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Practical Information

Practical Information

Florida, USA

Mobile Connectivity

Local SIM cards are widely available. Bring your Unlocked phone. A Universal SIM card kit proves helpful for adapting your SIM to different tray sizes.

SIM & Providers

  • Major Providers: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon
  • MVNOs: Mint Mobile, Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless
  • Purchase at carrier stores or retail

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is broadly present at most hotels, restaurants, cafes, public libraries, and many attractions. For digital eSIMs, consider Airalo. Or, for dedicated portable Wi-Fi, explore Solis Wi-Fi devices.

Wi-Fi & Data

  • Hotel, cafe, public Wi-Fi
  • Cellular data (4G/5G) is reliable
  • Use VPN on public networks

Language & Translation

English is the official and main language. Spanish is common in some areas. To brush up on Spanish phrases, language learning platforms like Rosetta Stone can assist.

Helpful Resources

Postal Services

Post offices situate in every town. Drop boxes for mail exist outside post offices and in some public areas. Private couriers like FedEx and UPS also operate for package shipping.

Shipping Options

  • USPS (United States Postal Service)
  • FedEx and UPS for packages
  • Various speed options available

Important Phrases

English Phrases

  • "Hello" (hi)
  • "Thank you" (thank yoo)
  • "Excuse me" (eks-kyooz mee)
  • "Please" (pleez)

Spanish Phrases

  • "Hola" (oh-lah)
  • "Gracias" (grah-see-ahs)
  • "Por favor" (por fah-vor)
  • Many service staff may be bilingual

Stay Connected

Plan your communication needs before arrival.

Business Hours & Schedules

Be aware of operating times and closures.

Retail Stores

Generally 9 AM or 10 AM to 6 PM or 9 PM. Longer hours in malls.

Grocery Stores

Often 7 AM or 8 AM to 9 PM or 10 PM. Many major chains stay open later or 24/7 in larger cities.

Restaurants

Breakfast: 7-11 AM. Lunch: 11:30 AM-2 PM. Dinner: 5-10 PM (later on weekends).

Public Holidays

Most businesses operate normally on religious holidays. Public holidays may alter schedules.

Dates

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1), Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • Independence Day (July 4), Memorial Day, Juneteenth
  • Thanksgiving Day (4th Thu in Nov), Christmas Day (Dec 25)

Seasonal & Special Closures

During the low season (summer), some smaller, family-run businesses might close for vacation. Some seasonal businesses may have limited hours.

Considerations

  • Smaller businesses may close for vacation
  • Seasonal businesses may have limited hours
  • Always check ahead for accuracy

Banking & ATMs

Banking Hours

  • Typically 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays
  • Some limited Saturday hours
  • Most major banks operate branches region-wide

ATM Locations

  • Widely available at banks
  • Found at grocery and convenience stores
  • Many retail locations feature ATMs

Confirm Before Visiting

Always check specific hours, especially for attractions and smaller businesses.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Navigate social interactions with ease.

Greeting Customs

Casual greetings are common ("Hi," "Hello," "How are you?"). Handshakes mark formal introductions.

Interacting

  • "Hi," "Hello" are standard
  • Handshakes for introductions
  • Polite, friendly demeanor

Dress Appropriately

Florida is generally casual. Beachwear is acceptable at beaches and beachside restaurants. Most restaurants maintain a casual atmosphere.

Attire Tips

  • Beachwear at beaches
  • Resort casual for upscale dining
  • Modest at religious sites

Dining Practices

Wait to be seated in most restaurants. It is common to ask for the check ("the bill") when you are ready to leave.

Dining Out

  • Wait to be seated
  • Request the check when ready
  • Tipping 15-20% for service is customary

Photography Etiquette

Generally permitted in public spaces. Be respectful of privacy when photographing individuals; ask permission before taking close-up shots.

Photo Rules

  • Ask permission for close-ups of people
  • Check signage at private sites (no flash/tripod)
  • Respect privacy in residential areas

Avoid Sensitive Discussions

Taboos

  • Politics with strangers
  • Religion with strangers
  • Sensitive social issues

Considerations

  • Respect personal space
  • LGBTQ+ community is present and welcomed
  • Tourist areas generally welcoming

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

  • No unique gender-specific etiquette
  • General politeness applies to all
  • Interactions are straightforward

LGBTQ+ Community

  • Significant LGBTQ+ population in cities
  • Cities like St. Petersburg are welcoming
  • Tourist areas generally inclusive

Be Mindful

A polite approach upgrades your journey.

Accessibility Information

Florida strives for an accessible travel destination for all.

Mobility Infrastructure

As part of the United States, Florida adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This indicates public buildings, transportation, and many private businesses maintain accessibility standards.

Mobility Features

  • Ramps and elevators common
  • Public buildings are accessible
  • Sidewalks generally maintained

Accessible Experiences

Most major attractions (museums, aquariums, theme parks) are fully accessible. Many popular beaches feature beach wheelchairs (often free to borrow) and accessible beach access points.

Accessible Spots

  • Major attractions are accessible
  • Beaches offer wheelchairs (check Florida State Parks)
  • Public buses are wheelchair accessible

Support Services

Service animals gain entry in public places. Some attractions might furnish audio descriptions or large-print materials upon request.

Impairment Services

  • Service animals permitted
  • Audio descriptions or large print (visual)
  • Sign language interpreters (hearing)

Resources & Organizations

Florida State Parks' website has detailed accessibility information. Local tourism boards often furnish specific information on accessible attractions and services.

Information Sources

  • Florida State Parks for detailed info
  • Local Tourism Boards for area specifics
  • Disability organizations for tailored advice

Research Ahead

Check specific venue websites or contact tourism boards for detailed accessibility information.