Population: 19,057.542 thousand people (2011)
Area: 170304.0 sq. km
Nearest airport: Pocatello
Florida is the southernmost of the continental US states. It completely covers the territory of the peninsula of the same name, and also captures the coastal part of the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico, which washes the state from the west. The east coast is the Atlantic.
Florida is located in two climatic zones – subtropical and tropical. A peculiar natural country called the Wet Lands was formed here. The relief of Florida is exceptionally flat, flat. Florida is characterized by heavy rainfall, sunny days and warm temperatures. There are many swamps, small rivers (the largest are St. John’s, Suwonni, Apalachicola), a huge number of lakes (Okeechobee is the largest), where lush vegetation flourishes, and the animal diversity is amazing. However, the state’s natural heritage is under threat due to the large population of Florida.
Before the arrival of Europeans, the peninsula was inhabited by the Calusa, Timukula, and Seminole Indian tribes. In 1513, the conquistadors landed here, led by Ponce de Leon, who declared the new land the property of the Spanish crown. The territory was named Florida – “blooming” in Spanish. The first settlements appeared only half a century later. For a short time (1763-76), Great Britain owned Florida . In the 18th and 19th centuries, there were clashes between Indian tribes, as well as with colonial troops. Spain sold Florida to the United States in 1819 and in 1845 it became the 27th state of the United States. In the Civil War, Florida was on the side of the Confederacy, helping the army of the South with food.
The mild climate and warm sea have become factors that have turned Florida into a popular tourist region. Tourism has contributed to the development of industrial sectors of the economy of the state. Today, Florida is a world-class resort center. It has an excellent infrastructure: hotels, yacht clubs, amusement parks, clean beaches, the highest quality services. There are no historical sights in Florida, but there are many museums, oceanariums, botanical gardens. Everglades National Park is popular. Florida’s calling card is Disney World Park in Orlando.
GAINESVILLE
Population: 114,300 thousand people (2007)
Area: 127.2 sq. km
Founded: 1853
City status since: 1869
Time zone: UTC-4
Altitude: 54 m
Nearest airport: Guynesville
Gainesville is located in Alachua County and is the administrative center, as well as the largest settlement in its territory. The original inhabitants of these places were Indians from the Timucua tribe, who were later replaced by Spanish settlers. Initially, the Europeans who arrived here were engaged in cattle breeding. In 1853, Gainesville was founded on the former Indian lands, which was originally built as the new administrative center of the formed district. After 16 years, he received city status. Now it is known as a large prosperous settlement in the northern part of Central Florida. The high quality of life of the citizens was confirmed in 2007 by the fact that the city was declared the best place in North America for comfortable living.
Of great importance for the Gainesville economy and its cultural life is the university, on whose territory there is a botanical garden with rare species of vegetation, a museum with unique exhibits, sports complexes, exhibition galleries, where various events are often held. In the northwestern part of the city is the Devil’s Millhopper Geological Park, which is a bottle-shaped cavity reaching a depth of 35 meters. Its entire territory is covered with tropical forest.
According to archaeological research, the local area was inhabited 12 thousand years ago, even before the appearance of the Timucua Indians, who are considered to be indigenous people. In Gainesville, which is considered industrial by today’s standards, they continue to grow vegetables and fruits on extensive plantations. The amount of the harvested crop allows providing not only the city itself, but also many settlements of the state.
The surviving old buildings built in the 19th – early 20th centuries are of historical value. Among them are Major Bailey’s house, Matheson House, Mary McKenzie’s mansion with a miniature corner tower, the Thomas Hotel and the former post office, which now houses the Hippodrome Theater, a structure that serves as a haven for a Masonic lodge, and the Seagle Hotel, restored in 1983.
JACKSONVILLE
Population: 821.784 thousand people (2010)
Area: 2264.5 sq. km
Time zone: UTC-5, summer UTC-4
The city of Jacksonville is located in northeastern Florida, near where the Saint John River flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
Before the city got its modern name, it managed to visit the Indian village of Ossachit, the French Fort Caroline and, already being a small American settlement of Coford, in 1822, was renamed in honor of the seventh US President Andrew Jackson in Jacksonville.
Shortly thereafter, during the Civil War (1861-1865), the city became an important strategic point for southerners. It is from here that the Confederate army receives the main supplies of beef and pork. In the post-war years, Jacksonville established itself as a popular resort.
Currently, several military bases are located on the territory of the city. However, tourism remains one of the most important sectors of the economy.
The landmark of the city is Jacksonville’s Main Street Bridge. It is located in the center of downtown, and due to the presence of wide sidewalks, it is a favorite place for walking citizens and tourists. Beach lovers will surely appreciate the relatively unspoiled coastline in the Jacksonville area. Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach are places where you can relax, sunbathe and fish away from the bustle of the city. Another pride of the locals is the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. It contains about 2,000 species of animals and grows more than 1,500 rare plants.
The climate in Jacksonville is humid, subtropical. Summers are usually hot and long, from May to October. The coldest month is January. The advantage of living here is less exposure to hurricanes than other cities in Florida.
CAPE CORAL
Population: 154,300 thousand people (2010)
Area: 310.8 sq. km
Founded: 1957
City status since: 1970
Time zone: UTC-5, summer UTC-4
Altitude: 2 m
Nearest airport: Tallahassee
Cape Coral is located in the state of Florida, in the western region of Lee County, on the shores of Charlotte Bay of the Gulf of Mexico. In the east and south, the city is washed by the Calusahatchee River, bordering the city of Fort Myers and Matlaka.
The history of Cape Coral began in 1957, when two brothers Leonard and Jack Rosen decided to buy a plot of land for building their unique city. In 1958, rapid and systematic construction began. Since the soil was swampy, a huge number of channels had to be dug, and houses had to be built on the hills. The city grew very quickly and eventually became famous for its huge number of artificial canals, many of which are navigable, and quality rental housing. The territory of Cape Coral is mainly occupied by water spaces, the climate is tropical, the main amount of precipitation falls in the summer, but from June to November the city is annually attacked by powerful hurricanes.
In the early years of its inception, Cape Coral was little known, boring, and did not attract the attention of tourists. This was due to the elderly people living in it, who came here for the purpose of solitude. However, since 1990, the status and priorities of the city have changed dramatically, since it was during this period of time that the city began to be in demand among young families.
The warm climate and water expanses of this sunny city contributed to the development of water sports, fishing, comfortable and exotic beaches. That is why Cape Coral is in special demand among tourists who prefer outdoor activities. Yacht clubs provide a unique opportunity to get an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers, athletes and romantics. The city is also famous for its green golf courses and tennis courts.
In the evening, tourists have a wide choice for relaxing in nightclubs and gourmet restaurants for every taste. You can also visit museums, where art works, souvenirs and various handicrafts of local craftsmen attract special attention of visitors. In historical museums you can get acquainted with the rare values of the city.
Lovers of a quiet and relaxing holiday are attracted by the cozy parks and reserves of Cape Coral, where you can retire from the hectic life of the city.
St. Petersburg, Florida
History of St. Petersburg, Florida:
St. Petersburg, located on the Florida peninsula’s west coast, has a history shaped by early exploration, the development of tourism, and a commitment to cultural amenities. The region was originally inhabited by the Tocobaga and Seminole Native American tribes before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century.
The city’s history truly began in the late 19th century when John C. Williams purchased land along the bay and the Orange Belt Railway extended to the area. The city’s founder, Peter Demens, renamed the city St. Petersburg after his hometown in Russia. In 1892, St. Petersburg was officially incorporated.
The city’s early growth was fueled by the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated the transportation of goods and people, making it more accessible. In the early 20th century, St. Petersburg became a winter haven for wealthy northerners, contributing to the development of the city as a tourist destination. The city’s favorable climate and scenic waterfront attracted visitors seeking refuge from colder climates.
The completion of the Gandy Bridge in 1924 further connected St. Petersburg to nearby Tampa, fostering economic and cultural exchanges between the two cities. In the mid-20th century, the city continued to evolve, with the expansion of the downtown area and the establishment of cultural institutions, including the Salvador Dali Museum and the Mahaffey Theater.
In recent decades, St. Petersburg has experienced urban revitalization efforts, transforming the downtown waterfront into a vibrant hub with parks, museums, and entertainment venues. The city’s commitment to the arts, coupled with its coastal charm, has contributed to its reputation as a cultural and recreational destination.
Climate of St. Petersburg, Florida:
According to Petsinclude, St. Petersburg, situated in the Tampa Bay area, experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The city’s location along the Gulf of Mexico influences its climate, with the Gulf providing a moderating effect on temperature extremes.
Summers in St. Petersburg are hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C). July is typically the warmest month, and high humidity levels contribute to the tropical feel. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing relief from the heat.
Winters are mild and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s°F (15-26°C). January is the coolest month, but freezing temperatures are rare. The absence of extreme cold weather is one of the reasons St. Petersburg attracts winter visitors, often referred to as “snowbirds,” who seek refuge from colder climates.
Fall and spring serve as transitional seasons with more moderate temperatures. These seasons are characterized by pleasant weather and are popular times for outdoor activities and events.
St. Petersburg is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. While direct hits are relatively infrequent, the region can experience the effects of hurricanes, including heavy rain and strong winds.
The city’s climate, with its warm temperatures and abundance of sunshine, plays a significant role in shaping its identity as a destination for both residents and tourists. The waterfront area, with parks, marinas, and cultural attractions, is a focal point for outdoor activities, events, and festivals throughout the year.
St. Petersburg’s climate also supports diverse ecosystems, including mangrove estuaries and coastal habitats. The city’s commitment to environmental conservation is evident in efforts to preserve natural spaces and promote sustainable practices.
In summary, St. Petersburg’s history reflects its evolution from a winter retreat to a vibrant cultural and recreational hub. The city’s climate, with its warm temperatures and coastal influences, continues to attract residents and visitors seeking a mix of outdoor enjoyment and cultural experiences along the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida.
