Florida: The Sunshine State

If you love animals then try out an animal experience. Seaworld and Discovery Cove both offer chances to swim with dolphins, pet penguins, swim with tropical fish, or come face to face with birds. But if you really want to get up close and personal to nature, why not swim with a manatee? Homosassa Springs is the home of the manatee, and you can explore the natural spring water with these gentle giants. But be careful, manatees were once endangered, and they are protected by the state. If you hurt a manatee or dont follow the rules, you could be dealing with the law.

You dont have to be old to visit Old Town. Located in Kissimmee Florida, you can visit many stores, grab a bite to eat or have some fun on the old carnival rides.  Find unique gifts, play games at an arcade, grab an ice cream cone, celebrate an event, or get your motor running with a car show.

Speaking of springs, Deland Florida has a natural spring with water of 70 degrees year round. The beautiful crisp water is refreshing on a hot summer day. You can visit a mini museum while you are there, located just across from the spring, or if you are feeling hungry venture over to the Old Spanish Sugar Mill. This mill offers a little gift shop, and a chance to make your own pancakes! Have a seat at one of the tables which feature a pancake griddle, they'll bring the batter and you can start cooking. Try different syrups or toppings and have a delicious breakfast with a view of the springs.

If you love the natural world, and Greek food, then Tarpon Springs is the place to be. While you cant swim in these springs, you can enjoy the wonder that comes out of them. Located along the water, many shops have real sponges taken right from Tarpon Springs. Pick any size you like, take it home, use as a decoration or for the bath. It even keeps its saltwater smell! While you are visiting the shops, why not grab yourself a bar of Greek olive oil soap? And dont forget to stop by the Greek restaurants for aunthentic Greek cuisine.