ABOUT FLORIDA 

Florida is a state of remarkable variety, where tropical coastlines meet sprawling wetlands, vibrant cities blend with historic small towns, and centuries of cultural heritage sit alongside cutting-edge modern development. Known as the “Sunshine State,” Florida built much of its early identity on citrus farming, tourism, and coastal trade, and today it is equally recognised for its beaches, wildlife, theme parks, and thriving sports and entertainment culture.

The state’s landscape is among the most distinctive in the southeastern United States. Miles of sandy shoreline frame the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, while inland you’ll find the vast freshwater wilderness of the Everglades—one of the most important ecosystems in North America. Florida’s flat terrain is dotted with springs, rivers, and wetlands, and regions like the Florida Keys, Biscayne Bay, and the panhandle’s emerald coast offer endless opportunities for boating, diving, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventure. With its warm climate and clear skies, Florida is also known as one of the best places in the country for sunrise and sunset photography.

Florida’s character is deeply influenced by its rich cultural history. Historic towns such as St. Augustine—America’s oldest continuously inhabited European settlement—preserve centuries of Spanish colonial heritage. Native American culture remains central to the state’s identity, with the Seminole and Miccosukee Tribes hosting cultural festivals, craft demonstrations, and educational experiences. Throughout the state, communities celebrate a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and Southern traditions that shape everything from architecture to music.

Modern Florida thrives in its fast-growing metropolitan areas. Miami blends international finance, world-class arts, and a strong Latin influence, while Orlando is globally known for theme parks and entertainment. Tampa and Jacksonville continue to expand as major economic and cultural hubs, each offering its own mix of beaches, museums, and outdoor recreation. From luxury coastal resorts to historic districts and nature preserves, every region adds to Florida’s distinct identity.

Florida is also a powerhouse in American sports. The Miami Dolphins (NFL), Miami Heat (NBA), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL), and Miami Marlins (MLB) provide year-round excitement for fans. The state also regularly hosts major golf tournaments, motorsport events, spring training baseball, college football rivalries, and international soccer matches.

Florida’s culinary scene reflects its diverse population. Fresh seafood, Cuban sandwiches, Key lime pie, Southern comfort dishes, Caribbean flavours, and Latin American cuisine shape everyday dining. Cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando have emerged as hotspots for innovative restaurants, craft breweries, and locally sourced menus highlighting Florida’s agriculture and coastal produce.

Quick Snapshot

• Population: About 22 million (2023), the 3rd largest in the U.S.
• Area: 65,758 square miles (170,312 km²)
• Capital: Tallahassee, located in the northern part of the state

Entry into the USA

Florida is part of the United States, so standard U.S. entry rules apply. Your requirements will depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.

Visa Requirements – Citizens of countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) may enter the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. Travellers from all other countries generally need a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) – Visitors from VWP countries must complete an ESTA authorization online before boarding their flight to the U.S.

Valid Passport – All international travellers must have a passport valid for the entire duration of their stay. Some airlines recommend at least six months’ validity.

Currency

Florida uses the United States Dollar (USD), symbolised as $ and divided into 100 cents. The dollar is one of the most traded and widely accepted currencies in the world.

Approximate exchange ranges:

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90 – 0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.78 – 0.82 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 150 – 160 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.30 – 1.35 CAD

(Exchange rates vary depending on market conditions.)

Electricity

Florida follows the U.S. electrical standard:

• Plug types: Type A and Type B (two flat pins or two flat pins + grounding pin)
• Voltage: 120V
• Frequency: 60 Hz

Travellers from regions using 220–240V systems will need a plug adapter, and in some cases a voltage converter, depending on the device. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) work on dual voltage and only require an adapter.

Mobile services

Staying connected in Miami and around Homestead-Miami Speedway is straightforward, with strong 4G and 5G networks from all major operators:

• AT&T – Extensive statewide coverage and reliable 5G in metropolitan areas, including Miami.
• Verizon – Known for the strongest reliability and excellent speeds across Florida.
• T-Mobile – Competitive pricing and very good 5G in Miami and South Florida.

For visitors, eSIM options such as Airalo, Ubigi, or Holafly offer an easy way to activate a data plan instantly without visiting a store.

Key contact numbers

When calling numbers in the U.S. from abroad, use the country code +1.

Essential contacts for travellers and NASCAR fans:

• Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance): 911
• Miami International Airport (MIA): +1 305-876-7000
• Homestead Hospital (Baptist Health): +1 786-243-8000

Fascinating facts about Florida

Florida is one of the most distinctive and colourful states in the U.S., known for its beaches, wildlife, and vibrant culture. Here are a few interesting highlights:

• The Sunshine State – Florida earns its official nickname thanks to its warm climate and high number of sunny days each year.
• Everglades National Park – The only place on Earth where alligators and crocodiles live side by side in the wild.
• Beaches Galore – Florida has over 1,300 miles (2,100 km) of coastline, offering some of the best beaches in the U.S.
• Space Coast – NASA’s Kennedy Space Center is located in Florida, where countless historic space missions have been launched.
• Cuban Influence – Miami’s unique culture is shaped heavily by Cuban heritage, especially in neighbourhoods like Little Havana.
• No Dinosaur Fossils – Because Florida was underwater during the age of dinosaurs, none of their fossils have been found here.
• Florida Wildlife – The state is home to manatees, panthers, flamingos, and thousands of bird species—making it a paradise for nature lovers.