Mention the word Florida and what immediately springs to mind? For most people it resonates with Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios etc. However, travel beyond the norm and you will be amazed at what other delights Florida has to offer.

Descend you flight at Sanford Airport and instead of joining the rush of traffic heading for Orlando, take a few days to discover what the historical city of Sanford, the county seat of Seminole County, and the surrounding areas have to offer.

The city lies on the southern shores of beautiful Lake Monroe and can trace its history back to the early 1800’s when it was a hub of activity for navigation on the St. John’s River. Prior to that, the area was inhabited by the Seminole Indians. If the hundred year old oak trees in the area could speak I wonder what stories they would have to tell.

Today you can revel in the historic ambience of the turn of the century buildings; wander along tree-lined streets and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of city parks; stroll along the Sanford Riverwalk or have a coffee and watch spectacular sunsets over the Lake. Take time to make a visit to the Sanford Museum that sits on East 1^st. Street where you will find artifacts of past life in the city including photographs, family histories, letters, newspapers, maps and books.

A must for everyone visiting this area is a venture into Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. This is a zoo that really cares for the well being of its animals as well as seeking to educate visitors about the necessity of looking after our wildlife and environment for future generations to enjoy. Once inside, you can feed a giraffe, have an encounter with a rhino or splash around in the tropical Splash Ground. Enjoy an aerial adventure zipping along on the ZOOM Air Adventure Park or take a leisurely ride on the Little Florida Coastline Train and Animal Carousel. With over 400 animals to see and a diversity of gardens to enjoy, you will go home with a lifetime of memories to share. You are welcome to take along and eat your own picnic in a designated picnic area just outside the entrance to the zoo itself.

To the west of Sanford lies the Wekiva River, a floodplain that provides a natural habitat for many endangered creatures. Canoeing and Kayaking are favourite sports in this part of the county. Glide down the river and it will be like taking a step back in time as very little has changed since the Timucauan Indians hunted and fished these waters. Canoes and kayaks can easily be rented at Katie’s Landing.

Within easy driving distance of Sanford is the historical town of Longwood where Big Tree Park, part of Spring Hammock Preserve can be found. The most famous tree in the park, the biggest and oldest Bald Cypress, was known as The Senator and at its peak stood 165 feet tall. In 1993 it was estimated that Senator was 3500 years old. In its lifetime it was used as a landmark by the Indians who lived in the region as well as attracting visitors during the late 19^th Century. At that time people had to leap from log to log to cross the swamp lands to gain access to the tree but at a later time, a walkway was constructed. In 1925 a hurricane was responsible for destroying the top of the tree reducing its height by approximately 47 feet. In 2012 an arsonist was responsible for setting the tree on fire and only the charred remains stand at a mere 20/25 feet. It is thought that Senator’s legacy lives on in the form of cuttings from the original tree. The Preserve also includes parts of the Seminole Scenic Trail.

If taking to the water inspires you, make your way to The Black Hammock in Oviedo where you can experience the thrill of an air boat ride across Lake Jesup, home to the biggest alligator population in Florida. The rides are approved by the US Coastguards and are piloted by experienced captains. Perhaps you might wish to visit Bird Island or explore the Wildlife Exhibit where you can hold a baby alligators or talk to the blue and gold macaws. After a busy day relax with a cool drink or finger licking meal in the Gator Bar or Restaurant.

After a few relaxing days discovering the alternative delights of Florida to be found in Seminole County, you will be ready to face the fun and excitement of the many theme parks in Orlando. Having experienced a variety of adventures your holiday will have been greatly enriched and afford you many happy memories to recount when you return home.