Florida is the most south-eastern state in the United States of America. Known as "The Sunshine State", it became a popular winter destination for the well-to-do from colder climates over a century ago, and has gained ever greater popularity since. Its roots in agriculture are still present, with oranges being a chief export. The capital of Florida is Tallahassee, located in the "Big Bend" area of the Florida Panhandle.
The total population of Florida in a recent census was over 17 million persons making it has the 4th largest state population in the United States. The total area of the state of Florida is 58,560 square miles (151,670 kmē).
The beaches are one of the most popular attractions, along with some of the world's best known theme parks, including Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.
Florida is the most southern of all U.S. states and is a unique blend of societies. The northern part of the state is part of the cultural region of The South, where you will find traditional southern cooking, entertainment, dialect, and lifestyles, much as you would expect to find just north in Georgia and the Carolinas.
Generally, the more south you go in the state, the more 'northern' it seems, and you should not expect to experience 'southern' culture everywhere. (For instance, sweet tea- a drink synonymous with "The South" is rarely offered in Florida restaurants south of Ocala. The southernmost Florida Keys offer yet another flavour, full of the slow paced and casual atmosphere of true beach life.
Florida is known around the world for its balmy weather. The state's mild winters have made it a haven for the retired. Summers can be long and hot with showers providing much appreciated relief during the rainy season. Coastal areas also experience gentle breezes during the summer.
However, being a coastal area, frequent precipitation is common. While the rains are often brief, they are common, and plan for rain at least one or two of your days in Florida. Torrential daytime rains (often accompanied by a fantastic show of lightning and thunder) are a relatively common occurrence in the summer months.
The regions of Florida are:
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Florida Panhandle - Cities include the State Capitol of Tallahassee, Pensacola, and Panama City.
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North Florida - The lagest city is Jacksonville.
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Central Florida - Attractions include Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios Florida, Kennedy Space Centre, Cypress Gardens, Bok Tower Gardens, Daytona International Speedway and Gatorland, natural attractions including the Wildlife Refuge, with an extensive network of recreational trails.
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South Florida - Home to the beaches of Miami, the swamps of the Everglades, and the beauty of the Florida Keys.
Text from Wikitravel Florida where additional general information can be found. Please share your knowledge by editing the pages of Wikitravel.
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