Practical information : Treat yourself (& others) Florida
Timetable
Most shops are open every day, from 10am to 10pm depending on the city. They are rarely closed between noon and two, and almost always open on Sundays. This is also the case for supermarkets.
Among the holidays in the United States, stores are closed on New Year's Day (January1 ), President's Day (3rd Monday in February), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (1st Monday in September) or Veteran's Day (November 11).
Budget & Tips
The cost of living is mostly high in Florida, especially in Miami. As far as shopping is concerned, there are shopping malls entirely dedicated to big brands at low prices: the outlets. Often open-air, these factory outlets gather the biggest fashion brands (Levi's, Converse, Adidas, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger...) which sell products from previous collections at reduced prices. Discounts can be as much as 75% off! It is 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. There too, you must add a tax of 7.25%.
Sales
As in France, there are sales periods in Florida. Thus, the Back-to-school Sale takes place at the end of July, just before the beginning of the school year in early August. In the fall, the After Thanksgiving Weekend Sale featuring Midnight Madness starts the day after Thanksgiving (towards the end of November) for 3 days, from Friday to Sunday. From December 26th, it is the turn of the After Holiday Sales to start, until January1st . These are among the main ones, but there are others during the year. Some sales take place during a particular day: Valentine's Day Sale (February 14th), Mother's Day Sale (Mother's Day), Father's Day Sale (Father's Day), Black Friday (end of November)... As you can see, there is no shortage of opportunities to make good deals!
What's very local
Classic souvenirs to bring back from Florida include gourmet Key lime products, natural sponges from Tarpon's Spring, handcrafted soaps made in Naples or Saint Augustine, or products featuring Mickey and his friends.
Bargaining is not a common practice in Florida.
Tourist traps
In the big cities you will find countless souvenir stores, usually made in China. This is even more true in the Orlando area, which is literally swarming with such shops selling mainly Disney and Universal souvenirs. They are not always authentic and official, so it is better to look at the label twice.
It is better to use local products and artisans when possible.