General Information About Florida and Its People
Summer: Air temperature: 86 - 95°F (30 - 35°C), Water temperature: 79 - 86°F (26 - 30°C)
Spring, Fall, and Winter: Air temperature: 73 - 82°F (23 - 28°C), Water temperature: approx. 68°F (20°C)
Florida enjoys 330 to 350 sunny days per year!
Florida’s climate ranges from subtropical to tropical and is known for its reliability. Seasonal changes are barely noticeable – even in winter, most trees remain green. Swimming is possible year-round: the Gulf of Mexico rarely dips below 68°F (20°C) in winter.
While summers can be hot, air conditioning is available almost everywhere to ensure a pleasant indoor climate.
Common credit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted and are the preferred method of payment. Traveler's checks are easy to cash and offer a convenient way to get cash. Eurocheques are not commonly accepted in the United States.
Florida offers a wide variety of international restaurants:
Average dinner prices range from $7 to $15 per person.
Florida has countless supermarkets, drugstores, and massive shopping malls with a wide range of stores – all under one roof. There are no closing hour laws, so you can shop almost around the clock.
Most department stores are open until 9:00 or 10:00 PM – including weekends.
German citizens need a valid passport that is still valid for at least six months. A visa is not required when entering with a recognized airline.
Florida is home to state-of-the-art hospitals and excellent medical professionals.
Driving in Florida is easy and enjoyable. Follow traffic rules and drive defensively to avoid any issues.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly punished in Florida.
A German driver’s license is sufficient; no international license is required.
The power supply in Florida runs on 110 volts. A voltage adapter is necessary for European devices.
In the U.S., tipping is customary and often represents the main income for service staff.
Florida follows Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is 6 hours behind Central European Time (CET).
Light clothing is suitable during the summer months. In restaurants, a jacket or sweater is often recommended due to strong air conditioning.
Topless or nude sunbathing is prohibited by law in Florida and may result in legal penalties.
A sales tax of 6–10% is added to all purchases and restaurant bills.
Essential Florida Travel Tips: Weather, Money, Driving, Health & Local Customs offers Essential, Tips, Weather, Local.