"As essential as sunscreen and a must-have for anyone visiting or living in South Florida."--Mac Stone, author of Everglades: America's Wetland

"An alluring snapshot, capturing the regions' fun side with fishing, fantasy, food, and an overall funky feel."--Mary Barley, chair, Everglades Trust

"Delivers all of the hidden and not-so-hidden gems that even the most discerning traveler needs to have for a true national park experience in South Florida, combining the ever-evolving story of the unique and amazing Everglades ecosystem with the must-do's for every visitor."--John Adornato, Sun Coast Regional Director, National Parks Conservation Association

"More than just a guidebook: it's a warm, inviting exploration of South Florida's natural beauty and history."--Laura Albritton, author of Miami for Families: A Vacation Guide for Parents and Kids

"Shows readers how to experience natural beauty in places they would never find on their own--and makes the workings of this complicated ecosystem easy to understand."--Daniel Burkhardt, editor of Florida Bay Forever: A Story of Water from the Everglades to the Keys


Packed with adventure and a local's expert advice, this guide is essential reading for a fun-filled trip through the world's most famous wetland, the Everglades, and the spectacular marine environment of the 130-mile island chain formed by the Florida Keys.
From the Ten Thousand Islands to Big Cypress, the Everglades, and the Florida Keys, Silk stops through alluring locales, such as a mysterious Coral Castle in the Redland/Homestead area, and the exceptional waterside campgrounds of Biscayne National Park. Silk's tour of the region even features an eerie Cold War-era missile base deep in Everglades National Park. Awe-inspiring boardwalks, paddles through mangroves, dives to imperiled reefs, a ride on the famous African Queen boat from the eponymous Bogart and Hepburn movie, and a sampling of the scenic and quirky attraction of Key West complete Silk's journey.
Along the way, the reader will learn about local history and culture and discover some of the eclectic, locally owned restaurants, watering holes, and attractions that possess the charming Old Florida character.

Robert Silk is the Florida tourism and airlines editor for Travel Weekly and former senior staff writer for the Key West Citizen/Florida Keys Free Press. He has also written for the Chicago Tribune and Miami Herald, among other publications.

Sample Chapter(s):

Excerpt

Press Kit

Table of Contents

Offers travel tips as well as insight into “Old Florida” and the region’s Native American roots.
--Publishers Weekly

This handy guide explores the Everglades and the Florida Keys, providing details about the sights, smells, and attractions that would appeal to naturalists, ecotourists, and outdoorsy travelers.
--Library Journal

Silk’s well-planned and fact-filled guide can be a source of knowledge, entertainment and inspiration to anyone interested in the wide-open spaces of South Florida and Southwest Florida.
--Naples Florida Weekly