Imagine a pristine Florida island before the existence of homes, condominiums, crowded beaches, traffic and parking lots. Got a picture? If not, let me help. At one time, Florida’s barrier islands were fringed with miles and miles of glistening white sandy beaches and 

Not far from Gainesville, in a small town called Cross Creek, lived the famed Florida author, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. Her rural home where she lived and wrote her most famous book, The Yearling is now part of the Florida 

If you like "off the beaten path" you'll love Anna Maria Island.  The beaches are accessible, the seafood is fresh and the neighborhoods are authentic. The friendly Florida island "vibe" is downright irresistable.

Located on the state's panhandle, Apalachicola's maritime and fishing culture flourish off the northern Gulf coast, creating a unique slice of "real" Florida. Quiet, quaint and friendly, the town is known for its oyster industry

Looking for a budget friendly day trip? If you enjoy “real” Florida and a bit of fascinating state history, this one’s for you. The “twofer” is a paddle ride down the Estero River, which also borders and provides access to the unique Koreshan Historic State

It's the season for one of Florida's most authentic and dedicated sports, lobstering. Divers descend upon the Florida Keys eager to find sea treasures in the form of delectable, sweet Florida lobster. There's work involved, but the payoff is delicious

Southwest of Miami, you’ll find one of America's most unique treasures, the Everglades National Park. Spring is an ideal time to view the wildlife and enjoy the rich mosaic of varied ecosystems and wildlife. There's nothing like the Florida Everglades and there is so much to see and do

There are plenty of things I love about Florida, but when the white pelicans arrive, they top the list. Snowy white with pinkish-tangerine colored bills and orange webbed feet, these exquisite creatures begin arriving during the fall and stay 

Traveling through Florida’s back roads is one of the most delightful pleasures of living in the state. Whether it’s the stillness of pine flatwoods, an oak-shaded scrub, a less discovered beach, an aqua blue spring, a scenic river or remote