Florida's Paradise Coast of Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades, is getting a makeover with several brand new developments and key transformations. It is back in business and ready to showcase a raft of new and reimagined hotels in 2023 and beyond, including the rebirth of The Ritz-Carlton Naples. Check out what’s new on Florida's Paradise Coast   Evolution of an Icon at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples - reopening July 2023 On 6 July 2023, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples will debut the 'Evolution of an Icon,' a comprehensive transformation of the guest experience. It features a new lobby and Lobby Bar, an expansive Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, three new dining outlets, and a redesigned pool experience. The interior design of the 92 new luxury suites evokes glamour and elevate the guest room experience. The all-new Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge will be unlike any other in the brand, spanning 4,000 square-feet with dramatic floor-to-ceiling ocean views.   Compass Hotel by Margaritaville - opening December 2023 TPI Hospitality has teamed up with Margaritaville to open a Compass Hotel by Margaritaville location in Naples. The renovation is scheduled to be complete by December 2023. The all-suite boutique property will feature 120 fully equipped rooms, with amenities including "Sunrise at Compass" complimentary breakfast buffet. Guests can enjoy the ‘Welcome Cabana’ experience with daily light snacks and refreshments, 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, and The Backyard –with a pool, live entertainment, backyard gamesand more. Guests make bookings from July 2023.   AC Hotels by Marriott - opening December 2023  Slated to open December 2023, AC Hotel Naples will stand three stylish stories at a prominent intersection along the city's unofficial Main Street. AC Hotel Naples will comprise: 150 sleek, modern guest rooms, a ground-floor café, a rooftop pool, meeting space and Limón, a destination rooftop restaurant. AC Hotel Naples is the hospitality component of Naples Square, a mixed-use development that will include nearly 300 luxury condominium units, multiple restaurants and a performing arts complex. Great Wolf Lodge - opening autumn 2024 Great Wolf Resorts, Inc., North America's largest family of indoor water parks, is set to open its doors in autumn 2024. It will be the brand's 21st resort in North America, featuring 500 family-friendly suites and an expansive 100,000-square-feet indoor water park. It has slides, raft rides, an activity pool and splash areas suitable for all ages. The property will include the Great Wolf Adventure Park, a 62-square-foot family entertainment centre that includes the MagiQuest live-action adventure game. Dining options will range from pizza and burgers to upscale dining and premium ice cream at Wood's End Creamery.   The Capri Inn - recently opened A boutique hotel in the heart of Florida's Paradise Coast, The Capri Inn is open and welcoming guests in a truly superb location. Formerly Trianon Old Naples, and now part of the Opal Collection, it has been fully reimagined. A private cottage for guests seeking the most spacious and secluded accommodation has also undergone a complete renovation and includes two bedrooms with its own private gated entrance. Visit ParadiseCoast.com

  Dana Young has now been at the helm of Visit Florida for over four years and since that time she has faced many challenges including threatened loss of budget, Covid-19 and now a travel advisory issued by the NAACP against travel to Florida. Here at IPW in San Antonio she talks to Graham McKenzie about the progress that has been made, the impressive data for inbound tourism and the NAACP.  

Creative art exhibitions, hotel transformations and romantic events top the list of what's new in Florida's Paradise Coast this year and next. From a Hispanic culture festival celebrating to the region's first Four Seasons, check out the top upcoming events and happenings.   Love Stories at Artis Naples - until 7 May Visit Love Stories, a National Portrait Gallery exhibition on the Gulf Coast of Mexico. The exhibition features work from artists such as Sir Joshua Reynolds, Angelica Kauffman, Man Ray, Lee Miller and David Hockney. Artis Naples offers a unique range of programs from music, film, dance and comedy to lectures and exhibitions. The Love Stories collection provides visual records of relationships.   Arte Viva Festival - until September Supporting the recovery following Hurricane Ian, the Arte Viva Festival on Florida's Paradise Coast has given the region a reason to celebrate. This year-long celebration of Hispanic culture offers events and exhibitions taking place for locals and visitors to enjoy the diversity of art and music. See work by Venezuelan artist Jesús Rafael Soto (1923-2005) on the lawn of The Baker Museum, or artistry nights from Musical Interludes series at Marco Island Center for the Arts. Event listings here.   Frida and Her Garden at Naples Botanical Garden - until September Frida and Her Garden is one of the Arte Viva exhibitions, celebrating Frida Kahlo and her colourful self-portraits and paintings by transporting visitors to her home garden in Coyoacán, Mexico City. This exhibition offers guests a unique experience as to how flora and fauna inspired this iconic artist's art and life. It features monumental animal sculptures. Frida After 5 encourages visitors to experience the garden on the first few Fridays of the spring months after hours.   Evolution of an Icon at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples - redesign unveiling in summer 2023 The Ritz-Carlton, Naples will debut the 'Evolution of an Icon,' a comprehensive transformation paying homage to nearly forty years. The hotel will feature a new lobby and lobby bar, an expansive Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, three new dining outlets, and a redesigned pool experience. The all-new Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge will be unlike any other in the brand, spanning 4,000 square feet with dramatic floor-to-ceiling ocean views.   The Ritz- Carlton Naples, Tiburón - redesign unveiling in 2024 The Ritz-Carlton Naples Tiburon is undergoing redesign and renovation throughout this year and next. The hotel will stay open during its transformation, with recent luxury poolside additions already being enjoyed by guests. Remastered guest rooms, two new restaurants and a fresh aesthetic will be unveiled in 2024.   Naples Beach Club, Florida's Paradise Coast's first Four Seasons - opening late 2024  The Athens Group and MSD Partners, L.P. have acquired the legendary former Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, set on 1,000 feet of white-sand beach in Old Naples.  Construction has started to redevelop the site into Naples Beach Club. The 125-acre resort and residential beachfront development will offer a luxury lifestyle destination to residents, members and guests. It includes the Gulf Coast's first Four Seasons, a 216-room resort including indoor and outdoor lounges and restaurants, a beachside garden, cabanas and an event lawn.   For more information visit Florida's Paradise Coast

Florida tourism notched another new record for visitation. VISIT FLORIDA estimates a record 137.6 million visitors for 2022. That is a 5% increase over the previous best in 2019. It welcomed 33.2 million travelers in the final quarter of 2022. Florida tourism has now achieved 21 consecutive months of domestic visitation growth. “We could not be more excited with the impressive record-breaking visitation seen in 2022,” said Dana Young, VISIT FLORIDA CEO. “Quarter after quarter, Florida continues to dominate the travel market.” Florida welcomed seven million overseas travelers in 2022, which remains below pre-Covid 2019 visitation levels. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says the long waits for US visas is hindering a full recovery from many inbound markets.

  Graham McKenzie talks to Visit Florida's CEO Dana Young at #huddle23 about the impressive bounce back in international visitor numbers post Covid.  

  At #huddle23 in West Palm Beach, we speak to Lauren Pace of Visit Florida about how they intend to keep expanding the tourism economy.  

With world-class theme parks, pristine beaches, and stunning national parks it's clear to see why. Florida is the ultimate holiday destination. A visit to the Sunshine State doesn’t have to break the bank. VISIT FLORIDA has rounded up 15 of the best free Florida activities right now. From historic tours, boat rides, secluded state parks and more, you'll find a wide variety of free activities.   1) The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Loop - St. Pete/Clearwater The opening of the 6.7-mile North Gap completes Pinellas Trail's 75-mile loop. Stretching from Tarpon Springs in the north to St. Pete in the south, the trail has been created along an abandoned railroad corridor and provides a unique, protected green space for walking, jogging, skating, and biking, allowing both locals and visitors to get out in nature.   2) Miami Beach Pride - Greater Miami From 1-16 April, Miami will celebrate the 15-year anniversary of the destination's largest LGBTQ+ event with expanded programming that includes a Pride pool event, an LGBTQ Family picnic, Queer Art Showcase, and the Pride March and Parade on Ocean Drive.   3) Riverfront Esplanade - Daytona Beach After a $30 million investment, spanning a mile of Intracoastal waterway, the Riverfront Esplanade is a premier gathering space and botanical garden in the heart of Daytona Beach. Composed of more than a mile of waterfront running trail with comfortable benches and swings overlooking the Halifax River, the Riverfront Esplanade also features a dog park with an agility course and a state-of-the-art splash pad. The north end of the Riverfront Esplanade recently opened with the south end scheduled for completion by the end of the year.   4) Bonnet Springs Park and Florida Children's Museum – Lakeland  Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland is a new 168-acre urban oasis bringing Central Florida's natural beauty to life. It will be a place where art, recreation and fun intersect by design, featuring a vast array of amenities. Highlights include the Hollis Family Welcome Centre, the Ag American Heritage Garden, The Florida Children's Museum, Kid's Treehouse and open-air concerts and events.   5) St George Street - St Augustine As the nation's oldest continuously settled city, St. Augustine has centuries of adventure and heritage for visitors to experience. Beautiful architecture inspired by early Spanish settlers characterises downtown alongside shops, boutiques, lighthouses, and historic buildings. Explore the quaint St George Street afoot - once the town's main thoroughfare now only open to pedestrians – and enjoy learning about Florida's history.   6) Egmont Key State Park – St Petersburg The unique cultural and historical significance of Egmont Key State Park makes this pristine island a free must-see. A lighthouse stands on the shore as it has for 150 years and Fort Dade, built during the Spanish-American War is still here. After touring the historic sites and trails, explorers are beckoned to the beach for swimming, picnicking, and fishing.   7) Tours and tastings – Orlando Every day, Orlando's largest premium winery offers free tours with tastings. Lasting about 45 minutes, including a 15-minute video presentation, the tours take you through the production area and provide a view of the 80-acre vineyards. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards also hosts free summer and winter music series, as well as a free open house during the holidays. They're in Clermont, about 35 minutes west of the Orlando tourism districts.   8) St Mary's River - Hilliard (near Jacksonville) Launch a canoe on the St. Mary's River that separates Florida and Georgia on the east coast for free from the Canoe Country Outpost. Observe Florida's wildlife such as osprey, bald eagles, deer, beavers, and otters. Pitch a tent on the shore for a weekend of free family fun or just make a day trip and canoe.   9) Hollywood Beach Boardwalk (near Fort Lauderdale) Spend the day unwinding at Hollywood Beach, known for its casual atmosphere and international flair. Walk or bike along Hollywood's scenic oceanfront boardwalk or treat yourself to an afternoon of exploring historic downtown.   10) Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail – Key Largo Adventurous visitors can kick into high gear on the developing 106-mile Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail following the railroad route completed by Henry Flagler in 1912. Bikers can enjoy 70 miles of trail currently paved in segments that run through colourful Keys communities and incorporate Flagler's historic railroad bridges. 11) Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium - Key West Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium's third land-based Keys coral nursery has opened at Reefhouse Resort & Marina, expanding the Upper Keys' resilience-focused coral restoration efforts. Tours are scheduled on Fridays at 10 a.m. at Reefhouse Resort & Marina. Mote – raising brain, star, and branching corals both onshore and offshore – outplants coral along the entirety of the Florida Keys reef. A separate Mote satellite land-based coral nursery is at Bud 'N Mary's Marina in Islamorada and free public tours are available each Tuesday at 2 p.m. At the Keys' Mote Marine Laboratory base on Summerland Key, Mote offers free public tours on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. with reservations.   12) Summer Concert Series – Panama City Beach Hot summer nights are made for music, and the Summer Concert Series has become a summertime tradition in PCB. Enjoy a free concert in the park every Tuesday (from June – August) at Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheatre — bring your own chairs and blankets and enjoy the sounds of summer.   13) The Village of the Arts – Bradenton The Village of the Arts is an eclectic live-work community, home to galleries, studios, restaurants, bakeries, specialty shops and healing art centres housed in colourfully restored 1920s and 1930s historic cottages. The Village is known for its free vibrant night-time Art Walks on the first Friday and Saturday of every month.   14) Build a sandcastle - Gulf Coast of Florida If you've ever been to 30A, Florida, you've probably spotted a beautifully crafted, towering sandcastle. The Gulf Coast of Florida is often pegged "The Sandcastle Coast" because of the ideal crafting conditions here. If you've seen one of these next-level seaside sculptures, you might be wondering how to make the best sandcastle yourself. Grab a bucket and give it a go.   15) Scenic highway drive – Pensacola You could say Pensacola Scenic Bluffs Highway was the first scenic highway designated in Florida, back in 1998. On your way, make sure you stop off at The National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola which offers free admission daily.

  It’s no secret that Florida is a firm favourite amongst British and Irish holiday makers. With world-class theme parks, pristine beaches, and stunning national parks it’s clear to see why. Florida is the ultimate holiday destination for families, couples, and solo travellers alike – and for those looking to keep costs down – look no further.   VISIT FLORIDA has rounded up 15 of the best free and fun things to do in Florida right now. From historic tours, boat rides, secluded state parks and more, you’ll find a wide variety of free activities to choose from.   1) The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Loop - St. Pete/Clearwater   The opening of the 6.7-mile North Gap completes Pinellas Trail’s 75-mile loop and is highly anticipated. Stretching from Tarpon Springs in the north to St. Pete in the south, the trail has been created along an abandoned railroad corridor and provides a unique, protected greenspace for walking, jogging, skating, and biking, allowing both locals and visitors to get out in nature and explore the coast and all of its distinctive towns.   2) Miami Beach Pride - Greater Miami   From 1-16 April, Miami will celebrate the 15-year anniversary of the destination’s largest LGBTQ+ event with expanded programming that includes a Pride pool event, an LGBTQ Family picnic, Queer Art Showcase, and the Pride March and Parade on Ocean Drive.   3) Riverfront Esplanade - Daytona Beach   After a $30 million investment, spanning a mile of Intracoastal waterway, the Riverfront Esplanade is a premier gathering space and botanical garden in the heart of Daytona Beach. Composed of more than a mile of waterfront running trail with comfortable benches and swings overlooking the Halifax River, the Riverfront Esplanade also features a dog park with an agility course and a state-of-the-art splash pad. The north end of the Riverfront Esplanade recently opened with the south end scheduled for completion by the end of the year.   4) Bonnet Springs Park and Florida Children’s Museum – Lakeland    Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland is a new 168-acre urban oasis bringing Central Florida’s natural beauty to life. It will be a place where art, recreation and fun intersect by design, featuring a vast array of wonderful amenities. Highlights include the Hollis Family Welcome Centre, the Ag American Heritage Garden, The Florida Children’s Museum, Kid’s Treehouse and open-air concerts and events.   5) St George Street - St Augustine   As the nation’s oldest continuously settled city, St. Augustine has centuries of adventure and romance for visitors to experience. Beautiful architecture inspired by early Spanish settlers characterises downtown alongside shops, boutiques, lighthouses, and historic buildings. Explore the quaint St George Street afoot - once the town’s main thoroughfare now only open to pedestrians – and enjoy learning about Florida’s history in this celebrated coastal city.   6) Egmont Key State Park – St Petersburg   The unique cultural and historical significance of Egmont Key State Park makes this pristine island a free must-see. A lighthouse stands on the shore as it has for 150 years and Fort Dade, built during the Spanish-American War is still holding its ground. After touring the historic sites and trails, explorers are beckoned to the beach for swimming, shelling, picnicking, and fishing.   7) Tours and tastings – Orlando   Every day, Orlando’s largest premium winery offers free tours with tastings. Lasting about 45 minutes, including a 15-minute video presentation, the tours take you through the production area and provide a view of the 80-acre vineyards. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards also hosts free summer and winter music series, as well as a free open house during the holidays. They’re in Clermont, about 35 minutes west of the Orlando tourism districts.   8) St Mary’s River - Hilliard (near Jacksonville)   Launch a canoe on the St. Mary’s River that separates Florida and Georgia on the east coast for free from the Canoe Country Outpost. Observe Florida’s wildlife such as osprey, bald eagles, deer, beavers, and otters. Pitch a tent on the shore for a weekend of free family fun or just make a day trip and canoe.   9) Hollywood Beach Boardwalk (near Fort Lauderdale)   Spend the day unwinding at Hollywood Beach, known for its casual atmosphere and international flair. Walk or bike along Hollywood’s scenic oceanfront boardwalk or treat yourself to an afternoon of exploring historic downtown, which is on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts a variety of free street markets and festivals unique to South Florida.   10) Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail – Key Largo   Adventurous visitors can kick into high gear on the developing 106-mile Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail following the railroad route completed by Henry Flagler in 1912. Bikers can enjoy 70 miles of trail currently paved in segments that run through colourful Keys communities and incorporate Flagler’s historic railroad bridges. With stunning views of the glittery Gulf and light salty gusts, this trail is a breeze.   11) Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium - Key West   Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium’s third land-based Keys coral nursery has opened at Reefhouse Resort & Marina, expanding the Upper Keys’ resilience-focused coral restoration efforts. Tours are scheduled on Fridays at 10 a.m. at Reefhouse Resort & Marina. Mote – raising brain, star, and branching corals both onshore and offshore – outplants coral along the entirety of the Florida Keys reef tract. A separate Mote satellite land-based coral nursery is at Bud 'N Mary's Marina in Islamorada and free public tours are available each Tuesday at 2 p.m. At the Keys’ Mote Marine Laboratory base on Summerland Key, Mote offers free public tours on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. with reservations.   12) Summer Concert Series – Panama City Beach   Hot summer nights are made for music, and the Summer Concert Series has become a beloved summertime tradition in PCB. Enjoy a FREE concert in the park every Tuesday (from June – August) at Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheatre — bring your own chairs and blankets and enjoy the sounds of summer with good food and music.   13) The Village of the Arts – Bradenton   The Village of the Arts is an eclectic live-work community, home to galleries, studios, restaurants, bakeries, specialty shops and healing art centres housed in colourfully restored 1920s and 1930s historic cottages. The Village is known for its free vibrant night-time Art Walks on the first Friday and Saturday of every month.   14) Build a sandcastle - Gulf Coast of Florida   If you’ve ever been to 30A, Florida, you’ve probably spotted a beautifully crafted, towering sandcastle. The Gulf Coast of Florida is often pegged “The Sandcastle Coast” because of the ideal crafting conditions here! If you’ve seen one of these next-level seaside sculptures, you might be wondering how to make the best sandcastle yourself. Grab a bucket and why not give it a go?   15) Scenic highway drive – Pensacola   You could say Pensacola Scenic Bluffs Highway comes in first place, both in terms of geography (it’s the first scenic highway you’ll encounter as you cross the Alabama-Florida border) and because it was the first scenic highway designated in Florida, back in 1998. It might also top your list of scenic drives for more qualitative reasons: As the name implies, this highway’s vistas put on quite a show. On your way, make sure you stop off at The National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola which offers free admission daily. Or just look up to see the Blue Angels practicing.

The storied past of Black American History is well documented and celebrated throughout the year in St. Augustine, Florida. Black History Month gives us the opportunity to better share the important stories about black culture from the 16^th century via the civil rights and today. Best known for its Spanish and British history, the Nation's Oldest City was significantly impacted by African American culture as well. From its beginnings during the Spanish age of exploration to the American civil rights era, African Americans have played key roles in the story of St. Augustine. Africans were among the first to explore Florida upon its discovery. In the 1500s, they joined Ponce de Leon and Pedro Menendez as soldiers in the service of Spain. Then African Americans established the first legally sanctioned free black settlement in the US in 1738. Escaped British slaves found freedom in St. Augustine by converting to Catholicism and joining the Spanish in defending their territory. Their home was chartered as the settlement of Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose, or Fort Mose for short, where free men and their families formed a militia and the northern defense post. The summer of 1964 in St. Augustine was hot – as is every summer. But in this year, for the first time in the long history of the Nation's Oldest City, the June weather was not the main topic of conversation. Instead, it was the daily struggle for (and against) civil rights taking place in the city's ancient streets that captured the attention of millions of people worldwide. Starting with local protests against racial segregation, the marches and rallies soon attracted America's most well-known civil rights leaders and organizers. Black History Month is a time to recognize the pages from St. Augustine's Black History. There are dozens of important historic sites that can be visited everyday throughout the year, and in February there are a several events, exhibitions, and programs that help tell these important  stories.   Jan 19 – February 25: I Lived Here as Well – Together     This experience at Ximenez-Fatio House Museum tells the story of urban slavery from the perspectives of living and serving in the Ximenez-Fatio House during the 19th century and will run on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. The tour is open to the public, led by costumed historical actors, and lasts approximately 60 minutes. www.ximenezfatiohouse.org/ILHAW   February 4: Militia Muster and Training at Fort Mose Historic State Park From 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. members of the Fort Mose Militia offer visitors the opportunity to participate in the children's militia training, using wooden toy muskets and authentic uniform accessories. www.floridastateparks.org/park/Fort-Mose   February 9-14: The Woman Behind Frederick Douglass: Anna Murray Douglass The Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center and the Women's Exchange of St. Augustine will host and celebrate Anna Murray Douglass, wife of Fredrick Douglass, during a week of interactive, educational, social and fun activities at the Cultural Center and at the historic Peña-Peck House.  The week will culminate with a celebration of Fredrick Douglass' birthday on the 14th and a commemoration of St. Augustine's many great thinkers and historic moments.   February 10 -19: Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series Over the course of two weekends, February 10-19, Fort Mose Historic State Park will host its second annual Jazz and Blues Series. This year's edition features some of America's most well-known and accomplished performers including the legendary Mavis Staples and Gladys Knight. The series consists of six unforgettable performances at the heart of Black History Month. Additional performers include Christian McBride's New Jawn, Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, Rhiannon Giddens and Valerie June. https://discoverfortmose.com   February 25: Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King Jr. The Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center presents the San Marco Chamber Music Society in a production of the children's book "Martin's Big Words: The Life of Martin Luther King, Jr." by Doreen Rappaport with an original score by composer Kevin Day. A quartet will perform the day composition and other arrangements during a multi-media presentation.   www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com

 

After a two-year travelling hiatus, tourists are ready to explore far and wide and thanks to Florida’s ever-expanding offering, it’s no wonder that more than one million British and Irish holidaymakers visited Florida between January and September last year.

 

In June 2023, the launch of the first-ever MICHELIN Guide in Florida was announced – an accolade only four other states have received. There’s also been increased airlift, billion-dollar developments transforming the state’s hotel and accommodation portfolio, ongoing efforts to highlight experiences suitable for those with accessibility needs through the VISIT FLORIDA Accessibility Hub and of course, plenty of exciting new activities and attractions.

  What to Expect in 2023…  

Brightline train on-track to bring passengers to Orlando in 2023

Expected Summer 2023 | Orlando extension

High-speed rail system, Brightline, which already has stops in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, is actively constructing a new rail line to bring passengers to Orlando. The service connecting South Florida to Central Florida is expected to open in early Summer of 2023. Additional plans are underway to expand the rail line to Tampa and the Gulf Coast.

 

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Serengeti Flyer – tallest and fastest ride of its kind!

Coming Spring 2023 | Busch Gardens | Tampa Bay

Serengeti Flyer will be the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, a screamin’ swing, upon opening in spring 2023. With each swing, riders will soar higher and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s expansive 65-acre Serengeti Plain while experiencing multiple negative-G moments before plunging back toward the Earth. Serengeti Flyer will feature twin duelling arms that soar progressively higher reaching speeds of 68 mph and a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride’s peak.

 

Florida’s second Mandarin Oriental property to open in Boca Raton

Coming early 2023 | Boca Raton, Palm Beaches

The 158-room hotel will be Mandarin Oriental’s second property in Florida and seventh in North America. All rooms and suites will be designed in a sophisticated and contemporary style, with exacting attention to detail that is reflective of the Group’s oriental heritage, complemented with golf course or downtown views. The hotel will feature two rooftop pools; fine dining restaurants and bars, including Mandarin Oriental’s signature MO Bar + Lounge, located on the rooftop with an outdoor terrace; and a Mandarin Oriental cake shop. Inspired by both ancient Asian and European traditions, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer holistic rejuvenation and relaxation, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness centre.

 

New Pirate-Themed Ride coming to LEGOLAND Florida 

Coming early 2023 | LEGOLAND Florida | Central Florida

A brand-new, swashbuckling quest awaits families visiting LEGOLAND® Florida Resort when the Pirate River Quest opens early 2023. Board a family-friendly boat ride to search for Captain Redbeard’s lost treasure through an all-new hilarious adventure. The quest to uncover the lost treasure unfolds brick by brick as families face a variety of exciting sequences built within lush gardens telling the tales of the rowdy LEGO® pirate crew. Riders will sail through the natural waterways while following the all-new story featuring the newest LEGO pirate friend, Calico Jade, and other exotic LEGO creatures, including a flamboyance of bright flamingos, a troop of mischievous monkeys and even a fearsome kraken.

 

SeaWorld Orlando, Pipeline: The Surf Coaster – the world’s first surf coaster

Coming Spring 2023 | SeaWorld Orlando | Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is excited to announce the opening of the theme park’s NEWEST roller coaster, “Pipeline: The Surf Coaster”, in the Spring of 2023. This attraction is the world’s first “Surf Coaster”. Riders will feel the power of the ocean in a whole new way, making “Pipeline” every thrill-seeker’s newest obsession. “Pipeline” will take them on an unparalleled journey and will keep them coming back for more. Each rider will get the rush of cutting through waves as they race up to heights of 110-feet in the air and feel like they are about to wipe out when they go upside down on a wave curl along the 2,950-feet of track. “Pipeline” will send riders on a journey reaching max speeds of 60-miles-per-hour, with five different airtime moments and lasting a total of 1 minute and 50 seconds.

 

Moana Inspired Attraction Coming to EPCOT in 2023

Coming late 2023 | Orlando

Journey of Water, inspired by Moana will open in late 2023. Guests will take a self-guided stroll along an outdoor trail where they can play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again. Along the way, learning about the importance of water and discover its playful personality—just as Moana did on her heroic voyage. Journey of Water, will open within World Nature, the EPCOT neighbourhood dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty and balance of the natural world.

 

Luxury and Wellness at Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences 

Coming Early 2023 | Singer Island, Palm Beach

Spanning over seven beachfront acres of the Atlantic shoreline on Palm Beach County’s picturesque Singer Island, Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences is a new paradigm of mindful living for those pursuing the best in proactive wellness. Amrit’s team of personal wellness coaches will create individualized programs utilizing the resort’s 100,000 square feet of wellness amenities including: the Aayush Hydrothermal water therapy circuit, indoor/outdoor treatment rooms, an ocean-view demonstration kitchen and plant-centric restaurant, float tank, IV and sound and light therapies, acupuncture, curated skincare, body therapies from around the globe, an extensive hair and scalp rejuvenation program, an array of fitness classes and arguably the most sophisticated, spa-centred Ayurvedic and yoga program in the US. The property’s two new towers – aptly named Peace and Happiness – are home to a resort/residential mix of 155 wellness resort guest rooms and 182 condos.  

 

10,000-bedroom resort to open in Orlando

Coming Summer 2023 | Orlando

Evermore Orlando Resort will be a massive and all-encompassing 10,000-bedroom resort complex. The property is scheduled to open its first phase by the summer of 2023 with Conrad Orlando, following the injection of roughly $1.5 billion in upgrades that includes brand new vacation homes and villas on the 1,110-acre site bordering Walt Disney World.

 

Riverfront Esplanade to open in the heart of Daytona Beach

Coming 2023 | Daytona Beach

After a $30 million investment, spanning a mile of Intracoastal waterway, the Riverfront Esplanade is a premier gathering space and botanical garden in the heart of Daytona Beach. Composed of more than a mile of waterfront running trail with comfortable benches and swings overlooking the Halifax River.

 

Surf simulation hub, PerfectSwell Edgewater coming to New Smyrna Beach

Coming late 2023 | New Smyrna Beach

Construction planning has begun on surf simulator "PerfectSwell Edgewater", which is set to open in 2023. Surrounded by natural resources and wildlife corridors, PerfectSwell Edgewater will unite exciting high performance surf technology with the serene natural environment of Edgewater, featuring a world-class PerfectSwell Surf Pool, surf-inspired food and beverage, surf shop, surf training facility, clubhouse, meeting rooms, and cabana and day lounge areas. The development will include a 125-room hotel next to PerfectSwell Edgewater.

  In case you missed it in 2022…  

Virgin Atlantic opened new direct route from London Heathrow to Tampa

November 2022 | Tampa Bay

Virgin Atlantic continues its transatlantic expansion with a new direct route from London Heathrow to Tampa, launching 3rd November 2022, further cementing the airline’s commitment to its Florida heartland. The new year-round Florida service will initially fly four times a week before increasing to daily from 28th November, complementing the airline’s up to four daily flying to Orlando and double daily flying to Miami. 

 

Aer Lingus restarted direct flights from Dublin to Miami

October 2022 | Miami

As of 21 October, Aer Lingus has restarted direct flights to Miami for the first time in two and a half years. The route will operate three times weekly, as part of the airline’s winter schedule. Reinforcing Dublin as the natural European transatlantic gateway, Aer Lingus will offer connections from key UK and European airports to Miami via Dublin where travellers will experience the benefits of pre-clearing US immigration ahead of their long-haul flight.

 

The Arlo Wynwood Hotel is the first hotel to open in the cultural district of Wynwood

November 2022 | Miami

Arlo Hotels, an independent, experience-driven hotel brand with locations in Miami Beach and New York City’s Midtown, NoMad and SoHo neighborhoods, debuted the Arlo Wynwood this November. The property is the first hotel to open in Miami’s preeminent creative and cultural district, which is home to the largest concentration of street art in the world. With guest rooms starting at $239 per night, the all-new 217-room, nine-story hotel serves as the cultural hub for residents and visitors while offering savvy travellers prime access to the best of the region. Designed by Meyer Davis, an award-winning firm at the forefront of global, upscale commercial design, the property will offer a steady beat of programming, including daily yoga sessions, meditations and a weekly lineup of local guest DJs and live music activations.

 

Florida Children’s Museum is the greatest of its kind in the USA

November 2022 | Central Florida

The new Florida Children’s Museum opened on 4 November 2022 at Bonnet Springs Park. The 47,800 square feet space has six main galleries full of interactive exhibits that give children a taste of everything from agriculture to music and engineering. The new world-class museum promises to be one of the greatest of its kind in the United States. Spread over two floors there are amazing, fun interactive galleries for children of all ages and abilities where they will be able to learn, play and develop skills in the most enriching of environments. Admission is $15 per person, children under two go free. 

 

Luxury guest house, Victoria 1883, opens in New Smyrna Beach

October 2022 | New Smyrna Beach

Victoria 1883 is a brand-new luxury guesthouse and wedding venue, opened in October 2022. Located in a waterfront location overlooking the Indian River, Victoria 1883 has been beautifully crafted from a home built around 1883. The main house is the longest standing structure in the district. A chic bed and breakfast experience will be offered across seven elegant, individually themed rooms and suites, and come complete with gorgeous outdoor gardens, artful gathering spaces, a speakeasy, wedding venue and more.

 

Tampa welcomes its first 5-start hotel, the Tampa EDITION

September 2022 | Tampa Bay

The opening marks the debut of EDITION's 15th property worldwide, and Tampa's first-ever five-star hotel. The hotel joins other new developments and will usher in a new generation for this burgeoning destination as part of Water Street Tampa, a $3.5 billion urban development project transforming the city.

 

15 Florida restaurants awarded MICHELIN Stars

Launched June 2022 | Miami, Orlando, Tampa

The very first MICHELIN Guide Miami, Orlando and Tampa launched with 15 new MICHELIN-Starred restaurants—four One Star restaurants in Orlando, 10 One Star restaurants in Miami, and one Two Star restaurant in Miami. Read the guide to find out where to tuck into sushi, Korean barbecue, Colombian fare, and more, then start making your reservations. Click through to see all the new MICHELIN Guide restaurants in Florida, and including 29 new MICHELIN Bib Gourmands.

 

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium opened third land-based coral nursery

August 2022 | Florida Keys

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium’s third land-based Keys coral nursery has opened at Reefhouse Resort & Marina, expanding the Upper Keys’ resilience-focused coral restoration efforts. Mote – raising brain, star, and branching corals both onshore and offshore – outplants coral along the entirety of the Florida Keys reef tract. A separate Mote satellite land-based coral nursery is at Bud 'N Mary's Marina in Islamorada and public tours are available each Tuesday at 2 p.m. Reservations can be made at mote.org/Islamorada. At the Keys’ Mote Marine Laboratory base on Summerland Key, Mote offers public tours Tuesdays at 10 a.m. with reservations.

The ever-expanding choice of Florida attractions has been significantly expanded for 2023. There are lots of fresh new things to see, taste and experience in 2023. In June, the launch of the first-ever MICHELIN Guide in Florida was announced – an accolade only four other states have. There's also been increased airlift, billion-dollar developments new hotels and more. There are ongoing efforts to highlight experiences suitable for those with accessibility needs through the VISIT FLORIDA Accessibility Hub.   Brightline  to Orlando High-speed rail system, Brightline, which already has stops in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, is constructing a new rail line to bring passengers to Orlando. The service connecting South Florida to Central Florida is expected to open in early summer of 2023.   Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Serengeti Flyer  Serengeti Flyer will be the world's tallest and fastest ride of its kind, opening in spring 2023. With each swing, riders will soar higher and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's Serengeti Plain. Riders experience multiple negative-G moments before plunging back toward the ground. Serengeti Flyer will feature twin duelling arms that soar progressively higher reaching speeds of 68 mph.   New pirate-themed ride at LEGOLAND Florida  The brand-new, swashbuckling Pirate River Quest opens early 2023. Board a family-friendly boat ride to search for Captain Redbeard's lost treasure. Riders will sail through the natural waterways while following the all-new story featuring the newest LEGO pirate friend, Calico Jade.   SeaWorld Orlando, Pipeline: The Surf Coaster  "Pipeline: The Surf Coaster" opens this spring. Riders will feel the power of the ocean in a whole new way, making "Pipeline" a thrill-seeker's dream. Each rider will get the rush of cutting through waves as they race up to heights of 110-feet in the air. It sends riders on a journey reaching max speeds of 60-miles-per-hour.   Moana Inspired Attraction at EPCOT Journey of Water, inspired by Moana will open in late 2023. Guests will take a self-guided stroll along an outdoor trail where they can play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again..   Riverfront Esplanade to open in Daytona Beach After a $30 million investment, spanning a mile of Intracoastal waterway, the Riverfront Esplanade is a premier gathering space and botanical garden in the heart of Daytona Beach. It comprises more than a mile of waterfront running trail overlooking the Halifax River.   Surf simulation hub at New Smyrna Beach Construction planning has begun on surf simulator "PerfectSwell Edgewater", which is set to open in 2023. PerfectSwell Edgewater unites high performance surf technology with the natural environment of Edgewater, featuring a world-class PerfectSwell Surf Pool, surf-inspired food and a surf training facility. The development will include a 125-room hotel.

A Florida holiday in St. Augustine / Ponte Vedra are always special, especially during the Annual Nights of Lights Celebration,  Giving the gift of experiences is an ideal way to share this immersive place now and all year round. Here are some great Florida holiday experience options;   Tickets to great events! Tickets are now on sale for the St. Augustine Food + Wine Festival, recently named "One of Florida's Top 10 Food & Wine Festivals" by USA Today, May 3-7, 2023.  And tickets for the most fan friendly golf tournament in the world, The PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass taking place March 7-12, 2023, are now on sale. The gift of music. Share the gifts of great performers like Parker McCollum, The Avett Brothers, Joe Bonamassa, Styx, Planet Band Camp featuring Falling in Revers, and Mavis Staples. Tickets to great performances at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, as well as performance at the Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series in February are on sale. Vernardo's Circus will be performing in St. Augustine through January 1. This exciting show wraps world-class circus acts into a Broadway musical-style format. Give the movie lover in your life the All Access or All Film Pass to the January 12-15, 2023, 13^th Annual St. Augustine Film Festival.   The attractions and activities found on Florida's Historic Coast provide memorable experiences for all the family. What could be more exciting than ziplining over alligators at St. Augustine Alligator Farm's Crocodile Crossing, or visiting one of the other exciting programs like Galapagos tortoises or a Rainforest Animal Encounter with Hoffman's Two-toed Sloths. Give the gift of experiencing St. Augustine with a digital Tour Pass for sightseeing tours, ghost tours, admission to historic attractions and more. Unique water experiences: Send them out on a guided kayak tour with Ripple Effect Eco Tours to experience the local waterways and native wildlife like birds, fish and dolphins. Share the first-hand experience of a dolphin's habitat at Marineland Dolphin Adventure through a variety of interactive and in-water programs. Send them on an exciting bioluminescence paddle on Guana Lake with GeoTrippin. This other worldly natural phenomenon experience is available throughout the year. A real gift of adventure on the water is opportunity is to become certified sailors with the American Sailing Association through St. Augustine Sailing.  Affordable Basic Keelboat, Coastal Cruising and Bareboat Cruising sessions are available.   There are even more ways to share a getaway to Florida's Historic Coast. Visit www.floridashistoriccoast.com/places-to-stay/deals/ .