According to the latest update from University of South Florida scientists, Florida will start seeing the peak of the sargassum seaweed invasion in late May this year.

Join our FB group where Florida’s locals post the latest photos and videos on Sargassum Seaweed in FL

Latest Updates on the Seaweed Situation in Florida:

April 25 – May 4: Latest photo reports from Sargassum Seaweed Florida Reporting FB Group

Seaweed season 2024 is in full swing in Florida and it’s about to start peaking! Most affected areas are expected to be Key West and the Florida Keys.

April 25, 2024: Latest photo updates

April 25, 2024: Florida seaweed forecast: The invasion to start in late May this year

According to the Palm Beach Post, scientists from the University of Florida predict a potentially massive sargassum seaweed invasion in May.

Official seaweed season in the Caribbean has already started but it has been very mild up until the middle of April. Caribbean places such as Cancun, Tulum, and Punta Cana are usually strongly affected and started seeing higher seaweed arrivals only in the past 2 weeks. This delay was most likely caused by lower sea temperatures in the Caribbean this winter.

“Unlike most previous years, total sargassum amount decreased from about 9 million metric tons in February to about 6.5 million metric tons in March,” a report from USF’s Optical Oceanography lab stated earlier this month. “The total amount in March was still above the 75% of all previous March months, indicating 2024 could still be a major sargassum year.” according to scientists.

January 15, 2024: Another record blob of sargassum was measured in the Central Atlantic Ocean

University of South Florida scientists have reported a significant increase in sargassum, a type of seaweed, in the Central Atlantic, near the Caribbean Sea. As of December 2023, the mass of sargassum reached nearly 5 million metric tons, a substantial increase from the 1 million metric tons recorded at the same time in the previous year.

This amount sets a new historical record for the region. Despite a 15% decrease in May 2023, which deviated from the 2022 record high of 22 million metric tons, researchers anticipate 2024 to be another major year for sargassum growth.

Currently, the majority of this seaweed mass is located about 500 miles east of the Caribbean Sea, with significant blooms also observed near Venezuela’s Orinoco River, affecting areas like Trinidad and Tobago and the southern Caribbean Sea.

What’s causing the seaweed problem?

A 2020 study, involving research from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), has linked the surge in sargassum in the tropical Atlantic Ocean to a shift in the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) around 2009-2010.

This change led to stronger west and south winds, which dispersed sargassum from the Sargasso Sea into the tropical Atlantic, where it received more sunlight and nutrients from ocean upwelling.

The longevity of this increased sargassum presence is uncertain, with NOAA’s Rick Lumpkin noting the possibility of a similar event occurring in the past, followed by a decline of the Sargassum belt after several decades.

What could be done? These are possible alternative uses of sargassum heading to Florida, according to a new startup

The surge of sargassum seaweed in recent times has triggered businesses to explore novel methods of eliminating it, and its potential uses are already manifold.

Scientists and entrepreneurs aspire to transform it into syrup, bricks, and conceivably even jet fuel. Carbonwave, an organization based in Boston and Puerto Rico, is utilizing it as a constituent in fertilizer, cosmetics, and even synthetic leather.

REPORTS & UPDATES FROM SEAWEED SEASON 2023

The last sargassum seaweed season was predicted to be devastating and the worst ever. There was 5,000 miles long seaweed belt measured by scientists at Florida University which was heading towards the Caribbean and Florida. Fortunately, in July 2023, the seaweed belt shrunk by 75% and did not pollute the beaches as expected. Therefore, this year is hard to predict!

July 18: Latest seaweed news and photos from Florida

June 1: Jupiter Dog Beach

June 1: Panama City Beach

May 22: Latest photos and reports from travelers and locals in Florida

Here are a few latest photos and updates from different areas around Florida. Join our group “Sargassum Seaweed Updates Florida” and ask about any particular area.

May 22: Bahia Honda State Park Seaweed Report

May 21: Melbourne Beach Seaweed Report

May 16: Bal Harbour Beach Seaweed Report

Key West – Southernmost Point of the Continental USA (April 30)

The post Sargassum Seaweed In Florida, Florida Keys & Key West 2024: Daily Reports appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

These areas will be mostly sargassum-free until the end of May, according to reports.

In March, scientists observed only 75 percent of the amount of sargassum seen in the same month last year. It’s a positive number but still very high.

“Unlike most previous years, total sargassum amount decreased from about 9 million metric tons in February to about 6.5 million metric tons in March,” reads a report from USF’s Optical Oceanography lab. 

“The total amount in March was still above 75% of all previous March months, indicating 2024 could still be a major sargassum year,” they concluded.

Countries like Mexico and the Dominican Republic have started to report an increase in the arrival of the alga after months of enjoying small quantities of it. 

Mexico had to elevate its sargassum alert to “Level Two,” as the country has seen a spike in seaweed in Cancun and nearby towns.

As per local forecasts, Playa del Carmen alone will be receiving up to 300 tones per day over the next few weeks.

For its part, Dominican Republic beaches have reported a rise in sargassum since two weeks ago.

Most Caribbean nations also suffering the ravages of this phenomenon have opted to invest in vessels equipped with special technology to collect the seaweed in the open sea. In the United States, such an option is currently prohibited, as sargassum provides shelter for marine species.

Florida has hired specialized workers who clean beaches twice a week using heavy machinery but only where turtles may nest.

As a result, local communities are on the verge of seeing major losses in tourism revenue. 

“Economically, a “severe” sargassum event could have more than a $20 million impact in just the Keys alone,” said FAU research professor Brian Lapointe.

Sargassum Season in 2023 and Forecast for 2024

Multiple authorities have expressed that this year, sargassum season might not be as hard as it was in 2023. But it’ll be relevant.  

For instance, in countries like Mexico the season officially started at the end of March, while last year, beaches were covered with seaweed by the end of January.

Last year, the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, which was nothing but a massive 5,000-mile-long mass of seaweed, threatened ecosystems, livelihoods and tourism industries across the Caribbean, according to researchers at the University of South Florida.

In December 2023, the size of the bloom broke records which is a telltale sign that this year we’ll also see an important arrival.   

“This [satellite observations made in December] indicates that 2024 will be another major Sargassum year,” USF sargassum academic experts published in January.

The post Sargassum Seaweed To Start Invading Florida Beaches In May appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

By making prudent choices about where to go within the city and applying basic street smarts during your explorations, you can ensure a secure visit. 

In 2023, Miami welcomed over 26.5 million visitors, and this number is anticipated to increase in the future.

LATEST NEWS from Miami:

March 5: Miami Beach implements new security protocols to prevent chaos during Spring Break

According to officials, the city will strengthen security measures for the imminent spring break by implementing curfews, bag checks, costly parking fines, and DUI checkpoints.

Loud music playing is strictly forbidden and beach access is limited at night.

“This weekend, our residents and visitors did see an enhanced staffing configuration of Miami Beach police officers,” said Christopher Bess, an officer with the Miami Beach Police Department.

Authorities from 18 different agencies will be present in addition to Miami Beach police.

March 5: Florida deploys state troops in major Spring Break cities (incl. Miami)

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida announced the deployment of 140 state troopers to aid in crowd control during spring break, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for lawlessness.

These troopers will support 17 law enforcement agencies across the state, focusing on popular destinations like Miami Beach, Daytona Beach, and Panama City. DeSantis highlighted the importance of maintaining order and warned of strict consequences for misconduct, while Miami Beach’s mayor, Steven Meiner, emphasized ongoing efforts to enforce law and order beyond the spring break period.

Areas to Avoid

Here are some neighborhoods in Miami that should be avoided, especially after dark:

• Opa-Locka: This area has notably high rates of both property and violent crimes.
• Wynwood: The property crime rate in this neighborhood is 285 percent higher than the national average.
• Little Haiti: Violent crime and gang activity are prevalent here.
• Upper Eastside: This area experiences violent crimes that are 98 percent higher than the national average.
• Allapattah: Known for its red-light district, this neighborhood sees a significant amount of sex crimes.
• Little Havana: Crime rates here are 200 percent higher than the national average, and law enforcement faces challenges in maintaining control.
• Bayside Harbor: While popular among spring breakers, it’s advisable to avoid this area after dark.
• Overtown: This neighborhood is marked by gang activity, drug use, and violence.
• Liberty City: Known for its high rates of violent crimes, particularly in the more impoverished areas of the neighborhood.

Common Scams

When visiting Miami, be aware that it’s a bustling tourist destination where scams can occur. Here are some tips to help you avoid falling victim to scams:

Fake “Tourist Information” booths: Street vendors posing as tourist guides may try to persuade you to book tours with agencies that offer them the highest commissions. Always research tour agencies and read reviews before making a decision.

Exercise Caution with Nightlife Promoters: Club promoters often promise free entry and drinks at affiliated clubs. However, these offers may not be genuine, and you could end up paying unexpectedly high fees at the end of the night.

Stay Alert for Fake Kidnapping Scams: If you receive a call from an unknown number claiming that a family member has been kidnapped and demanding money, remain calm and verify the situation before taking any action. Scammers may use threatening tactics to coerce you into transferring money, but in most cases, your family members are safe.

Check Restaurant Bills Carefully: Some restaurants may add extra items to your bill in the hope that you won’t notice. Before paying, review your bill thoroughly to ensure its accuracy and that no unauthorized charges have been included.

Official Travel Advisories

Canada Travel Advisory

As per guidance from the Canadian government, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are prevalent, particularly in urban areas and frequented tourist spots. 

It recommends that its citizens take precautions to safeguard their belongings, including passports and travel documents, ensuring they are securely stored at all times. Additionally, individuals are advised against leaving bags or valuables unattended in parked vehicles, particularly rental cars, to mitigate the risk of such incidents.

UK Travel Advisory

The UK travel advisory for the United States, including territories like American Samoa and Puerto Rico, advises British nationals on travel risks to help them make informed decisions.

It covers preparation for travel, with specific advice for women, LGBT+ travelers, and disabled travelers. It emphasizes the importance of appropriate travel insurance covering itineraries, planned activities, and emergency expenses. Updated information, including the removal of storm warnings, can be found on their official website for more details​​.

Safety Tips for Miami

Here are essential guidelines for ensuring a safe visit to Miami:

• Refrain from using recreational drugs and exercise caution when smoking cigarettes in public areas such as hotels or bars.
• Stay vigilant against pickpockets and muggers while exploring Miami.
• Pay attention to your attire as some Miami clubs and casinos enforce dress codes for entry.
• Stay informed about hurricane seasons, particularly between June and December, and check weather forecasts before traveling to the city.
• Avoid venturing into the dangerous neighborhoods of Miami. (Refer to the “Areas to Avoid” section above for details.)

The post Is Miami Safe To Visit? Spring Break Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Florida is ranked among the top US states for digital nomads by Bluepillow and other experts. Are you curious as to why? Let’s look into it.

Is there an American Digital Nomad Visa?

Getting the appropriate visa is necessary if you want to live as a digital nomad in the US. Though there isn’t a specific visa for digital nomads in the country, there are other visas that have comparable functions.

These include authorizations like the Visa Waiver Program, B-1 Business Visa, and H-1B Visa.

Why Florida 

Florida offers outstanding modern facilities for digital nomads in addition to a breathtaking coastline and pleasant climate. 

The third fastest high-speed internet in the US is available at the state’s cafes, restaurants, and coworking spaces, in addition to networking and socializing opportunities. 

Furthermore, convenient travel within Florida as well as to other states and countries is made possible by its outstanding airport connectivity.

No State Income tax

Digital nomads usually have tax responsibilities in their home country as well as in the United States. Some authorities suggest that they might need to inform the IRS about their earnings and fulfill their tax obligations accordingly. 

Fortunately, Florida offers tax advantages. Its lack of state income tax allows digital nomads to reside here with minimal tax burdens and financial peace of mind.

Best Cities for Digital Nomads In Florida

For their outstanding amenities, these are the cities digital nomads tend to choose in Florida. 

Miami: With its many coworking spaces, beaches, and effective public transportation, Miami offers the energetic atmosphere of a big city combined with a relaxed coastal vibe.

Tampa: Tampa is notable for its good broadband coverage, a plethora of coworking spaces, cafes that are conducive to work, and reasonably priced rental rates.

Orlando: Orlando’s excellent broadband providers and pleasant climate make it possible to work remotely effectively while taking in the surroundings.

The post Why Relocating To Florida As A Digital Nomad Could Be A Good Idea In 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

If you’re one of those who like to chase the sun during March, this article is for you. We have compiled a list of the best spots to visit this season so that you can enjoy the perfect holiday in the Sunshine State.

Get ready. Here are the 8 best places to visit in Florida in March:

Orlando

Known as the “theme park capital of the world,” Orlando is a fantastic choice for families. It’s home to the iconic Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando, and won’t let anyone get bored.

However, it’s not just cotton candy and rides that make Orlando so attractive. This city is also an excellent place for shopping, dining, and nature-related activities.

On top of that, this time of the year, you can enjoy the city without the exhausting heat. Just note that due to its popularity, you might still come across some crowds, especially in theme parks.

Naples

Naples is another well-liked city but with a slightly different vibe. It’s rather laid-back and full of stylish art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants.

Are you a fan of golf? Say no more. There are more than 100 golf courses in the Naples area suitable for both beginners and pros, which makes it the ultimate golf getaway.

For a lovely time in nature, the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge or Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary are set just a short drive away.

St. Augustine

Yes, there are some really old places in Florida as well, and one of them is St. Augustine. It was founded by the Spanish in 1565 and is considered the oldest permanent European settlement in the continental U.S.

Walk its cobblestone streets, admire its colonial architecture, or visit the Castillo de San Marcos which offers some great views of the Matanzas River. There are also some beautiful beaches and nature in St. Augustine. In pursuit of that, you can try Anastasia State Park.

Everglades National Park

Florida is also a brilliant spot for adventure lovers. Are you one of them? In that case, Everglades National Park is the perfect choice. It’s enormous and is home to a plethora of endangered species, including manatee, American crocodile, and Florida panther.

Apart from wildlife viewing, you can enjoy kayaking through mangrove tunnels, biking, or hiking. Depending on where you’re coming from, you can enter the park through three different entrances – Homestead, Shark Valley, and Gulf Coast. So, are you in?

Key West

If you’re after some truly magical beach experience, head to Key West. Not only is it one of the sunniest and warmest spots in the U.S., but the drive there through the Keys is an absolute stunner as well. 

Once you get there, you can engage in an array of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, or fishing. And after sunset, you can dive into its raucous nightlife.

Sea Plane Flight to Dry Tortugas National Park

When in or around Key West, you simply must visit the famed Dry Tortugas National Park. You will have to take a 70-mile-long water journey on a tour or ferry or a sea plane flight, but we guarantee you’ll love it.

It consists of seven little islands, turquoise waters, and coral reefs. But its main attraction might be the historic Fort Jefferson – one of the largest 19th-century forts in the States. You can also camp there, just make sure you arrive early, as the sites work on a first-come, first-served basis.

Biscayne National Park

This list wouldn’t be complete without Biscayne National Park, which you will find on the other side of the peninsula. It’s an excellent place for snorkeling among the vibrant coral reefs, kayaking, and boat tours.

Do you rather prefer staying on the ground? On Elliott Key, the largest island of the park, you will find a hiking trail from which you can watch various bird species, such as the unique brown pelicans or Bahama mockingbirds.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, part of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, is a unique attraction that blends a traditional theme park with a zoo. It offers guests a chance to explore natural environments, encounter exotic animals, and enjoy a variety of rides and attractions.

The park is divided into several themed areas, each focusing on different aspects of natural and mythical worlds. It’s known for its attention to detail in both the landscaping and the design of attractions, providing an immersive experience that goes beyond typical theme park offerings

The post 8 Best Places To Visit In Florida State In March 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

This week, researchers from the University of South Florida reported that the amount of prickly pelagic fauna measured in December—roughly 5 million metric tons—was significantly more than the amount recorded at the same time last year, which was about 1 million metric tons.

“Although we predicted an increase in the November bulletin, the magnitude of this growth is notable, with the December 2023 abundance representing a historical record,” USF researchers informed.

This year’s announcement is similar to the one made the year before, when the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt reached unprecedented heights in the first few months of 2023 and there was widespread media coverage of a possible coastal onslaught in Florida during the busiest travel months of the summer.

The macroalgae eventually failed to reach the record high of 22 million metric tons in 2022, falling precipitously by 15% in May – a decrease never seen since tracking started in 2011 and a sign of the unpredictable nature and ignorance of the workings of the seafaring biomass.

However, Chuanmin Hu, a professor of oceanography at USF, said that the December tonnage “indicates that 2024 will be another major sargassum year.”

At the moment, the majority of sargassum is still found 500 miles east of the Caribbean Sea. However, in mid-December, a significant bloom appeared near the mouth of the Orinoco River in Venezuela. According to USF, the bloom then moved northeast to Trinidad and Tobago.

Photo reports from seaweed season in 2023

Florida seaweed season photos (Source: FB Group Sargassum Seaweed Florida: Daily Updates and Photo Reports)

What is sargassum seaweed and what’s causing it?

Sargassum is a type of seaweed that floats on the ocean’s surface, characterized by its brown color and air-filled pockets. This seaweed is vital for marine ecosystems but can impact tourism and coastal environments when it accumulates on beaches.

The recent, unusually large bloom of Sargassum may be influenced by factors like human waste, climate change, and agricultural runoff. Increased nitrogen levels from these sources and varying ocean temperatures are likely contributing to its rapid growth. Changes in weather patterns, ocean currents, and nutrient supply from sources like the Sahara Desert’s dust are also considered influential.

The post Another Record Seaweed Blob Might Hit Florida This Year, According to Scientists appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.