By Dalia Colon
Save time and money by following these suggestions.
There’s never a bad time to live in Florida, but knowing when to tackle which activities can save you time, money and hassle. So grab your calendar and pencil and write down these activities in florida and best time of the year for each one.
Swim with (or see) manatees
Sea cows come out when the weather’s chilly, from December to February.
Get a deal on antiques
Mount Dora is the place to score vintage finds. Save the dates for Renninger’s Antique Extravaganzas (held three times a year) and the Mount Dora Annual Spring Antiques Collectibles and Craft Show.
Buy a boat
“More boats are likely put on the market at the end of summer than any other time of the year,” says
VISIT FLORIDA Boating and Fishing Insider Terry Gibson. Boat shows, like the Miami International Boat Show, offer special deals and the opportunity to talk to dealers, test boats and get just what you need.
Try surfing
June is ideal on Florida’s Atlantic coast, says Paul West, president of the Florida Surfing Association.
The waves are small, the water is warm, and you have all summer to practice your new skills.
Take a staycation
When the weather gets hot, the deals in Florida get even hotter. Resorts, hotels, restaurants and attractions save their best deals for summer.
Eat cheap in South Beach
Find discounts during Miami Spice restaurant month, which actually lasts two months – from Aug. 1 to
Sept. 30, 2012.
Take the kids to Disney
Known as Orlando’s “Deals Season” because of all the discounts available on attractions, hotels and restaurants, late August through late September is “one of the best-kept secrets of Orlando,” says Edward Delgado of Visit Orlando.
Play a round of golf
For value, think summer. For weather, think late winter to early spring. For the best of both worlds, try the Escape & Play package from PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens. From October to January, get accommodations and unlimited golf for $199 per person per night.
Run your first 5K
As long as you avoid the summer swelter, anytime is good, says Lorraine Evans, publisher of flrunning.com. Choose a race with a flat course and fewer than 1,000 people.
