USA: Sophie's Florida Highlights

I have recently returned from an amazing trip to Florida consisting of a week spent in Orlando, Anna Maria Island and Tampa Bay. Take a look at my highlights and top tips, and if you have any enquiries or questions let me know!

Universal Studios

Highlights:

What an incredible time we had in Universal! We were very spoilt during our time here, being given a VIP pass for the park which enabled us to jump straight on the rides and a tour guide helping us make the most of our time. Volcano Bay is an absolute must, it is such a fantastic park with something for all ages!

Top Tips:

  • Definitely invest in a express ticket for Universal Studios or stay in one of our Universal Hotels that come with the express tickets. This will save so much time in queues enabling you to make the most of your days in the park

  • Make use of the Tapu Tapu bands in Volcano Bay which come included with the entrance ticket. The band enables you to join a virtual queue for the water rides to save time queuing, they also can be used for lockers and buying food, drink and merchandise around the park when you top them up

Anna Maria Island

Highlights:

Anna Maria Island is a 7km beautiful stretch of white sand and amazing places to eat. This Island really is special and a little hidden gem which is perfect for couples and families with older children.

The highlight of visiting Anna Maria Island for me was seeing the Dolphins, and tasting the amazing food the Island has to offer.

Top Tips:

  • Take a boat tour out to see the wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and if you’re lucky, sharks!

  • Try out the beach restaurants for some fresh seafood

  • Browse the shops in Brendeton

Tampa Bay

Highlights:

My ideal holiday usually consists of sun, sea and sand as opposed to a city holiday, however, Tampa left a sweet taste in my mouth and I would definitely return! There is so much to see and do in Tampa, from city tours of the different districts, to lovely shopping streets and one of the best nightlife scenes I have seen! I would most definitely return!

Top Tips:

  • Get a city pass and make use of the boat which drops you off and picks you up at different districts

  • Visit Hyde Park shopping streets for high end shops, bars and cafes

  • If you like a night out, head down to Ybor, with DJs, events and live music