Florida is a well-known haven for people living through winter storms in the northeast. Sun and warm water are an obviously attraction, but there is much more to Florida. Orlando seems to be one giant theme park with Disney World, while Miami offers entertainment of a distinct adult variety with a legendary nightlife. Throw in the Florida Keys, tons of college and professional sports teams, the Kennedy Space Center and you have a state with a lot to do besides loaf on the beach. Then again, loafing on the beach should never be denigrated!
Miami
Miami is a city that really needs no introduction. With Cuban influences, the city is an explosion of styles, colors and fun loving people. Palm trees are plentiful as are beaches, bars, outdoor cafes and walking streets. When you need a break from the beach, Miami hosts professional sports teams in baseball, basketball, hockey and football. The real key to the area, however, is simply the festive atmosphere and people. Nearly half of the population is Hispanic with a heavy influence appearing throughout the city. Every day is a party in Miami.
Orlando
If Orlando isn't the capital of theme parks, I feel sorry for the place that is. Orlando is home to no less than Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World. The theme parks are actually located on the edge of the city, which makes Orlando proper a bit bland. Humidity can be a bit of a bear during the summers, but the winter is incredibly nice.
Tampa
Tampa is an underrated city in my opinion. The chief criticisms seem to be it is overly modern and a bit boring. In fact, it is just the opposite. Tampa has a funky cultural feel, particularly in Ybor City where multiple cultures clash in free wheeling fun and you can get a Cuban cigar hand-rolled by a Cuban artist. Museums, art galleries and theme parks abound. The beaches of Clearwater are white, clean and a good place to roast in the sun.
Florida Real Estate
Florida real estate is very reasonably priced considering much of it is so close to an ocean or lake. The average home price in Orlando will run you just above $300,000, roughly the same amount as Tampa. In Miami, prices vary wildly depending on the part of the city you are looking in, but you can expect price ranges from $250,000 to $800,000.
If you want to get in on Florida real estate, now may be an ideal time. For 2005, property in Florida appreciated at a rate of nearly 25 percent!
