There's a reason why Florida is known as the sunshine state. The area of land that makes up the state of Florida is much more tropical than the rest of the country. In Florida, sun protection is a must, especially for those who burn easily. This type of prevention includes sunblock lotion to prevent burning, as well as sunglasses to dim some of the glaring rays. Other items, however, like a sun umbrella, which provide perpetual shade, can prove helpful as well. Sun hats, which are designed to shade the face, also are useful.
It's not just the sun that's a factor when considering the Florida climate, it's the humidity as well. Unlike sunny areas out West, such as Southern California or Arizona, Florida has a moist heat, which bears consideration when determining what types of clothes to take. While it's always a good idea to wear light-colored clothing to reflect the sun's harsh rays, the material is also important. Fabric that allows the skin to breathe, such as cotton or hemp, are particularly comfortable, while materials such as wool or nylon are not.
One menace that usually goes hand and hand with humid weather are insects, particularly mosquitoes. Florida is certainly known for having its fair share of these bugs, with about 80 different species buzzing around the state. Repellent is key in avoiding their bite, which not only cause painful itching but dangerous diseases, such as the West Nile virus. According to the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the University of Florida, repellents should contain diemethylbenzamide and/or diethyl-m-toluamide and display an EPA approved label on the container. Sunscreen/bug repellent combinations are not recommended.
Reading material related to the destination is advisable for traveling just about anywhere, and Florida is no exception. There are hundreds of books that describe the state's various cities and towns, from major metropolises to secluded beach villages, and others that focus on the vast array of plants and animals that can be found in such places as the sprawling Everglades. Florida has also inspired many famous works of fiction, which can enhance the experience of a visit. Authors such as Ernest Hemingway, who made his home for decades in tropical Key West, penned some of their best work in and about Florida.
