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Tampa, Florida rightfully claims to have some of the most beautiful sunsets witnessed anywhere. Anyone who has seen them remarks on the colour and sheer spectre of the skyline, best viewed from the area's glorious beaches. That may sound like the perfect way to end the day but there are many attractions to fill every moment in Tampa. The area of Tampa is situated on the west coast of Florida and actually encompasses three regions, Tampa Bay, itself and the lesser-known Clearwater and St. Petersburg. Clearwater and St. Petersburg are home to some of the best beaches in the country while Tampa Bay (which has no beach, situated as it is on the bay) is the cultural and business hive of the area with a number of museums, galleries and entertainment complexes. Originally a Native American fishing village called Tanpa meaning "sticks of fire" it wasn't until the late nineteenth century that the area began to truly expand. Individual entrepreneurs have played a huge role in the history of the area and it has been shaped over the years by a range of industries including railway building, cigar-making as well as airline and ship-building. Today, Tampa is one of the most culturally diverse regions in the U.S. in no small part due to the immigrant workers who settled there in order to work in these industries. Their influence can be seen everywhere from the cigar shops and Cuban food in the unique Latino area, Ybor city, to the Greek dancing in Tarpon Springs. Tampa's sandy white beaches are second to none and have to be seen to be appreciated. For those interested in partaking in the region's outdoor activities the choice is endless: including sport fishing, boating, parasailing, fishing, kayaking, diving and snorkelling. The spectator sports fan can check out a Devil Bays, a Tampa Bay Buccaneers or Lightning game. The Raymond James Stadium is a new addition to Tampa Bay and in 2001 hosted the Super Bowl. Tampa's Cultural Arts District in downtown Tampa is an up-and-coming area and offers a number of museums and arts facilities. Tampa also attracts many families with its large range of theme parks and child-friendly locations. Other highlights include the Lowry Park Zoo with more than 1500 animals and recently ranked as on of the top three zoos in America. Not simply a beach resort (though as one, it stands as one of America's best), Tampa offers cultural attractions, theme parks and so much more for the discerning visitor. All in all, whether you arrive for the sun, the culture or simply the relaxed ambiance, Tampa will not disappoint. |