A place where modernity merges seamlessly with antiquity, Tampa is the perfect place for a quick getaway from the din and bustle of city life.

Introduction

The first thing that strikes any visitor to Tampa is the unique mosaic of divergent cultures and influences, in this urban center. Quaint villages that coexist with skyscrapers and the relaxed atmosphere of the villages juxtaposed with the rapid moving city life really tells a unique tale of a city reconciling its rich history with ultra modern development. Banana barges, shrimp boats moving side by side with cruise ships tell their own tale of economic and leisure activities while the colorful marketplace with its multi-ethnic cuisine and unique shops provide tourists with many ways to spend dollars.

Getting there

The Hernando Airport lies seven miles north of Tampa. Seven miles southeast is the St. Peterburg Clearwater Airport whereas the Tampa International Airport lies just five miles southwest of downtown Tampa. AirTran Airways, Seacoast and Spirit Airlines provide flights in and out of Tampa. You can also travel by train to Tampa and alight at either the Amtrak-Dade City station or the Amtrak-Tampa station. The first lies at Meridian Avenue at the Highway 98 Bypass, while the second is near Nebraska Avenue between Downtown and Ybor City.

Tourist attractions

Tourists usually face a problem of plenty when they land at Tampa. Therefore we would suggest that you make a list of things that you should not miss. The first stop should be the historic Ybor City, a place that has been restored to antique splendor. Established in the 1800s by Vincente Martinez Ybor and Cuban immigrants, it boasted of a thriving cigar industry. The Busch Gardens is another must see. Listed among United States’ top four zoos, it provides exotic animals, live shows, thrilling rides besides a water park with flumes and slides. The Museum of Science and Industry, the Florida Aquarium, the Henry B. Plant Museum and the Tampa Museum of Art are other places that should be on your agenda. Reserve your evenings for La Septima (Seventh Avenue), which is closed to vehicles for revelers, who club-hop the many nightspots. Reserve a day to check out the Old Hyde Park village off the Bayshore Boulevard. This is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and today provides an elite shopping area with boutiques and cafes.

Sights to see

Adventure Island’s 30 acres of water-drenched fun in the sun features a soothing Key West atmosphere with an unrivaled blend of slides, corkscrews, water falls, a wave pool, children’s water playground and other family attractions such as outdoor cafes, picnic and sunbathing areas, gift shops, arcades and championship sand volleyball complex. www.adventureisland.com; Local Phone: 813-987-5600; $28-30

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure park offering an array of fascinating attractions based on exotic encounters with the African continent. A unique blend of thrilling rides, one of the country’s premier zoos featuring more than 2,700 animals, live shows, restaurants, shops and games. $42 – 52. bgt.guestrelations@buschgardens.com; Local Phone: 813-987-5082

Florida Aquarium

Explore the great outdoors - indoors in cool, air-conditioned comfort at The Florida Aquarium. Encounter over 10,000 aquatic plants and animals, from huge sharks to playful river otters. Enjoy daily behind-the-scenes tours, dive shows, audio tours, close-up animal encounters and two touch-tanks for hands-on experiences. Tickets - $11-16. adavis@flaquarium.org; Local Phone: 813-273-4000

Lowry Park Zoo is a top rated zoo in the nation, featuring 1,600 + animals, many rare and endangered, in lush, natural habitats. Exhibits areas include Asian Domain, Primates, Florida Wildlife & Manatees and the new Wallaroo Station— an Australian themed family area. Feed Lorikeet birds, stingrays, goats and kangaroos! Enjoy petting zoo, carousel and two water fountain areas to play in. E-mail: information@lowryparkzoo.org; Local Phone: 813-935-8552

Food and Beverages

Tampa’s restaurants reflect its cosmopolitan character. Spanish, Southwestern, Italian, Asian, Continental and Seafood restaurants abound.

Check out the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. It is a landmark Spanish restaurant in Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter. Established in 1905, Authentic flamenco dance shows nightly, except on Sundays. Open 365 days a year, including holidays. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations suggested.