What budget for activities and outings Florida?
Admission at the adult rate is generally between US$5 and US$35. Almost all sites offer reduced rates for seniors, students and children, as well as free admission for children under 2 or 3. There is a special case for state parks such as the Everglades, where the price is per vehicle and not per person. You'll also find places that are free but where a contribution is appreciated.
Florida lends itself to a wide range of low-cost outdoor activities. The least expensive is, of course, swimming in the sea! For just a few dollars, you can also access the state parks , which are teeming with hiking trails. Other water-based activities are available all over Florida (kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding, sailing, boat rental...), but you'll have to pay more.
The cost of living is generally high in Florida, particularly in Miami. When it comes to shopping, there are a number of outlets dedicated entirely to big-name brands at knock-down prices. Often open-air, these factory outlets feature the biggest fashion brands (Levi's, Converse, Adidas, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger...) selling products from previous collections at reduced prices. Reductions can be as much as 75%! It's not uncommon to find a pair of Levi's jeans for €30 after conversion. The main outlets are located around Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Fort Myers. Here too, a 6% tax must be added.
As in Europe, the entrance to a nightclub can be free or not. Some places organize ladies nights, where the entrance is free for ladies. A number of cinemas and theaters offer discounts for morning shows.
What budget to eat Florida?
You can eat on the run for less than 10 US$ but it will usually be tacos or sandwiches. In a traditional restaurant, you will find dishes from 15 US$, up to 60 US$ or more depending on the range. The bill can quickly rise if you add a drink and dessert. It is very common to ask for a doggy bag if you do not finish your plate.
To eat healthy at a reasonable price, you should know that large supermarkets like Publix or Wholefood Market have huge catering departments. You can find salads to compose, hot dishes such as soups, marinated meats or cooked vegetables. The principle: you choose a tray (different sizes to choose from) that you fill with whatever you want. The price per kilo is indicated next to each dish, and you pay in full at the cash desk. Traditional pizza slices and sushi are also available. It is also possible to customize your sandwich on the spot. You will see a lot of locals in these departments, especially in the evening. Indeed, the inhabitants of Florida as well as the Americans in general cook less than the Europeans.
We advise you to go to the happy hours in the bars, it is possible to find cocktails for less than 10 US$, to be accompanied by plates to share at reduced prices. Often, happy hours take place on weekdays only.
As with restaurants, taxes and tips must be added to the final bill. All forms of payment are generally accepted.
What is the budget for accommodation Florida?
There are many hotels in Florida, in various price ranges to suit all budgets. Several hotel chains of the motel type are present on the outskirts of each city or almost (from 70 US$ per night). Of course, these are not the most authentic accommodations; if your budget allows it, we recommend independent hotels and Bed and Breakfasts full of charm that will allow you to interact with your hosts. Most of the state parks have camping sites where you can pitch your tent for about 30 dollars a night.
Prices do not include taxes, which vary depending on the location, so add 11-14% per night. Some large resorts charge an additional resort fee that includes access to the pool, wifi, beach towels and other services.
Travel budget Florida and cost of living
Expect to pay between US$100 and US$200 per day on average if you're very careful, especially when it comes to hotels, which will be the most expensive part of your trip (in high season, expect to pay at least US$150).
Generally speaking, prices soar in big cities and tourist resorts, and are divided by three in smaller towns. This rule applies to everything: in a major metropolis, you can expect to pay around US$100 for a double room in a charming hotel, and US$70 in a small urban community. A meal will never cost less than US$10, from US$20 to US$30 in a standard restaurant, and US$45 minimum in a chic restaurant.
Urban transport costs an average of US$1.50 a ticket, but cabs are a little too expensive for the distances covered. We recommend Uber or Lyft, which are available in all major Florida cities.
Entrance to theme parks is always expensive; at least US$100 per park.