Quote from taodr:
Bradonton is a shithouse. Look at Naples at least there's a decent core.
Naples itself is kinda neat - but it's more "seasonal" than Tampa, or Miami.
Miami is a wild place - with an element of "danger" in the air.
Tampa is a more or less laid back place. It's biggest drawback is that it desperately wants to be a "big city"
The Clearwater and St. Pete beach area is overcrowded, VERY touristy, and a nightmare to get around.
Florida is a very big state with very diverse interests and needs. Urban areas are jammed with people, growing very rapidly, and unable to keep up. Rural areas are very rural (if you get my drift) The Northern part of the state bares no resemblance to the southern part. Central Florida is dominated by Disney, and other theme parks. The panhandle is a world of it's own.
Weather is surprisingly cool in the winter north of Palm Beach. Summer is more sufferable south of Palm Beach - go figure.
I Like Sarasota for "West Coast" living. It's a little artsy, but a neat place. Some of the "east coast" towns around Palm Beach County (and north Broward County) are probably more of what you think Florida is really like.
The interior, with only a few exceptions, would probably be total cultural shock for most Yankees. The Pan Handle is not called the "Redneck Riviera" for nothing - and is more susceptible to hurricanes in the later part of summer.
I can't speak for Northern Florida, as I have passed through it. Just keep in mind that all of the things I joked about in previous posts are basically kinda true - exaggerated, yes, but they can drive you nuts ( I am living proof of that ). About half of the people who live here think it's paradise - the other half ain't so sure. Depending on where you are coming from, you will find wages breathtakingly low, government services much lower, and keep in mind that a loaf of bread costs as much here as anywhere. There is no state income tax, property taxes are usually lower, but they nickle and dime you to death in ways you can't imagine. Most schools have "portable" classrooms, and there is a severe teacher shortage (Florida thinks anything over $3.85 an hour for teacn' youngins' is asking too much)
Just for the record - I live in an older, upscale part of Tampa - very urban - and I have snakes, possum, and raccoons in my yard
