Fly from the UK to New Orleans, USA.

Kick off your adventure in the Big Easy where music spills from every doorway and the food has no intention of being subtle. Your base is The Eliza Jane, a stylish spot steps from the French Quarter. Drift down the Mississippi on the Natchez Steamboat Cruise, complete with that classic paddlewheel charm, then dive into the city’s heady mix of history, jazz and beignets. It’s the perfect soft launch for a Gulf Coast road trip.

Next stop: Mobile, a city that blends antebellum elegance with a playful streak. Rest up at The Battle House Renaissance, an architectural beauty with plenty of stories. Your Attraction Pass unlocks the city’s highlights so you can explore museums, waterfront views or maybe a little Mardi Gras history. It’s a quick taste of the South’s quieter side before you push toward Florida’s beaches.

Roll into Pensacola for a breezy coastal pause. The Hilton Garden Inn gives you easy access to sugar-white sands, historic forts and a lively downtown that’s compact enough to wander at your own pace. Think fresh seafood, gentle surf and a sunset that sneaks up on you. It’s a short but sweet seaside stop before your beach time ramps up.

Time to sink into full beach mode at Panama City Beach where the water shows off every shade of blue you can imagine. Hyatt Place puts you close to the action so you can jump between powdery shoreline, waterfront dining and state parks packed with wildlife. Whether you’re chasing sun, seafood or the perfect photo op, this stretch of coast doesn’t disappoint.

Perry is your peaceful breather, a quiet slice of Old Florida where pine forests outnumber people. Holiday Inn Express keeps things comfy while you reset between beach destinations. It’s a gentle pause on your journey south that sets you up nicely for the nature-rich adventures ahead.

Gainesville serves up leafy trails, springs clear enough to make you question reality and a lively college-town buzz. Hyatt Place gives you an easy base for exploring museums, gardens or a dip in those iconic Florida freshwater springs. Expect a mix of culture, nature and friendly charm that often surprises first-timers.

Here comes the memory-maker. Crystal River is famous for its gentle manatees and you’ll have the chance to swim alongside them in their natural habitat. Hampton Inn keeps things relaxed so you can focus on enjoying the springs, trails or a kayak glide through glassy waters. It’s one of those rare experiences that leaves even the chatty ones speechless.

Wrap things up in vibrant Tampa at the foodie-loving Epicurean Hotel where the name really says it all. Sip, snack and savour your way through local markets, waterfront pathways and bright city neighbourhoods. With its mix of culture, sunshine and culinary swagger, Tampa sends you home on a high note.

Fly from Tampa to the UK.