Before you can enjoy your vacation in the USA, you have to get the entry requirements out of the way. This might not be something you look forward to, but at least you do not have to send a letter to the embassy anymore. Thanks to the introduction of ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) in 2008, visitors can apply for their entry permit online. The process is pretty straightforward. However, some aspects of it can be a bit confusing. In this article you will learn how to fill out your ESTA application the right way.

ESTA APPLICATION USA

First and foremost: The ESTA application must be filled out by anyone wishing to enter the United States by air or sea, even if they are only transiting through. The entry permit allows for a stay of up to 90 days. Of course, a valid passport is required as well.

ESTA FORM – NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

To fill out the application, visit the ESTA Website and click on “Create New Application”. Now type in your personal information. This should be easy enough. However, two fields are often confusing for applicants: “National Identification Number” and “Personal Identification Number”. Neither of them exists in Germany. Therefore just type in UNKNOWN under “National Identification Number” and leave the field “Personal Identification Number” blank. On page 3 you will be asked for a “US point of contact“. This can be a friend or business partner. If you do not know anybody in the US, just type in UNKNOWN.

CHECK YOUR ESTA STATUS – ESTA FEES

As a last step, you have to answer the eligibility questions – for example, whether or not you belong to an extremist organization or suffer from communicable diseases. A single „Yes“, and your ESTA application is bound to be denied. Filling out the form again will not help. The only way to obtain an entry permit would be through your embassy. Therefore, make sure to double-check your answers.

After a last check, you can send your data and proceed to payment. As of now, ESTA fees are 14 USD per application, payable via credit card or PayPal. After the payment, your application will be reviewed. Please note that you will not be informed via Email if your application was successful. Instead, you can check its status on the website by logging in with your application number. Usually, applications are approved within 72 hours.

By the way: If you are traveling with your family, one application is enough, but you have to fill in the information for every family member. With the option “Group of Applications” you can pay the fee for your whole family at once.

ENTRY INTO THE USA ESTA

All guests entering the USA receive a stamp in their passport that documents how long they are allowed to stay. Germans, for example, are granted 90 days for tourism purposes. This means that the expiration date on your ESTA application does not affect the duration of your stay. The ESTA regulations clearly state that even a successful application does not guarantee entry to the USA. What does this clause mean? First and foremost, you have to present your ESTA application to the airline in Germany – at the latest when you check in for your flight. Otherwise, they would not even let you board the plane.

HOMELAND SECURITY ESTA

After arriving at the airport, you will have to wait in line for immigration. The officer is likely to ask you the standard question “What is the purpose of your visit?” In most cases an answer like “tourism” or “vacation” will suffice. In the past, some visitors were denied entry – especially those suspected of seeking unlawful employment in the USA. However, these cases are rare. Most of the time, both ESTA application and immigration are standard procedures. Once you get them out of the way, you can start your unforgettable vacation in the Sunshine State.

With its scenic canals, little islands and untouched nature, Cape Coral is the perfect place for a trip on the water – no matter if you want to ride a boat or Jet Ski yourself or join a guided tour. In this article, you will learn everything about boats and Jet Skis in Cape Coral.

BOATS UND JET SKIS IN CAPE CORAL: RENT A BOAT

Beautiful weather, idyllic coastlines and turquoise waters make Florida a prime destination for boaters. And the best thing: In the Sunshine State hobby skippers do not need a boat license. If you are 21 years or older, a driver’s license is enough. Guests under 21 can get their permit online – a straightforward process that rarely takes more than 4 hours.

There are reasons why Cape Coral is especially suited for boaters:

• Cape Coral is often called the “Venice of Florida” thanks to its many canals. Some of these waterways take boaters directly to the Gulf of Mexico and to open waters.
• Oftentimes, vacation houses in Cape Coral are equipped with boat docks, so you can start your trip from the comfort of your home.
• There are many boat rentals with German speaking owners in Cape Coral, so you can easily get your instruction in German.

Top 5 things you need to know before boating in Cape Coral, Florida

We like to present you a short video about the Top 5 things you need to know before you want to boating in Cape Coral Florida.

BOATS AND JET SKIS IN CAPE CORAL: THE RIGHT BOAT FOR EVERYBODY

Guests who have never steered a boat before should opt for models with 115-140 HP engines. These beginner-friendly boats can carry 4-6 guests and are perfect for fishing trips on the canal. Of course, if you really want to feel the wind in your hair, a 360 HP jetboat should be your top-pick. These streamlined vessels by Yamaha, Chaparral and co. reach speeds of up to 62 mph. They also allow for fast turns and can operate in shallow waters thanks to their small draft.

With a capacity of 8 people, most rental boats in Cape Coral are big enough for your whole family. You can also rent boats for 10 people if you need more space. For your party on the water, you should get an extra-spacious pontoon boat with comfortable seats and a high-class sound system.

No matter which boat you choose – all professional boat rentals in Cape Coral offer the following services:

• Registration with SeaTow, a boat towing service that will assist you in case of an emergency
• proper boat maintenance
• comprehensive insurance and final cleaning included in the price
• swim vests and safety equipment
• A navigation system showing routes, speed limits, shoals and sand banks
• A detailed instruction explaining the handling of the boat and the characteristics of Cape Coral’s coastal waters.

Where can I rent a boat in Cape Coral?

For all those who do not know how and where they can rent a boat in Cape Coral, we would like to point out our partner boat-rental-in-Cape-Coral.net. Here you can choose from a lot of boats and providers and can easily get in touch with the owner.

BOATS AND JET SKIS IN CAPE CORAL: THE BEST BOATING DESTINATIONS

Now that you have rented your boat, the question is: Where should you take it? Cape Coral’s canals lined with luxury mansions are a good start. Real adventures, however, cannot resist the open ocean. Here, untouched tropical islands and white, sandy beaches await you.

SANIBEL ISLAND

Just 9 miles south of Cape Coral lies a secluded island where no cars or big hotels disturb the peaceful atmosphere. Instead, Sanibel Island is famous for its white sandy beaches, colorful sea shells and untouched mangrove forests. Sanibel´s Marina has room for 65 boats. From here, you do not have to stroll far to relax on the beach or enjoy excellent seafood at the island’s restaurants.

CAPTIVA ISLAND

Caribbean vibes await you on this little island north of Sanibel – complete with colorful flowers and lush palm trees. The scenic beach stretches for 5 miles, so everybody can find a quiet spot on Captiva Island. Fishing enthusiasts will be amazed by the huge population of tarpons off the coast.

FORT MYERS BEACH

If you want to enjoy the good life at the beach before strolling down beautiful boardwalks, Fort Myers Beach south of Cape Coral is perfect for you. Thanks to a number of public and hotel-owned marinas, the city has no shortage of boat docks. The beach not only attracts visitors with its fine, white sand and excellent cleanliness. Here, even little children can splash around safely, as the water is relatively shallow. After your beach trip, it is time to check out the city’s many restaurants and shops.

Hungry boaters should stop by at the Rumrunners Restaurant, a Cape Coral original with 12 mooring spots. Here, you can enjoy hearty Southern cuisine as well as Caribbean specialties and tender steaks before continuing your trip to the Gulf of Mexico.

BOATS AND JET SKIS IN CAPE CORAL: GUIDED TOURS

You do not want to steer the boat yourself? No problem. Guests in Cape Coral have ample opportunity to discover the coastal waters on guided boat trips. No matter which company you choose – dolphin watching should be part of every tour. The playful animals can be found in huge numbers off Cape Coral´s coast, following in the boat’s wake and even jumping out of the water. Dolphins are not only sighted during the day, but also on romantic sunset tours. And there are more animals: Water birds like pelicans and fish eagles hunt for fish off the coast, while alligators and manatees can be spotted in flooded mangrove forests.

Although most boat trips in Cape Coral follow similar routes, some companies offer unique experiences that you should not miss:

BANANA BAY TOUR COMPANY

Boating and fine dining – if you always wanted to have lunch on a secluded tropical island, the Half Day Ecological Dolphin Tour offered by Banana Bay Tours is perfect for you. After your picnic sponsored by a deli in Cape Coral, you can splash around in the warm water, collect colorful shells and explore untouched mangrove forest. The tour costs 55 USD.

CAPTAIN JACK BOAT TOURS

Captain Jack Boat Tours offers trips onboard its Hawaiian Tiki Boat. Cruising along the coastline of Matlacha, guests enjoy ice-cold drinks and cool reggae music while watching dolphins in the water. And no Captain Jack tour would be complete without a romantic sunset. The boat trips last one hour and cost 35 USD per person.

NO PIER PRESSURE CHARTERS

Exclusive tours with small groups of up to 6 people are available at No Pier Pressure Charters. Paul, a skipper with 40 years of boating under his belt, knows the best spots to watch dolphins, collect sea shells and watch the sunset. The tours are priced around 197 USD.

SAIL CAPE CORAL CRUISES

Motor boats are not the only way to explore Cape Coral’s coastal waters. The company Sail Cape Coral Cruises takes guests on an eco-friendly sailboat trip. You can even go for a kayak ride straight from the boat. Full day, half day and sunset tours are available.

ADVENTURES IN PARADISE

This company offers a wide variety of tours that will keep you busy for hours. Activities include dolphin watching, shelling and fishing. Wedding cruises are available as well. A highlight for children is the Sea Life Encounter Excursion. On this tour, passengers explore an unpopulated island with a marine biologist. Little adventurers can even pet real seahorses, pufferfish and baby octopuses. The excursion costs 38 USD.

FISHING CHARTERS

If you want to try open water fishing with a professional guide, Cape Coral’s fishing charters are perfect for you. More than a dozen companies take guests to fishing grounds teeming with catfish, mackerels and redfish. If you are looking for a specific catch, Captain George Howell is your man. The knowledgeable skipper will not rest until you have caught the fish you were looking for. The positive reviews speak for themselves.

BOATS AND JET SKIS IN CAPE CORAL: RENT JET SKIS

What could be more fun than racing across the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico on a Jet Ski? Luckily, there are many places in and around Cape Coral where you can rent these fast little boats. One of them is CCBoat, a German company with more than 20 years of experience. Proper boat maintenance is key at CCBoat, so you can ride their Jet Skis with top speed of 62 mph without worries. If you want to enjoy unlimited Jet Ski fun, you should head for Paradise Boat Rentals in Cape Coral – South Florida’s only rental that lets you ride Jet Skis without confining you to a certain area.

Alternatively, take a trip to Fort Myers Beach and rent your Jet Ski directly at the beach. This town has its fair share of rental companies, some of which have been in business since 1991. Here, you can always rent the newest Jet Skis – after receiving a detailed, beginner-friendly instruction, of course.

BOATS AND JET SKIS IN CAPE CORAL: GUIDED JET SKI TOURS IN CAPE CORAL

Jet Skiing on your own can get boring after a while, so why not book a group tour near Cape Coral? Holiday Water Sports and Adventure Water Sports in Fort Myers Beach take their guests to a protected bay. Here, dolphins come close to the Jet Skis, sometimes even with their young.

If you want to watch the sunset while riding your Jet Ski, head for Suny Island Adventures on Captiva Island. Their tours provide the perfect opportunity to see dolphins, stingrays and even manatees, as the gentle ocean grazers visit Captiva´s coast in the winter months.

Road trips are a comfortable way to discover the Sunshine State at your own leisure. With a rental car, you can spend the morning in Cape Coral, hit the beaches of Miami in the afternoon and visit Orlando’s theme parks the next day – perfect if you want to make the most of your vacation time. In this article, we will share the best tips on how to rent a car in Florida and save money in the process.

Before you jump behind the wheel, there are some formalities: To rent a car in the USA, you need a valid driver’s license. In addition, most rental companies want to see a credit card (MasterCard, VISA or American Express, but no prepaid cards). Age plays an important role, as most companies only accept drivers aged 24 or older. Younger drivers often have to pay more.

Many rental agencies let you return the vehicle with an empty tank and charge you for the refill. However, if you are not in a hurry, you should refuel the car yourself to save money. When given the choice between insurance policies, comprehensive insurance covering all costs is your best option. Many rental cars can be upgraded with a navigation system. However, this service can easily cost 38 USD per week, so better get a US SIM card and use Google Maps. You can save a lot of money by reserving your car online. Renting 3-4 months in advance often comes with early bird discounts. This way you can also make sure that your dream car is still available.

BEST RENTAL COMPANIES IN FLORIDA

Although the list of car rentals in Florida is long, there are a few heavyweights that stick out: One of them is Alamo, a low-budget rental company with fair conditions for young drivers between 21 and 25 years. Alamo is also an affordable choice for those wishing to rent an SUV in the Sunshine State. The company is known for their excellent service and free upgrades. They also allow 2 drivers without additional costs. Many other rental agencies charge more for additional drivers.

A cheap provider of rental cars, especially in Miami, is Dollar. This company should be your top-pick if you want to explore Florida the classy way, as they have beautiful Mustang Convertibles. For RVs, check out Cruise America and El Monte. The aptly named company Thrifty offers discounts of up to 15% when renting online. More cheap rentals include Budget and Meeting Point. The latter is very present in the Orlando area. German car rentals have made it to the Sunshine State, too – Hertz, for example. Upon request, their cars are available with German navigation systems. This is perfect for guests who fear the language barrier.

No matter which car you want – it is always a good idea to use comparison websites instead of renting directly through the company. German customers, for example, can compare prices on the website of ADAC. If you want to save even more money, try websites like Expedia or www.happycar.de

Toll Regulations in Florida

Motorists should know that they have to pay tolls on many roads in the Sunshine State. Physical toll stations with cash counters are slowly dying out. More common now is the Pay by Plate System, which scans the license plate and assesses the toll you have to pay. This system is used by most rental companies. Customers pay a fixed sum when signing the rental contract. The remaining toll balance is due when you return the car.

Do not expect to pay high sums, though. 48 miles on Florida’s Turnpike, for instance, only cost 3.80 USD. Pay by Plate lanes for rental cars are marked with white and yellow signs. Of course, you can skip the toll roads altogether if you want. Navigation apps like Google Maps show you alternative routes. This takes considerably longer, though. Driving from Miami to Orlando without using toll roads at all will add a whopping 45 minutes to your trip.

The majority in Florida belongs to the Eastern Time Zone (EST). The difference to Central European Time (CET) is six hours back.

For example, 11:00 a.m. minus 6 hours = 5:00 a.m.

The north-western part of Florida belongs to the Central Time Zone (CST) and was seven hours behind Central European Time.

For example, 11:00 a.m. minus 7 hours = 4:00 a.m.

The time from 0:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. is a. m. or also on (ante meridiem) and the time from 13 to 23:59 is marked with p. m or pm (post meridiem).

Interestingly, there is also summer and winter time in Florida, summer time applies from the first Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October.

Today’s vacationers need their mobile phones – not just for calling home, but also for browsing the internet and checking online maps. And while you can use your German SIM card in the US, this comes with high costs. In most cases, buying a prepaid card in the US is the cheaper option. In this article, you will learn all about different providers, where to buy SIM cards in the US and how to reduce the costs.

CELLPHONE COVERAGE IN THE USA

Unlike in Germany, there is no network in the USA that covers all regions. On average, the three big companies AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon provide the best coverage. And while there are still some thinly populated areas in the Midwest where coverage is poor, you will not have this problem in big cities and tourist places. Surfing with UMTS and LTE speeds is also possible along the highways. However, users of 2nd generation networks (GSM) will have to upgrade soon, as these networks are going to be switched off in the near future.

DO GERMAN CELLPHONES WORK IN THE US?

If you want to use your German phone in the USA, you should first check the compatibility, as different frequencies are used overseas. Luckily, most modern cellphones like iPhone, Sony Xperia and Samsung Galaxy support the frequencies of the two biggest providers T-Mobile and AT&T. To find out whether or not your phone is compatible with US networks, you can visit this website: www.simlystore.com/usa-geraeteliste/

GERMAN SIM CARDS IN THE USA

The good news first: Thanks to cooperation between German and American providers, using your German SIM card in the US is no problem.

As soon as you land at the airport, you will likely receive a message from your German provider, asking if you want to use International Roaming. If you do, you can select calling and data options. Of course, these do not come free. Even though roaming fees within the European Union have been abolished in 2017, you still have to pay the full price for sending and receiving phone calls outside the EU. You will even be charged double if someone leaves a message on your mailbox. Only receiving text messages is free. You can also buy data options, but expect high costs. The International Roaming Pass of German Telekom can serve as an example. Customers have to pay:

• 50 cents for a text message
• 1,50 Euros/minute for phone calls to Germany
• 3 Euros/minute for phone calls in the USA
• 15 Euros for 150 MB of data, valid for 7 days.

The price policy of O2 is similar. Vodafone customers have it slightly better: If you are using a Red or Smart L, L+ or XL plan, you can buy the US Flat for 5 Euros a month. This flat rate lets you use your cellphone in the US at the same costs as in Germany. However, you will not be able to cancel the US flat for 12 months. Alternatively, there are daily and weekly flats available for 6 and 20 Euros. Please note that Vodafone will automatically book the daily Easy Travel Flat unless you have deactivated this option beforehand. If you are using a cheaper cellphone plan, you are not eligible for Vodafone´s international flat rates. In this case you have to fall back on the “Reisepaket Plus” with 50 minutes of phone calls and 100 MB of data for 6 Euros a day – hardly a viable option.

USING YOUR CELLPHONE WITH A US SIM CARD

Unless you can strike a deal with your German provider, there is only one reason for using a German SIM card in the US: Keeping your old number. Most people, however, fare batter with a US Sim card that can be bought either before or during your vacation. If you are traveling in a group, Tethering might be interesting for you. This option lets you create a hotspot for your friends. However, it is mostly high-end cellphone plans that allow for Tethering.

BUYING A US SIM CARD IN GERMANY

Vacationers who want to be on the safe side can buy their SIM card for the USA in Germany. This option is more expensive, but it allows you to use your cellphone right after landing at the airport. Delivery usually takes 1-2 days. Here are several companies that provide this service:

SIMLY

This company offers SIM cards for a wide range of countries, among them the United States. The USA Prepaid Sim Card for 30 days includes unlimited calls and text messages in the US. Customers can choose from different data packages: The XS option, for example, comes with 1 GB of LTE data and costs 39.90 Euros. Keep in mind, though: While more expensive options let you continue surfing with reduced speed once your data is used up, this is not possible with the XS option. On the other end of the price range is the XL plan with 30 GB for 79.90 Euros. This option includes 20 USD for phone calls to German mobile networks (10 USD with the XS and S option). There are data only plans available as well. Simly customers access the network of AT&T.

TOURISIM

Tourisim is another provider of SIM cards that can be ordered prior to your vacation in the USA. A good option for most customers is the H20 Wireless-SIM, valid for 30 days. Just like Simly, Tourisim provides data packages from 1 to 30 GB – for 5 Euros more, that is. On the upside, even the cheapest plan for 44,90 Euros, lets you go online with 2G speed after you have used up your data. Tourisim cards also use the AT&T network.

If you want to share a hotspot with your friends and make free phone calls in Canada and Mexico, you should choose the more expensive premium options.

BEACHSIM

If you are looking for a bargain, this provider is worth checking out. Beachsim offers sim cards with 1 GB of data as well as free phone calls and text messages in the US for just 29,90 Euros. The 40 GB package for 79,90 is comparatively cheap as well. On the downside, the provider uses the T-Mobile network, which cannot quite compete with the coverage of AT&T – especially in rural areas. Alternatively, you can buy Beachsim cards for the AT&T network. Expect to pay the same price as for Simly products, though.

PREPAID GLOBAL

Similar products can be found at Prepaid Global. Their SIM cards are valid for 30 days. Data packages start at 1 GB for 37,90 Euros. The biggest package comes with 30 GB and costs 79,90 – the same as a comparable Simly card. Just like Simly, Prepaid Global uses the AT&T network. The SIM cards come with unlimited calls to European cellphone networks – perfect if you want to call home frequently.

All the aforementioned products can be purchased directly from the respective company. You will also find them on Amazon.

BUY A SIM CARD IN THE USA

Of course, you can also travel to the US first and purchase a SIM card there. For vacationers, prepaid cards are the only sensible choice, as cellphone plans would require residency in the country. When it comes to US providers, T-Mobile and AT&T are ideal for holiday guests, as their networks are compatible with most smartphones. There is no shortage of mobile phone shops in the US. Sometimes, you can even find cheap deals at the airport or at Walmart.

T-MOBILE

One of the biggest providers in the US offers SIM cards for tourists. These are available in every T-Mobile Shop and have a validity of 3 weeks. Included in the price of 27 Euros (without taxes) are:

• 1000 minutes of phone calls in the USA
• 100 minutes of international calls
• unlimited text messages in the USA and 140 other countries
• 2 GB of LTE data.

The downside of this cheap option: It is not possible to extend the SIM card or buy additional data. Once you have used your data, the internet speed is reduced to 2G. If this is enough for you, T-Mobiles Tourist SIM might just be the perfect choice – and one that you can purchase straight at the airport.

AT&T

This provider does not explicitly advertise SIM cards for tourists. However, you will have no problem buying an AT&T card – just make sure your cellphone is compatible with their network. Prepaid cards come with free calls and text messages to US mobile phone networks. The price for 1 GB of data is 32 Euros per month. 8 GB are available for 45 Euros. The latter option is perfect if you want to create a hotspot for your friends.

TO SUM SUP

Using your German SIM card in the USA still comes at a high price. Therefore, it pays to buy a US SIM card – either at home or in the country. Before selecting a product, you should check the compatibility of your phone and the network coverage of the provider. If you want to save money, you should get a prepaid card from T-Mobile. However, in rural areas AT&T is the more reliable option.

Florida is known as the Sunshine State for a reason. Here, vacationers enjoy pleasant temperatures and sunny days without end. In the summer months, however, true monsters are born off the Atlantic Coast. Hurricanes heading towards the Caribbean and the Southern US often leave a trail of destruction behind. Therefore, it pays to know when these storms occur, where the risk is particularly high and what to do when a hurricane is interrupting your vacation.

HOW DO HURRICANES FORM?

Two things are necessary for a hurricane to form: heat and wind. In the summer months the water of the Atlantic heats up. Warm air rises and causes huge thunderclouds to manifest. Above the clouds the air cools off, drops and is sucked back up like in a chimney. The earth’s Coriolis Force gives the storm its characteristic spin. As it passes over an area with particularly warm water, the storm’s size and velocity increase. When wind speeds reach 12 on the Beaufort scale, experts speak of hurricanes – monster storms up to 100 miles long and 10 miles high.

Hurricanes draw their energy from warm ocean waters. When they hit the mainland, they cause considerable damage due to their wind speed and the sheer amounts of rainfall they unleash. After this, they gradually lose energy.

HOW DANGEROUS ARE HURRICANES?

The destructive potential of a hurricane depends on its speed. While a category 1 hurricane (74-95 mph) can rip off branches and damage poorly-built houses, category 2 hurricanes are known to unroot trees and destroy roofs, doors and windows. People living in coastal areas are advised to seek shelter. A category 5 hurricane with wind speeds of up to 157 mph will easily snap trees and completely destroy whole houses. Further damages are caused by flooding due to violent rainfall. Widespread evacuation is necessary.

Among the most devastating natural disasters of the last decades was Hurricane Katrina. This superstorm killed more than 1.800 people in August 2015 and caused over 108 billion Dollars in damages. In 2017, hurricane Irma was responsible for the death of 84 Florida residents, along with property damage of 50 billion Dollars. One year later, Hurricane Michael proved to be almost equally destructive. Most hurricanes do not directly hit the US mainland. However, scientists have observed that due to climate change and a rise in ocean temperatures, these tropical storms are becoming ever more frequent.

WHICH PARTS OF FLORIDA ARE PARTICULARLY AT RISK?

A hurricane warning in Florida does not mean that every part of the state is affected. Sometimes, huge storms only hit a small area – as did Hurricane Andrew in 1992. And although Florida is more hurricane-prone than any other state, the risk is not equally distributed.

When one looks at storms in the last hundred years, there is a clear pattern: The southern tip of Florida, including Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and the east coast up to Orlando have been affected the most. The Naples area comes second, followed by the Florida Panhandle. The risk is lower on the central western coast from Cape Coral to Tallahassee, as well as on the east coast north of Orlando. Not surprisingly, the safest place is Florida’s interior, furthest away from the ocean.

WHEN DO HURRICANES OCCUR?

Florida’s hurricane season officially lasts from June to the end of November. Most storms, however, form between mid August and late October. Whether or not you should travel to Florida during hurricane season is a question you have to answer for yourself. Although experts release a hurricane forecast every year, there is no way to predict how many storms will occur, and when. For example, in 2019 Florida was spared a direct hit. During the three years before, however, hurricane damages were devastating. And even if a storm only grazes the state’s coast – as happened with hurricane Dorian in 2019 – heavy rainfall and cold temperatures can ruin your vacation nonetheless. If you take this risk, however, you will be rewarded with cheap flights and hotel prices during hurricane season.

WHEN WAS FLORIDA LAST AFFECTED BY HURRICANES?

• Hurricane Matthew from September 28, 2016 to October 9, 2016
• Hurricane Irma from August 30, 2017 to September 14, 2017
• Hurricane Michael from October 7, 2018 to October 16, 2018

WHAT IS HAPPENING DURING A HURRICANE?

Check out this original footage taken during Hurricane Michael in 2018.

HURRICANE SAFETY TIPS

If you are traveling to Florida during the summer months, you should keep an eye on the weather forecast. To see if a storm is forming off the coast, you can also visit the website of the National Hurricane Center featuring a live map: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.

INFORMATION FOR FLIGHT PASSENGERS AND HOTEL GUESTS

Imagine the following scenario: You book a flight to Florida and shortly before your trip, a hurricane warning is issued. Should your flight get cancelled because of this, most airlines will let you reschedule your trip cost-free or give you your money back. What you will not receive, however, is further financial compensation, as hurricanes are considered acts of nature. In other words: It is not the airline’s fault that the flight has to be cancelled.

Similar conditions apply to pre-booked holiday packages. European Union law requires the organizer to refund you. If you are unable to fly back due to a hurricane, the company also has to pay for the evacuation and your prolonged stay.

What about your pre-booked accommodation in Florida, then? Unfortunately, no binding regulations are in place, so you should read your hotel´s hurrican policy carefully. In the case of a hurricane warning, most hotels offer free refunds or let their guests re-book their stay at a later date. If you are evacuated before the storm, most hotels will give you money back for unused nights. Guests who want to be on the safe side should purchase travel insurance that covers the costs.

TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS

If you own a house in Florida, you should deal with the issue of hurricanes early on and be ready to answer the following questions:

• Where are the nearest shelters?
• Will my insurance pay for hurricane damages?
• How do I switch off electricity, gas and water?
• Do I have enough emergency supplies? (This list published by FEMA should act as a guideline)

If you receive the warning that a hurricane is bound to hit in the next 36 hours, you should store any loose items like garden furniture inside and barricade openings like windows and glass doors. Trees and branches that could fall on your house must be cut down. Turn the refrigerator to the coldest setting to preserve your food in case of a power cut. Unplug smaller electric devices and fill your bathtub so you have an emergency supply of drinking water. Do not forget to put enough gasoline in your car, just in case you have to evacuate.

TIPS FOR RV OWNERS

RVs are perfect if you want to explore the Sunshine State at your own pace. Should a hurricane be inbound, you can easily leave the area with all your belongings – highly advisable, as even category 1 hurricanes can cause severe damages to your vehicle. If an evacuation is not possible for any reason, you should park your RV where it is most protected from wind: ideally in a garage, behind a house, but never under trees. Make sure that the side of the RV does not face the wind directly. Parking on higher ground is a good idea. A plastic tarp offers some protection from rain, and full water tanks provide additional stability. Before you evacuate, you should stock your mobile home with emergency rations.

HURRICANES AND CRUISES

Being on a cruise while a hurricane is forming nearby might seem like a nightmare. But actually, this scenario is not so bad after all. Thanks to modern technology, hurricanes can be detected quite early now. What is more, cruise ships are faster than any storms and can easily avoid them. Of course, the route might be changed and long awaited stops cancelled. This can be frustrating for some, but unfortunately, it does not warrant a refund, as the company is not at fault. You are only entitled a partial refund if the cruise is shortened. Most companies are prepared for hurricanes and will simply choose a different route with other interesting stops. However, a little flexibility on your part is called for when going on a cruise during (the considerably cheaper) hurricane season.

Happy Halloween! On October 31, it is time for spooky pumpkins, costume parties, horror movies and trick or treating. Then, the popular holiday is celebrated in the USA and many other countries. In this article, you will learn more about Halloween and its origins. We will also share some of the best party ideas for Halloween, so you can have an unforgettable night with your friends, family and children.

Halloween Costumes

Whether you want to go shopping or craft your Halloween costume yourself – the possibilities are endless. Popular Halloween costumes for men include zombies, devils and movie characters like Freddy Kruger. When it comes to female costumes, many women like to combine spooky themes with revealing outfits: Sexy vampires, witches or evil nurses are a common sight at most Halloween parties.

Even the little ones can have their big night in October. Halloween costumes for children are available in every toy store. But why not get creative yourself? Making a Halloween costume together with your children is the perfect way to get into the right mood.

In addition to time-tested outfits, there are new costume trends this years: For example, the scary nun from the horror movie “Conjuring 3”, or the terrifying clown Pennywise. Fans of the series “Stranger Things” can put on their grooviest 80s outfit, and we will probably see a lot of female DC fans dressed as Wonder Woman this year.

There are also a lot of options for Halloween Makeup: from orange pumpkin faces, painted scars and warts to corpse paint worn on the Mexican Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead

Halloween Decoration

If you want to invite friends and family, you will probably want to create the right mood with a Halloween decoration: Spider webs, skulls, light-chains and pumpkins are just some possibilities.

Black curtains, candles with blood-red wax and cut out bats made from felt are perfect for your living room. Outside, you could place spooky scarecrows, lanterns or Styrofoam tombstones. But of course, you do not have to craft everything yourself. Many gift stores sell Halloween decoration in September and October.

Halloween Pumpkins

The custom of carving pumpkins for Halloween is more than a hundred years old and goes back to the Irish legend of Jack O´Lantern. This folk hero was denied access into hell after tricking the devil, and now has to wander the earth as a glowing pumpkin.

Today, you can see this decoration in many yards, not only in America. You can easily make it yourself. All you need to do is cut off the top of your pumpkin and carve out the inside. Afterwards, you can cut a spooky face and place a candle or LED light inside. On the internet, you will find many Halloween pumpkins ideas and designs – from classic Jack O´Lantern patterns to funny templates. If you want create a colorful look, you should use acrylic paints.

Tip: To prevent the pumpkin from drying out quickly, coat the inside and edges with vaseline. Special sprays that contain hydrogen peroxide, water and citric acid also help to preserve your pumpkin.

Halloween for Children

On Halloween, many grownups wish they could be children again. For the little ones, this night is definitely a highlight of the year. Not only are they allowed to stay up late. On Halloween, many children also enjoy “trick or treating”, going from door to door in their costumes and asking for candy. This game has become so popular that it is now played in many other countries.

Looking for more activities for kids? How about a nightly walk on the spookiest of evenings – accompanied by a bone-chilling ghost story, of course. If the weather is bad, you can also play Halloween games at home: for example, egg and spoon races with ping pong balls painted like eyeballs; or “mummy”, a game where participates have to mummify each other with rolls of toilet paper. Another beloved classic is called “Sensory Bin”: Just fill a box with ingredients like grapes, dried corn and spaghetti. Tell the kids these are eyeballs, teeth and intestines, and let them feel around in the dark – a deliciously spooky game, especially for young children.

The clothing sizes and dimensions between Europe and the United States cause confusion for many people. We would like to help you buy shoes and clothes in the right size. Nevertheless, you should try the things on before buying. In many cases, the size S-XXL is often marked in addition to the US sizes. The comparison of the sizes is relatively simple. Please note that the sizes may vary slightly between different brands. In addition, more and more manufacturers are starting to cheat a little bit about the sizes. So-called “vanity sizing” is used to ensure that as many buyers as possible feel good about their purchase. Instead of the actual size, a smaller size is printed on the label, for example an “L” becomes an “M”

CLOTHING SIZES FOR EUROPE AND USA IN COMPARISON

COMPARISON OF DIMENSIONS FOR EUROPE AND THE USA

space measurements
1 square inch – 6,45 cm²
1 sqare foot – 9,288 dm²
1 square yard – 0,386 m²
1 sqaure mile – 2,589 km²
1 acre – 0,405 ha

weights
1 ounce – 28,35 kg
1 pound – 453,59 g
1 stone – 6,35 kg

fluid measures
1 gill – 0,5118 l
1 pint – 0,473 l
1 quart – 0,946 l
1 gallon – 3,787 l

length measurements
1 inch – 2,54 cm (1 Zoll)
1 foot – 30,38 cm
1 yard – 91,44 cm
1 mile – 1,61 km2

room dimensions
1 cubic inch – 16,386 cm²
1 cubic foot – 28,32 dm²
1 cubic yard – 0,765 m²

Flying from Germany to Cape Coral is super-easy thanks to the Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers. From there, you just have to drive for 30 minutes to reach the city on the Gulf.

With Air Berlin out of business, there is only one German airline with direct flights to Fort Myers: Lufthansa subsidiary Eurowings. Nonstop flights start from Düsseldorf and are available for as little as 200 Euros. The flight takes 10 hours and 40 minutes. If you want to save money, you can also start from Hamburg, Stuttgart, Berlin or Munich. These flights, however, include a stopover in Düsseldorf, adding 4-6 hours to your trip. Passengers should know that Basic Eurowings flights do not come with free meals, only water. You also have to pay an additional 50 Euros for checked luggage and 150 Euros for bags over 23 kilograms.

The parent company Lufthansa also offers flights to Fort Myers, although no direct ones are available. Travelers from Stuttgart pay the lowest price, followed by Frankfurt, Berlin, Munich and Hamburg. Prices start at 360 Euros for a return ticket. In the months of June and July, costs increase to 500 and even 900 Euros for the cheapest tickets. Most flights include a stopover in New York or Chicago. If the waiting time is long enough, passengers can opt for a little city trip before continuing their journey to Florida.

CHEAPEST FLIGHTS TO FLORIDA

If you prefer a direct flight to Florida, there are budget-friendly alternatives to Fort Myers. 41 direct connections are available from Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna and Zurich to Florida. Choosing these airports can save you a lot of money: Tickets from Frankfurt to Miami, for example, are available for only 200 Euros in June and July. More destinations served directly by Lufthansa are Orlando and Tampa.

Of course the price is not the only determining factor when picking an airline. With flight durations of 10 hours and more, the service is also important. Eurowings is known as a low-cost airline with fewer amenities than its parent company Lufthansa. If you wish, however, you can upgrade your ticket with food and entertainment choices online. Stretching your legs is a luxury on long flights. Luckily, Eurowings is now offering a crossover between Economy and Business Class: Premium Economy tickets come with slightly more leg space without being as expensive as the Business Class.

If you want to save money on your direct flight, you should book well in advance – at least 2 months, as Florida is a highly popular holiday destination. It is also cheaper to buy a return ticket straight away. Sometimes attractive offers can be found directly on the airline’s website. This way you will have more money to spend on your unforgettable vacation in Cape Coral.

Located 2 hours north of Cape Coral, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is a top-address for fans of elephants, rhinos and co. A lot has happened since its humble beginnings when the zoo was managed by the University of Tampa. Today, Lowry Park Zoo houses many species from all over the world and features family-friendly rides, animal encounters and exciting events for the whole family. More than one million guests come here every year, making Zoo Tampa one of the Sunshine State’s most popular places for animal lovers.

ATTRACTIONS & AREAS AT ZOO TAMPA

Of course, the 1.300 animals are the zoo’s main attraction. These animals live in zones that represent different habitats and continents, so a walk through the zoo resembles a journey around the world. Starting point is in Asia, where Indian rhinos, Malayan tigers and moon bears are kept in large, authentic enclosures. This section of the park is also home to the primeval-looking Komodo Dragons.

SAFARI AFRICA

In this area, visitors can tour the Dark Continent under magnificent thorn trees. Safari Africa houses iconic savannah-dwellers like giraffes, zebras and elephants, as well as antelopes and guenons. In addition to cute penguins from the Arctic, guests can also see a little star: Holly Berry, a baby hippo that was born in 2017, is the newest member of the zoo’s hippo family.

PRIMATE WORLD

Gibbons, chimpanzees and orang-outangs are swinging from branch to branch at the Primate World, while the zoo’s feathered friends populate the free-flight aviary. Here, you can watch tropical species like hornbills, toucans and birds of paradise flying over your head. Visitors who look carefully will also notice sloths in the canopy. Two times a day, the Spirits of the Sky Raptor Show lets you witness the amazing feats of condors, owls, bald eagles and other birds of prey.

FLORIDA, ASIA, MANATEE CIRCLE, WALLAROO STATION, ROARING SPRINGS, ETC.

ZooTampa is a perfect spot if you want to discover Florida’s biodiversity. North American species include wolfs, bears, skunks and turtles, as well as Lucy, a female panther that was rescued as a cub and nursed back to life by the zoo.

In addition, ZooTampa offers the chance to watch iconic manatees – not only behind glass walls. Many injured manatees are brought to the zoo’s Manatee Critical Care Center for treatment.

The Wallaroo Station showcases the animals of Australia and is particularly suited for children: Here, little guests can get close to cute koalas, wallabies, parrots and a slithering woma python. Afterwards, it is time to try out the exciting rides: The zoo features a merry-go-round, a kids´ train and a miniature roller coaster. If you do not mind getting wet, you should hop onboard the white-water ride Roaring Springs. With such exciting options, it is no surprise that ZooTampa was named America’s most family-friendly zoo in 2009.

In addition to the aforementioned areas, the zoo offers many other attractions, among them a Carousel Circle where young children can ride their favorite animals.

ZOO TAMPA: DINING OPTIONS

If your walk through the zoo has made you hungry, do not worry: Scattered around the park are food stalls selling nachos, pretzels, hot dogs, pizza and many other snacks. The Sweet Shoppe offers donuts and homemade ice-cream, and for a hearty meal, have a seat at the International Bistro with its Italian specialties and fresh seafood.

ZOO TAMPA: TICKETS AND OPENING HOURS

The zoo is open everyday from 9.30 am to 5 pm.

Tickets cost 37 USD for adults and 27 USD for children aged 3–11. If you reserve your ticket in advance, you can save up to 5 USD. There are also “Pay for a Day” offers: Just pay the regular ticket price once, and you can visit the zoo as often as you want for the rest of the year.

If you want to get up-close to your darlings, you can book a number of animal encounters: Take your selfie with a cute koala, feed a giant turtle, rub a penguin’s back or play zookeeper at the giraffe enclosure for a day.

ZOO TAMPA: EVENTS

No matter the season – there is always something going on at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. Families will love the Toddler Tuesdays, where little guests are entertained with songs, stories and fun games. If you are interested in the protection of species, you should visit the monthly talks at the Zoo University. And thanks to “Yoga in the Wild” you can even join a fitness class under the watchful eyes of the zoo’s animals.

On Halloween the park is decorated with pumpkins, while the costumed staff and the haunted house create a spooky, yet child-friendly atmosphere. In November and December, the 50 feet Christmas tree gets visitors in the right mood for the festive season, and Santa Claus welcomes children at his Christmas Village.

ZOO TAMPA – MAP AND ROUTE PLANNER – PLAN YOUR TRIP NOW

Calculate your Route to Tampa´s Zoo at Lowry Park

Address for your navigation system: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604, USA

Naples Zoo can look back on a long tradition. Already in 1919, exotic plants were on display here. Today, the zoo houses 70 animal species, many of which are endangered. With more than 300.000 visitors a year, the zoo is a hugely popular tourist attraction. It has also been accredited by the AZA, an organization that rates American zoos according to conservation efforts and the animals´ well-being. If you are looking for family-friendly fun and exciting animal encounters, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is the perfect place for you.

THE ANIMALS AT NAPLES ZOO

One glance at the map is enough to see: At Naples Zoo you can take a journey through different continents and habitats. Navigating the park is easy thanks to the loop trail that goes around multiple lakes.

Starting point is Alligator Bay, where you can watch Florida’s famous reptiles being fed. Countless water birds live here as well. Further to the south, two species from South America are found: ant eaters and agoutis: rodents that populate an area from Mexico to Argentina. Furthermore, you can see turtles and endangered tamarin monkeys.

The trail continues through an African savannah populated by lions, zebras and gazelles. Bongo antelopes live here, too. This species is extremely rare, with not even 100 animals left in the wild. A resident from South East Asia is the clouded leopard – a shy cat easily recognizable by its blotched fur pattern.

Lake Victoria, a miniature replica of Africa’s most famous lake, makes up the largest part of the zoo. Here, you can board a boat and watch primates like chimpanzees, lemurs and gibbons that live on a small island. There are no fences, so you will have prime photo opportunities while listening to the knowledgeable guides.

Back on land, it is time to visit the giraffes. You can even pay to feed the animals. Cheetahs, hyenas and Florida panthers live nearby, and black bears run around in their spacious enclosure. The animal shows featuring cute armadillos, genets and skunks are a fun and exciting highlight for children and adults alike.

More animals at Naples Zoo include:

• parrots
• honey badgers
• pythons
• coyotes
• hornbills
• black vultures.

Naples Zoo is the perfect place for families with children: not only because the paths are easy to walk and lie in the shade. There are also picnic areas and multiple playgrounds. Cafés and snack/drink stalls are available for hungry and thirsty visitors. Unlike in many other zoos, it is not allowed to pet the animals or take selfies with them. Instead, the animals are kept in an appropriate and natural way. Not surprisingly, Naples Zoo is involved in countless conservation programs. This way, you can be sure your entrance fee serves a good cause.

OPENING HOURS AND FEES AT NAPLES ZOO

Naples Zoo is open every day from 9 am–5 pm. Free on-site parking is available.

Tickets cost 22.95 USD for adults and 14.95 USD for children aged 3–12. Naples Zoo can charge these very fair prices because it enjoys tax-exemption as a non-profit organization. What is more, with coupons from websites like dealscove, mustdo and groupons, you can save up to 50 %.

EVENTS AT NAPLES ZOO

In addition to daily animal shows and feeding times, Naples Zoo also houses the following popular events:

• Safari Squad: educational parent-child-programs for little guests aged 3–5
• Conservation Lecture: expert lectures on conservation topics
• Zoo Yoga: yoga courses amidst lush, natural surroundings
• Spring Fest: Easter egg hunts and photos with the Easter Bunny for children
• Boo at the Zoo: Halloween decorations, trick or treating and costume contests
• Winter Fest: children’s games, cookie decorating and a meets and greets with Santa Claus.

In addition, you can host your own event at Naples Zoo – for example, birthdays, corporate events or weddings with up to 350 guests.

DIRECTIONS TO NAPLES ZOO

Zoo Naples is centrally located in Naples and can be reached on foot from many sights in the city.

The Miami Seaquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in the USA. A lot has happened since its humble beginnings in 1955. Today the Seaquarium is home to more than 10.000 species – from tropical fish and corals to penguins and Florida’s manatees. Dolphins, sea lions and an orca lady entertain guests every day, and if you want, you can even step into the pool with your favorite animals. More than 500.000 visitors a year do not lie: Miami Seaquarium is one of the best places for family-friendly animal encounters in Florida.

The aquarium is situated on Virgina Key in Miami-Dade County. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge. You only have to drive 10 minutes from Downtown Miami to get there.

ANIMALS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

Near the entrance flamingos are strutting in manmade wetlands, while a first highlight awaits little guests nearby: The Touch Pool houses aquatic inhabitants like cleaner fish, stingrays and bamboo sharks for the children to touch. All of them are harmless, of course.

The Tropical Fish Aquarium takes you on a journey through the coastal waters of the southern hemisphere, and the adjacent Reef Aquarium amazes with its gigantic, 750.000 gallon water tank – enough to fill 20.000 bathtubs. Here you can watch divers feed a variety of colorful fish. At Rescue a Reef, a project realized together with the University of Miami, a new man-made coral reef is being built under the eyes of visitors.

Situated at the heart of the Aquarium is the Dolphinarium. At the Dolphin Show, you can watch the playful animals perform their tricks – either from the ranks or through a glass window. Next door, the sea lions make for equally skilled entertainers, balancing balls in the Sea Lion and Seel Feeder Pool.

At the Manatee Exhibit, guests learn more about Florida’s iconic ocean grazers that are being treated medically at the Miami Seaquarium. The Aquarium also contains a sanctuary for injured sea turtles. Colorful parrots and other birds populate the Tropical Wings exhibit, while cute penguins from the Antarctic have found a home on Penguin Isle.

The Miami Seaquarium houses a true legend that is already 50 years old and weighs a whopping 3.5 tons: The Orca lady Lolita has been living here since the 1970s and still entertains visitors with her tricks twice a day.

MORE ATTRACTIONS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

The Miami Seaquarium has many more attractions to offer, among them:

• Golden Dome Sea Lion: a child-friendly sea lion show with comedy elements. Here even the smallest guests learn a lot about protecting the oceans.

• Flipper Dolphin Show: dolphins performing tricks at the original location of the 60s TV show.

• Sharky´s Sky Trail: a rope course 32 feet above ground, with 18 obstacles for participants to tackle

• Salty´s Pirate Playground: child-friendly playground with a 30 feet long pirate ship, climbing nets and splash canons.

• Conservation Outpost: Here you learn how injured sea creatures are being rescued and cared for by the Miami Seaquarium.

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

Swimming with dolphins has a long tradition at the Miami Seaquarium – not only because the famous TV show Flipper was filmed here. For 219 USD you can climb into the pool with dolphins. The playful animals will let you pet them, give handshakes (or rather fin-shakes), smother you with kisses and always appreciate a treat in the form of delicious fish. Tailored to non-swimmers and small children is the Dolphin Encounter in shallow water for 159 USD. And if you want to dive deeper into the topic (quite literally), you should book the Trainer for a Day experience for 395 USD. Under watchful guidance you can train the dolphins for a whole day. Swimming with the animals is included, of course.

If cuddling with sea lions is on your bucket list, you should book the Seal Swim for 139 USD. Alternatively, greet your friends from the South Pole at the Penguin Encounter for 99 USD. Considerable money and effort went into the newest attraction Discovery Bay, a replica of Florida’s coast. For 70 USD you can wade through the shallow water and get close to stingrays and nurse sharks.

If you always wanted to go reef diving, why not fulfill this dream at the Star Trek Reef Encounter? Put on a diving bell and go for a walk among tropical corals and schools of colorful fish. This underwater activity will cost you 99 USD.

DINING AND SHOPPING AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

No visitor has to go hungry at the Miami Seaquarium. Culinary choices include a hotdog stand, a fast food restaurant serving French fries, wraps and chicken fingers, a snack bar with pretzels, a pizza place and a barbecue restaurant. If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth, there are shops selling ice cream, popcorn, cotton candy and slushies. For an ice cold cocktail you should visit the Parrot – Ice Cove.

Visitors who want to keep a memory of their perfect day at the Seaquarium can choose between 3 gift shops. The main one sells cute stuffed dolphins, t-shirts, mugs, sunglasses and home deco. More dolphin-themed souvenirs are available at the Dolphin Lobby Shop, and at the aptly named Penguin Shops everything revolves around penguin-themed gifts.

OPENING TIMES AND ENTRANCE FEES AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

The Miami Seaquarium is open 365 days a year from 10 am to 6 pm. Last entry is at 4.30 pm.

The ticket costs 40 USD for adults, and 30 USD for children between 3 and 9 years. You can save money with the Smart Day Ticket for 30 USD (27 USD for children) between Monday and Wednesday. Even bigger bargains can be struck with coupons. On websites like couponokay.net, dontpayfull.com or retailmenot.com you will find discounts of up to 50%.

EVENTS AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

On the spookiest day of the year, the Miami Seaquarium attracts visitors with the Splash Halloween Bash. The event includes special shows, trick or treating for children and ticket discounts. During the regular Mommy and Me program parents and their children interact with the animals of the Seaquarium, enjoy child-friendly infotainment and participate in arts and crafts workshops. If you want to learn more about Florida’s iconic “sea cows” and how they live, you should visit during Manatee Awareness Month in November.

Thanks to Sunset Cove, a large event space with spectacular views of Miami’s Skyline, the Seaquarium is a popular place for private parties, weddings and corporate events.