St. Pete/Clearwater is home to a jubilant, loud and proud LGBTQ+ population. They come together throughout the month of June to celebrate the area’s queer history. St Pete Pride is the largest festival of its kind in the state, and one of the biggest in the US, with over 300,000 attendees at the street parade alone last year. Nicole Berman, Executive Director of St Pete Pride explains: “"As we gear up for St Pete Pride 2024, I'm filled with immense pride and excitement for what lies ahead. St Pete Pride isn't just an event; it's a beacon of hope, representation, and celebration “. “In 2024, we're setting the bar even higher, ensuring that every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.   St Pete Pride Parade, presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - 22 June, Downtown St. Pete The 2024 parade is set to be the biggest yet. Starting at 2pm in North and South Straub Parks, the St Pete Pride Parade Day Festival, presented by CAN Community Health, features local vendors, food trucks, community partners, two entertainment stages, family area, and more.   Events all month 2024 St. Pete Pride Friday Night Concert with Sasha Colby – 21 June 2024, Jannus Live Officially opening Pride festival weekend, Jannus Live is the party of all parties. An event brimming with top LGBTQIA+ talent, dance floor tunes, and cocktails with special guest, Sasha Colby. Winner of Ru Paul’s Drag Race Season 15, Sasha is a world-renowned performer, trans activist, actress and dance.   Pride Kick-Off, presented by COCKtail – 1 June 2024, Grand Central District, Downtown St. Pete Grand Central District, in downtown St. Pete, is host to the ‘Pride Kick Off Party’ setting off the month-long festival. Expect DJ’s, live entertainment, craft beer, cocktails and more.   Youth and Family Day – 8 June 2024, North Straub Park, St. Pete All members of the family are encouraged to get involved in Pride. A dedicated LGBTQ+ ‘Youth & Family Day’ on Saturday 8 June has been specially crafted for young queer individuals to feel accepted and learn more about the community they are a part of. Queer visibility for all ages is a cornerstone of St. Pete Pride.   Transtastic Celebration, presented by Love The Golden Rule, Inc. - June 28, The Museum of Fine Arts Pride is about more than just partying in St. Pete, with evenings such as the ‘Transtastic Celebration’ dedicated to hosting an intimate space to hear and amplify the voices of St. Pete’s trans and non-binary community. This event is an important pillar of Pride month that goes hand in hand with the Trans March that leads the St. Pete Pride Parade on 22 June 2024.   Shades of Pride, presented by Metro Inclusive Health – LGBTQIA+ Juneteenth Art & Music Festival – 14-15 June 2024 This two-day celebration where a ballroom ‘Honours Ball’ meets slam poetry is a stand-out. Throughout you can expect the ‘Pride Power and Passion Party’, and full introduction to ballroom culture with the legendary Kevin Prodigy! Followed by ‘Shade Vs Pride Slam Poetry’ hosted by Novacane, this is a full immersion into a key facet of LGBTQ+ culture.   Where to eat and drink LGBTQ+ bars, restaurants, and nightclubs can all be found in the local area, from the renowned pop-up lesbian bar series ‘LickHer’ by Rachel Covello, to the uber-up beat ‘COCKtail’ at the Mari Jean, both great spots before partying at ‘WetSpot’. Also a must is ‘The Saint’, a Catholic style bar where you can confess your sins for a cocktail.   Where to stay Stays for Pride can be amped up at the ever-popular adults-only Mari Jean, where party-going LGBTQ+ travellers can stay and enjoy evening parties around the pool before the onsite nightclub. Alternatively, for a more relaxing beach-experience, The Saint Hotel is only moments from St. Pete Beach.   Where to beach After a day of celebrating in downtown St. Pete, kick back and relax on Sunset Beach and Pass-A-Grille. Friendly and welcoming, these beaches are known for their laid-back atmosphere and beach bars that open up onto the waterfront, providing a relaxing yet fun atmosphere perfect for watching the sunset.   For more about St. Pete Pride, visit: www.stpetepride.org  

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  At IPW 24, Dana Young, the driving force behind Visit Florida, delves into the significant uptick in UK tourism to the Sunshine State. Recent statistics for March 2024 reveal a remarkable 12% surge in visitors from the UK, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Young credits this growth to targeted marketing campaigns highlighting Florida's diverse attractions. Beyond its renowned beaches and theme parks, she emphasizes the state's rich array of experiences. Looking ahead, Young explores Florida's pivotal role in upcoming global events like the FIFA World Cup and the Cricket World Cup, envisioning them as drivers for further tourism growth. With strategic foresight, Young underscores Florida's enduring appeal as a premier destination.  

Visitation to the Sunshine State continued to grow in 2023. Following the Florida Huddle 2024 gathering in Miami, VISIT FLORIDA announced 135 million visitors last year, leading 2019 tourism levels by 3%. Overseas visitation in Q4 2023 is estimated at 2.3 million, which is an increase of nearly 16% from a year ago. Canadian visitation is estimated at 1.1 million in Q4 2023, up +22%. Florida saw significant growth in both general overseas and Canadian visitation, with an 18.3% increase in overseas visitors and a 45.5% rise in Canadian travelers compared to 2022. This performance is noteworthy considering the inflation and rising travel costs faced by travelers. Calendar Year 2023 saw a 9% increase in enplanements, with Q4 showing a significant increase in Fort Myers (+32.4%). The Lee County Visitor and Convention Bureau reports that 76% of hotel rooms have reopened, and that in Q4 2023 visitation was up by 65.8%. Showing a 26.2% increase in direct spending, it reflects the area’s recovery from Hurricane Ian. "Even as we faced the challenges of rising travel costs and widespread inflation, Florida's tourism sector not only persevered but flourished," said Dana Young, President & CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. "From record air travel numbers to the significant return of international visitors, Florida continues to shine." Overall, there were 8.3 million overseas visitors (6.2%), and 3.8 million Canadian visitors (2.8%) during 2023. The estimated 122.9 million domestic visitors is up nearly 5% on 2019 levels.   

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  As it wrapped up the 2024 edition in Miami, VISIT FLORIDA announced next year’s Florida Huddle and Encounter for the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. It takes place from February 3-5, 2025. Florida Huddle is the Sunshine State’s official travel trade show, which highlights the best of Florida to international and domestic tour operators, wholesalers and media. It comprises one-on-one business appointments, educational sessions, and networking opportunities. Florida based partners that typically attend are CVBs, hotels, resorts, attractions and theme parks. Florida Encounter, one of the longest running appointment trade shows in the MICE industry, will take place in conjunction with Florida Huddle 2025. Encounter features appointments between fully hosted, qualified planners with proven business for Florida and Florida suppliers. VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO Dana Young said, “Florida Huddle and Encounter provide invaluable opportunities to unlock business potential for the Sunshine State’s destinations, hotels, resorts, and attractions.” "Next year, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase the diverse offerings of the Ocala area to key travel professionals.” Marion County Tourism Development Director Loretta Shaffer said, "Ocala/Marion County is beyond excited to be hosting Florida Huddle and Encounter in 2025.” “We look forward to showcasing Ocala/Marion County to the hundreds of travel experts who will be in attendance.” 

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VISIT FLORIDA has unveiled Jimmy's Taste of Florida - a new five-part food travelogue series with TV presenter and farmer, Jimmy Doherty, that will air in the UK starting next week. The series will air on ITV from February 12-16 at 14:00. In classic food travelogue style, Doherty cooks and eats his way around some of Florida's top destinations and landscapes. Highlights include sharing food stories with an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, racing the fastest oyster shucker in the US in Panama City Beach, and zipping through the Everglades on an airboat. He explores Florida's culinary scene and its influences from Southern, Creole, Caribbean, Hispanic and European cuisines. He serves up dishes from kitchens in Pensacola and Orlando as well as at campfires in New Smyrna Beach. In all, Doherty visits 10 Florida locations, covering favourites, such as Miami, Tampa, Universal Orlando, plus lesser-known areas including Anna Maria Island and St. Petersburg. "I love the US but didn't know Florida well, so I jumped at the chance to explore a favourite holiday destination for Brits,” Doherty said. “Florida has a great food story to tell. I'm a cook rather than a chef, so I was on the lookout for simple, accessible, easy dishes that anyone can have a go at." Itineraries following Jimmy’s footsteps:   EPISODE 1 – Pensacola and Panama City Beach Fly from London Heathrow on September 24, 2024, with three nights at the Hilton Pensacola Beach and three nights at the Hyatt Place, Panama City Beach. This package costs from £1,699pp based on two adults and includes flights (indirect with Delta Air Lines), room-only accommodation, and fully inclusive car hire. Trailfinders.com   EPISODE 2 – Kennedy Space Centre & New Smyrna Beach From London Heathrow to Orlando on May 20, 2024, staying three nights at the Courtyard by Marriott Titusville (for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex) and four nights at the Best Western New Smyrna Beach Hotel & Suites. This package costs from £839pp, based on a family of four (two adults/two children), and includes flights (Delta Air Lines) and room-only accommodation. www.ocean-holidays.co.uk   EPISODE 3 – St. Pete/Clearwater and Tampa Bay Fly from London Heathrow on May 6, 2024, with seven nights at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort, Clearwater Beach, and two nights at The Current Hotel Autograph Collection, in Tampa Bay. Package priced from £985pp, based on a family of four (two adults/two children) and includes return flights (Virgin Atlantic) and room-only accommodation. Travelplanners.co.uk   EPISODE 4 – Westgate River Ranch and Anna Maria Island London Heathrow to Orlando in mid-September (flexible departure dates) with three nights room-only at the Westgate River Ranch, Central Florida, and four nights bed & breakfast at the Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort on Anna Maria Island. This package costs from £1,245pp based on two adults and includes return flights (Virgin Atlantic), accommodation and seven days fully-inclusive car hire. Americaasyoulikeit.com   EPISODE 5 – Orlando (Universal) and Miami Fly from London Heathrow to Orlando and stay 10 nights at Universal's Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, and four nights at Ocean Five Hotel in Miami. This package costs from £1,170pp based on a family of four (two adults/two children) and includes return flights (Virgin Atlantic), room-only accommodation, Universal 3-Park Explorer tickets for four people, and one day car hire (between Orlando and Miami). VirginHolidays.co.uk 

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Escape the winter chill on more than 30 miles of pristine, soft white sandy Florida beaches. Florida's Paradise Coast - Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades - is the ultimate winter destination for a laid-back beach vibe. With top end luxury resorts and secluded stretches of coastline to explore, here are five of the best beach experiences in Florida's Paradise Coast.     Beach yoga class  These Florida beaches offer plenty of opportunities to practice yoga surrounded by inspiring scenery outdoors all year round. In Naples, Donation Yoga Naples offers an all-levels vinyasa flow class every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for a suggested donation of $20, with half of all proceeds donated to a local non-profit organisation. In Marco Island, JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort has morning beach yoga sessions on Palm's Beach, open to every ability from beginner to advanced.   Sip cocktails by the sea Well located with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, the Kane Tiki Bar & Grill at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is a great stop for a sundowner and Polynesian cuisine. Named after Kane, the Polynesian god of creation and growth, the bar is fully open-air, featuring a large thatched roof covering a giant rum bar. Catch the nightly sunset celebration and fire dance performance on the beach right by the bar. Alternatively, the hotel's Tersoro Terrace offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, with coastal Mediterranean cuisine and crafted cocktails.   Watch the sun set over the Gulf Most evenings on Florida's Paradise Coast, the sky comes to life with intense pinks, blues, oranges and purples as the sun sets. Those lucky enough might catch the elusive "green flash", a rare twilight phenomenon which offers a fleeting burst of vivid green just as the sun disappears beneath the horizon. There are many top sunset spots along the coast, or join one of the many sunset boat cruises that sail nightly from both Naples and Marco Island.   Stroll the scenic coastline The soft sandy beaches of Florida's Paradise Coast are perfect for a stroll. Vanderbilt Beach in North Naples is great for shelling and paddle boarding, whilst Naples Beach, a 10-mile stretch of beach, is the perfect place to relax. Perfect for wildlife spotting, Tigertail Beach Park in Marco Island is one of the world's most important habitats for wintering and nesting shorebirds. On one side, visitors can relax at the developed beach area with watersports equipment, or head across the lagoon to the wild, untamed area.   The newly transformed oceanfront Ritz-Carlton, Naples The Ritz-Carlton, Naples recently reopened with a comprehensive transformation. Remodelled to evoke a new sense of glamour, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples features a new Lobby Bar, an expansive Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge unlike any other, three new dining outlets, and a redesigned pool experience. There are 92 newly designed guest rooms. This luxury property offers a spa, golf, top class dining and is located steps away from the beach. For more information, visit ParadiseCoast.com

  Kelly Clarke from Bradenton Area CVB discusses Bradenton's appeal. Geographically central in Florida, it features Anna Maria Island's pristine beaches and unique downtown charm. Renowned for "Floribbean" cuisine, emphasizing seafood with a citrusy twist, the region boasts excellent restaurants. Bradenton prioritizes community engagement, promoting responsible and sustainable tourism through the "Love it Like a Local" campaign. Despite pandemic challenges, 2023 has seen steady visitor growth, particularly from international travelers. Looking ahead, Bradenton anticipates a strong 2024 and 2025, positioning Anna Maria Island as a sought-after destination with significant booking potential.  

  Florida has been buzzing with excitement in 2023, capturing the attention of locals and visitors alike. From the arrival of the highly anticipated Brightline Orlando extension, to the second iteration of the MICHELIN guide, this year has been a whirlwind of fresh experiences.   But, as we approach 2024, the Sunshine State is gearing up for an equally exhilarating year, promising plenty of thrilling new additions to its diverse landscape. With an array of new attractions, hotels and restaurants – these latest updates will undoubtedly further solidify Florida’s reputation as a top destination for UK and Irish travellers.  

Attractions

  Messi Experience – Miami Spring 2024 The Messi Experience is scheduled to debut in April 2024, commencing its global tour in Miami. This captivating attraction will immerse visitors in an exhilarating adventure, allowing them to discover the extraordinary life of Lionel Messi through interactive activities. Guests will have the opportunity to delve into the remarkable journey of Messi's transformation from childhood to legendary status. Penguin Trek, SeaWorld – Orlando Spring 2024 In Spring 2024, SeaWorld will introduce “Penguin Trek,” its highly anticipated eighth coaster. This family-friendly launch coaster offers a unique snowmobile-inspired ride car, taking riders on an exciting journey through Antarctica as part of a penguin research mission. With two thrilling launches and a twisty track spanning both indoor and outdoor sections, the coaster reaches speeds of up to 43 miles per hour along its 3,020-foot path. What makes this ride exceptional is its grand finale…instead of a simulated penguin area, guests will find themselves in the actual heart of SeaWorld Orlando’s penguin habitat. Phoenix Rising Busch Gardens - Tampa Bay Spring 2024 Anticipate an electrifying spectacle in Tampa Bay as Busch Gardens unveils "Phoenix Rising," its latest roller coaster creation and a significant addition to the Pantopia area. Created by Bolliger & Mabillard, this family-friendly suspended roller coaster achieves speeds of up to 44 miles per hour along its 1,831-foot course. Stewart Clark, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's President, explains, "This new attraction reinforces our commitment to providing guests with new, immersive, and one-of-a-kind experiences within our comprehensive coaster collection." DreamWorks Animation, Universal Orlando Resort - Orlando 2024 Universal Orlando Resort is set to unveil an enchanting new world dedicated to the cherished characters of DreamWorks Animation, encompassing beloved figures from iconic franchises such as Trolls, Shrek, and Kung Fu Panda. This exciting addition reaffirms Universal's dedication to captivating storytelling and creating immersive environments for visitors of all ages. With its vibrant colours, immersive sights, and captivating sounds, guests will be transported into a realm of limitless imagination. Aimed at families with young children, this park will be a captivating haven, boasting no less than four distinct themed lands, each brimming with attractions and entertainment inspired by Universal's beloved tales and characters. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Walt Disney World – Orlando Late 2024 Announcing "Tiana's Bayou Adventure," an immersive journey that will transport visitors deep into the enchanting realm of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Princess and the Frog." This magical experience is slated to grace Magic Kingdom in Florida by late 2024. Through extensive explorations of the French Market and the captivating bayou, as well as consultations with accomplished academics, chefs, musicians, and cultural authorities, Imagineers have drawn inspiration from the entire region and gleaned invaluable insights from local experts throughout this creative odyssey. The Project Center– Florida Keys Early 2024 The Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder (DPMMR) rescue team is diligently crafting the "Protect Centre Whale & Dolphin Hospital," poised to become South Florida's sole operational and instructional veterinary hospital dedicated to the care of injured whales, bottlenose dolphins, and various marine mammals. This innovative establishment will encompass a spacious 40-foot-diameter pool for extended marine mammal rehabilitation, an enlightening classroom for educational purposes, and an engaging 3,000-square-foot museum centred around marine wildlife conservation themes. The eagerly anticipated opening is scheduled for early 2024. Popstroke - Palm Beaches 2024 An extraordinary mini-golf experience backed by Tiger Woods, introduces three state-of-the-art locations in Delray Beach (2023), West Palm Beach (2024), and Wellington (2024), featuring synthetic turf putting courses with fairways and bunkers akin to traditional golf courses. Daytona Aquarium and RainForest Adventure - Daytona Beach Early 2024 Daytona Beach is set to welcome the Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure in early 2024. This groundbreaking aquarium will provide an engaging, educational experience featuring creatures from both land and sea. Located at the heart of Daytona Beach, on the corner of International Speedway Blvd. and Nova Road, this 55,000-square foot facility boasts nearly 40 separate tanks, including a massive 110,000-gallon shark tank and a 12,000-gallon stingray touch pool. Visitors can explore habitats for alligators, crocodiles, frogs, snakes, and even an indoor rainforest filled with lush vegetation, sloths, armadillos, and various bird species. Hotels, Resort, RV Parks EVEN Hotel - Miami Summer 2024 Set to make its debut in summer 2024 in Greater Miami and Miami, EVEN Hotel will feature 125 rooms designed with a strong focus on traveller wellness. This innovative establishment aims to encourage fitness among its guests, offering three room categories equipped with exercise amenities such as Peloton bikes and yoga mats. Additionally, visitors can savour a selection of health-conscious meals and beverages from the EVEN Kitchen & Bar restaurant. Bulgari Hotel Miami Beach - Miami 2024 The upcoming Bulgari Hotel Miami Beach is poised to become the inaugural Bulgari Hotel in the United States. Nestled in the vicinity of the renowned Miami Art Deco district, this lavish hotel will provide approximately 100 rooms, predominantly luxurious suites. Guests can indulge in the opulence of spectacular ocean vistas and enjoy a range of upscale amenities, encompassing a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a rejuvenating spa, a serene outdoor swimming pool, and a Bulgari restaurant and bar. Conrad - Orlando 2024 The grand opening of Conrad Orlando at Evermore is set to unveil 433 rooms, consisting of 51 exquisitely crafted suites and 10 generous family suites, providing expansive, homely comfort. This luxurious establishment also boasts 40,000 square feet of indoor meeting facilities, a serene spa, and an array of dining choices, including a spectacular rooftop dining experience. Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront – Palm Beaches January – 2024 Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Palm Beaches Resort is set to redefine luxury, re-emerging in January 2024 as "The Singer Oceanfront Resort," complete with rejuvenated guestrooms, innovative dining concepts, enhanced meeting spaces, and a picturesque beachfront bar. The Renaissance by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront – Daytona Beach January - 2024 The Renaissance by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront, opening in 2024 on 640 North Atlantic Avenue, offers contemporary hotel accommodations with private balconies, a high-end seafood restaurant, cutting-edge design, a multi-floor parking garage with valet services, an infinity pool, an oceanfront ballroom with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, and outdoor event spaces.  

Restaurants

  Gordon Ramsay: Hell’s Kitchen and Lucky Cat - Miami Early 2024 Gordon Ramsay is about to make a culinary splash with the upcoming openings of Hell's Kitchen and Lucky Cat this autumn and early 2024. Hell's Kitchen, the seventh of its kind, will take residence at 300 SE 3rd Street, bringing the renowned fine dining concept to downtown Miami, adjacent to Silverspot Cinema. Meanwhile, Lucky Cat Miami will transport you to the vibrant atmosphere of 1930s Tokyo drinking dens with its Asian-inspired dining experience and late-night lounge. Hell's Kitchen, based on the famous reality TV show, is set to be the first to open its doors this autumn, joining its sister locations in Atlantic City, Las Vegas, Southern California, Lake Tahoe, Washington D.C., and Foxwoods. Lucky Cat, an equally exciting concept, will make its debut in early 2024. Ash - Tampa Spring 2024 Ash is all set to tantalize taste buds with Italian-inspired cuisine, boasting a generous outdoor patio for diners to relish. This full-service restaurant, brought to you by Proper House Group and Chef Ferrell Alvarez, marks their third culinary venture in the neighbourhood, joining the ranks of Gallito Taqueria and Dang Dude at Sparkman Wharf. RosaNegra - Miami Spring 2024 Miami's gastronomic scene is in for a treat with the arrival of RosaNegra, masterminded by real estate visionary Robert Rivani, President of Black Lion. Slated to open in Spring 2024, this marks RosaNegra's sixth location worldwide and its flagship in the United States. Celebrating Latin American cuisine and culture, this extraordinary restaurant combines gourmet dining with top-tier entertainment and personalized service. Set in a sprawling 13,634-square-foot space at SLS Brickell on South Miami Avenue, RosaNegra promises to be an epicurean haven at the heart of the city. Plaza de Coco,Onboard the Disney Treasure – Orlando 2024 Immerse yourself in the world of Disney and Pixar's "Coco" with the world's first theatrical dining experience inspired by the beloved film. Miguel and his familia will continue their story, taking guests on vibrant, music-filled journeys at Mariachi Plaza. Enjoy festive dinner menus featuring modern twists on traditional Mexican fare and live entertainment on two unforgettable nights. Tutto Mare - Palm Beaches 2024 Mediterranean concept by the Tutto il Giorno restaurant group that will open at The Royal Poinciana Plaza as Palm Beach’s first and only intracoastal waterfront destination. Billy’s Tap Room - Daytona Beach 2024 Billy's Tap Room, located on the beachside along Granada Blvd., is preparing for a grand reopening in 2024. With a rich history dating back to 1922, this iconic restaurant of Ormond Beach is under new ownership and is set to return with a fresh atmosphere while retaining its historic charm. The menu will feature a delightful selection of seafood and steaks, complemented by beer and wine on tap and live entertainment.  

Transportation

    The Disney Treasure – Orlando December 2024 Disney Cruise Line is thrilled to introduce the Disney Treasure, the latest addition to their fleet, set to embark on its maiden voyage from Port Canaveral, Florida on December 21, 2024. This enchanting vessel, a sibling to the Disney Wish, promises to unlock the boundless realms of Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel, delivering unforgettable experiences inspired by beloved Disney Parks attractions. Guests can expect immersive adventures on the high seas, all in tribute to Walt Disney's legendary passion for exploration. With design concepts celebrating beloved Disney characters and inspired by memorable tales like "Aladdin," "Coco," and "Zootopia," the Disney Treasure is an adventure-themed dream come true. Anniversaries, celebrations and events Florida Manatee Festival - Crystal River January 2024 Situated in the renowned “Manatee Capital of the World,” the Florida Manatee Festival is a yearly celebration taking place each January in the picturesque heart of Crystal River. This event features two days (13-14^th January) of live performances, exclusive discounts on guided manatee boat and kayak tours in Kings Bay, engaging children’s activities, and a bustling marketplace with hundreds of vendors showcasing their products. Island Hopper Songwriter Festival – Fort Myers September 2024 Relax and unwind at the annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest. This 10-day festival, held in September, is a delightful blend of music and enjoyment, spread across various coastal areas. In 2023, they added a fourth location, Cape Coral, to the usual three venues: Fort Myers Beach, Captiva, and Downtown Fort Myers. The festival featured over 60 songwriters, including the UK's 'Next of Kin' brothers, Kieran, Nate, and Mark Bass, hailing from Essex County. If you're looking for a laid-back, beachside music event in 2024, Island Hopper is the place to be.  

In case you missed it…

  Mello on the Beach - Anna Maria Island July 2023 Mainsail Lodging and Development proudly announced the grand debut of Mello on the Beach, a contemporary, brand-new beachside haven located on Anna-Maria Island along the picturesque Gulf Coast of Florida. Positioned directly on the island’s Manatee Beach, this retreat offers an array of 11 vacation units, thoughtfully adorned in a palette inspired by the vibrant colours of the sun, sea, and sunset. Infused with a delightful retro ambience, this secluded getaway, steps away from the sandy shoreline, is an ideal choice for beach enthusiasts, families, couples and solo travellers alike. Brightline service - Orlando September 2023 Throughout 2023, travellers have eagerly awaited the long-anticipated launch of Brightline’s services at Orlando Station, conveniently situated within the Orlando International Airport. The station serves as a vital connection point, uniting millions of travellers and enhancing statewide accessibility through its Orlando to Miami route. Brightline Orlando successfully commenced operations on 22^nd September. Margaritaville - Fort Myers Beach December 2023 In the wake of Hurricane Ian, the much-anticipated Margaritaville Resort Fort Myers Beach is gearing up for its grand unveiling this coming December. Offering a unique blend of relaxed opulence infused with a Caribbean influence, Fort Myers Beach visitors will discover pristine shorelines, the vibrant Fins Up! Beach Club, the indulgent St. Somewhere Spa with an array of treatments, and a selection of six dining establishments. The property will encompass 254 guest rooms and suites, seamlessly fusing coastal-inspired design with considerate amenities.

  Brian Lowack, who was born and raised in the St. Pete/Clearwater area, discusses the close relationship between tourism and the local community, highlighting how tourism is the area's primary economic driver. He mentions a campaign called "From Visitors with Love" that aims to showcase the benefits of tourism to residents. Brian and a delegation are attending the World Travel Market to promote the region globally and forge connections within the tourism industry. The St. Pete/Clearwater area's accessibility, stunning white sand beaches, and fresh seafood are also emphasized in the interview.  

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.