1. Florida The Sunshine State

2.  After WWII – swampy, flat, marshland began to change with the development of agriculture and urbanization  Land drained and used for crops and large cities began to grow. Cheap air conditioners also introduced and brought retirees and tourists. History of Settlement

3.  40 million tourists per year - 45 billion $ generated  3 rd only to California and Vegas in tourist numbers & $  Winter is the Peak Season – Why?: Climate, holidays, spring break  Autumn / Spring season best deal – rates are lowest & facilities are least crowded  Florida’s rise to prominence as an economic region founded on tourism is largely due to its climate, beaches and barrier islands FLORIDA’S TOURIST INDUSTRY ECONOMIC REGION

4. 1.Georgia 2.Ohio 3.New York 4.Tennessee 5.Michigan 6.Texas 7.Alabama 8.Louisiana 9.Ontario 10.Pennsylvania Origin of Tourists

5.  Most tourists travel by car – less expensive, personal freedoms  150,000 campsites, 1000 campgrounds, trailer parks, motels & hotels  Florida pioneered the car rental business and computerized reservations

6. 1.Magic Kingdom 2.Epcot 3.MGM Studios 4.Universal Studios 5.Sea World 6.Spaceport USA – Kennedy 7.Busch Gardens 8. Cyprus Gardens 9.Florida Silver Springs 10.National & State Parks Florida’s top 10 tourist Attractions

7.  Miami  Largest metropolitan area Florida, major economic centre and travel hub.  Famous for its’ beaches, hotels, night life and water activities  Little Havana (population: Cubans– migration after Castro took control) – culture Major Cities of Florida

8.  Orlando  Central / interior of Florida, one of the fastest growing cities  Many lakes used for recreational purposes  Famous for its theme parks (Walt Disney World) and entertainment complexes

9.  Tampa  Central Gulf Coast – major port city  Famous for cruises, shopping, Busch Gardens & beaches in the surrounding area

10.  Jacksonville  Located on the northern Atlantic coast, the largest city.  Historical attractions are prevalent: 1564 French Fort, oldest existing plantation, oldest fishing village, jazz festivals, Mayport Naval station

11.  St. Petersburg  Located next to / across the bay from Tampa, the city is known as a vacation destination  With a purported average of some 360 days of sunshine each year, it is nicknamed "The Sunshine City." For that reason, the city is a popular tourist and retirement destination