Every tourist destination has its attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular location to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” However, you may find more about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, “Walking Tours” of many of these destinations may be available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.

The Everglades, often referred to as a “River of Grass,” which flows slowly through south Florida is a treasure trove of unique environments which are extremely important as nursery grounds for some of the nation’s most impressive wildlife. Much, of course, is hidden beneath the shallow water and inaccessible, but Everglades National Park has afforded millions of tourists the opportunity to explore this fascinating place. This is, however, not a destination to be sought out in the summer because of the ubiquitous mosquitoes and oppressive temperatures. Major reasons for an excursion here in the winter include the following:

1. Florida Alligators are everywhere in the swamp and relatively easy to access along the park trails.

Florida Alligators

2. Other wildlife, especially birds, can be seen in their natural habitats. The Anhinga below is sunning himself to dry his feathers since he is a diving bird.

Anhinga