With salad, a chicken or seafood option for your entrée, dessert, wine, and beer, you will leave the show both happy and full.

Polynesian Luau

The Makahiki Polynesian Luau dinner show is one of the most exciting and memorable attractions in Orlando. In addition to flaming fire, traditional Hawaiian music, and spectacular performances, guests are also served a delicious full course meal. 

While on your Florida vacation, spend an evening being whisked away to gorgeous Hawaii, with cultural music, dance, and a full course meal.  The authenticity of this dinner show is impossible to beat, and a must do for all vacationers, young and old.

The Makahiki Luau Polynesian Feast and Celebration at SeaWorld Florida is held nightly in the “Luau Terrace,” a non smoking, air conditioned dining room inside the park.

If you are coming to Florida for the tropical atmosphere, kick it up a notch by sitting in on the Makahiki Luau Dinner Show at Sea World. A volcanic eruption is about the only thing missing in this authentic Hawaiian atmosphere.

The celebration of man’s co-existence with the earth and sea takes place at the Seafire Inn. Guests at the luau are greeted by Hawaiians and then whisked away to the faraway island Hawaii through spectacular entertainment.  

Guests will learn about the history, customs, music and dance, costumes, culture, and cuisine of the Pacific Islands.  Lucky audience members might get a chance to learn to hula on stage when the Polynesian Hula Dancers take the stage to the rhythmic sounds of live Hawaiian music.  However, no audience member will want to be on stage once the fire dances begin.

As if that wasn’t exciting enough, guests are served a full course meal of authentic Hawaiian food. The exotic menu of tropical delights at Sea World’s Polynesian Luau finalizes your exciting journey to Hawaii.  Guests are served family style so they can really dig in to a full course meal of tropical salad and fruit plate, Mahi Mahi in Piña Colada Sauce, Sweet and Sour Pork, Hawaiian Chicken, rice, vegetable medley, seasonal dessert, the usual beverages, and one complimentary cocktail.

It’s no wonder the Polynesian Luau at Sea World is hailed as one of the best dinner shows in Orlando. The fantastic dancers, unforgettable music, and delicious Hawaiian cuisine create an experience you don’t want to miss.

Capone’s Dinner and Show

Somewhere along Highway 192 in Kissimmee, you will find an innocent ice cream parlor. However, as with so much in the Orlando area, there’s more here than meets the eye. For you see, the ice cream parlor is really just a front for a speakeasy, Prohibition style. Yes, we’ve gone back in time again to 1930s Chicago, where the action owes a lot to Damon Runyon via Guys and Dolls and the Chicago accents sound straight out of Brooklyn.

Capone’s Dinner & Show is a cheerful mishmash of Broadway show, nightclub cabaret, sketch comedy, revue and all you can eat Italian buffet style.  Dinner includes the usual soft drinks, plus beer, sangria, and rum runners. In addition, there’s a cash bar for serious drinkers.

The fun begins when you arrive and pick up your tickets at the box office. You are instructed to knock three times at the secret door and give a password.  Then you get in line outside, where black-vested waiters warm up the crowd with the wisecracking rudeness that is to become the evening’s hallmark.  So be forewarned – do not wear garish tourist garb unless you can take some good natured ribbing.

Once the show is ready to begin, each party is led to the secret door, knocks three times, and gives the password, and they don not let you in until you get it right. Once inside, you are in a spacious nightclub with a large stage. 

The waiters, with names like Babyface take drink orders and keep up a cheerful patter laced with film noir gangster patois. Much of the seating is in long rows of tables, so you will have a chance to talk with the folks on either side of you.  It’s a great fun way to get an idea of the wide cross section of types and nationalities drawn to Orlando.

The show, which revolves around two pairs of star crossed lovers, freely borrows plot elements from Guys and Dolls, Some Like It Hot, and any number of old gangster movies. Best of all is the kewpie doll leading lady, dumb and delicious, with a voice that would shatter fine crystal. The cast relies heavily on intentionally bad jokes and audience interaction to generate laughs. More often than not they succeed. Throw in some leggy chorines, a bit of torch singing, and a better than average buffet dinner and you have a winning combo that has stood Orlando’s test of time.  It’s hard not to like this bunch, even if they don’t always shoot straight.

WonderWorks Magic Show

At Wonderworks, there is an interactive attraction in the upside down house.

Every night, in a small 130 seat nightclub like room at the back of Mazzarella’s Pizzeria, you can see a one hour show featuring some truly first rate performers.  The show changes from time to time, sometimes called Shazam, sometimes called Night of Wonder or The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show, but the basic formula remains pretty much the same, whether the accent is on Vegas-style razzle dazzle or broad comedy.  Most shows progress from standard playing card and ball tricks to some truly amazing stunts.  Often you will see some personal object borrowed from an audience member get smashed or burned beyond recognition only to reappear in perfect condition elsewhere.  Some tricks involve elaborate contraptions in which the stars are locked and sometimes chopped, sliced, and diced (or so it would seem).

There is great emphasis placed on audience involvement, with pride of place given to the youngsters, whose sense of awe and wonder is evident in their fresh faces.  Adults get their chance to shine as well in routines that are as light hearted and humorous as they are mystifying.  The result is a thoroughly entertaining show.

What makes this a dinner attraction is the all you can eat pizza and the all you can drink beer wine and soda. The pizzas, which are quite good and don’t skimp on the cheese are half plain and half pepperoni and as one disappears another arrives to take its place.  The doors open and food service begins about 30 minutes prior to show time and service continues throughout the show.

The “Magic Combo” package includes admission to both the show and the WonderWorks attraction and touring the attraction after seeing the show makes for an enjoyable and entertainment packed evening. You can also opt just to eat and see the show, in which case the show becomes one of Orlando’s best entertainment bargains.

Reservations are recommended, especially during busier periods, because seating is limited. The only nearby parking is in the lot of the next door Pointe Orlando shopping mall. Unfortunately, WonderWorks does not validate parking tickets, so expect to pay about $3 or $4 for it, depending on how long you linger at the attraction.

Murder Watch Mystery Theatre (Sleuth Mystery dinner show)

Nestled oddly in a suburban style strip mall in the middle of International Drive is one of Orlando’s most enjoyable attractions.  Sleuths presents a rotating menu of a dozen hilarious whodunits served up with relish before, during, and after dinner.

You may find yourself invited to Lord Mansfield’s Fox Hunt Banquet or discover yourself one of the alumni attending a reunion at genteel Luray Academy.  Whatever the premise, the hilarity is virtually guaranteed, thanks to an ensemble of accomplished (and wonderfully hammy) local actors with a gift for improvisation and the quick comeback.  Most of the fun and the biggest laughs come from the unscripted interactions with the “guests” who are made to feel very much part of the action.  There are over ten different shows served up by Sleuths, so if you find this sort of thing to your liking you’ll be able to return many times before you start to get bored or run out of new material.

As you arrive for dinner, you will meet some of the cast members ushering guests to their tables and passing hors d’oeuvres. After the salad course, the murder mystery proper unfolds on a minuscule set at the front of the house. 

Do not be surprised if you’re called from your seat to participate in some bit of lunacy. At one show I saw, four people found themselves galloping through the house on make-believe horses while the rest of the audience bayed like hounds.  But, if you are shy, don’t fret as cast members seem to have an uncanny knack for not disturbing those who’d rather not be chosen for “stardom.”

The humor is very broad, with a healthy dose of double entendre.  The cast members throw themselves into their parts but occasionally drop out of character in gales of suppressed laughter.  Plus the audience never hesitates to pitch in, gleefully pointing out telltale clues that those on stage have missed.  Before long, someone turns up dead and everyone in the cast seems to have a motive.

Now it’s your turn to play detective.  Each table of eight is asked to name a spokesperson.  During dinner, each table mulls over the clues and tries to come up with one telling question that will uncover some yet unknown fact that will point to the murderer.  Each audience member is asked to write down their solution to the crime, who dunnit, with what, and why.

Another bit of good news is that the food, while simple, is quite tasty.  The choices are limited, Cornish hen, prime rib, (extra charge), and vegetarian or meatball lasagna. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are poured freely.

After dinner, the cast reappears and submits itself to the interrogation of the audience.  This is no dry exercise in forensic logic.  Thanks to the expert ad libbing of the cast, the laughter continues virtually nonstop.  Ultimately, the wrongdoer is identified and audience members who guessed right win a prize.

Sleuths has become so popular that it now supports three separate theaters in its strip mall home.  One of them regularly features a Merry Mystery Dinner Adventure especially for kids aged 3 to 12.  The two show in this series are Faire of the Shire and Juniper Junior.  They offer cameo roles for the kiddies in a mystery that includes magic but no mayhem.  The childrens meal is a marvelous creation called Worms Underground.  A toadstool formed by a pizza atop a ramekin of buttered noodles sits on a green pea grass studded with chicken nugget rocks.

One indicator of the success of the Sleuths experience is that, by show’s end, the audience feels part of the family.  The cast members graciously thank you for your attendance and point out the valuable service you perform in helping a local business survive and thrive.

As we all know, Florida is HOT, VERY HOT especially during the Summer months.

They have some of the wettest and wildest rides around for a fantastic day out !!.

Here are some of the main ones:

Adventure Island – Tampa

Adventure Island at Tampa is close by to Busch Gardens and is packed with excitement and adventure.  It offers around 34 acres of water rides and other attractions.  There are picnic and sunbathing areas, along with outdoor cafes, snack bars and gift shops.

For people who love thrills, the Wahoo Run plunges up to five riders at a time, more than 15 feet per second as this half-enclosed tunnel twists and turns more than 600 feet to a waiting splash pool below.  Wahoo Run has been called the “fastest tunnel river raft in the world,” Here, you will corkscrew through spins and spirals propelled by more than 10,000 gallons of water. 

The Tampa Typhoon will also have you screaming as you “free-fall” seven stories down a 76 foot water slide on one of the most heart-pumping rides in the park.

Other thrill rides include the Splash Attack, Caribbean Corkscrew, Runaway Rapids, Aruba Tuba and the Gulf Scream, a huge 210-foot body slide that whisks you into the waiting pool below at 25 mph.

Also try Paradise Lagoon. This is a 9,000 square foot attraction, which features several individual attractions.  These include a rope walk, a cable drop, several slides and a 20-foot platform jump for cliff jumping.

The Endless Surf is Adventure Island’s 17,000-square foot wave pool that generates waves up to five feet high for hours of total fun at the coolest and wettest place in Tampa.

For those who prefer a more relaxing and quieter ride, there is Rambling Bayou where you can drift around Paradise lagoon in a car tyre inner tube (beware of the sun though as the water seems cool but the sun is very hot).

Adventure Landing: Shipwreck Island Waterpark - Jacksonville Beach

Adventure Landing and Shipwreck Island Water Park is a combination water park and amusement park located between Jacksonville Beach and the Intercoastal Waterway.

It is the largest amusement complex in northeast Florida, and offers family fun for all ages.  Shipwreck Island, is the interactive waterpark, and includes a variety of water attractions such as a wave pool, slides, inner tubing and a very unique uphill waterslide. The Shipwreck Island Play Village is the main centrepiece for children, and includes multiple attractions for young guests of all ages.

Adventure Landing/Shipwreck Island Water Park has three “extreme” slides. The newest ride is the Hydro Half Pipe, where single, double and triple-tube riders experience a sudden, nearly vertical, drop of 40 feet, and are then propelled through a pool of water to another ramp on the other side.

The Rage is an “uphill/downhill” water slide and The Eye of the Storm is a once in a lifetime ride, that is only for the most risky thrill seekers. You must be a strong swimmer and at least 48” tall to take on The Eye of the Storm.

The park also features a half-million gallon wave pool.

The Shipwreck Island Play Village, designed with children in mind, contains waterfalls, multiple small slides and water cannons that will keep children entertained for hours.

Be prepared to enjoy non-stop action on Adventure Landing’s dry side.

Start your adventure with the Adventure Speedway Go-Karts, where a twisting quarter mile go-kart track with live racing has results posted on a finish-line leader board. The park advertises that “it is as close to NASCAR racing as you get.”

For those looking for something a little calmer, Adventure Golf has two unique 18-hole miniature golf courses designed for fun and relaxation in mind. The two courses challenge all skill levels as they wind through tunnels, over waterfalls and “mountains.”

The multi-level Arcade has over 100 interactive games, and kids especially love Laser Tag, an indoor battle arena with “out of this world” lighting and sound.

For a thrill of a lifetime, the MaxFlight Coast Simulator takes guests on an adventure into the world of virtual reality. This ride has a 360-degree range of motion that allows you to physically feel what can only be imagined in the “real” world. You must be in good health to ride the MaxFlight Simulator, not pregnant and it is not recommended if you suffer from claustrophobia.

The Wacky Worm Roller Coaster is for people of all ages, and the Frog Hopper is an adventure ride for younger children.

Adventure Landing also offers Batting Cages, for hardball, softball, slow or fast pitch. It’s great for individual or team practice.

If you feel hungry after all that fun, there a two themed snack bars that have all kinds of food, snacks and drinks.

Adventure Landing’s Shipwreck Island Waterpark is located at 1944 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville Beach.

Aquatica - SeaWorld Orlando

Aquatica is Florida’s newest water park which opened in April 2008.

This park offers a new twist in water play with animal interactions, as in the Dolphin Plunge which is the most popular ride in the park.  Two side-by-side enclosed tube slides send you racing through an underwater world that is home to a playful pod of beautiful black-and-white Commerson’s Dolphins.

Try the Taumata Racer if you are looking for the biggest thrill in the park.  This is a high speed competitive mat ride where eight racers rip down a staggeringly steep hill, head first.

Loggerhead Lane – take a load off your feet and hop on a lazy river ride down Loggerhead Lane.  This leisurely raft ride takes you through an underwater world colored by exotic tropical fish.

Tassie’s Twisters is one of the wackiest rides ever imagined. In fact, getting there is part of the fun.  From the Loggerhead Lane lazy river, you’ll make your way to the island in the center and climb to the tower.  Once you get to the top, lightning fast tubes shoot you into a giant bowl, where you’ll spin, and spin, and spin, until you’re finally spun back out into the lazy river. You’ve never seen or felt anything quite like it.

Whanau Way is a quadruple slide tower and is one of the most popular rides in the park.

Walhalla Wave & HooRoo is a is a thrilling ride for the whole family, zooming you through a 6-story maze of twists, turns, and tunnels before you surge back out into daylight.

Walkabout Waters is one of the most talked about places in the park for children. This towering, 60-foot-tall rain fortress is bursting with color, excitement, and adventures waiting to begin.

Cutback Cove & Big Surf Shores - one thing or should we say two things that makes Aquatica so unique are the giant, side-by-side wave pools you won’t find anywhere else in the U.S.  At Cutback Cove, the waves are always rolling, and the action’s always high. At Big Surf Shores, the surf can be high or slow and easy. What kind of wave do you feel like catching today? Two separate pools let you decide.

Roa’s Rapids race you along an action river ride through the white waters of Aquatica.  Get ready for an awesome adventure through a roaring sea of high tides, swirling whirlies, and gushing geysers- all at speeds that leave ordinary river rides eating this one’s wake.

Aquatica is located across the street from SeaWorld Orlando on International Drive and is open year round.

Blizzard Beach at Disney World - Kissimmee

Blizzard Beach is one of Walt Disney World Resort water parks and has a Winter theme.

For a really “cool” time, this 66-acre water adventure park has all the atmosphere of a major ski resort – but it is strictly tropical.

Here, visitors can slip and slid down “snow-capped” mountains amid a snowy scene (a visual effect only – temperatures actually remain a controlled tropical level year-round,).  Waterslides look a lot like slush cascading down the mountainside, and a “ski lift” takes guests to the top of Mt. Gushmore. Disney’s Blizzard Beach.  It contains 21 slides, a wave pool, and a separate area for pre-teens and children.

As you enter the park, the first thing you see is the 90-foot snow-capped mountain, Mt. Gushmore. It is home to the newest waterslide called Downhill Double Dipper, a side-by-side racing water slide that stands 50 feet high and 200 feet long. Riders travel up to 25 mph as they twist and turn before shooting out through a blast of water.

Other adventures at Mt. Gushmore include slalom courses, toboggan and water sleds and the 120-foot high Summit Plummet, a breathtaking 60-mph plunge straight down to a splash landing at the base of the mountain.

The Teamboat Springs is the world’s longest family white water raft that ride takes six-passenger rafts down a twisting 1,200 foot series of rushing water falls.

The Toboggan Racer is an 8-lane water slide that sends guests racing over exhilarating dips as they descend the “snowy” slope.

Snow Stormers has three flumes descending from the top of the mountain and following a switchback course through ski-type slalom gates.

Runoff Rapids is an inner tube run, where riders can careen down three different twisting, turning flumes.

Chair Lift is where wooden bench chair lifts carry guests over the craggy face of Mt. Gushmore, from its base at the beach, to its summit.

At Cross Country Creek, you can float on a tube along a lazy river that encircles the entire park. On the way, you will float through a cave where you’ll be splashed with “melting ice” from overhead. “Melt-Away Bay” is a 4,000 square foot (one-acre) wave pool that is nestled against the base of Mt. Gushmore and is constantly fed by “melting snow” waterfalls.

Tike’s Peak is a smaller version of Mt. Gushmore, just for children. It includes short water slides, a snow-castle, fountain play area and a squirting ice pond.

The Ski Patrol Training Camp is designed for pre-teens; equipped with inner tube slides and a challenging ice-flow walk along floating icebergs.

Typhoon Lagoon at Disney World - Kissimmee

Typhoon Lagoon is Walt Disney World’s 56-acre water park that includes a man-made watershed mountain and eight twisting, turning water slides and roaring streams. It is also home to a two-and-a-half-acre wave pool, one of the worlds largest (where the waves are as big as six feet and come at you every one and a half minutes)

The park features a water playground for children, a white sand beach and a lazy stream that surrounds the 95-foot Mount May Day.

Mount Mayday, is the 95-foot volcano on top of which is perched a shipwrecked shrimp boat.  At the summit of Mount May Day, guests can choose from several exciting water slides. At the base of the mountain is one of the world’s largest wave pools, complete with a white sandy beach and some of the most powerful artificial waves in Orlando. Also bordering the Lagoon is Castaway Creek, a 2,100-foot river that carries guests leisurely around the perimeter of the park. You can even go snorkelling amid tropical fish and other exotic marine life.

Typhoon Lagoon is the main wave pool that is two-and-a-half- acres, and holds 2.75 million gallons of water. There are two sets of waves that are produced in this pool. The first set are gentle bobbing waves that come on a continuous basis, like a normal wave pool. However, every half hour a loud horn will sound and that means that the waves will be changing.  At this point, get ready for waves as large as four feet that come at you with a lot of speed and force, every 90 seconds.

Castaway Creek is the lazy river that travels around the park. Take an inner tube and float along. The river is only 3-4 feet deep and runs on a slow current. As you float down the river on this 2,000-foot journey, you will see banana trees, palm trees, tropical birds and flowers. You will slowly drift through caves, under waterfalls and cool mists, and through tropical forests, and around all the other attractions at the park. If you choose, you can get off Castaway Creek at one of the many stops along the way.

Disney’s first ever water coaster, the Crush n’ Gusher is a thrilling experience that defies gravity as powerful jets propel passengers on rafts through every surprise filled turn until they splash land in the pool below.

Three water slides await you at Humunga Kowabunga, which sends you zooming through enclosed tubes at 30 mph to a splashing surprise ending.

Storm Slides is another set of three slides where you will twist and swirl through caves and tunnels.

Mayday Falls is the longest waterslide in the Park that takes guests aboard their own personal inner tube down the side of the mountain in the shadow of the famed shrimp boat.

One of the most dramatic attractions at Typhoon Lagoon is Shark Reef, a massive saltwater pool and manmade coral reef, where you can snorkel among swarms of exotic marine life. For those who don’t want to get wet, there is a sunken tanker with portholes that provide stunning views of the underwater activity.

Ketchakiddie Creek is Typhoon Lagoon’s play area, especially for children aged two to five. There is a small pool and water slide, fountain and bubblers, interactive water boats, and even a pint-sized white water rafting adventure. An adult must accompany all children.

Wet-n-Wild

Wet-n-Wild in Orlando, was voted by the Amusement Business Magazine as America’s “number one water park,” and also honoured by Aquatic’s International as the country’s “first true water park.”

Wet ‘n Wild is, indeed, the oldest water park in the area, but it is continually adding new rides and is loaded with slides and other attractions for the entire family. It includes a 7-story water slide, various tubes, wave pools, and a Lazy River tube ride around the park and more, including a rather elaborate children’s area.

Over a dozen thrill rides in all at Wet ‘N Wild (including several multi-person/family rides) will keep even the most discriminating amusement park aficionado entertained. Wet ‘N Wild is also fully staffed with certified lifeguards and all the pools are seasonally heated.

One of the newest attractions at Wet ‘N Wild is Disco H2O, a multi-million dollar retro slide that showcases the 1970s disco nightlife. Like other bowl rides, this one sends passengers on a four-person cloverleaf “raft” down a slide and into a large funnel where it swishes and spins to the sounds of the hits of the 70s, before splashing out the bottom. Inside the ride are flashing lights and a mirror “disco” ball.

Other rides include the Bubba Tub, a four-person raft that takes passengers on a rollicking ride on a triple dip slide.

The Surge sends five passengers at a time through a never-ending maze of twists and turns, and The Blast sends groups of two through a colourful maze with sound effects and then ends with a final plummet into the water.

Experience the thrill of The Bomb Bay, where the floor actually falls out from underneath you in a bomb-like capsule, 76-foot high vertical slide. (Get ready to feel your stomach drop to your feet in this one!).

Thrill seekers will want to try out The Flyer, which begins its’ descent from a vantage point located 40 feet above the park. This exhilarating ride sends passengers racing through 450 feet of banked curves and speedy straightways.

Another of the park’s most popular rides is the Blue Niagara, where you’ll race, twist and splash through 300 feet of intertwined looping tubes that start at six stores above the park and end with a big splash landing.

Wet N Wild also features a winding Lazy River where you can enjoy a relaxing ride as you drift slowly through bubbles to an enchanting spring with a waterfall spilling over a rocky hillside.

Wet ‘n Wild’s newly upgraded 17,000 square foot Surf Lagoon Wave Pool features some of the most powerful waves found at any water park.

Just for children, Kid’s Park at Wet N Wild, is complete with a giant sandcastle, kiddie pool and specially sized beach chairs. The Bubble Up is a large, multi-collared balloon that is crowned with a mushroom-shaped fountain that sprays water all over the balloon’s surface. Kids can climb to the top (with the aid of a rope) and then bounce down the side of the balloon into a three-foot deep pool below.

Shipwreck Island Water Park – Panama City

Shipwreck Island Water Park is the only water park located within 300 miles of Panama City Beach.

Six acres in size, Shipwreck Island is designed for family entertainment and offers rides, slides, a lazy river and a large wave pool, set amid lush tropical landscaping.

Rides at Shipwreck Island include thrill rides, family rides and a special “Tadpole Hole” section just for children.

The Raging Rapids, Tree Top Drop and the huge double slide Pirates Plunge are just a few of the exciting thrill rides at the park.

The White Knuckle River Ride, Shipwreck Island’s newest ride, takes guests in large, three-to-five passenger inner tubes swishing and swirling down a 660-foot long, six-story high flume in an exciting, white knuckle experience.

The Ocean Motion Wave Pool at Shipwreck Island has been said to be “the closest thing to the beach without actually being on the beach.” It contains 500,000 gallons of water and is the coolest thing around on a hot summer day.

Visitors who prefer to take things slow can enjoy floating gently downstream in inner tubes on the Lazy River.

Kids enjoy the Great Shipwreck and the Zoom Flume and even toddlers can get in on the action with the rides at Tadpole Hole, including the Frog and Pelican Slides.

Shipwreck Island is located at 12001 Middle Beach Road, Panama City Beach 32407, Florida.

Big Kahuna’s Lost Paradise – Destin

Big Kahuna’s Lost Paradise is a combination waterpark and amusement park that is located in Destin on Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast. This fun family adventure park covers more than 25 acres and boasts more than 40 water attractions, plus an arcade, roller coaster and miniature golf. Dozens of slides, three rushing rivers, white water tubing, two wave pools, a children’s area and the “biggest man made waterfall in the world,” makes Big Kahuna’s one of the most exciting and diverse waterparks in the state.

The most impressive attraction at Big Kahuna’s is Tiagra Falls, the largest man-made waterfall in the world, which pumps 30,000 gallons of crystal clear water per minute over 250 feet of massive granite rock.

Glide your way down the Lazy River through caves and other smaller waterfalls, around beautiful, lush tropical landscaping on your way to Tiagra Falls.

Big Kahuna’s has it all – three rushing rivers, speed slides, body flumes, white water tubing, two large wave pools, and fun fountains.

The thrill rides include the Maui Pipeline Speed Slides and Jumanji, a long snake of a ride that twists and spins you all the way to the bottom for a spectacular splash landing.

There are four children’s areas at Big Kahuna’s with kid-sized slides and variable depth pools.

Pleasure Island is a child-sized paradise complete with a pass-thru waterfall, low-depth pools and a wacky octopus that sprays them with water. Youngsters also enjoy the Pirate Ship and Crocodile Flats, which offers twirling slides that plunge them into the basin below where an abandoned ship awaits with a “bubbly surprise.”

If you prefer dry land, Big Kahuna’s Adventure Park offers several fun options. Enjoy the thrill of racing at the Grand Prix Raceway or take a turn on the Sky Coaster, a heart-thumping ride that puts you 100 feet into the air. The Pakali Arcade offers a variety of games and Tropical Mini Golf is Big Kahuna’s miniature golf course that boasts 54 challenging holes on three unique courses. Beautifully landscaped with tropical flowers, sculpted trees and several waterfalls, each course winds over wooden bridges, through caves and dense flora.

Big Kahuna’s Lost Paradise is located at 1007 Highway 98 E, Destin, FL 32541

Rapids Water Park

Rapids Water Park is one of South Florida’s premiere family parks.  The Rapids features a full day of fun for the entire family whether you make a splash in the cool blue waves, take a thrilling ride down any of our 29 water slides, or just float around the lazy river. Rapids Water Park has 25 acres of action packed attractions, with something fun for everyone.

Big Thunder is the largest water ride in Florida is at Rapids Water Park in West Palm Beach! Accelerate in a four-person tube to over 20 miles per hour and be propelled high up the walls of the Big Thunder funnel.

Black Thunder - take a spin in the dark inside Black Thunder’s gigantic funnel! Up to four riders may enjoy a fast ride in the pitch black darkness on the Black Thunder raft ride!

Body Blasters - get swept away in a flood of water as you blast through 1,000 feet of darkness. With nothing to hold onto but your swimsuit, you soar through heart-pounding drops and pulse-racing dips and curves.

Pirates Plunge is not for the faint hearted. It’s two speed slides with twists, turns, dips and a 7-story drop. It’s a splash you will never forget!

Raging Rapids - twist and turn through the darkness and then burst back into the light to enjoy two sharp drops before splashdown on the Raging Rapids! Up to four riders may enjoy the fast and dark Raging Rapids raft ride!

Riptide Raftin’ is a tube ride that accommodates up to five people.

The Superbowls – two super water slide rides, Baby Blue and Big Red, that spin, twirl and send you plummeting into a heart stopping splash landing!

Tubin’ Tornadoes - dare to ride out the storm in this totally tubular ride. Grab a tube and travel in the dark at the speed of light before plummeting downward in 1,000 feet of tunnel. Thunder through whirlwind twists and turns before plunging into a pool for a cool landing.

Big Surf - catch a wave in this 25,000 square foot wave pool with waves that can go up to six feet.

Criss Crossing - challenge yourself to make it across the floating ice cubes, fruit and alligators at Criss Crossing!

Other rides include Dancing Fountains, Lazy River, Little Splash Hill, Water Flumes, Alligator Alley, Splish Splash Lagoon, Tadpool.

Rapids Water Park is located at 6566 N. Military Trail, Riviera Beach, FL 33407

The Florida Aquarium is probably one of the finest aquariums in Florida.  It has been ranked by Parents Magazine as one of the top five child friendly aquariums.

This very large aquarium consists of more than 200,000 square feet of exhibits and about 20,000 aquatic plants and animals from around the world, in particular Florida.

Recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, The Florida Aquarium sits in Tampa’s Channelside District.  It opened in 1995 and last year welcomes around 675,000 visitors a year.

Galleries and Exhibits

The aquarium itself is divided into four “galleries” with many exhibits within each of those galleries.  Each gallery has a different theme for your enjoyment.

Wetlands – this section of the aquarium is very much Florida orientated.  Here visitors can explore fish, animals, and birds of the state’s marshes, streams, rivers, swamps, and mangrove forests.  Children will love the adorable river otters and be awed by the alligators.

Bays and Beaches – visitors to this gallery get the opportunity to observe the sea life typical of nearby Tampa Bay.  Exhibits show what is at the bottom of the bay as well as fish that typically attract recreational fishermen to the area, like snook.  The beach display presents a cross section of the sea life found at a typical Florida beach.

The Coral Reef – this colourful gallery brings guests close to the waters of the Florida Keys with a look at the sea life that inhabits the coral formations of the Dry Tortugas, near the Keys.  Guests can walk under a virtual tunnel to find out what’s inside a coral cave or peer through the Panoramic Window and watch one of several daily dive shows held at the site.  Visitors will also want to check out the Coral Farm, where biologists experiment with techniques used in coral reproduction.

Ocean Commotion – the Florida Aquarium’s newest gallery, Ocean Commotion invites visitors to explore the depths of the world’s oceans.  Very much an interactive, hands-on gallery, children can pick up phones and learn about their favourite creature and even play with a virtual dolphin.

Several additional and noteworthy exhibits also keep guests entertained and educated as they make their way through this excellent facility. They include:

Aquariumania – this fun exhibit tells guests how to go about setting up their own home aquarium at home and educates them about Florida’s fish farms, which grow more than 95 percent of all aquarium fish grown in the U.S.

Dragons Down Under – part of the Coral Reef Gallery, this exhibit provides the opportunity to view real Southern Australian sea dragons and fascinating dwarf seahorses, which are native to Florida. Absolutely awesome!

No Bone Zone – geared towards younger children, this section of the aquarium focuses on invertebrates.  The piece de resistance for little hands is the touch tank but there’s also an addition 400 gallon tank featuring more boneless sea creatures.  Children also love crawling in and out of human sized hermit crab shells.

Year of the Frog – not one but four exhibits outline the plight of the frog in hopes of encouraging amphibian conservation.  Visitors will view frogs native to Florida as well as their sisters and brothers from around the world.

Activities

No one is ever bored at The Florida Aquarium.  Aside from galleries and exhibits, there are plenty of scheduled activities and additional attractions to keep visitors of all ages busy.

Explore a Shore – at two acres in size, this outdoor water zone provides plenty of room for the kids to run around and cool off.  It features slides, geysers, water guns, and more, the Explore a Shore is a welcome break for little ones with short attention spans.

Penguin Promenade – a few times each day, guests can get up close and personal with resident penguins as they promenade across a red carpet lined with eager visitors.  Guests are asked to sit calmly around the carpet as the penguins travel through, often stopping to greet their visitors.

Behind the Scenes Tour – these fascinating one hour tours take guests to parts of the aquarium that cannot otherwise be explored, like the quarantine areas and the kitchen that prepares the meals for all the Florida Aquarium residents.

Dive with the Sharks – certified SCUBA divers age 15 and up are invited to experience close encounters with the aquarium’s sharks in hopes of dispelling the myth that sharks are man eaters.  Dive masters accompany each diver.  An additional fee is charged and reservations are suggested.

Wild Dolphin Ecotours – climb aboard the Bay Spirit, a 49-foot catamaran, for a 90-minute journey to view Tampa Bay’s bottlenose dolphins.  Ecotours run daily, with extra tours available during the weekends.

Prices are very reasonable and reservations are recommended.

Coral Castle is one of the most amazing structures ever built. In terms of accomplishment, it’s been compared to Stonehenge, ancient Greek temples, and even the great pyramids of Egypt. It is amazing, some even say miraculous, because it was quarried, fashioned, transported, and constructed by one man - Edward Leedskalnin who was a 5 foot tall Latvian who weighed just 100 pounds.

Many men have single handedly built their own homes, but Edwards choice of building materials is what makes his undertaking so incredible. He used huge blocks of coral rock, some weighing as much as 30 tons, and somehow was able to move them and set them in place without assistance or the use of modern machinery. And therein lies the mystery.

Edward Leedskalnin and Coral Castle history

Coral Castle is a stone structure that was created by the Latvian-American eccentric Edward Leedskalnin.  It  can be found  south of Miami in Homestead City, Miami Dade county in Florida.  The location is at intersection of US 1 (South Dixie highway) and Southwest 157th Avenue. The structure comprises numerous megalithic stones (mostly limestone, formed from coral), each weighing several tons.

Edward Leedskalnin was a young man living in Latvia, when he was jilted by his 16 year old fiancée Agnes Scuffs just one day before their wedding.  Feeling heartbroken, he left Latvia and went to live in Canada.  After moving around Canada and America for some years, he finally settled in Florida.

During his time in America, he came down with allegedly terminal illness tuberculosis but this was spontaneously healed.  Edward stated that magnets had some effect on his disease.

Edward spent over 20 years building the Coral Castle, refusing to allow anyone to view him while he worked. A few teenagers claimed to have witnessed his work, reporting that he had caused the blocks of coral to move like hydrogen ballons. The only tool that Leedskalnin spoke of using was a “perpetual motion holder” – whatever that is !!

Edward originally built the castle, which he named Rock Gate Park, in Florida City in about 1923.  He bought some land from Ruben Moser whose wife had helped him when he had been ill with tuberculosis.  Florida City, which borders the Florida Everglades is the southernmost city in the United States that is not on an island. It was an extremely remote location with very little development at the time. The castle remained in Florida City until about 1936 when Edward decided to move himself and so wanted to take the castle with him.  It is thought that he chose to move in order to protect his privacy as there were discussions going on that the land around him was to be developed.  Another theory is that he wanted to move to an area with more people as it was reported that he had been badly beaten up one night by hooligans looking to rob him.  He spent three years moving the Coral Castle structures 10 miles north from Florida City to its current location in Homestead.

Edward carried on working on the castle right up until his death in 1951. The coral pieces that are part of the newer castle, not among those transported from the original location, were quarried on the property only a few feet away from the southern wall.

He charged visitors ten cents a head to tour the castle grounds. There are signs carved into the rocks at the front gate to “Ring Bell Twice” and a second sign just inside the property that says “Adm. 10c Drop Below”. He obviously trusted people to pay their entrance fee.  He would come down from his living quarters which were the second story of the castle tower and are close to the gate and conduct the tour. If anyone ever asked Edward how he had made the castle, he would never tell them.  He would always reply “It’s not difficult if you know how.” If he was asked why he had made Coral Castle, then he would answer quite vaguely that it was for his “Sweet Sixteen.”

When Edward became ill in December 1951, he put a sign on the door of the front gate “Going to the Hospital” and he took the bus to a Miami hospital. The doctors discovered he was suffering from malnutrition and he died in hospital three days later.

After his death, and while the property was being investigated, around $3,500 was found among his personal belongings. Leedskalnin had made his income from conducting tours, selling pamphlets about various subjects (including magnetic currents) and the sale of a portion of his 10 acre property for the construction of U.S. Route 1. 

As Edward died without leaving a will. The castle became the property of his closest living relative in America.  This was a nephew from Michigan named Harry.

It is reported that the nephew was in poor health and so he sold the castle to an Illinois family in 1953. However this story differs from the obituary of a former Coral Castle owner, Julius Levin, a retired jeweler from Chicago. His obituary states that Levin had purchased the land from the state of Florida in 1952 and may not have been aware there was even a castle on the land.

The new owners changed the name of Rock Gate Park to Coral Castle and then turned it into a tourist attraction.

In January 1981, Levin sold the castle to the Coral Castle, Inc. for $175,000. They remain the owners today.

In 1984, The National Register of Historic Places added Rock Gate, also known as Coral Castle, to its list of historic places.

The Castle

The grounds of Coral Castle consist of 1,100 tons of stones found in the forms of walls, carvings, furniture and a castle tower. While commonly referred to as being made up of coral, it is actually made of oolite, also known as oolite limestone.  Oliite is a sedimentary rock made up of small spherical grains of concentrically layered carbonate that may include localized concentrations of fossil shells and coral. Oolite is found throughout southeastern Florida from as north as Palm Beach County to as far south as the Florida Keys.  Oolite is often found beneath only several inches of topsoil such as at the Coral Castle site.

The stones are held without any mortar, they are simply set on top of each other using their immense weight to keep them together. However, the craftsmanship detail is so skillful that the stones are connected with such precision that no light passes between the seams. The eight foot tall vertical stones that make up the perimeter wall have a uniform height. Even with the passage of decades and a direct hit on August 24 1992 by Category 5 Hurricane Andrew, which leveled everything in the area, the stones have not shifted.

Many of the features and carvings of the castle are notable. Among them are a two story castle tower in which Edward lived.  There are walls that consist entirely of eight foot high pieces of coral.  There is an accurate sun dial and a Polaris telescope.  There is an obelisk, a barbecue, a water well, a fountain, celestial stars and planets, and also numerous pieces of furniture. The furniture pieces include a heart shaped table, a table in the shape of Florida, twenty five rocking chairs, chairs resembling crescent moons, a bathtub, beds and a royal throne.

The Thirty Ton Stone

What is most remarkable about the contents of the Coral Castle is the massive size of the stones that have been used throughout its construction.  It is all the more remarkable when you consider that a single man assembled the entire site using only primitive tools. With just a few exceptions, the objects are made from single pieces of stone that weigh on average 15 tons each. The largest stone weighs 30 tons and the tallest stones are two monolithic stones both standing 25 feet high.

A nine ton revolving gate is the most famous structure of the castle and was documented on TV’s In Search of…, and That’s Incredible! The gate is carved so precisely that it fits within a quarter of an inch of the walls on both sides. It was so well balanced that a child could open it with the push of a single finger. The mystery of the gate’s perfectly balanced axis and the amazing ease with which it revolved lasted for decades until the gate suddenly stopped working in 1986. At that time, a team of engineers was brought in for consultation. In order to remove the gate, six men and a fifty ton crane were utilized. Once the gate was removed, the engineers discovered how Edward had centered and balanced the nine ton piece of rock. He had drilled a hole from top to bottom of the eight foot tall gate with no electric tools and inserted a metal shaft. The rock rested on an old truck bearing. It was the rusting out of this bearing that resulted in the gate’s failure to revolve. The nine ton gate, complete with new bearings, and a replaced shaft was lifted and set back into place on July 23 1986.  The gate failed again in 2005 and was subsequently repaired, however it does not rotate with the same ease it once did.  This just goes to show what a great engineer Edward really was.

Controversy surrounding its construction

The structure is considered mysterious by some, mainly because it is said that one man assembled the entire structure. Edward Leedskalnin seems to have gone to great lengths to ensure that he was not observed working.  Edward did much of his work at night by lantern light. The Coral Castle has numerous lookouts along the Castle walls that were designed to help protect his privacy.

There are various theories that believe that Edward constructed the Castle using some unknown form of science. For example, it has been claimed that he left behind the blueprints of nature, a “Secret Knowledge of the Ancients”.  Such theories seem to be discounted by evidence such as photographs which exist showing him working apparently using traditional methods like block and tackle.

There is skepticism as to the success of the traditional methods of tripods equipped with pulleys and chains that are in the photographs of Edward working. Some point out that the tripods appear to only rise about 20 feet while the largest stones are 25 feet long and stand vertical. They claim that tripods that are made from wooden telephone poles could not support the larger stones. There are not enough pulleys to lessen the weight of the stones enough that a 100 pound man could exert enough force to lift the stones. The three eights inch thick chains that can still be found in the Tool Room of the Castle Tower and which are seen in the photographs are only rated with a 3.5 ton workload and may not be able to support the weight of the stones.  However, these claims have not been rigorously analyzed by either engineers or scientists.

It is claimed that if anyone ever questioned Edward about how he moved the blocks of coral, he would only reply that he understood the laws of weight and leverage well.  He also stated that he had “discovered the secrets of the pyramids”, which of course could be interpreted in either esoteric or engineering terms.

Despite the skepticism of traditional building methods at least one person, W. T. Wallington, has shown that he can produce feats of this nature using only simple tools. Given this type of construction method, the statements of Edward Leedskalnin and the evidence surrounding its construction this could be the way he built coral castle.

Other bits of information

Billy Idol wrote and recorded the song “Sweet Sixteen” and filmed the video in the Coral Castle. The song was inspired by the story of Edwards former love, Agnes Scuffs, who was the main reason he built the structure.

Contemporary Christian artist Andrew Peterson recorded a song entitled “The Coral Castle” as an unrequited love song from the point of view of Edward. It can be found on his album “Carried Along”.

The New York-based band Pinataland wrote a song about Leedskalnin and the Coral Castle, called “Latvian Bride”.

The Wild Women of Wongo used the Coral Castle for their dragon god temple in the eponymous 1958 film.

The 1961 Doris Wishman film Nude on the Moon used the Coral Castle as the “moon” scene for the moon people’s home.

Cuban American author Daina Chaviano has dedicated a whole chapter to Coral Castle in her novel The Island of Eternal Love.

Coral Castle was the subject an episode of Leonard Nimoy’s program In Search of…. The episode, The Castle of Secrets (aka Coral Castle) was episode 16 of season 5; it included a re-enactment of Edward Leedskalnin magically moving the stones.

Finding St.Augustine is quite easy.  Just head East from Orlando toward I95 on the Atlantic coast and go North (toward Jacksonville).  Go for about 40 miles and then turn off onto SR1 and keep going North for about 20 miles.  Then just follow the signs to St.Augustine.

St. Augustine is the USA’s oldest city, founded on August 29 1565 which was also the feast day of St. Augustine.  It is also considered to be one of the most charming and quaint cities in Florida.

St. Augustine has a beautiful historic district with cobblestone streets, cafes, bars, unique shops and bed and breakfast hotels.

Shopping in St. Augustine just could not be easier.  If you have a passion for antiques, hand crafted gifts, blown glass, arts and crafts, fine arts, or handmade chocolates, and if you are shopping for clothes, shoes, or household goods, or perhaps finding unique and unusual gifts from around the world, St. Augustine has it all.

Just relax and enjoy strolling along the historic downtown streets.  Stop whenever you like and have a meal at one of the many fine restaurants or bars.

Try the antique Market – a beautifully restored 1930s feed and general store.  The Antique Market, is a premier importer of antiques from England, Europe and Asia. The Market’s proprietors specialize in antiques from England, Scotland and Wales and lead purchasing tours every year throughout England. It is well known for its fine selection of quality antiques.

Aviles Street – is located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic pedestrian only district.  It offers a splendid mix of shopping by way of interesting stores, boutiques, art galleries and souvenir shops. In addition, Aviles Street is dotted with pleasant cafes and historic homes.

Cobblestone Village Shopping Mall - presents a fresh clean feel, as it is a recent addition to the St. Augustine shopping scene.  The are 8 anchor stores plus 20 additional retailers furnish shoppers with a varied selection including favourites such as Bed Bath and Beyond, Pier 1 and Bealls.

St. George Street – is one of St. Augustine’s most popular shopping districts.  It wends its way through several brick-lined blocks of the city’s center.  Along this car free thoroughfare you’ll discover independent retailers offering home accents, jewelry, books, pottery, clothing and more. St. George Street affords the perfect environment to soak up the old cities ambiance.

Whetstone Chocolates – you just cannot experience St. Augustine without visiting Whetstone Chocolates, the city’s signature chocolate manufacturer for nearly 40 years.  In fact, Whetstone is Florida’s only chocolate producer and is known throughout the state for its high quality.  Indulge your senses by taking a self-guided tour of the chocolate making facility and stopping by the store to purchase some delectable sweets.

There are also many places to visit and explore as follows:

Castillo de San Marcos - took 23 years to build (from 1672 to 1695). Made from coquina which is a virtually indestructible limestone comprised of broken sea shells and coral, the walls of the fortress remained impenetrable through 300 years of enemy shelling and pounding by violent storms.

Fort Matanzas - was built between 1740-1742 and is a very well preserves masonry watchtower.  It provided a high point to help the Spanish view any enemy vessels approaching from the South.  The fort played a strategic role in warning St. Augustine of potential enemy advancements from the south via the Matanzas River.

Lightner Museum - is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, built by railroad magnate Henry M. Flagler, and features an intriguing array of items from shrunken heads and mummies to stunning collections of stained glass and crystal.  It was opened in 1889.

Old City Helicopters – a tour of St. Augustine from the best seat in the house, from a helicopter!

St. Augustine Haunted Pub Tour - this tour takes you on a storytelling excursion through downtown.

Hearse Ride Ghost Tour - taking a ride in a hearse is a must BEFORE you die!

Red Train Tours and Discount Attraction Tickets - “The way to see St. Augustine!”

Adventure Landing - is the perfect place for family fun!  Birthday parties, celebrations, or even just a day of fun! Mega Arcade.

Old Jail - built by Henry Flagler in 1891, the jail was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1987.  The Old Jail served as the county jail until 1953.

Colonial Spanish quarter – is a living history museum depicting the life of Spanish Soldiers and their families in 1740 St. Augustine.

Dow Museum of Historic Houses – on one city block, you will discover over 400 years of history. Hidden among beautiful courtyards are 9 historic houses original to the site.

Father O’Reilly House Museum - built prior to 1763, this Spanish colonial house belonged to Father Miguel O’Reilly, who came to the parish when the Spaniards returned to rule in 1784.

Fiesta Falls Mini Golf - is an 18-hole miniature golf course right next to La Fiesta Inn at the beach.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not - The original Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum features fun interactive galleries, mind boggling facts, and unique oddities and curiosities.

Flagler College - Flagler College is a combination of the past and present. The Ponce de Leon hotel, originally built by Henry Morrison Flagler in 1887, now serves as a residence hall for students.

Marineland – swim with the dolphins and let your dreams come true.

Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse - let your first lesson in history begin at the Oldest Wooden School House! Built prior to 1763, the school remains as it was over two centuries ago.

St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum - climb 219 steps up the lighthouse to find a breathtaking view of St. Augustine from 165 feet above sea level.

Spanish Military Hospital Museum - see what a hospital looked like 250 years ago. See the tools surgeons used and the medicines people took.

Potters wax museum - America’s first Wax Museum invites you to experience over 160 figures from History to Hollywood! These life-like figures seem to come to life as you study them.

There are many golf courses and tennis resorts located in the area. Ponte Vedra is home of The Players Association (PGA) and Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP).  It is a 20 minute drive from the Downtown historic district.

The city also has around 43 miles of beautifully clean beaches. Some allow vehicles, some allow dogs and some just people.  Some of the beaches produce abundant shelling opportunities, while others are covered only in luxurious fine, golden sand.

Before my wife and I became Florida villa owners, we spent many months investigating if and where we should buy an investment property. Should the villa have a pool and / or spa, should it be close to Disney World, how many bedrooms and bathrooms should it have ?  How will I obtain a mortgage and what type of mortgage is best ?  These are just a small sample of the many questions that you will need answered before taking that final step of buying your dream Florida villa.

Florida is extremely well known for its large and beautifully designed properties, year round sunshine, many attractions, exquisite beaches and inexpensive lifestyle. We wanted a holiday home that we could enjoy with our family and also rent out to help cover the cost of the mortgage.

After many months of trawling the internet, speaking to various property companies and existing Florida villa owners we were ready to purchase our very own Disney World rental home.  We needed to select a good development area, choose our own plot and decide on the style of the property to be built.  We eventually decided on a single storey home in Kissimmee.  Once it was completed, it was everything we dreamed it would be.

You have already taken the first step toward purchasing your home by reading this article.  Though buying a property in Florida is relatively uncomplicated we still hear many stories of people who have had problems in one way or another.

Please don’t forget that the experience of buying your Florida villa should be pleasurable and exciting.  From visiting the various developments, choosing the plot and house that is right for you to finally making the purchase.

Location, location, location

The next step to buying your home requires some ground work to be done by yourself prior to arriving in Florida.  Firstly decide where you want to buy. Do you want the villa to be close to Orlando’s many theme and water park attractions or do you prefer to be near the beaches? If you prefer the beaches, do you prefer the Gulf Coast or the Atlantic Coast. 

Whichever you decide, as with all investment properties location is very important. Once you have decided on your location, you must decide the type of property, the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, pool, etc. Do you want to be on a small development or larger resort development, do you want a gated or non gated community.

And last but not least what is your budget.

Do You Need To Rent Your Property ?

This is a very important question as it will determine where you can buy. Only certain communities in Orlando are zoned for STR (Short Term Rental).  Please do not accept any verbal guarantees from salespeople regarding STR without checking in the covenants and restrictions of the developer.

One of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the development which suits your needs best. Remember not all developments allow short term rental and if you intend to rent your property this is the single most important item you must consider.

Remember the developers’ agent is acting on behalf of the builder, and is bound by law to obtain the best possible deal for the builder, not for you. Some builders and management companies offer guaranteed rental programs. These include a minimum income for an agreed period (usually 12 months) or alternatively, a minimum number of weeks booked for the year. What you are not told however is what the income will be for those weeks or what the agent will rent your property out for (for example, you may receive £350 per week but the agent is renting it out for £450 per week).

We strongly advise that if you decide not to secure rentals for the property yourself, then you thoroughly investigate any proposals presented to you from Management Companies / Letting Agents.

Our advice is that if you have the time, you market the villa yourself.  This allows you to maximise your income and makes it easier to reach that magical break even point of income versus expenditure. If we are being honest this can be quite time consuming but well worth the effort when the bookings start to come in. If you go down this route you will have to consider the costs involved in marketing your villa.

Costs could include newspaper / magazine advertising, creating your own website, listing your villa on other websites and other incidentals like business cards, flyers etc. 

Inspection Trips

We would highly recommend you look at the possibility of an inspection trip.  This can be purely for the purpose of choosing your dream home or can be combined with a holiday / vacation.

While there are benefits to both scenarios if you have limited time available and are there, purely with the inspection of properties in mind, then you are more focussed on the job in hand. However, we would recommend an absolute minimum of 4 days for an inspection visit. You will need to meet up with the Realtor to view several villas and communities, spend a few sleepless nights deciding on which property to purchase, sign contracts with the builders, pay the deposit, choose the colour of the house etc.  Decide on the shape and size of the pool and type of pool tiles, open a bank account and look at some of the furniture packages that are available. A very hectic but rewarding few days.

Alternatively If you can spare more time, it will give you extra opportunities to view a few more developments over a longer period, then take a few days to contemplate and narrow your choice down to a couple of villas before finally viewing your favourites again.

You will also have more time to investigate the local area and amenities such as shops, restaurants, banks and supermarkets to satisfy yourself the area has what you and your guests will be happy with.

Its now time to make your final decision. Should you buy a new home or a resale.

Should you decide to have your dream home newly built, you will then sign a contract with your chosen builder, leave your deposit and if you haven’t already done so open a bank account and arrange a mortgage quotation.

If you decide to purchase a resale home, then under Florida law, all that is required for a legally binding sales contract is a signed written agreement plus good faith deposit. It is therefore possible to ‘Exchange Contracts’ straight away with a Seller and virtually eliminate any possibility of your chosen property being sold elsewhere. Most written Sales contracts are conditional and you will have ample time to arrange financing, survey the property and approve legal work. If your loan is denied or the house does not pass inspection, you may withdraw without penalty. There can be any number of conditions in the contract but essentially all elements of the sale should be in writing to avoid dispute.

We would highly recommend that you use the services of a state registered realtor whether you are buying new or resale. In the U.K. we use estate agents who are normally employed by the house owner to find a buyer for their property. They then work with both the buyer and seller to agree a deal that is suitable to both. The downfall of this system is that the estate agent may withhold information about the buyer or seller which may be beneficial to the other despite the seller paying their fee. In Florida the realtor you choose can only work on your behalf and is legally bound to act in your best interest disclosing information such as - is the property worth the asking price - are there similar properties available at a better price - are there any known future developments that may affect the value of the property.

Mortgages

Many British citizens who buy a holiday home in Florida, are unsure whether to arrange a US or UK mortgage.

Most US mortgages enable you to lock into a fixed rate mortgage for up to 30 years.  In our opinion, this is the best way forward as you will always know what your monthly mortgage outgoings will be – there will not be any interest rate increases.  The only drawback is that exchange rate fluctuations will affect how many dollars you get to the £ when you transfer money over to your US bank account.  However, if you keep an eye on the rates and transfer money at the correct time, these fluctuations will not have a significant effect on your expenditure.

A UK mortgage can be arranged through several companies dealing with homes in Florida and usually offer variable rate mortgages closely linked to our own bank base rate – usually around 1.5% above base rate.  They do offer a fixed rate but usually for a maximum of 3 years.  The issue with this type of mortgage is that your repayments are always subject to interest rate increases.  Remember that if your mortgage payments increase, you cannot increase your weekly rental prices.  The upside is that your repayments are not subject to exchange rate fluctuations.

Management

Once you have purchased your Florida vacation villa, whether you intend to use it for your own personal use, or for short term rental purposes, you will most definitely need to employ the services of a reputable management company to look after your investment. In this section our aim is to advise you on the do’s and don’ts of management in Florida.

Which Type Of Management Company Should I Choose ?

The simple answer to the question above is really down to individual circumstances. In Orlando there are literally hundreds of management companies offering their services to villa owners. They vary from the very large companies with hundreds of homes on their books to the small husband and wife teams with just a few homes. Our advice, is that you look into which type of Management Company suits your personal needs and aspirations for your villa, speak to at least 3 companies and make you final decision from there.  If possible obtain recommendations from current villa owners who deal with the proposed Management Company.

What Should I Expect From My Management Company ?

Lawn maintenance, villa cleaning and inspection, pool maintenance, villa maintenance, pest control and perhaps bill payment facility

Dealing With Licencing Issues

All Florida vacation villa owners who intend to rent their villa for short term rental purposes must be properly licensed with Department of Regulation, divisions of hotels and restaurants and a Florida state agency. Before the licence is issued the property will be inspected by a Florida state agency, this will cost in the region of $150 for a single family home.

Taxes

In addition to the property taxes that every homeowner has to pay, an additional tax based on the gross rents received must be collected for any rentals of 180 days or less. This is made up of 5 or 6% Tourist Development or Resort Tax plus 6 to 7% State of Florida Sales Tax.

Therefore, a total of around 11% to 13% of gross rentals received is to be paid in State and County Taxes.  Normally these taxes are charged on top of the rents and paid by the tenants - much the same as would take place with a hotel or motel. 

However, for our homes, we include the taxes within the price we quote so that the potential guest does not receive any nasty surprises when the final rental cost is calculated.

Taxes that are collected from rental income must be submitted to the appropriate agencies on a monthly basis by the 20th of the following month, in compliance with the law. In other words, rental income received in August must be paid by the 20th of September.  By paying these taxes, you are assured that you are properly registered for State and County Tax.  It is the responsibility of the owner to declare the rental income achieved on Owner Bookings and to pay the relevant tourist tax. If your Management Company has made bookings on your behalf and taken the rental income, then it is their responsibility to ensure all taxes are paid to the relevant authorities.  However, you need to check this happens as any default on payment is YOUR responsibility.  For this reason, my wife and I pay all taxes for our properties – once again enabling us to keep strict control of our finances.