he different regions of the Sunshine State offer unique attractions and fascinating destinations. High on the must-see list is Fort Myers and its islands, beaches and neighborhoods, a series of hideaways that are first nature and offer a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.
When you imagine that true feeling of vacation ecstasy, the kind where you’ve got your toes in the sand, a drink in hand, and the rest of the world is an afterthought, chances are you’re dreaming of Fort Myers. and his little corner of southwest Florida. British Airways flies direct to the three main airports in the state, putting this part of the world within easy reach. Booking flights, hotels and car hire through British Airways Holidays makes exploring the region even easier.
Here, just two hours south of Tampa and surrounded by big helpings of nature, the islands, beaches, and neighborhoods of Fort Myers will whisk you away to a carefree realm of small-scale vacation nirvana, where manatees roost in the languid waters and wildlife. is often the main attraction.
Discover a world of channels
Cape Coral is a vibrant city built on a network of canals
/ fort myersLooking at the geography of the area, it’s easy to see how things have become so water-centric. With the Caloosahatchee River acting as the main artery leading to the Intracoastal Waterway and then to the Gulf of Mexico, this is clearly a region that places great importance on its coastal elements.
Start with Fort Myers, a bustling city bordering the water with magnificent views of the river on both sides, where you’ll find a number of restaurants and bars that take advantage of the view.
Next up is Cape Coral, a destination notable for the fact that it has more canals than Venice (about 400 miles of them, to be precise) and natural wonders like Four Mile Cove Ecological Reserve, with elevated walkways through the mangroves leading offer up-close views. of this unique ecosystem.
Benefits of booking with British Airways
There are all kinds of advantages
- British Airways has an extensive network of flights to Florida, including direct scheduled flights to Orlando, Tampa and Miami.
- British Airways offers full service in Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy on all flights
- All British Airways holidays are protected by ATOL, keeping you and your money safe
- You can secure your holiday package with a low deposit from just £60 per person and pay the rest in as many installments as you like. Final payment is due 7 weeks prior to long-distance travel
- With a dedicated 24-hour holiday helpline, British Airways Holidays has you covered for any problems while you’re away, if your plans change or something unexpected happens.
- The checked baggage allowance of 23kg per person is included as standard with all British Airways Holidays bookings, not as an add-on
- British Airways Holidays offers quality accommodation options to suit all budgets, from 3* to 5* luxury
- In partnership with Avis, British Airways Holidays offers air travel across the state. When you book flights and car hire together, all mandatory charges are included and you’ll benefit from 24-hour customer service and roadside assistance.
Bonita Springs and Estero are also nature-backdrop gems on land, combining a quiet village-style atmosphere with proximity to some of the best beaches in the region.
Tune in to the slower pace of island life.
Roseate spoonbills make a colorful sight at the JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
/ fort myersWith six main islands and several dozen smaller islands, it’s no surprise that much of the focus is on the kind of vacation that stays at a relaxed pace, where time is measured by a calendar, not a wristwatch. .
So it’s easy to get lost among this web of idyllic locations, highlighted by the offshore islands of Sanibel, Captiva and Key Coast. This trio was affected by Hurricane Ian in 2022, but has bounced back in style to ensure its reputation for secluded beachside magnificence remains intact alongside the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Presented by the JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, with the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the US, Sanibel dedicates some 6,000 acres to this wildlife wonderland. With epic birding, hiking and biking trails, a scenic four-mile drive, and fascinating canoeing and kayaking tours through the mangroves, this is where you’re likely to see alligators, manatees, horseshoe crabs, and ospreys among an abundance of land and life. marine, all in their natural habitat.
come closer to the water
A kayak trip is just one way to explore the region.
/ fort myersFrom kayaks to speed boats to jet skis, the Fort Myers region is definitely a place for exceptionally good sailing. You’ll find a seemingly endless variety of possibilities to enjoy life on the open waters of both the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf itself.
Half- and full-day rentals, from luxury yachts to friendly pontoon boats, are offered at multiple locations, while kayaking around the islands is simply some of the best and most wildlife-rich in Florida.
Whatever your level of boating experience, you have a golden opportunity to explore the stunning Calusa Blueway, a photogenic 190-mile marked trail for canoes and kayaks that winds through Lee County’s coastal waters and inland tributaries, Florida.
Soak up city life the way people used to
The Edison Ford Museum is a fascinating historical landmark
/ fort myersYou definitely shouldn’t miss Fort Myers’ land-based delights. This city of nearly 100,000 happy souls is dotted with little-known gems that add up to a fascinating old-world experience.
Begin with the winter estates of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison and progress to the River District, the historic home of old Fort Myers and its turn-of-the-20th-century core, as well as a compact hub of delicious dining options and bars.
End with a scenic drive along palm-lined McGregor Boulevard, once home to the rich and famous, a testament to Florida’s yesteryear and its luxurious flair.
Where to stay in Florida
The Westin Cape Coral Resort – When you need a high-quality resort close to all attractions but with a wonderful element of seclusion, the high-rise Westin is your ideal retreat. Located on the intracoastal waterway with its own amenity-packed marina, it offers fabulous water views, great restaurants, and even a water taxi to the beach.
Book your Fort Myers vacation with British Airways May Deals. Flights + 7 hotel nights from £649 per person. Terms and conditions apply. ATOL protected. Sale ends May 30
