Best Reasons to Retire to Tampa, Florida

By Jony Mozen


Bayshore Boulevard is a waterfront road on Hillsborough Bay in South Tampa. Located south of downtown Tampa, its sidewalk, claimed to be the longest continuous sidewalk in the world at 4.5 miles long, is 10 feet wide and is mainly used for recreation and exercise. The 3-mile bike lane, a linear park, and the Bayshore Greenway Trail provide scenic views of urban Tampa and the water. One side of the drive is lined with stately historic homes and modern towering condominiums while the other offers a fabulous view of Tampa Bay. On any given day you might see joggers, skaters and bikers out on their daily quest for exercise while others come just to soak up the sunshine and the view.

Well, you might want to look into these in your spare time. Not all of these are in your backyard, but driving is comfortable and parking is plentiful. Besides if you're looking for fun adventures you have to seek them out. Since shopping is a full time occupation in Florida you'll find many garage and yard sales every weekend and loads of fleas markets, but many big game hunters and gatherers love to stalk the malls. You might want to try these. Westfield Citrus Park at Citrus Park Town Center in Tampa features anchor stores Dillard's, JCPenny, Macy's and Sears. There are several clothing stores, such as Abercrombie & Fitch, as well as stores specializing in home furnishings and design, jewelry, shoes, toys, sporting goods and more. In addition to the food court, restaurants include Johnny Rockets and BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse. WestShore Plaza in Tampa includes Sears, JCPennys, Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue and is home to several high-end retail chains including Ann Taylor and Lindt & Sprngli. Aside from the many eateries located in the mall's food court, WestShore boasts upscale restaurants including Mitchell's Fish Market and Palm Restaurant. Largo Mall in Largo boasts anchor stores Target, PetSmart, Staples and Michaels in an open-air setting. Clothing stores include Bealls and Marshalls. For the hungry shopper, Largo Mall boasts an outstanding selection of eateries, including Chili's, Red Lobster, Olive Garden and Sweet Tomatoes.

Westfield Sarasota Square in Sarasota is home to more than 140 unique stores, eateries and businesses. Anchor stores include Dillard's, JCPenny, Macy's and Sears. The mall features a wide selection of fashions for men and women, including stores such as Jos. A. Bank, Wall Street For Men, Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Anchor Blue, Buckle, Gap, Hollister Co., Hot Topic, Lids, Pacific Sunwear, Steve & Barry's and Victoria's Secret. In addition to the food court, Boston's Restaurant and Sports Bar and Ruby Tuesday can be found at the mall. Westfield Countryside Mall in Clearwater is home to several department stores such as Sears, Dillard's, JCPenny and Macy's. Also found in the mall are Bond Jewelers, Country Cabin, FYE, Gap, Gordon Jewelers, Spencer Gifts, Things Remembered, Yankee Candle and many others. In addition to the food court, shoppers can enjoy a snack or a meal at Ruby Tuesday Restaurant, Schnickel Fritz or TooJay's Gourmet Deli.

Gonzalez & Martinez Corona Cigar Factory. Specializing in fine, hand rolled, and premium handmade cigars, this cigar shop is rated one of the ten best cigar shops in the world and their Cigar Factory is open Monday through Saturday where visitors can see first hand the tradition of cigar rolling.

Hillsborough River State Park opened in 1938 as one of Florida's first state parks. The river provides wonderful opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. A food concession provides breakfast and lunch, camping and picnic supplies, and a variety of memorable souvenirs. Hikers can walk over seven miles of nature trials: Rapids Trail, Baynard Trail, a sub-section of the Florida Trail and the Wetlands Restoration Trail, which accommodates bicyclists and hikers only. Weather permitting visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the park's ADA accessible swimming pool. The park offers full-facility camping and a youth/group tent campground. A primitive campsite is available via foot trail; reservations are always recommended.

Visit Tampa now and discover how historic Old Florida blends well with the modern, upscale style of some of the most beautiful, master-planned communities for families and retirees. Yes, climate, dining and shopping, cultural attractions, educational and business opportunities, and the beautiful beaches help make Tampa home to a wonderful lifestyle. Make it your home, too.




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