Whether you feel like walking on white-sand beaches or wandering through upscale shopping districts, you'll find something to your liking in the diverse Tampa Bay area. Bright, modern Tampa is the area's commercial center. Peninsular St. Petersburg lies across the bay. Tarpon Springs is still Greek in flavor, while Ybor City retains its Cuban atmosphere. To the south are Bradenton, which has several museums and beaches; Sarasota, a sophisticated resort town; and small, canal-crossed Venice.

	After dark, the night clubs open their doors, and Ybor City becomes one of several Tampa hot spots. There's something for everyone on the nightime scene, no matter what their fancy. Stylish young party animals come out to prowl the areas many hip bars & clubs. Tampa also has real animals in abundance: sharks and rays at the Florida Aquarium and the more lovable manatees at the zoo. At Busch Gardens, you can ride across re-created African plains in a safari truck, stopping to hand feed roaming giraffes. Or climb aboard one of the park's many thrill rides for a breathtaking rush you won't soon forget! Only a 30-minute drive away are St. Petersburg (St. Pete) and the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. Once mainly a retirement spot, the Tampa/St.Petersburg area now attracts people of all ages and cultural diversities, and offers a virtually endless selection of activities and entertainment.