Florida

The endless east coastal beach towns and year-round sun are Florida’s chief attraction. Superb, well developed beaches run the length of the state and the southern locations are sheltered from the Atlantic swell by the Bahamas. Fort Lauderdale is the winter home of many rich and famous. Known as the Venice of America, its picturesque waterways contain some of the world’s most expensive pleasure yachts. If you’re timing’s right you can witness a space shuttle launch at Cape Canaveral.

Alternatively, escape the crowds and get lost in the Everglades, a vast wetland reserve full of unique flora and teeming with life. For a more sedate vacation, sail away to Key Largo and onto Key West. Once the haunt of travelling guru Ernest Hemingway, the Keys are perfect for big game fishing and reef diving.

The West coast is popular with retirees, St Petersburg is a busy commercial centre situated around a bay and further north is the Gulf of Mexico coastal towns including Pensacola.

Shoppers, remember to pack lightly. The US offers some of the most competitive prices either side of the Atlantic. A wide variety of affordable packages and its proximity to the Caribbean make Florida a popular destination.