Alcohol.

Unlike the UK, the USA requires that you prove your age when you purchase alcohol regardless of where you are or how old you are so do not be surprised if someone asks for this as it is standard practice for everyone. The age limits vary by state but typically it is 21 years old unlike the UK where it is 18.

Climate.

A little like the more tropical parts of Europe or Asia, Florida can often have very hot summers which are humid and with the occasional heavy thunderstorm. This tends to be the case for the vast majority of South and Central Florida. So keep those bottles of water handy!

Winter surprisingly is Florida’s main peak tourist season. However, in the Northern part of Florida the summer is the main tourist season with really sunny days and quite hot weather which is relatively dry as opposed to the humidity often associated with the South of Florida. Between autumn and spring there is a lot of moisture in the air which can lead to heavy fog in the morning although winters tend to be relatively mild when you may see the odd patch of frost.

Hurricanes are a big feature between June and November so it is always worth keeping an eye on the weather forecast when you visit Florida.

Credit Card.

The USA is the home of the Credit Card and so they are accepted pretty much anywhere. You will most likely be charged an exchange rate if using your UK credit-card in America so bear this in mind when you go shopping or pay for something by credit card.

Currency.

Dollars are the main currency in the United States and for every £1 it was not too long ago equal to $2 so you would get great value. Now unfortunately the exchange rate has changed and the pound is weaker so you are probably looking at around £1 gets you $1.60 but that really depends on where you change your currency. There are plenty of travel agents and foreign exchange kiosks at the airports or within your local bank and in the USA once you arrive.

Typically you will find $1, $5, $10, $20 notes are in circulation and should be kept available when driving for the toll roads. Coins are used although they tend to be less so than in the UK. If you are taking a lot of money with you it is probably better to take Travellers Cheques as these are far safer than just carrying a whole load of cash. Travellers Cheques are normally available from your local bank and can only be cashed with formal identification i.e. Passport and bankcard.

Electrical Items.

If you are taking a shaver, hair dryer, or laptop you will probably need to charge the battery at some point. Most hotels have power plugs that take converters or adapters but you will have to buy these yourself. Buying electrical items in the US can save money at times but the items may not work when you get back to the UK, so always check the label to ensure they are compatible with the UK systems. The USA uses a 100 volt 60 hertz power system with two or three prong generally non UK standard plugs.

Health.

Unlike the UK, the USA does not have universal free health care, especially if you are a foreign traveller. Normally you would have to claim off your insurance. Of course there are emergency services should you require, however, it is always best to make a note of your local medical centre if you do have any health issues just in case.

As it is pretty hot and sunny in Florida, the Ultra Violet rays may effect your skin, so a good idea is to make sure you have the best factor sun lotion to protect against sun burn.

Insurance.

All travellers are normally advised by their respective government to take out travel insurance for the unexpected, luggage loss, accidents, you name it. You can normally find a reasonable priced insurance company in the UK from around £35 - £50 per person for a two week stay.

See also: Travel Insurance.

Map of Florida.

Generic maps are typically free from the Florida Department of Transport which you can obtain these from any tourist information centre. However, for more detailed information it is better to be prepared and buy your own along with regional guide books.

See also: Maps.

Museums.

Like any major state Florida has its fair share of cultural and artistic icons, aside from Walt Disney World, there is the State history museum in Tallahassee and Miami. There are also large museums in Tampa and Fort Lauderdale and you will find the Salvador Dali exhibit in St Petersburg.

Restaurants.

If you are looking for a good place to eat, click here to find out more.

Security.

Just because you are on holiday does not mean you should be oblivious to protecting your family and yourself. Crime is a reality in Florida just as in any other major city. So beware when you go out and watch out for pickpockets as they can sometimes be around tourist areas. Avoid poorly lit areas and beware of some discount offers on the street for some may be real while others may not!

Don't open your hotel door to strangers and remember to you tell other members of your group where you are going.

If you decide to drive then don't stop in poorly lit areas and beware of people trying to flag you down or encouraging you to stop. Only the Police have the legal right to stop you and they will only do so in an officially marked Police car with Blue and Red flashing lights. Accidents, as in the UK, if you are involved or witness one you are required by law to stop and inform the police.

Park your car in secure car parks and avoid leaving any valuables on display in the vehicle.

Safety deposit boxes are available in most hotels and it is well worth using these to securely store passports, money etc. The main thing is to enjoy yourself but remember to be safe!

Shopping.

Florida has its fair share of shopping malls and boutiques which are typically open from 10:00 until 18:00 while they tend to stay open longer on weekends. Sales taxes do apply when you come to pay for goods at around 6% so bear that in mind as the price you see on the tag does not include tax! Miami and Orlando have plenty of shopping centres to keep the most avid shopper busy!

Tipping.

This is widely accepted and 'the norm' in America. Most waiters, waitresses and bell boys are really poorly paid and tipping is considered acceptable. The same applies in restaurants where most people are advised to tip around 15%-20% of the value of the bill while hotel bell boys normally get a dollar or two.