Puerto Morelos Photo Journal

This gallery contains 9 photos.

Puerto Morelos, located 20 miles south of Cancun, is a slow-paced Mexican getaway for swimming, snorkeling, and jungle exploration A peaceful village on Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, Puerto Morelos is the an eco-reserve with protected vibrant coral reef and lush mangroves. … Continue reading

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  • The biggest difference between Kentucky bourbon and Tennessee whiskey is that the latter must be slowly filtered through sugar-maple charcoal, something that give it a sweet characteristic.
  • In the USA, two varieties dominate the whiskey scene: Kentucky bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. Both types of whiskey are strictly defined by law and have differing flavor profiles that only experts can discern.

    Bourbon is made from at least 51 percent corn, while other American whiskeys can have less corn.

    • It has to be made in the U.S.
    • It’s aged in first-use charred white American oak.
    • It’s also aged for two years or more for straight bourbon.

    Uncle Nearest Whiskey is named for Nathan “Nearest” Green, a slave whose contributions to distillation were widely unknown and unacknowledged.

    Slaves were property without birth certificates and no knowledge of the calendar, so we don’t know when Green perfected his whiskey. It’s believed that year to be 1856, and one of the brand’s expressions—a blend of 8- and 11-year-old whiskeys—commemorates it.

    Green is now known as a master distiller. He’s the first-known African-American to be recognized as a master distiller in the USA. That’s a nice way of putting it—phrasing it that way sounds hopeful. Saying “first known” makes it seem like there are others who have received the same recognition. The facts show, that Green is the first and only African-American master distiller. Using 1856 as the year Green earned his master distiller status, no African-American has been bestowed that honor in more than 160 years.

    We may not know exactly the day, month or even year Green perfected his process and whiskey. However, we do know one incredible, important detail of his life and legacy: he taught an orphan named Jasper Daniel how to make whiskey.

    According to documentation, Green was a slave owned by the firm Landis & Green. That firm rented Green out to a preacher, grocer and distiller who owned a farm in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Green was given an apprentice, the previously mentioned orphan. You know that orphan, Jasper, by another name—Jack. Uncle Nearest Green taught the art and craft of whiskey distillation to Jack Daniel.

    Uncle Nearest is the fastest-growing independent spirits brand in history.

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    Ca’ de’ Medici Cubista Lambrusco Russo Sweet

    Italy- Ca’ de Medici produces a serious Lambrusco, combining tradition and modern vinification techniques. This sparkling red is crisp and slightly sweet sparkling wine with pronounced and lingering blackberry flavors.

    Though classified as Dolce (sweet), it possesses just a hint of sweetness, reminiscent of strawberry and wildflowers. The froth is rosy, very abundant and continually developing, and it is finer and less carbonated than other sparkling wines. Lambrusco Cubista is purplish with hints of rose in color. It is exuberant in freshness and fruit quality, and is refreshing and delightful for every occasion.

    Serve chilled—about 40-45°. This slightly sweet, medium bodied and pairs brilliantly with parmigiana reggiano, prosciutto and any other great foods from this famous Italian region.

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    Nearly 1,000 people move to Florida each and every day. The migration comes from all over the United States. Many new Floridians are retirees and many are young working age families.

    There is plenty of room in Florida. Housing is plentiful in many areas, jobs are plentiful, and the government of Florida including the DMV, are working hard to make it easy for new Florida residents to easily get settled. Following are guides to key steps new Floridians need to complete.

    Converting Your Out of State Drivers License

    Depending on the state you move to Florida from converting your license will require different identification requirements. Bringing the proper ID is the most critical step in getting your Florida drivers license.

    By Florida law, If you have a drivers license from another state you need to obtain a Florida drivers license within 30 days of residency at a local DMV office.

    ID requirements to obtain a Florida Drivers License are now more strict – read the ID Requirements. A valid drivers license from another US State may be exchanged for a Florida Drivers License.

    If you have a current out-of-state drivers license your driving record will be checked. If you have outstanding citations or anything on your driving record that calls into question your driving ability then you may be required to take the written Florida DMV Test.

    If your out of state Driving Record is clean then you will not be required to take any written test.

    You will be required to take a vision test

    If the examiner questions your ability to safely operate a vehicle you may be requested to take a written and/or driving test. It’s best to call a local drivers license office with questions and/or make an appointment online.

    If you have a vehicle, you will need to get Florida Auto Insurance and verify the VIN before registering the vehicle.

    Register Your Out of State Car

    When you move to Florida and become a resident you have 10 days to register your out of state vehicle. You are considered a Florida resident when you place your children in public schools, become employed, or otherwise establish Florida residency.

    To register your out of state car you must complete an application for certificate of title – this form starts the process of transferring the title of your vehicle from your current state to Florida. To complete this form you will need:

    • The Vehicle Identification Number
    • Current License Plate Number
    • Out of State Registration Number

    The state of Florida will send the application for certificate of title to the state that you are moving from. Your previous state will send the title to Florida and Florida will create a Florida Vehicle Title for the vehicle.

    To register any vehicle in Florida that does have a Florida registration there is an initial registration fee of $100. In addition you will pay a standard registration fee based on the vehicles weight as follows:

    • $27.60 for vehicles under 2500 pounds
    • $35.60 for vehicles between 2500 and 3499 pounds
    • $45.60 for vehicles over 3500

    Get Florida Auto Insurance – To register any vehicle in Florida you will need to show proof of Florida auto insurance – provided by a Florida agent.

    You Have 30 Days

    Florida law requires that you get a Florida drivers license within 30 days of becoming a resident of Florida. You are a resident if you do one of the following:

    • Enroll your children in a Florida public school
    • Accept employment
    • Register to Vote
    • File for a homestead exemption
    • Reside in Florida for more than six consecutive months

    Get Florida Auto Insurance

    To register any vehicle in Florida you will need to show proof of Florida auto insurance – provided by a Florida agent.

    The state of Florida requires every vehicle with four or more wheels maintain Florida Auto Insurance coverage. When you register your vehicle you must have proof of Florida coverage. The minimum requirement is $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 property damage liability (PDL).

    Drivers License Identification Requirements

    Your local DMV office provides a variety of services many related to drivers licenses. Below are identification requirements when obtaining a drivers license in Florida.

    Identification Requirements

    As of Jan 1, 2010 the State of Florida has implemented strict ID requirements for a New Drivers License or Identification Card.

    Renewing Your Florida Drivers License

    If you are renewing a current Florida Drivers License you may renew your license online or via mail one time only. After you have used these convenience methods once you must visit a Florida DMV office and provide the required ID (see below.)

    US Citizens

    Florida law requires identification, proof of date of birth, proof of residential address, and proof of social security number (if issued, Chapter 322, Florida Statutes, requires the Department of Motor Vehicles see proof of social security number for the issuance of driver license and identification cards) from all customers before a driver license or identification card can be issued.

    The name assigned to the social security number must match the name that will appear on the Florida driver license or identification card. If you have recently changed your name, update your records with the Social Security Administration before you apply for your license or identification card.

    All U.S. citizens renewing or applying for a New Driver License or Identification Card in person after January 1, 2010 must submit:

    1. Primary Identification

    An Original or Certified Primary Identification Document may be one of the following:

    • Certified United States Birth Certificate, including territories and District of Columbia
    • Valid United States Passport or Passport Card
    • Consular Report of Birth Abroad
    • Certificate of Naturalization, Form N-550 or Form N-570
    • Certificate of Citizenship, Form N-560 or Form N-561

    Note: When necessary, marriage certificates, court orders, or divorce decrees must be provided to tie the name on the primary identification to the name the customer would like to place on the driver license or identification card.

    2. Proof of Social Security Number

    • Social Security Card
    • W-2 Form
    • Pay Check
    • SSA-1099
    • Any 1099

    3. Two (2) Proofs of Residential Address

    Gather two (2) of the following documents showing your residential address (internet printouts or faxes of these documents are acceptable):

    • Deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement, mortgage payment booklet or residential rental/lease agreement
    • Florida Voter Registration Card
    • Florida Vehicle Registration or Title
    • Florida Boat Registration or Title (if living on a boat/houseboat)
    • A statement from a parent, step-parent or legal guardian of an applicant. The parent or guardian must reside at the same residence address, accompany the applicant and present “Proof of Residence Address”
    • A utility hook up or work order dated within 60 days of the application
    • Automobile Payment Booklet
    • Selective Service Card
    • Medical or health card with address listed
    • Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
    • Current automobile insurance policy or bill
    • Educational institution transcript forms for the current school year
    • Unexpired professional license issued by a government agency in the U.S.
    • W-2 form or 1099 form
    • Form DS2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) status
    • A letter from a homeless shelter, transitional service provider, or a half-way house verifying that the customer resides at the shelter address
    • Utility bills, not more than two months old
    • Mail from financial institutions; including checking, savings, or investment account statements, not more than two months old
    • Mail from Federal, State, County or City government agencies (including city and county agencies)

    References:

    1. https://www.dmvflorida.org/
    2. https://www.dmvflorida.org/moving-to-florida/
    3. https://www.dmvflorida.org/drivers-license/drivers-license-identification
    4. https://www.dmvflorida.org/drivers-license/drivers-license-oos
    5. https://www.dmvflorida.org/vehicles/out-of-state-car-registration
    6. https://www.dmvflorida.org/vehicles/application-for-title.pdf
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    Build a Killer Consulting Business: 5 Tips | Inc Magazine

    https://www.inc.com/scott-steinberg/how-to-build-a-consulting-business.html

    1. Find a way to exploit specific knowledge gaps.

    Your prospective clients likely aren’t lacking smart or opinionated talent–if they were, they would want to hire a full-time employee, not a consultant. Rather, they seek outside expertise because they’re exploring unfamiliar problems, markets, or methodologies. They need objective insight that their in-house people can’t provide.

    2. Focus on relationships, not revenues.

    This is a business based on relationships. The wise consultant always listens before she speaks. Never talk costs before first discussing your clients’ specific needs and objectives.

    3. Sell results, not services.

    Price by the hour and you’ll be viewed as a commodity. Instead, keep clients laser-focused on the lasting value you create, and bill based on scope of work and end results. Never discuss whether your firm will be used, but rather how, and provide a range of possible cost scenarios and value-adds, starting with your baseline requirements.

    4. Employ a flexible structure.

    Some consulting businesses gross millions from ongoing monthly retainers. Recurring retainers make sense when the consultant is providing ongoing services (e.g., PR or marketing support, which is more of an external staffing function than consulting). But if you’ve done your job right, you’ve solved the problem–so be ready to move on. Remain flexible by cultivating a freelance support network.

    5. Always be closing.

    To succeed as a consultant, as much time must be devoted to acquiring new business as performing assigned tasks. I’ve found that the average time from initial contact to engagement can sit between six to 36 weeks, and close rates hover between 10 percent and 20 percent. Any downtime should be reinvested into business development.

    Presenting a mix of case studies, testimonials, and client showcases can also prove a powerful business driver–prospective employers want to see what you’ve done, so they know what you’re capable of doing.

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    Money vs. Happiness vs. Life of Significance

    Academic research results have profound implications for how we handle our money and, more important, for how we lead our lives. What was learned from the research includes,

    • I desire a life of deep joy, real connection to others, and knowing my purpose and fulfilling that purpose.
    • I am quicker to make time for friends and family, even if it seems like an effort.
    • I will happily spend money to visit my children or to bring them together for a family vacation or a special meal.
    • I ditched my suburban home so I could eliminate a long commute.
    • I quit a high-paying job I had come to hate, because I knew I would be much happier if I spent my days engaged in activities that I thought were important and that I was passionate about.

    Here are some of the surprising insights that have emerged from academic studies:

    1. “When you know your ‘why’ then your ‘what’ has more impact, because you’re working towards your purpose.”
    2. Money can buy happiness, but not nearly as much as we imagine.
    3. We place too high a value on possessions and not enough on experiences.
    4. Spending money on others can deliver greater happiness than spending it on ourselves.
    5. We’re often happier when we have less choice, not more.
    6. Working hard toward our goals can bring great pleasure—but achieving our goals is often a letdown.
    7. Raising children isn’t nearly as life-enhancing as many parents claim.
    8. Satisfaction through life appears to be U-shaped, with reported happiness falling through our 20s and 30s, hitting bottom in our 40s and bouncing back from there.

    To be sure, other insights are less surprising:

    • Those who are married, or who are surrounded by friends and family, tend to be happier.
    • Ditto for the self-employed and those who exercise regularly.
    • We also get a lot of pleasure from helping others.
    • Meanwhile, commuting, ill health, unemployment and financial problems can bring unhappiness.
    • Plot your own path to life (spiritual, physical, social, mental, and career) success:
    • Get back in the driver’s seat: Don’t let the status quo direct your career path―only you can tap into the opportunities that can lead to real growth
    • Beware of target fixation: When all your energy is focused on one goal, you can lose sight of obstacles that can sabotage your success
    • Embrace every opportunity: A balanced, well-rounded life leads to a more objective world view, which can show you new avenues of productivity you’d otherwise miss

    Great leaders are focused on:

    1. What needs to get done and make sure that others have that focus as well.
    2. They develop trust with others and reinforce that trust by considering the right things, such as productivity, when making important decisions.

    “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

    “When you know your ‘why’ then your ‘what’ has more impact, because you’re working towards your purpose.”

    https://binged.it/2k3oh8R

    “When you know your ‘why’ then your ‘what’ has more impact, because you’re working towards your purpose.”

    The Golden Circle – it’s not enough to know what you do and how you do it. We are most motivated by knowing why we do things. And it’s through that awareness that we can best connect with and sell to others.

    Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

    Here are the best neighborhoods in Jacksonville for 2020:

    1. Saint Johns Bluff (Homes)
    2. Ortega Forest (Homes)
    3. Isle Of Palms (Homes)
    4. Secret Cove (Homes)
    5. Julington Creek (Homes)
    6. Beach Haven (Homes)
    7. Jacksonville Beach (Homes)
    8. Atlantic Beach (Homes)
    9. Cobblestone (Homes)
    10. Neptune Beach (Homes)

    Buying a home in any one of Jacksonville’s best neighborhoods or renting in florida is a great option to test this city’s Atlantic Coast waters, too. Either way, we’re pretty sure after you peruse our list of the best neighborhoods in Jacksonville, you won’t wait another second to make the move.

    The number one best neighborhood in Jacksonville,…according to the latest data, that would be Saint Johns Bluff.

    To see how the rest of Jacksonville’s best neighborhoods played out, take a look below. And if you don’t find your favorite there, head to the bottom.

    The 10 Best Neighborhoods To Live In Jacksonville

    1. Saint Johns Bluff

    • Population: 1,291
    • Rank Last Year: 17 (Up 16)
    • Median Home Value: $250,000 (21st best)
    • Median Income: $96,857 (Seventh best)
    • More on Saint Johns Bluff: Homes For Sale | Data

    2. Ortega Forest

    • Population: 2,790
    • Rank Last Year: 6 (Up 3)
    • Median Home Value: $309,500 (12th best)
    • Median Income: $78,043 (21st best)
    • More on Isle Of Palms: Homes For Sale | Data

    4. Secret Cove

    • Population: 6,733
    • Rank Last Year: 12 (Up 8)
    • Median Home Value: $168,300 (53rd best)
    • Median Income: $63,294 (43rd best)
    • More on Secret Cove: Homes For Sale | Data

    5. Julington Creek

    • Population: 6,588
    • Rank Last Year: 7 (Up 2)
    • Median Home Value: $242,275 (22nd best)
    • Median Income: $91,294 (Ninth best)
    • More on Julington Creek: Homes For Sale | Data

    6. Beach Haven

    • Population: 18,486
    • Rank Last Year: 8 (Up 2)
    • Median Home Value: $228,686 (26th best)
    • Median Income: $73,717 (27th best)
    • More on Beach Haven: Homes For Sale | Data

    7. Jacksonville Beach

    • Population: 19,692
    • Rank Last Year: 9 (Up 2)
    • Median Home Value: $322,865 (Ninth best)
    • Median Income: $70,023 (36th best)
    • More on Jacksonville Beach: Homes For Sale | Data

    8. Atlantic Beach

    • Population: 9,564
    • Rank Last Year: 3 (Down 5)
    • Median Home Value: $385,900 (First best)
    • Median Income: $79,638 (19th best)
    • More on Atlantic Beach: Homes For Sale | Data

    9. Cobblestone

    • Population: 5,027
    • Rank Last Year: 28 (Up 19)
    • Median Home Value: $219,350 (30th best)
    • Median Income: $73,786 (26th best)

    10. Neptune Beach

    • Population: 5,330
    • Rank Last Year: 2 (Down 8)
    • Median Home Value: $348,450 (Fifth best)
    • Median Income: $72,096 (32nd best)
    • More on Neptune Beach: Homes For Sale | Data

    https://www.homesnacks.net/best-neighborhoods-in-jacksonville-fl-128156/

    Posted on by ebrownl33 | Leave a comment

    Here are the best neighborhoods in Jacksonville for 2020:

    1. Saint Johns Bluff (Homes)
    2. Ortega Forest (Homes)
    3. Isle Of Palms (Homes)
    4. Secret Cove (Homes)
    5. Julington Creek (Homes)
    6. Beach Haven (Homes)
    7. Jacksonville Beach (Homes)
    8. Atlantic Beach (Homes)
    9. Cobblestone (Homes)
    10. Neptune Beach (Homes)

    Buying a home in any one of Jacksonville’s best neighborhoods or renting in florida is a great option to test this city’s Atlantic Coast waters, too. Either way, we’re pretty sure after you peruse our list of the best neighborhoods in Jacksonville, you won’t wait another second to make the move.

    The number one best neighborhood in Jacksonville,…according to the latest data, that would be Saint Johns Bluff.

    To see how the rest of Jacksonville’s best neighborhoods played out, take a look below. And if you don’t find your favorite there, head to the bottom.

    The 10 Best Neighborhoods To Live In Jacksonville

    1. Saint Johns Bluff

    • Population: 1,291
    • Rank Last Year: 17 (Up 16)
    • Median Home Value: $250,000 (21st best)
    • Median Income: $96,857 (Seventh best)
    • More on Saint Johns Bluff: Homes For Sale | Data

    2. Ortega Forest

    • Population: 2,790
    • Rank Last Year: 6 (Up 3)
    • Median Home Value: $309,500 (12th best)
    • Median Income: $78,043 (21st best)
    • More on Isle Of Palms: Homes For Sale | Data

    4. Secret Cove

    • Population: 6,733
    • Rank Last Year: 12 (Up 8)
    • Median Home Value: $168,300 (53rd best)
    • Median Income: $63,294 (43rd best)
    • More on Secret Cove: Homes For Sale | Data

    5. Julington Creek

    • Population: 6,588
    • Rank Last Year: 7 (Up 2)
    • Median Home Value: $242,275 (22nd best)
    • Median Income: $91,294 (Ninth best)
    • More on Julington Creek: Homes For Sale | Data

    6. Beach Haven

    • Population: 18,486
    • Rank Last Year: 8 (Up 2)
    • Median Home Value: $228,686 (26th best)
    • Median Income: $73,717 (27th best)
    • More on Beach Haven: Homes For Sale | Data

    7. Jacksonville Beach

    • Population: 19,692
    • Rank Last Year: 9 (Up 2)
    • Median Home Value: $322,865 (Ninth best)
    • Median Income: $70,023 (36th best)
    • More on Jacksonville Beach: Homes For Sale | Data

    8. Atlantic Beach

    • Population: 9,564
    • Rank Last Year: 3 (Down 5)
    • Median Home Value: $385,900 (First best)
    • Median Income: $79,638 (19th best)
    • More on Atlantic Beach: Homes For Sale | Data

    9. Cobblestone

    • Population: 5,027
    • Rank Last Year: 28 (Up 19)
    • Median Home Value: $219,350 (30th best)
    • Median Income: $73,786 (26th best)

    10. Neptune Beach

    • Population: 5,330
    • Rank Last Year: 2 (Down 8)
    • Median Home Value: $348,450 (Fifth best)
    • Median Income: $72,096 (32nd best)
    • More on Neptune Beach: Homes For Sale | Data

    https://www.homesnacks.net/best-neighborhoods-in-jacksonville-fl-128156/

    Posted on by ebrownl33 | Leave a comment

    Sitting near the Atlantic shore in northeast Florida, Jacksonville is tied together by bridges, crossing rivers to unite residents in the downtown area with nearby beaches.

    Restaurants, shops and entertainment options fill all of Greater Jacksonville’s neighborhoods. There are nature trails to hike and marshes to kayak. There is history to see, and there is business to develop. The metro area is big enough to find something for everyone to enjoy.

    Jacksonville is growing. The region witnessed an ignition of the art and music scene, stimulating business development that has led to demand for a higher standard of living. As a result, Jacksonville is undergoing an economic boom. 

    Rankings

    U.S. News analyzed 125 metro areas in the United States to find the best places to live based on quality of life and the job market in each metro area, as well as the value of living there and people’s desire to live there.

    Jacksonville, Florida is ranked:

    •  #42 in Best Places to Live
    •  #6 in Best Places to Retire
    • #5 in Best Places to Live in Florida
    •  #17 in Fastest Growing Places

    Jacksonville’s seat on the Atlantic coast lures many who wish to live near the beach. Popular shorelines include Amelia Island and Ponte Vedra – both of which are known for their golf courses. Residents also enjoy outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking and cycling, in state recreation areas like Hanna Park and the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Such areas complement the beaches of Jacksonville, with its waterways and expansive coastline for fishing, boating and other aquatic pastimes.

    Jacksonville has a growing restaurant scene in the San Marco and Southside neighborhoods. The fine and performing arts are best viewed at the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Cummer Museum, the Ritz Theatre and the Florida Theatre.

    The Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena caters to sports fans, as it is home to the Sharks indoor football team as well as college and minor league basketball teams. Other teams include the Jumbo Shrimp minor league baseball team, the Armada FC professional soccer team and the Jaguars NFL team.

    1. The Cost Of Living In Jacksonville Makes Anything Bearable

    One of the best parts of life in Jacksonville is that living here costs just a fraction of what it costs to live in most other cities, even in Florida. House prices are rock bottom and you can rent an apartment here for an average of $980, which is significantly lower than the $1,500 national average.

    2. Buying A Home In Jacksonville Is Also A Sound Investment

    Some people are skeptical of cities that still maintain a low cost of living (since most other cities are the exact opposite) and assume that the market is too unreliable. But that’s not the case in Jacksonville, either. If you bought a home for the average of $84,000 in 2000, you could have sold it in 2013 for the average of just under $130,000. Profit to the tune of $46,000 is nothing to scoff at.

    3. If You’re Looking For Planned Communities, Jacksonville Is The Jackpot

    Some people love them, others can’t even stand hearing the words. But there’s no denying that Jacksonville is a Mecca for planned communities and housing developments. Fleming Island, Oakleaf Plantation, Eagle Harbor, Nocatee, and The World Golf Village are just a few that you can look into if you’re interested, including amenities like huge sidewalks, safer streets, schools and churches, athletic centers, golf courses, community centers, and more.

    4. You’re Going To Need Wheels

    Did you know that Jacksonville is the largest city in the continental U.S.? As far as land size goes, it’s true. With a total of 840 square miles, Jacksonville is nothing short of massive. So, if you were hoping to get around on foot, you better have more than two legs.

    5. Downtown Is The Place To Be For All Things Fun

    Downtown Jacksonville isn’t just for working professionals. From the sports arenas and museums to a seemingly never ending string of great places to eat, and an awesome riverwalk that runs along part of the 5.6 miles of gorgeous riverfront views and neighborhoods, it’s always a good time to come downtown. Ride the trolley or the skyway or take a water taxi—just get here!

    6. Jacksonville Has The Best Of Florida’s Weather

    There really is nothing better than getting to remind everyone on Facebook that you’re sitting poolside in 75 degrees in February while they’re digging themselves out of an avalanche. But another perk to Jacksonville is that it’s much less humid than Orlando and other places throughout Florida. It’s just beautiful all year long.

    7. But Don’t Fear The Hurricanes

    Worried about hurricanes in Florida? Well, the good news is that the way Jacksonville is located in the northeast corner of the state, hurricanes are less likely to hit, especially compared to other tropical locations. Hurricane Dora is the last hurricane to make its way to the city, and that was in 1964. Hurricane Irma hit Jacksonville in 2018.

    8. It’s Home To The Largest Urban Park System In The U.S.

    If 111,000 acres of parks sounds too good to be true, think again. Jacksonville is home to the largest urban park system in the country, making it the perfect locale for anyone who wants to enjoy the hustle and bustle of a major city but also loves being outdoors and hiking through the nature.

    9. Jacksonville Positions You Better Than Other Places In Florida

    Living in Jacksonville doesn’t just put you in the best spot to enjoy Florida weather. Living here, you also get all the perks to living in Florida with a better location to the non-tropical areas of the country. This is unlike living in South Florida, which puts you close to the keys but a world away from everything else.

    10. Jacksonville Is A Sports Hub

    Locals love their sports and they have plenty of teams to cheer for. Along with the Florida Gators and Seminoles, football lovers now have the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jacksonville Suns keep the baseball lovers entertained. And golfers live in a mecca for their craft, including knowing that the PGA Tour is headquartered nearby.

    11. You’ll Always Be Invited To The Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party

    If you’re not a college football fan, you probably will be after living in Jacksonville. Florida and Georgia go head-to-head every year for a massive rivalry game. The tailgating and outdoor parties that go hand-in-hand with it in Jacksonville have dubbed the event The Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.

    12. But Watch Out For The Gators

    The gators aren’t just a team in Florida. You do have to check your pool before jumping in and might even see them on the side of the road. If you’re from Florida, this is nothing new, but if you’re moving here from out of state, it definitely takes a little getting used to.

    13. This Isn’t A Beach Town (Except It Totally Is)

    Believe it or not, not everywhere in Florida is close to the beach. OK, it’s not exactly far, either. But Jacksonville is located perfectly, giving you the ability to reach a slew of Florida’s pristine beaches including Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Neptune Beach, St. Augustine, and Atlantic Beach all within an hour’s drive.

    14. Knowing What Beach To Visit Makes All The Difference

    All of Florida’s beaches are beautiful but they’re definitely not all created equal. Go north to Mayport where you’ll find casino boats and amazing seafood restaurants. While Atlantic and Neptune Beach are great for a leisurely day enjoying casual and upscale restaurants. And head to Jacksonville Beach during the day with your board to enjoy the waves and stay when the sun goes down for the happening nightlife scene.

    15. This Is A Red White And Blue Town

    With two major military bases (Naval Air Station Jacksonville and Naval Station Mayport) along with a commercial base, there is no avoiding the military presence in Jacksonville. An added bonus is the eye candy you get to see on the beach, staying fit while running early hours, bringing a new understanding to the phrase “hello sailor.”

    16. Jacksonville Has A Job Market To Feel Good About

    Good news! The job market in Jacksonville is doing well. The unemployment rate in the city is below the state average and with a large market in finance, healthcare, and government and state jobs, it’s all good news for Jacksonville residents.

    17. There’s Always Something On Tap

    Like any great city should, Jacksonville has a great beer scene. The Jax Ale Trail takes you on a self-guided tour of the seven craft breweries around the city including Aardwolf Brewing Company, Bold City Brewery, Engine 15 Brewing Company, Green Room Brewing, Intuition Ale Works, Pinglehead Brewing Company, and Veterans United Craft Brewery.

    18. Jacksonville Families Are All Smiles

    Not all cities make it easy to raise a family. But in Jacksonville, it’s not only easy, it’s a pleasure. With access to neighborhoods in the middle of a city with small-town charm, great parks, museums, things to do, and a stellar higher-education system to look forward to, families don’t have much to complain about here.

    19. Free November Brings Christmas Early To Jacksonville

    Speaking of families, keep in mind that November is the best month of all if you have kids because it’s Free November when access and admission to some of Jacksonville’s best attractions and museums are—you guessed it—free!

    20. Culture Lovers, Rejoice

    Culture isn’t always the first thing that come to mind when people think of Florida. But that’s because they’ve never been to Jacksonville, obviously. Things like the city’s Art Walk, Cummer Art Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Science and History, jazz festivals, and shows at the Times Union Center, Everbank Stadium, and the Florida Theater, no one can argue.

    21. Must Love Dogs

    Well, you don’t have to love dogs if you live in Jacksonville…but life is especially happier if you do. The city is extremely pet-friendly, which makes bringing your four-legged friends with you almost everywhere way easier and infinitely more enjoyable.

    Food and Good Eats – Made Forbes list of five surprising foodie cities to visit

    If you’re relocating to Jacksonville, you’re in for some full-fledged flavor of the coast. No other Florida city offers Jacksonville’s unique flavors, thriving culinary scene and internationally renowned chefs. The area even made it to Forbes list of five surprising foodie cities to visit—for good reason!

    From kid-friendly restaurants and sandwich shops to locally sourced seafood and upscale bistros, you’ll find it all. Here are some Jacksonville food joints you won’t be able to pass up.

    American Eats

    For those with a hankering for sandwiches and burgers, the options are endless. French Pantry has the freshest bread and longest line, for good reason. At Maple Street Biscuit Company you can satisfy your brunch cravings with a delicious chicken biscuit. Or head to The Mini Bar for a creative selection of doughnuts. Don’t forget to check out Poe’s Tavern, Kickbacks and Goozlepipe & Guttyworks, some of the best Gastro-pubs Jax has to offer!

    Food Trucks

    Jacksonville boasts almost 100 food trucks. Whether you’re on-the-go, hungry during your shopping outing or just in the mood to try something new, Jax food trucks offer creative options for every craving. Be sure to get a taste of some of the top favorites: Salty Dog, The Butt Hutt Smokehouse, Fusion Food Truck, The Happy Grilled Cheese Food Truck and Mother Truckin’ Pizza.

    Farm to Table

    For those with an appreciation for eating local, Jax has over 20 locally owned, farm-to-table restaurants. You’ll also find over 30 restaurants with vegan menus and gluten-free options. Restaurant Orsay, Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails and Black Sheep Restaurant all offer elegant, locally sourced cuisine. Kitchen on San Marco also consistently ranks as the top farm-to-table restaurant in Jacksonville.

    Ethnic Cuisine

    When you feel like mixing up the menu, there are plenty of ethnic options in Jacksonville. Green Erth Bistro offers Middle Eastern cuisine and vegan fare. Nile Ethiopian Restaurant has fresh Ethiopian cuisine and great customer service. For a taste of Lebanese food, visit Mandaloun Mediterranean Cuisine located near Deerwood Village. If it’s craft ramen you’re craving, check out the Asian fusion menu at Domu in the St. Johns Town Center.

    Seafood Galore

    Seafood is a must in Jacksonville. Visit Clark’s Fish Camp in Mandarin or Whitey’s Fish Camp in Fleming Island for the down-home fish camp experience. If you’re looking for local seafood but want to head somewhere classy, check out North Beach Fish Camp, Palm Valley Fish Camp or Bistro AIX.

    Wherever you go, don’t forget to request the culinary staple, the Mayport Shrimp!

    6. It’s close to other major cities.

    One of the best parts of moving to Jacksonville, FL, is its convenient proximity to other major cities. Located in northeastern Florida where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic, Jax isn’t far from Atlanta, Georgia, Alabama and other major cities in Florida. Whether you’re moving to the Sunshine State for the first time or just relocating a short drive away, you’re going to love Jacksonville’s convenient location to the following cities:

    Atlanta. If you’re looking to get a taste of Atlanta’s heritage and Southern hospitality, you’re in luck. The drive from Atlanta to Jacksonville is around 4 hours and 50 minutes by car without stops.

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    Some weeks of the year simply aren’t popular for cruising. The low demand means low prices and real bargains.

    1. The first 2 weeks of December. Thanksgiving and Christmas consume the nation’s attention, resulting in low demand for cruises between the two holidays. But it really is a fine time of year to get away from the hustle and bustle. Take advantage of the cheap cruises to go relax on a warm island beach.
    2. The second week of January through February. This is a big down time for the cruise industry. People have spent a lot of money on the holidays, kids are in school, and traveling is difficult up north because of snow. It’s a great time to escape the cold of winter and save big bucks.
    3. After Labor Day in September and October. It’s hurricane season, which naturally scares off a lot of people from taking Caribbean or Bahamas cruises. Kids are in school and that eliminates family travel. Are the low fares worth the risk of bad weather on your vacation? If you go, cruise insurance might be a good idea.
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