The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Florida getaways: 9 things to do
Coronavirus upended many travel plans, but stay-at-home orders are slowly easing, leading those with cabin fever to dream of hitting the road once more. For many, that means heading south to the Sunshine State. Whether your idea of the perfect getaway calls for a decadent spa indulgence, connecting with nature or the thrill of the latest Disney rides, a dream vacation awaits in Florida when social distancing restrictions are eased.
Big Cypress Swamp
Visitors to southern Florida can stay in a five-star hotel or a 5-million-star hut. Nestled in the heart of the Big Cypress Swamp west of the Everglades, Trail Lakes Campground is part of an international stargazing destination with virtually no light pollution.
Scan the Heavens for your favorite constellation at night, and embark on a guided eco tour of the Everglades during the day. Take a pole boat tour in a slim, low-sitting vessel that easily navigates narrow waterways and plops passengers right in the lap of nature.
Camp in one of four thatched chickee huts on the grassland prairies at the fringe of the swamp. They don’t have electricity or running water, but a bathhouse with hot showers is nearby. Other accommodations include rustic Old Florida cabins, RV sites and primitive tent sites.
Boat tour $69 per person an hour; huts $179-$199. 40904 Tamiami Trail, U.S. 41, Ochopee, Florida. 800-5046554, www.evergladescamping.net, www.evergladesadventuretours.net
Key West
Winslow’s Bungalows, part of the Intercontinental Hotel Group’s Kimpton boutique hotel collection, takes the pet friendly hotel concept to the next level. Bring your iguana, miniature horse, llama or chatty macaw to this new 85-room hotel in Key West, and it will be greeted as warmly as any other guest. If the creature fits through the door, it’s welcome.
Those traveling with less exotic species, like a dog, can rest assured their furry companion will be made comfortable with a soft bed, food bowl and other amenities.
Even if you’re headed to the Conch Republic without a four-legged friend, it’s worth the trip to check out these inviting historic structures that sprawl over an Old Florida tropical landscape. Each room has its own personality, so repeated stays afford a unique experience every time.
This tranquil oasis in the heart of Old Town offers plenty of relaxation (in room yoga mats are available), but you’re never far from the nonstop party on Duval Street. One way to get there is to hop on one of the hotel’s loaner bikes. Those baskets are perfect for small pets.
$209 and up. 725 Truman Ave., Key West, Florida, 877219-4500, www.kimptonkeywest.com
Merritt Island
When nocturnal explorers in clear kayaks dip their paddles into the Indian River Lagoon on moonless nights on a guided tour with BK Adventure, it’s like a magic wand has set the water aglow with a million tiny emeralds and sapphires.
This dazzling light show in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge near Orlando is caused by a natural phenomenon called bioluminescence, the emission of light produced by single-celled organisms called dinoflagellate. The swish of the paddle disturbs the tiny organisms, causing them to glow bluish green. From June to October, the river is teeming with them, creating a magical world that illuminates on command.
“People say it’s the real Pandora,” said BK Adventure owner Ram BK, referring to the Disney attraction based on the film, “Pandora-The World of Avatar,” where visitors sail through an enchanted garden shimmering with bioluminescent flora. $55-$75. 487 N. Washington Ave, Titusville, Florida. 407-519-8711, www. bkadventure.com