Many people hear the name Florida and immediately conjure an image of the Retirement Police herding the elderly down there to live. This is not really Florida. Florida is a beautiful state with terrain that ranges from its beautiful beaches on the coasts to the rolling green hills of the center of the state to the Everglades. And attractions that range from theme parks to Kennedy Space Center. There is something for everyone in Florida. Considered the warmest state, Florida has an average daily temperature of 70.7 degrees Fahrenheit. And since it has the nickname of theSunshine State, you wouldn't guess that it has the highest average rainfall of any other state. Sunshine State residents jokingly refer to the almost daily rain as Liquid Sunshine.

One of Florida's biggest attractions is, of course, the beaches. Florida proudly boasts the sugar sand beaches of Panama Beach to the almost primitive beach areas of the Keys. The beaches on Florida',s Atlantic coast are very popular due to the fact that you can watch the sun rise over the ocean. A truly spectacular sight. But sand and surf are not the only attractions Florida has to offer. There are other natural attractions, such as Everglades National Park, which has been declared a World Heritage Site. Another natural wonder in Florida is Ichetucknee Springs State Park, where you can go tubing down 6 miles of pristine waterway.

Theme parks dot the landscape in Florida. You have places including Disneyworld, Epcot Center, and Busch Gardens, but these are not the only man-made attractions it offers. If the excitement of roller coasters and spinning teacups aren't to your liking there's also the Kennedy Space Center. The Kennedy Space Center not only gives you an education on the past space program, but also gives you a glimpse into the some of the challenges and hardships our astronauts confront while in space. Not only does Florida have amazing attractions and scenery; they also have some of the best colleges in the country. From the University of Florida, one of the nation's largest universities, to Florida State University, to smaller places like Florida A & M. there are plenty of educational options. These colleges not only boast excellent academics, but also superior athletics in their curriculum. No, Florida is not just for retirees. It is for everyone. From Jacksonville to Key West, Tampa Bay to Fort Lauderdale, Florida has something to offer anyone and everyone. Go have fun!