If I am feeling strong enough, I would love to pop over and visit Tampa. I've always heard good things about this Florida city and years ago read a murder mystery by a Southern writer, with a French- Canadian cop (anyone remember this series? ;) ) that was set in this town. As a result, I have always wanted to revisit places like Tampa specifically, Miami, and many other intriguing locations, like the Everglades, of course. I highly recommend Florida as travel destination, having been there for a most lengthy and memorable stay, and the fabulous Indian River fruit that emanates from this region and is such a delicacy that it is not available just anywhere. Florida is such a grand Southern dame, from the slow turning overhead fans to the broad leaved gracious palms and the high style Southern manners. I was incredibly pleased to find this travel guide to Tampa and am very proud to put it on my blog.

I should add that in the 1990s, I visited Busch Gardens and have some terrific memories of exploring this amazing haunt. I would love to go back :)

p.s.- if I go to to Fla., most certainly my brothers will come to Tampa with me! I look forward to showing them a well researched Tampa, and the hidden gems that they were too busy to slow down and discover on their last trip over to this sweet venue.


Lowry Park Zoo -- is located just ten minutes from downtown Tampa. In 2009 it was named the Number One Zoo in the U.S. by Parents Magazine and that title is well deserved. The site is so clean, animals well cared for and signage throughout the site playful and charming. Tampa's moderate climate makes this zoo ideal for all the animals that originate from Africa and other warm climates. There are 2200+ species housed in replicas of their natural habitats and there is also an on-site Manatee hospital where the injured or abandoned Manatees in the area are cared for (it's interesting to note that the complete staff of this Manatee Hospital is female).

We loved the viewing station in the giraffe compound at Safari Africa. Visitors climb the stairs and at the very top you are level with the giraffe's head and ... his very big, wet, tongue. The kiddies squealed with delight as the giraffes ate the cookies from their outstretched little hands.

P.S. If you're too tired to walk another step you can tour the park with the sky train or the original one on the ground (all rides are included in the price of admission). Whether you are five, fifteen or fifty Journeywoman heartily recommends a trip to the Lowry Zoo. P.P.S. If it's your birthday you get in free. Website: www.lowryparkzoo.com

Busch Gardens -- is a combo of delicious delights for kids, especially the older ones. This is where wildlife and wild rides come together in a crazy mix of Broadway-style shows, a world-class zoo with more than 2,500 exotic and endangered animals and more record-breaking roller coasters than any destination in Florida. Travelling with little ones? Check out Land of the Dragons where Busch Gardens devotes one and a half acres of fun just for young adventurers. They'll love the illuminated water geysers, the echo chamber and the mini flume ride. Website: http://www.buschgardens.com

Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) -- We absolutely loved The Children's Science Center at MOSI. Called 'Kids in Charge!' this museum for youngsters 12 and under uses play areas and exhibits to explain science and inspire creativity. It's a huge open area and kids are free to touch and try everything. This video will give you the best idea of what Kids in Charge! accomplishes. Guaranteed you'll be inspired to visit.