Gainesville is mostly a college town, so if you're there you're probably there to do something related to the university, such as going to a game.
Tampa is the only true city in Florida -- real people, no attitude, and great nightlife. Go!
This was a fantastic place, loved the waterfall. Tour was really good, even swimming in the mangroves. I got to see a lot of wildlife -- apparently unusual for this time of year. I recommend the Everglades as a place to stay but you will need a car or hook up with friendly people.
Miami Beach has great nightclubs that are open late. I didn't get much sleep but had fun!
Everyone thinks of Orlando as the city with a lot of amusement parks, but actually the amusement parks are all located south of the city (mostly around Kissimmee). The city itself has a great downtown with a lot going on and it's worth checking out.
I live here and Disney gets really really old. If you haven't been yet, then go there, but there are a hundred other things to do. For example, Winter Park is a nice, pretty rich area, with an old classic European-feel shopping street. And if you're into shopping, I highly reccommend checking out the Waterford Lakes towncenter -- it's fantastic, has a movie theatre, a hundred stores and restaurants, and it's basically what all of us here in Orlando call home. what else. I can't think of anything horribly dangerous, but I guess downtown at night always has its risks. Act like you're at home, don't dress like a yuppie, and blend into everything there and nobody will really bother you. There's a hell lot of homeless though, but if they ask for money just hand them a quarter or politely nod and smile and continue on your way. There are tons and tons of cool hip clubs and trendy places to go. Check out Church Street, that's the best place to go. If you're into indie music, try Backbooth…
Florida Keys … I've just completed a great trip to Key West! The city is lots of fun! The weather for December was perfect, 80s and plenty of sun.
Florida Keys … They have great scuba diving with amazing clarity. We could see the bottom from our dive boat down to at least thirty meters.
Orlando … I visited way back in 1992, and it was wonderful. I remember visiting a scary centre in Church Street where you wander in a group in the dark and people scare you. Imaging paying for that. These days you only need to walk outside for that for free! It was great fun.
Miami Beach … What a beautiful place -- magnificent!
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