Florida

Welcome to Florida, The Sunshine State! With 237 days of sunshine, here is a state for those who want to escape the cold.

The alligator state, as it is commonly known, enjoys a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters. It has a rich natural beauty along the vibrant coastal communities, making it a strategic location for trade, transport, and tourism. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and endless sunshine, Florida is nestled in the Southeastern corner of the United States. This peninsular state borders the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Gulf of Mexico to the west, Alabama to the northwest, Georgia to the North, and the Straits of Florida. There’s also a narrow waterway that connects the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean while separating Cuba to the south.

The Land of 10,000 Lakes is home to a dazzling array of ecosystems, ranging from the Everglades National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) to the coastal reefs teeming with marine life. Dotted through the state are over 30,000 lakes of various sizes, wetlands, forests, and rolling hills. Due to its history, which dates back to the Spanish exploration, Florida has a rich cultural heritage that draws influence from Native American, European, African, and Latin traditions. These diverse influences can be seen in various forms, from the tantalizing cuisine to the music, the art galleries, the historical landmarks, and the various festivals around the year.

Also, Florida boasts a robust economy ranked the fourth largest in the U.S, with a GSP of $1.4 trillion as of 2022. This is thanks to its top industries of agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and trade. Tourism happens to be its largest industry, generating over $ 111 billion in revenue thanks to attractions like NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, the launch site of many historic space missions, theme parks, and beaches. Additionally, the state’s favorable weather and fertile soils make it a major producer of citrus fruits, vegetables, and flowers in the U.S., earning it the nickname ‘The Floral State’. So it’s no surprise its ports rake billions of dollars in international import and export of goods. Florida is also home to several manufacturing companies in the aerospace, pharmaceutical, and electronic sectors.

Over the years, Florida has received several accolades, which include being ranked 1st as the best retirement destination and the 2nd best place to live by U.S News and World Report and Money magazine, respectively. So, it comes as no surprise that Florida is one of the fastest-growing states in the United States, with its population projected to hit 24.6 million by 2030.

Now, we can’t talk about Florida without talking about its world-famous cities, with some of its most populous cities being Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando, and St.Petersburg.

Jacksonville is home to more than 970,000 residents, making it the most populous city in Florida. It is a major port city that sits on the St. Johns River and is known for its beaches, military presence, and diverse cultures.

With a population of 449,000, Miami is the pulsing heart of South Florida as it is an international center for finance, commerce, culture, and entertainment. Miami has a solid Cuban influence that can be felt in every corner, from its legendary nightlife to its culinary scene. Miami’s Art Deco district has been the backdrop of many Hollywood movies, and its many museums and galleries house and showcase a truly staggering amount of art ranging from Modern to Contemporary.

On the other hand, Tallahassee, the capital city, exudes a charming blend of Southern hospitality, academic excellence, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Parks, lakes, and forests surround this, renowned for its academic prowess. It is home to several universities and colleges like Florida State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University that  attract students from around the world.

Known as the Theme Park and Spring Break Capital of the world, Florida has many tourist attractions and activities not at all limited to:

Theme Parks: Orlando is a wonderland home to iconic parks like Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Orlando Resort.

Island and beaches: Florida has an extensive chain of islands surrounding it that offers magnificent beaches, stunning coral reefs, a variety of water sports, and underwater activities like parasailing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and diving.

Rich Cultural History: The state has numerous historical landmarks, museums, and festivals. Ranging from the Spanish colonial architecture of St. Augustine to the Bass Museum of Art to the lively Calle Ocho Festival in Miami, there is something new and exciting to see for tourists.

Florida’s motto is “In God We Trust.” This motto was adopted by the Florida legislature in 1868 as part of the state seal. It is the same motto as the United States and is a slight variation on Florida’s first state motto, “In God is our Trust.” The motto is also a reminder of the importance of values such as honesty, integrity, and compassion.