“Named for the Spanish feast of flowers, Florida stretches more than 400 miles from its state line with Georgia to the Florida Keys. It's famous for its coastline, its Everglades, and its colorful coral reefs, but there are lesser known wonders as well.

For instance, did you know Florida houses one of the largest underwater cave systems in the continental U.S., a type of prairie found nowhere else in the U.S., and an ancient forest system perched on prehistoric dunes?

There is a gap between the time you fall in love with Florida and when you truly begin to appreciate the state's natural wonders.

Florida is a complex living creature, and subtlety is its most endearing quality. The state possesses great treasures including the Everglades, coral reefs, clear springs, and magnificent forests.

It also conceals small jewels, such as tropical tree snails, torreya trees and wild rosemary. And Florida has a soul."