ABSOLUTELY FLORIDA
CONTENTS
THE TABLE OF CONTENTS OF OUR 3,000 PAGE SITE - OFFERING FREE ACCESS TO VALUABLE FLORIDA INFORMATION SINCE 1996

FRONT PAGE

Featuring:

FLORIDA'S PELICANS
A hundred years ago, Florida's pelicans were in big trouble. Their highly prized plume feathers became more valuable than gold, used for adorning hats. In 1901, alarmed conservationists led a campaign to protect these and other waterbirds from market hunters. Learn how this battle resulted in the start of our National Wildlife Refuge System.

Previously in Absolutely Florida:
FLORIDA'S KEY DEER

Hardy survivors since the Ice Age, the lives of these tough little Floridians are in peril because of us . . . Learn what you can do to keep these unique creatures alive, and where you can see them.

FLORIDA HOSPITALS
A hospital stay or a procedure at a medical center is almost unavoidable. Use this guide to find the nearest medical facility, plus a roundup of the most special Florida hospitals.


Rainy Day Florida Fun
When it pours in the Sunshine State - why not soak up some culture. A roundup of our favorite art, historical and special interest museums.


FLORIDA DAY SPAS
A Day at the SPAAAAAHH!: Where to get smoothed, waxed, polished, pampered relaxed, refreshed & renewed in the Sunshine State - with interactive map and plenty of listings & links


CENTRAL FLORIDA VACATIONS FIT FOR A KING
BUT WITHOUT THE RANSOM! A family vacation to the Orlando area attractions needn't be costly - read our useful tips on saving money while having a grand time. Links to deeply discounted Disney area hotels and lots of listings of the nearby attractions.


ABSOLUTELY HAPPENING NIGHTLIFE
Where to party in South Florida -- the hippest, coolest hot spots, from Palm Beach to Key West. Reviews of the best clubs (surprise - they're in South Beach)...plus complete listings of jazz clubs, live music venues, cozy neighborhood bars, gay bars, and more.

BIRDS IN PARADISE
How to make your Florida garden sing by placing the right plants, plus other tips on attracting songbirds.

FLORIDA'S BLACK HISTORY
February is Black History Month, when the nation remembers and celebrates the contributions of its African-American citizens. Blacks have been part of the Sunshine State since the peninsula was a swampy, mosquito-infested outpost of the Spanish Crown. Absolutely Florida cerebrates and salutes them.

ABSOLUTELY HAPPENING IN 2002
South Florida is a portrait of class in January with brilliant shows featuring internationally renowned artists.
Art Miami 2002 presents works from over 100 galleries from 24 countries, while other new galleries are also
finding their place in the Sunshine State
.

GULF COUNTY
Old fashioned fun in Florida's Panhandle, very much away from it all.

FLORIDA'S COUNTIES
Interactive map of the Sunshine State's counties, with links to city and county profiles and thousands of resources for the visitor or Florida resident.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE
BUYING A COMPUTER? BEWARE OF FAKE WARRANTIES - YOU MAY BE THE NEXT CODE RED!

THE WHEEL DEALS
Ways to go - Where to find the easiest transport services: limos, bus shuttles, car rentals, bicycles & more.

THE WATERCOLOR WORLD OF SOUTH WALTON COUNTY
Paint yourself into the picture postcard area of 13 beachside communities along the Gulf of the Sunshine State's Panhandle.

FLORIDA ON FILM
From Miami to Micanopy, Florida stars in commercials, music videos, movies and TV shows. Find out which productions have been shot here, how you can become an extra, and where the cinemas are.

FLORIDA FOR REEL
Did you know you can have stars right under your own roof? Register your home in Florida's Official Film Location registry, Florida For Reel.

GAY TRAVEL ISSUE
Florida's balmy breezes has long attracted a large gay population - find out the places to stay and play with our listings of gay-friendly hotels, inns and guesthouses, plus nightclubs and restaurants, and useful links to resources statewide.

HAVANA, FLORIDA IS SMOKING AGAIN
This historic little town a few miles north of Tallahassee is known as "North Florida's Arts and Antiques Capital." Havana is a haven for shoppers and art lovers who are tired of malls and big chain stores.

Portrait of Clyde Butcher
Famed Florida photographer Clyde Butcher is a master at capturing nature's whimsy and drama.
A portrait of this inspired and inspiring artist.

Florida's Fires
The 2001 Fire Season turned out to be a real scorcher. Find out why and where, plus tips on driving in smoky conditions.

Florida Deep Sea Fishing
What to expect on the other end of your line, plus a comprehensive list of deep sea fishing guides throughout the Sunshine State.

Florida's Flora

Named the "Land of Flowers" by Ponce de Leon in 1513, Florida's gorgeous flowers and plants are still world renowned. Learn which dazzling varieties of exotic fruits, wildflowers and trees you may encounter here

PARCHED!
Search the tourist-postcard blue sky for signs of a cloud. You won't find one. It's dry out there. But exactly how dry is it? And why?

Free vacations can cost you plenty
Beware of phone calls and emails declaring you've won a free trip - you will get what you pay for and possibly much worse!! Find out how the scam works....

Florida Message Board
Check in with us at the Florida Message Board, find specific information, share your ideas, make plans & more.

Orlando Done Differently
Offering so much more to enjoy than Mickey, Shamu and Indiana Jones, Orlando's World class cultural scene is thriving

ARTIGRAS in Jupiter
The Palm Beach area's largest art festival has found a new home at the Abacoa Town Center in Jupiter, attracting more than 350 fine artists and artisans. Join the more than 150,000 other art lovers who are expected to turn out on February 17, 18 and 19.

FAMILY FRIENDLY TO THE MAX
KidSuites at the Holiday Inn Family Suites in Lake Buena Vista gives young visitors their own space.

2001 Florida Spring Training Schedule
Twenty Major League Baseball teams play their exhibition games in Florida during Spring Training. Click for team schedules, stadium directions, ticket info, nearby lodging and more.

Temptation at the Miami Boat Show
Think you're ready to make that big purchase? Don't go overboard while making such an important decision. Tips on going full steam ahead cautiously

2001 EVENTS CALENDAR
Statewide compilation of listings for Florida festivals, concerts, conventions, shuttle launches, art shows, performances and much more! Use our Interactive Map to locate the city and plan your schedule.

NOSE-TO-NOSE WITH THE MANATEES
Every year between October and May, West Indian manatees winter in the warmer waters of the Sunshine State. Snorkelers, divers and swimmers come from all over the world for a chance to swim or interact with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.

FLORIDA'S EXCLUSIVE REAL ESTATE
Looking for true luxury living? Consult our list of top-notch Realtors.

FLORIDA'S MAJOR MALLS AND SHOPPING CENTERS
It's that time of year! Check our interactive map or search our database for the mall nearest you.

BOCA RATON
This exclusive town on Florida's Southeast coast glitters with the Mizner touch.

BUSCH GARDENS ADVENTURE
For a one of a kind family experience, this venerable adventure park not only offers a slice of the African Wild, but some of the best roller coasters on earth.

TRIVIAL FLORIDA
Impress your friends with Florida stuff & nonsense

ALL-SEEING 4-LEGGED GRADUATES

The Hard Working K-9s of Palmetto, Florida

WACKY PANHANDLE
There are plenty of exits off the beaten path in Northwest Florida - drive through funeral homes, wildlife chapels & more



THE MYSTERIOUS CORAL CASTLE
Considered by some to be a place of power, this extraordinary "kingdom" of coral carvings near Homestead Florida was created single-handedly by a 97 lb. man as a monument to his unrequited love.

:Hail CeSar!
The 4-star Don CeSar Resort - called simply "the Don" by those in the know - looks like something out of a fairy tale: a big, ornate, candy-pink castle that rises from the sugary sands of St. Pete Beach.
:
MARCO ISLAND
Rising out of the Ten Thousand Islands in Southwest Florida, this outpost of civilization makes a perfect place to stay while exploring the Everglades -- as well as a beautiful weekend getaway for lovers, golfers, families, and conventioneers.


:AIRPORT ADVENTURES
Is your plane on time? No delays between flights? Too bad! There's more to do in some of Florida airports than look at your watch - check out our story on neat things to do in Florida's Airports.


FLORIDA'S GREAT INDOORS: FT. MYERS
If fate rains on your vacation plans, it's not a complete disaster - there's lots of fun out of the sun, too! This month, Absolutely Florida launches this helpful series with the inside scoop on Ft. Myers.


DEEP THOUGHTS
Ever wonder who else might be with you while swimming in the ocean? Publisher Barbara Bose's reflects on overcoming her fear of the unknown.


FLORIDA HIKING GUIDE
Florida's flat terrain and abundant wildlife makes hiking a walk in the park...use our handy guide to locate the nearest trails, nature paths, slogs and more through an interactive map with links to detailed trail descriptions, contact numbers, links and types of flora and fauna you're likely to encounter.


THE SHELL PEOPLE of Southwest Florida
Long before there was a Fort Myers, there were shell mounds built by the Calusa Indians, an ancient tribe which thrived on the abundant seafood in the region. Learn about these mysterious and fierce people whose ancestors dated back 12,000 years.


:FLORIDA HIGHER EDUCATION
Thinking of the Sunshine State for your higher education? Check out our profiles of the top 8 institutions, plus an interactive map with links to comprehensive listings of Florida Universities, Private and Community Colleges, even available online courses.

DAYTONA BEACH
If Life's a Beach, Then This is the Capital -
for surfers, spring breakers, bikers and regular folks too. Stay & play where the beach goes on forever. Click here for our Daytona Beach City Profile, with links to area lodging, dining, attractions, events and more.

FLORIDA BOATING
Most boating enthusiasts would consider Florida to be the boating capital of the world - warm, sunny weather and the effects of the gulf stream combine to make Florida THE place to be for boaters.


NAPLES, FLORIDA
"1,000 miles south of Naples, Italy where roses bloom in December." What's new in this charming town on the Gulf of Mexico. Where to stay, dine, shop, tour and explore.



WHEN WHAT'S HAPPENING WHERE
Find out what's going on in your favorite Florida city:
events, conventions, festivals, arts, happenings, parades, and lots more fun in the sun in Absolutely Florida's statewide Events Calendars.


PLAY BALL! Spring Training
Complete schedules of major league baseball Florida-based Spring training, with interactive map.


Millennium Disney Style
The new millennium lasts all year with spectacular fireworks, new attractions, non-stop entertainment and international sounds, tastes and styles Walt Disney World and Epcot Center. See where to stay to enjoy yourself in grand Disney fashion!


52 Cool Florida Destinations
A city profile for each week of the year. History, lodging, dining, attractions, nature, and lots more!


Florida's Fun for the Disabled
Traveling can be a hassle for anyone - imagine if you have a disability. This month Absolutely Florida presents the top Florida disabled-friendly resorts, inns and hotels, plus which attractions cater best to the physically challenged, and some great transportation alternatives.


The Collins Avenue Story
From a coconut plantation to a billion dollar boulevard, Collins Avenue has a history all its own. Tour these famous 12 miles of glitz and glut, with an interactive map and historical photos.

Traveling with Pets
Next trip into the sunshine, why not bring the person who loves you the most? Find a useful listing of pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, beaches and parks - plus an interactive map of 24-hour vets around the state.

Florida's Space Coast
Due east of Orlando, Florida's Space Coast mingles high technology with unspoiled nature.

    Kennedy Space Center
    Better than any theme park, Kennedy Space Center is the real deal - where men and women touch the stars. It's the only facility in the country for human-occupied flights. Find out the best spots to view launches, and what to expect.
    Space Coast City Profiles
    Titusville, Cocoa & Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, Port Canaveral. Once a wild frontier considered uninhabitable by early explorers, these cities are now a unique combination of high-tech and all-natural. Where else can you watch a space launch from a kayak, surrounded by exotic flora and fauna?


Florida's Birds
As a major destination for migrating birds and their admirers, the Sunshine State is teaming with hundreds of exotic species, some seen nowhere else.


Florida Aviation
One look overhead will show you that there's a lot more up there than just commercial planes up there. That's because The Sunshine State offers ideal conditions for all sorts of "experimental" aircraft --seaplanes, ultralights, hang gliders, sail planes, as well as small jets, biplanes, and helicopters. All of these types of aircraft can be seen in one place at the Sun 'N Fun Fly-in in Lakeland, located in central Florida. Learn about the airshow, where to land your plane,where to enjoy the huge variety of airborne experiences.



PALM BEACH
Where the genuine glitterati gathers for the best of everything - shopping, dining, lodging, and more.

FLORIDA TENNIS!
If you're visiting the Sunshine State, remember to pack your racquet. Use our interactive map to find the nearest USTA Florida member courts.

FLORIDA CITRUS
The sweet history of Florida's incredible industry, plus a primer on the varieties of oranges, tangerines, grapefruits you can find at the supermarket.

FLORIDA'S PESTY POPULATION
A Survival Guide to Florida Insects: Find out how to avoid a sting, a bite, a rash, a shock, a burn or a fright from one of Florida's many crawling, flying, and/or slithering creatures.

FLORIDA'S STATE PARKS
Absolutely Florida is proud to introduce the Florida State Parks' website.


Lakeland and Lake Wales, Florida
High points of the state's highest points


Polo Anyone?
Palm Beach Polo is where the world's horsey set gathers in the winter. Schedule, history and a little namedropping.

HOMOSASSA
A perfect spot for seniors, fishers and nature lovers in Florida's Big Bend area.

CLEARWATER BEACH
Looking for a pleasant family destination that's away from it all, but not too far? Clearwater Beach just might be the place.

SARASOTA
Sarasota beckons all those who want to relax and soak up some culture. Click our links to explore some of the great opportunities which await you when visiting this gorgeous part of Sunshine State.

FLORIDA'S NUDE BEACHES
Where to dare to bare: Not every beach in Florida tolerates the human form in all its glory - in fact there's only one legal nude beach in the state. Find out the other off-the-beaten-path sunning spots with our interactive map, plus listings of nudist colonies and nudist clubs.

FLORIDA WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
Florida is well known as a vacation resort location - did you know many can cater to your wedding and honeymoon plans? Check our new section for fun ideas, listings of resorts and historic places which can be the perfect setting for your big day.


Florida Information

LISTINGS
Useful All-Florida listings for travelers, Florida residents, and those seeking map-based listings that help you find your way around the Sunshine State.

New This Month:
ONLINE RESERVATIONS!
Search flight availabilities for any airline, anywhere!

MAPS
Get the lay of the land before you get here! Print out detailed maps of your destination of choice.

WEATHER
Want to know what to pack? Check out Absolutely Florida Interactive Weather Map with links to satellite and weather cams throughout the state.

Services

ECO-TOUR ADVISOR
Enjoy Florida natural beauty with the spirit of adventure - camp, sail, dive, ride, canoe, kayak and much more. Let Absolutely Florida's Eco-Tour Advisor book a custom eco-tour designed just for you.

PERSONALS
Don't be lonely when you get here! Find another traveler in our personals section, email them through our FREE confidential Absolutely Yours Florida Personals section, or get to know each other in the Virtual Tiki Bar Chat Room.

PERSONALS
TIKI BAR CHAT ROOM
NOW OPEN! Get together with friends anywhere, anytime. Get acquainted with another traveler before you even get here. Find them in the Personals section, arrange a meeting in the bar. Completely confidential. Over 18, please!

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