Spring Break in Sunny Florida

Ah! Spring has sprung! It's time to pack your beach clothes and head south to sunny Florida for a long-awaited vacation in the sun! There's so many attractions to see ... Disney, Busch Gardens, Sea World, and of course, the beach, right? Did you forget your sunblock? Your bermuda shorts and sunglasses? What about your common courtesy for those of us who live here in the Sunshine State? Don't get me wrong, being a resident of Clearwater Beach, I look forward to meeting tourists ... from other countries, other states, or even other counties here in the state of Florida. Some of you guys drive like maniacs! Some of you are driving while under the influence of alcohol (probably a majority of you who visit Clearwater Beach), and some of you have walked right in front of a local's car while reading a map of Disney World! Spring is a celebration for all of us - a time to put aside the stuffy sweaters, break out the tanning oil and relax in the sun. The options here in this wonderful state for vacationers are endless. We have Orlando, Tampa, the Keys, Alligator Alley ... the list goes on. As a Florida native, I welcome you with open arms!

Now let's get down to the topic of my story: As Florida residents we expect (and some of us even look forward to) a visit from tourists throughout the entire year. What we don't like is the seasonal gas price hikes to accomodate your visit, the home rental prices that skyrocket just because you're arrival is anticipated, and the (sorry guys/gals) excessive traffic that we have to deal with while you're here. Rest assured, we love our state and try our best to brace ourselves for these issues each season ... but come on! You should see the locals here on Clearwater Beach as we prepare for you! Home owners out here on our lovely island actually vacate their homes between October and May and put them up for rent - just for you - at astronomical prices. Honestly, months before you got here the rental rates were hundreds of dollars cheaper! I don't know if that's the case in other areas of Florida, but here on Clearwater Beach people are more that happy to see you - and your money! Vacation you shall - at a much larger price than being a resident here year-round! So, from a Forida native: Welcome to the Sunshine State ... now give us your money (and please be courteous while driving through the round-about out here on Clearwater Beach, it seems to confuse a lot of folks).