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Ft. Lauderdale may boast some incredibly hip and modern facilities these days, but the city also happens to be steeped in history. The Tequesta Native American tribe lived there for over 2,000 years before the first European explorers arrived, for example. After that point, settlers have continually occupied the area to this day, including the builders of the original fort the city was named after. Visitors and residents of Ft. Lauderdale can enjoy this history by taking a look at one of the following beautiful and fascinating historical sites in the city: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens The Bonnet House was the first Ft. Lauderdale site listed on the National Register of Historic Places when it was added in 1984. Originally purchased by wealthy Chicago lawyer Hugh Taylor Birch in 1895, the property was gifted to his daughter Helen and her husband, Frederic Clay Bartlett. An artist by trade, Bartlett decided to use the property to construct a winter home in 1920 for his spouse. He ensured that the home was rife with unique architecture and stately grounds that could provide a picturesque habitat for native plants and animals. Bartlett's second wife, Evelyn, donated the property to the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation in 1983. It is now open to the public as a museum, art gallery, and scenic garden. It also serves as a rental venue and a host for Ft. Lauderdale events, like the annual Orchid Festival. more Los Olas Boulevard With its vibrant night clubs, restaurants, art galleries, and boutique stores, Los Olas Boulevard provides enough interest to be a popular attraction for locals and tourists on its own. Yet, its rich history and period architecture lend even more character to the area. First built in 1917, the boulevard was originally a dirt road that cut through swampy wetlands. Developers then dredged the area in 1920, quickly turning it into valuable property and making way for a gorgeous waterfront residential district. Following WWII and continuing to this day, many of the properties were converted into mixed-use developments with high-end shops on the ground floor and valuable homes atop. Famous former residents include singer Connie Francis, Sonny and Cher, Lucille Ball, and her husband Desi Arnaz. Visitors now can enjoy a host of upscale establishments, including the famous Elbo Room Bar, as well as yearly events like the Los Olas Art Fair. Stranahan House Frank and Ivy Stranahan arguably helped make Ft. Lauderdale the bustling economic area it is today when they first built their trading post in 1901. At the time, few people lived in the region, enabling the Stranahans to enjoy a monopoly on trade with Seminole Indians and passers-by. The trading post was converted into a home in 1906, and it remains faithfully preserved to this day. This preservation makes the Stranahan House the oldest standing structure in Broward County. Visitors can enjoy a guided home tour led by knowledgeable docents. They can also participate in the famous River Ghost boat tour on Sunday nights for an eventful jaunt through Ft. Lauderdale's nearby riverways. Enjoy These and Other Incredible Historic Locations to Visit in Ft. Lauderdale Alongside these three amazing places, you can visit the Ft. Lauderdale Historical Society & Museum, the elegant Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, the Ft. Lauderdale Antique Car Museum and many more nearby attractions to immerse yourself in history for a fun, memorable afternoon.

With an average yearly temperature of 76 degrees Fahrenheit and 3,000 hours of sunshine, Ft. Lauderdale is a true beachside paradise. Resident families and visitors alike can enjoy all of the sun, fun and sand at their disposal any day of the week. And they can do much of it for free! In fact, many of the best family activities in Ft. Lauderdale can be enjoyed free-of-charge. So, if you live in the area or are visiting for a few days, make sure to try out these four 100 percent free activities that will give everyone in the family a great time and fond memories. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Everyone from six-month-olds to 100-year-olds can enjoy a day at the beach! Aside from possible parking fees and the supplies you bring, beach days in Ft. Lauderdale can be absolutely free. Set up some shade, lay down some towels, and hit the beach with kids in tow. They can build sandcastles, dig themselves a personal tide pool, go seashell collecting, walk the shoreline, body surf, or simply enjoy the weather and scenery. Make sure to pack a lunch and plenty of cold beverages while you are at it. Just don't forget the sunscreen! more Secret Woods Nature Center Enjoy the outdoors while staying in the shade at Secret Woods Nature Center. This free nature center is perfect for children six and up who don't mind walking or younger children who can ride in a stroller when they get tired. No pets allowed, though, so Fido will have to stay at home. Voted the Best Nature Center in 2015, this 57-acre Urban Wilderness Area immerses your family under the shade of laurel oaks, live oaks and other native plants. Choose between their 3,200-foot boardwalk trail that takes you along New River or their mulched 1,200-foot nature trail. Classes and art installations are also available to enjoy at the Monarch Interpretive Center. Ft. Lauderdale Antique Car Museum Any kid over six, or adult car lover, would enjoy this museum filled with 25 antique, pre-war motor carriages. There is no entrance fee, although they do request a donation to help them with vehicle upkeep and overhead. See their collection of rare Packard Automobiles as well as their gallery of Franklin Delano Roosevelt photos, books, and memorabilia. Shopping Centers Galore Ft. Lauderdale is home to some of the most vibrant, eclectic, and diverse shopping experiences around. Buying anything naturally requires money, but browsing won't cost you a thing! Consider taking your whole family to the Florida Swap Shop, a sprawling 180,000 square foot air-conditioned complex full of unique shops, attractions, restaurants, and activities. You could also visit the Gallery at Beach Place, a beautiful shopping center with a sunny open air pavilion that is located right by the beachfront. Enjoying Free Family-Friendly Activities in Ft. Lauderdale All of these fun and scenic activities prove that you don't have to break the bank in order to have a good time with the family in Ft. Lauderdale, so get out there and have a good time this year! Consider further enhancing the family vacation with a new set of wheels, too.

With an average yearly temperature of 76 degrees Fahrenheit and 3,000 hours of sunshine, Ft. Lauderdale is a true beachside paradise. Resident families and visitors alike can enjoy all of the sun, fun and sand at their disposal any day of the week. And they can do much of it for free! In fact, many of the best family activities in Ft. Lauderdale can be enjoyed free-of-charge. So, if you live in the area or are visiting for a few days, make sure to try out these four 100 percent free activities that will give everyone in the family a great time and fond memories. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Everyone from six-month-olds to 100-year-olds can enjoy a day at the beach! Aside from possible parking fees and the supplies you bring, beach days in Ft. Lauderdale can be absolutely free. Set up some shade, lay down some towels, and hit the beach with kids in tow. They can build sandcastles, dig themselves a personal tide pool, go seashell collecting, walk the shoreline, body surf, or simply enjoy the weather and scenery. Make sure to pack a lunch and plenty of cold beverages while you are at it. Just don't forget the sunscreen! more Secret Woods Nature Center Enjoy the outdoors while staying in the shade at Secret Woods Nature Center. This free nature center is perfect for children six and up who don't mind walking or younger children who can ride in a stroller when they get tired. No pets allowed, though, so Fido will have to stay at home. Voted the Best Nature Center in 2015, this 57-acre Urban Wilderness Area immerses your family under the shade of laurel oaks, live oaks and other native plants. Choose between their 3,200-foot boardwalk trail that takes you along New River or their mulched 1,200-foot nature trail. Classes and art installations are also available to enjoy at the Monarch Interpretive Center. Ft. Lauderdale Antique Car Museum Any kid over six, or adult car lover, would enjoy this museum filled with 25 antique, pre-war motor carriages. There is no entrance fee, although they do request a donation to help them with vehicle upkeep and overhead. See their collection of rare Packard Automobiles as well as their gallery of Franklin Delano Roosevelt photos, books, and memorabilia. Shopping Centers Galore Ft. Lauderdale is home to some of the most vibrant, eclectic, and diverse shopping experiences around. Buying anything naturally requires money, but browsing won't cost you a thing! Consider taking your whole family to the Florida Swap Shop, a sprawling 180,000 square foot air-conditioned complex full of unique shops, attractions, restaurants, and activities. You could also visit the Gallery at Beach Place, a beautiful shopping center with a sunny open air pavilion that is located right by the beachfront. Enjoying Free Family-Friendly Activities in Ft. Lauderdale All of these fun and scenic activities prove that you don't have to break the bank in order to have a good time with the family in Ft. Lauderdale, so get out there and have a good time this year! Consider further enhancing the family vacation with a new set of wheels, too.

Everyone knows that Ft. Lauderdale is host to some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation and that it is home to some of the best fishing and scuba diving in the country, as well. This makes it a getaway for anyone on Spring Break and a perfect place for retirement in a relaxing setting right off of the beach. The list below represents the best beaches in Ft. Lauderdale based on popularity, amenities, food, things to do, and shopping. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Ft. Lauderdale beach has everything you could want from a vacation spot. The most popular activities include scuba diving, fishing, and other water sports. You can fish for shark, tuna, mahi-mahi, barracuda, and many more at Ft. Lauderdale beach. There are several guided fishing tours that take you out to show you the area. They also show you where to fish and the best methods of catching whichever types of fish you choose. There are more than 35 different restaurants on the beach that all offer three-course meals at a fixed price, as well. more Hallandale Beach Hallandale beach is one of the most historic and oldest towns around Ft. Lauderdale, and it continues to exist as a regular farming community. The area offers golf, swimming, tennis, fishing, and several other outdoor activities year round. Along with sports entertainment, the area has the Gulf Stream Racetrack and Casino, Hollywood Dogtrack and Casino, and some of the best restaurants in the area. The local restaurants in the area offer everything from bistros and fresh seafood to bars and pubs. Hollywood Beach Hollywood Beach offers a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of boardwalk right on the beach side. There are over 50 restaurants in the area offering any kind of food your heart desires. The boardwalk was named one of America's best beach boardwalks by Travel and Leisure magazine. Hollywood Beach is one of the first beaches in Florida to be called a Blue Wave Beach. A Blue Wave Beach means it is among the nation's safest and cleanest beaches. There is also a Trolley service in the area that will take you from the beach to the best sites to see downtown. A visit to any of these beaches is a great way to keep a vacation fun and beautiful. If you enjoy spending time on beautiful beaches and entertainment in the form of fishing or scuba diving, this might be the perfect place. These beaches offer everything you need to have a nice relaxing vacation in the sand. You can even find a diner to satisfy a unique craving or explore the beaches in search of the best places to shop. The night life also picks up at all of these destinations with pubs, bars, and just an enjoyable nightlife all around. The food is fresh off the boat, and the people are just as vibrant as the communities they are in.

Everyone knows that Ft. Lauderdale is host to some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation and that it is home to some of the best fishing and scuba diving in the country, as well. This makes it a getaway for anyone on Spring Break and a perfect place for retirement in a relaxing setting right off of the beach. The list below represents the best beaches in Ft. Lauderdale based on popularity, amenities, food, things to do, and shopping. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Ft. Lauderdale beach has everything you could want from a vacation spot. The most popular activities include scuba diving, fishing, and other water sports. You can fish for shark, tuna, mahi-mahi, barracuda, and many more at Ft. Lauderdale beach. There are several guided fishing tours that take you out to show you the area. They also show you where to fish and the best methods of catching whichever types of fish you choose. There are more than 35 different restaurants on the beach that all offer three-course meals at a fixed price, as well. more Hallandale Beach Hallandale beach is one of the most historic and oldest towns around Ft. Lauderdale, and it continues to exist as a regular farming community. The area offers golf, swimming, tennis, fishing, and several other outdoor activities year round. Along with sports entertainment, the area has the Gulf Stream Racetrack and Casino, Hollywood Dogtrack and Casino, and some of the best restaurants in the area. The local restaurants in the area offer everything from bistros and fresh seafood to bars and pubs. Hollywood Beach Hollywood Beach offers a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of boardwalk right on the beach side. There are over 50 restaurants in the area offering any kind of food your heart desires. The boardwalk was named one of America's best beach boardwalks by Travel and Leisure magazine. Hollywood Beach is one of the first beaches in Florida to be called a Blue Wave Beach. A Blue Wave Beach means it is among the nation's safest and cleanest beaches. There is also a Trolley service in the area that will take you from the beach to the best sites to see downtown. A visit to any of these beaches is a great way to keep a vacation fun and beautiful. If you enjoy spending time on beautiful beaches and entertainment in the form of fishing or scuba diving, this might be the perfect place. These beaches offer everything you need to have a nice relaxing vacation in the sand. You can even find a diner to satisfy a unique craving or explore the beaches in search of the best places to shop. The night life also picks up at all of these destinations with pubs, bars, and just an enjoyable nightlife all around. The food is fresh off the boat, and the people are just as vibrant as the communities they are in.

Everyone knows that Ft. Lauderdale is host to some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation and that it is home to some of the best fishing and scuba diving in the country, as well. This makes it a getaway for anyone on Spring Break and a perfect place for retirement in a relaxing setting right off of the beach. The list below represents the best beaches in Ft. Lauderdale based on popularity, amenities, food, things to do, and shopping. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Ft. Lauderdale beach has everything you could want from a vacation spot. The most popular activities include scuba diving, fishing, and other water sports. You can fish for shark, tuna, mahi-mahi, barracuda, and many more at Ft. Lauderdale beach. There are several guided fishing tours that take you out to show you the area. They also show you where to fish and the best methods of catching whichever types of fish you choose. There are more than 35 different restaurants on the beach that all offer three-course meals at a fixed price, as well. more Hallandale Beach Hallandale beach is one of the most historic and oldest towns around Ft. Lauderdale, and it continues to exist as a regular farming community. The area offers golf, swimming, tennis, fishing, and several other outdoor activities year round. Along with sports entertainment, the area has the Gulf Stream Racetrack and Casino, Hollywood Dogtrack and Casino, and some of the best restaurants in the area. The local restaurants in the area offer everything from bistros and fresh seafood to bars and pubs. Hollywood Beach Hollywood Beach offers a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of boardwalk right on the beach side. There are over 50 restaurants in the area offering any kind of food your heart desires. The boardwalk was named one of America's best beach boardwalks by Travel and Leisure magazine. Hollywood Beach is one of the first beaches in Florida to be called a Blue Wave Beach. A Blue Wave Beach means it is among the nation's safest and cleanest beaches. There is also a Trolley service in the area that will take you from the beach to the best sites to see downtown. A visit to any of these beaches is a great way to keep a vacation fun and beautiful. If you enjoy spending time on beautiful beaches and entertainment in the form of fishing or scuba diving, this might be the perfect place. These beaches offer everything you need to have a nice relaxing vacation in the sand. You can even find a diner to satisfy a unique craving or explore the beaches in search of the best places to shop. The night life also picks up at all of these destinations with pubs, bars, and just an enjoyable nightlife all around. The food is fresh off the boat, and the people are just as vibrant as the communities they are in.

Everyone knows that Ft. Lauderdale is host to some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation and that it is home to some of the best fishing and scuba diving in the country, as well. This makes it a getaway for anyone on Spring Break and a perfect place for retirement in a relaxing setting right off of the beach. The list below represents the best beaches in Ft. Lauderdale based on popularity, amenities, food, things to do, and shopping. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Ft. Lauderdale beach has everything you could want from a vacation spot. The most popular activities include scuba diving, fishing, and other water sports. You can fish for shark, tuna, mahi-mahi, barracuda, and many more at Ft. Lauderdale beach. There are several guided fishing tours that take you out to show you the area. They also show you where to fish and the best methods of catching whichever types of fish you choose. There are more than 35 different restaurants on the beach that all offer three-course meals at a fixed price, as well. more Hallandale Beach Hallandale beach is one of the most historic and oldest towns around Ft. Lauderdale, and it continues to exist as a regular farming community. The area offers golf, swimming, tennis, fishing, and several other outdoor activities year round. Along with sports entertainment, the area has the Gulf Stream Racetrack and Casino, Hollywood Dogtrack and Casino, and some of the best restaurants in the area. The local restaurants in the area offer everything from bistros and fresh seafood to bars and pubs. Hollywood Beach Hollywood Beach offers a two-and-a-half-mile stretch of boardwalk right on the beach side. There are over 50 restaurants in the area offering any kind of food your heart desires. The boardwalk was named one of America's best beach boardwalks by Travel and Leisure magazine. Hollywood Beach is one of the first beaches in Florida to be called a Blue Wave Beach. A Blue Wave Beach means it is among the nation's safest and cleanest beaches. There is also a Trolley service in the area that will take you from the beach to the best sites to see downtown. A visit to any of these beaches is a great way to keep a vacation fun and beautiful. If you enjoy spending time on beautiful beaches and entertainment in the form of fishing or scuba diving, this might be the perfect place. These beaches offer everything you need to have a nice relaxing vacation in the sand. You can even find a diner to satisfy a unique craving or explore the beaches in search of the best places to shop. The night life also picks up at all of these destinations with pubs, bars, and just an enjoyable nightlife all around. The food is fresh off the boat, and the people are just as vibrant as the communities they are in.

Often cars are compared side by side with numbers and statistics. In this article, you will see the basic version of what these numbers mean when you put them all together. The Kia Sportage and the Hyundai Tucson come from the same parent company. They are well-rated vehicles. While they offer similar packaging, the subtle differences add up to an increase or decrease in your contentment level when exploring the roads in your new wheels. Read on to get a layman's breakdown of the vehicles and decide which choice buys you the best vehicle. MSRP and Commonalities The Kia Sportage's starting MSRP is $22,150, which is $550 less than the Hyundai Tucson. The two sport utility vehicles have divided rear seats that fold down to maximize storage space. They come in all-wheel or two-wheel drive, boast impressive safety ratings, and offer convenient upgrades like navigation systems with top-of–the-line audio and speakers. Sleek, aerodynamic designs make up their exteriors. more Cylinders and Engine Size Gasoline burns in the cylinders to give a car the gusto to keep moving. Because the cylinders house the power, more is better, but fuel efficiency usually suffers as the number of barrels increases. Both vehicles contain four-cylinder engines. The Tucson beats the Kia by three miles per gallon in fuel optimization, but that concerns the displacement, or volume, of the motor. Engine size is much like cylinders — higher numbers mean more power but reduced miles per gallon. The Kia carries a 2.4-liter engine compared to the 2.0-liter engine in the Hyundai. That's one-fifth bigger. The Turbocharged Engine A turbocharger boosts the power of an engine much like a metabolic enhancer jolts your metabolism. Often a four-cylinder feels like a six-cylinder with the turbocharger, but the upside is it uses less gas when driven efficiently. Both higher-end models contain a turbo engine, but the Kia once again carries an engine substantially larger than its counterpart. Torque and Horsepower When you push back into the seat while accelerating from a stop, that is torque. Big rigs require torque to initiate movement. Horsepower defines how much continuous work a car can perform. Generally, larger engines produce more torque while smaller engines provide horsepower. A racing car needs good torque to catapult off the starting line and requires horsepower to sustain its speed over the course of the race. The Kia's turbo engine submerges the competition with 260 horsepower compared to the competition's 175 horsepower. Its 269 pound-feet of torque boost it past the Tucson's 195 pound-feet of torque. While the 2016 Kia Sportage and the 2016 Hyundai Tucson can each stand on their own four wheels, the Hyundai lacks something essential – power. Because the most important part of selecting a car is surveying what's under the hood, a vote for the Hyundai would act contrary to common sense. The Kia moves quicker and stays at its optimal speed longer than its rival. Since the purpose of a car is to maximize commuting time, select the one that does just that.   Photo by Kia

Often cars are compared side by side with numbers and statistics. In this article, you will see the basic version of what these numbers mean when you put them all together. The Kia Sportage and the Hyundai Tucson come from the same parent company. They are well-rated vehicles. While they offer similar packaging, the subtle differences add up to an increase or decrease in your contentment level when exploring the roads in your new wheels. Read on to get a layman's breakdown of the vehicles and decide which choice buys you the best vehicle. MSRP and Commonalities The Kia Sportage's starting MSRP is $22,150, which is $550 less than the Hyundai Tucson. The two sport utility vehicles have divided rear seats that fold down to maximize storage space. They come in all-wheel or two-wheel drive, boast impressive safety ratings, and offer convenient upgrades like navigation systems with top-of–the-line audio and speakers. Sleek, aerodynamic designs make up their exteriors. more Cylinders and Engine Size Gasoline burns in the cylinders to give a car the gusto to keep moving. Because the cylinders house the power, more is better, but fuel efficiency usually suffers as the number of barrels increases. Both vehicles contain four-cylinder engines. The Tucson beats the Kia by three miles per gallon in fuel optimization, but that concerns the displacement, or volume, of the motor. Engine size is much like cylinders — higher numbers mean more power but reduced miles per gallon. The Kia carries a 2.4-liter engine compared to the 2.0-liter engine in the Hyundai. That's one-fifth bigger. The Turbocharged Engine A turbocharger boosts the power of an engine much like a metabolic enhancer jolts your metabolism. Often a four-cylinder feels like a six-cylinder with the turbocharger, but the upside is it uses less gas when driven efficiently. Both higher-end models contain a turbo engine, but the Kia once again carries an engine substantially larger than its counterpart. Torque and Horsepower When you push back into the seat while accelerating from a stop, that is torque. Big rigs require torque to initiate movement. Horsepower defines how much continuous work a car can perform. Generally, larger engines produce more torque while smaller engines provide horsepower. A racing car needs good torque to catapult off the starting line and requires horsepower to sustain its speed over the course of the race. The Kia's turbo engine submerges the competition with 260 horsepower compared to the competition's 175 horsepower. Its 269 pound-feet of torque boost it past the Tucson's 195 pound-feet of torque. While the 2016 Kia Sportage and the 2016 Hyundai Tucson can each stand on their own four wheels, the Hyundai lacks something essential – power. Because the most important part of selecting a car is surveying what's under the hood, a vote for the Hyundai would act contrary to common sense. The Kia moves quicker and stays at its optimal speed longer than its rival. Since the purpose of a car is to maximize commuting time, select the one that does just that.   Photo by Kia

The second most visited reef in the world lies off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The transparent blue water allows you not only to see your toes but also all the marine life that resides under the surface. With an average annual temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, this heavenly beach-filled city promotes a healthy lifestyle with rich outdoor experiences. Below are four ideas to occupy your time and maximize the days you spend on the shores. This water wonderland beckons you to explore. Paddle Boarding Looking for a great workout you can master in less than an hour? Paddle boarding is your sport. On your knees or standing up, you rest on what appears to be a large surfboard. You burn calories while having a load of fun! Not only is paddle boarding a diverse sport, but like many water sports, you can sightsee while exercising. Head down waterways, discover the ocean or the river, or pass by a plethora of celebrity yachts. Intensify your workout by doing paddleboard yoga, Pilates, or Supilates. The options are limitless. more Reef Drift Fishing Drift fishing allows you to benefit from a tour of the water while you potentially obtain your next meal. Set your eyes on the Lady Pamela III whose spacious deck load offers room for up to 24 people. Because the Lady Pamela III is a sport fish boat, prepare for a calm ride at optimum speed. It only takes 15 minutes for this boat to arrive at the gathering place of the big fish. Enjoy catching a wide variety of game in the reefs of the Florida coast. Scuba Diving Water enthusiasts flock to the "Wreck Capitol of Florida" which contains 50 shipwrecks in 23 miles. Journey at your own pace by drift diving. While attached to a flag, explore along the current until ready to stop. See a host of marine life and benefit from more bottom time. Ponder completing a diver certification course. After concluding the online program, fulfill the water-training portion in two days or less. If you prefer hands-on learning, most companies offer group and individual lessons. Sailing Chartering a sailboat is an amazing way to vacation. Crewed means you sail without laying a hand on deck, and bareboat means you skipper and your boat mates carry out the duties of the crew. The first option provides luxury in addition to expertise. Do you need a recommendation on where to dive or dock? Just ask the crew. Their wish is your command. The second option gives you more privacy and freedom but comes with a substantial amount of responsibility. Select either choice to travel the waters off the southern shores of Florida. Whether vacationing or looking for a permanent home, delve into the city nicknamed the Venice of America. Trade in the long hours sunbathing for a bronzed tan gained in action. Spot sea turtles or manatees in their natural Atlantic Ocean habitat. Follow the paths of ship wreckage along the ocean floor. Sail to unknown parts. Try a Downward-Facing Dog on a paddleboard. Make this time unforgettable.

The second most visited reef in the world lies off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The transparent blue water allows you not only to see your toes but also all the marine life that resides under the surface. With an average annual temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, this heavenly beach-filled city promotes a healthy lifestyle with rich outdoor experiences. Below are four ideas to occupy your time and maximize the days you spend on the shores. This water wonderland beckons you to explore. Paddle Boarding Looking for a great workout you can master in less than an hour? Paddle boarding is your sport. On your knees or standing up, you rest on what appears to be a large surfboard. You burn calories while having a load of fun! Not only is paddle boarding a diverse sport, but like many water sports, you can sightsee while exercising. Head down waterways, discover the ocean or the river, or pass by a plethora of celebrity yachts. Intensify your workout by doing paddleboard yoga, Pilates, or Supilates. The options are limitless. more Reef Drift Fishing Drift fishing allows you to benefit from a tour of the water while you potentially obtain your next meal. Set your eyes on the Lady Pamela III whose spacious deck load offers room for up to 24 people. Because the Lady Pamela III is a sport fish boat, prepare for a calm ride at optimum speed. It only takes 15 minutes for this boat to arrive at the gathering place of the big fish. Enjoy catching a wide variety of game in the reefs of the Florida coast. Scuba Diving Water enthusiasts flock to the "Wreck Capitol of Florida" which contains 50 shipwrecks in 23 miles. Journey at your own pace by drift diving. While attached to a flag, explore along the current until ready to stop. See a host of marine life and benefit from more bottom time. Ponder completing a diver certification course. After concluding the online program, fulfill the water-training portion in two days or less. If you prefer hands-on learning, most companies offer group and individual lessons. Sailing Chartering a sailboat is an amazing way to vacation. Crewed means you sail without laying a hand on deck, and bareboat means you skipper and your boat mates carry out the duties of the crew. The first option provides luxury in addition to expertise. Do you need a recommendation on where to dive or dock? Just ask the crew. Their wish is your command. The second option gives you more privacy and freedom but comes with a substantial amount of responsibility. Select either choice to travel the waters off the southern shores of Florida. Whether vacationing or looking for a permanent home, delve into the city nicknamed the Venice of America. Trade in the long hours sunbathing for a bronzed tan gained in action. Spot sea turtles or manatees in their natural Atlantic Ocean habitat. Follow the paths of ship wreckage along the ocean floor. Sail to unknown parts. Try a Downward-Facing Dog on a paddleboard. Make this time unforgettable.

Get ready for the car of the year before it rolls off the assembly block. The 2017 Kia Sorento offers an improved ride, more cargo and seating room, and more luxury options than ever before with a lower price than other crossover SUVs in its class. Pick a 2.4L four-cylinder engine or a 3.3L V6 engine when you make this car the newest member of your family. Roomy Interior Built to fit a maximum of 7 passengers, this vehicle gives you options. The second and third-row seats fold flat to allow for extra cargo space, and because of the divided seats, you can tuck one seat at a time if you need to haul lumber or separate siblings for a long road trip. In addition, Remote Release allows you to lay the second row down while inserting cargo through the trunk area. Rolling second-row seats offer the choice of extra leg room or cargo space. more Intelligence Kia took hands-free to a new level with the Smart Power Liftgate. The rear door opens without hand or feet involvement when it recognizes your smart key. You can also adjust the height of the gate, and the car will remember it. Say goodbye to bumping your head.  Smart Welcome Lighting system turns on the door lights and releases your mirrors from their storage position when you near the vehicle. Safety Features Advanced Smart Cruise Control system assesses the distance between you and the car in front of you. Lane Departure Warning System notifies you if you leave your lane. Back-Up Warning System detects objects near the rear of your car. Rear Cross Traffic Alert notifies you if something crosses your path, and Blind-Spot Detection prepares you to change lanes safely. Select the Surround View Monitor for a 360-degree display of your vehicle to enable the safest exit from every situation. Options From consumers who want an inexpensive crossover SUV to those who want to live in the lap of luxury, the 2017 Kia Sorento has it all. Bluetooth capabilities for telephone and audio, stain-resistant upholstery, USB jacks, and LED headlights come standard. The LX offers substantial upgrades like Uvo eServices, heated driver and passenger seats, and a touchscreen interface. One more step up to the EX provides the keyless ignition and entry, leather seats, the hands-free liftgate, and much more. The top-of-the-line SX has heated second-row seats and lane departure warning and mitigation. Convenience Organize yourself with the storage compartment located under the floor screen in the cargo area. Plan your week with hands-free calendar scheduling, and keep your life managed with ample storage between the front seats. Upgrade to include Dual-Zone Climate Control in the first row and an independent AC control for row 3. Find relief on hot days with the option of ventilated front seats. Choose the 10-speaker Infinity Audio System to get the best listening experience. For those who take long trips, consider the available leg extender cushion that gives you a relaxing and comfortable driving experience. With so much to offer, the 2017 Kia Sorento is going places.   Photo by Kia