Florida
“Florida—where Art Deco shimmers in the sun, the cocktails flow like history, and the air smells of salt, citrus, and endless, golden possibility.”
Florida
For us, Florida is truly special. In fact, we dare to call ourselves Florida specialists, and for good reason. From 2004 to 2015, we owned a home in Florida, and we have probably visited this state more than any other destination. You do not just buy a second home somewhere on a whim. There is a whole story behind it, one we might write a blog about someday. A big part of it is that Geert lived and worked in the United States for a while, which made Florida feel like a natural fit.
Even before we bought a home, Geert had already fallen in love with Florida. And when he met Ella, she was quickly convinced too. What is the secret? Florida is big, sunny, and incredibly diverse. From theme parks to stunning beaches, this state has something for everyone. Despite the hot, humid summers and hurricane season, we love the year-round flip-flops-and-shorts lifestyle. Because let’s be honest, that is the dream.
But Florida is so much more than Miami, the Keys, and Disney World. Think about remote rural areas, yes, that is where we had our house, full of beautiful lakes, wide-open swamps, and real wilderness. That includes gators, spiders, and snakes. Believe it or not, we once had a three-meter alligator casually stroll down our driveway.
Do you love golf? Florida is a golfer’s paradise, with high-quality and affordable courses everywhere. And if you enjoy discovering hidden gems, we could talk for hours about places like Lake Weir, on the edge of Ocala National Forest, and St. Augustine, one of Florida’s most underrated treasures.
On this page, we are sharing our experiences, insights, and recommendations for anyone wanting to discover the real Florida. Whether you are planning a quick beach escape or dreaming of a three-month campervan road trip, we have got you covered.
Discover Florida
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Discover Florida, a destination that deserves a place on every traveler’s list. For us, it is not just another spot on the map, it feels like a second home. After years of exploring every corner of the state, we can confidently say that Florida is more diverse and rewarding than many realize.
Whether you are coming for a long weekend or a full slow-travel experience, Florida offers a world of variety. Think world-famous theme parks, pristine beaches, small-town charm, wildlife, golf, and even wild backcountry. There really is something for everyone.
Yes, Florida is known for its theme parks. In Orlando, childhood dreams come to life at Walt Disney World, while movie magic takes center stage at Universal Studios. SeaWorld adds marine life to the mix, and Busch Gardens Tampa blends thrilling rides with exotic animals.
But there is so much more beyond the parks. Head south to Miami, where the pastel glow of Art Deco buildings meets the Latin energy of Little Havana. Explore South Beach, dive into the vibrant street life of Downtown, or drive the stunning Overseas Highway to the Florida Keys. In Key Largo, you can snorkel over coral reefs. In Islamorada, soak in island vibes. In Key West, time seems to slow down completely.
The Gulf Coast offers a softer rhythm. In Naples, golden beaches and fantastic seafood go hand in hand with elegant charm. Tampa surprises with a mix of history, art, and innovation, while Daytona Beach brings motor racing, boardwalks, and pure Americana together in one place. Beach lovers are spoiled for choice. The soft sands of Clearwater Beach, the turquoise water of Siesta Key, and the long surf-friendly stretches of Cocoa Beach each offer their own style of paradise.
Nature lovers can venture beyond the coast. The Everglades, a subtropical wilderness, is full of alligators, manatees, and birdlife. Glide over marshes in an airboat, paddle through mangroves, or spot wildlife in the peaceful stillness of Big Cypress National Preserve.
Then there are the hidden gems. Few visitors make it to Ocala National Forest, where pine forests, freshwater springs, and quiet trails define a more peaceful Florida. We lived nearby, in Lake Pierce, and know firsthand how much rural Central Florida has to offer.
Florida is easy to travel and welcomes visitors all year long. The climate is warm and inviting, though summer can be steamy and stormy. But that is part of the adventure. Do you love golf? Florida has more golf courses than any other U.S. state, and you can enjoy them without breaking the bank.
Are you dreaming of a slow-travel journey? Rent a campervan and take your time. Follow the coast, stop in national parks, and create your own story.
Whether you are looking for thrill rides, tropical beaches, wildlife encounters, or authentic backroads, Florida offers it all. Explore our blogs for travel tips, routes, and local insights to help you discover Florida beyond the brochures.