Florida teems with shopping malls, outlet centres, boutiques and arts-and-crafts shops. I have memories of staying in a villa in Florida a number of years ago trying for 2 days to get my friend to leave the outlet shops alone! I got to enjoy our villa's swimming pool alone for a while and spend some time at the beach.

The state's enormous popularity as a leisure and holiday destination means you'll find a lot of touristy junk: Shell shops and alligator souvenirs seem to appear at every corner. But don't judge Florida by its T-shirts and sunglasses alone.

Seminole and Miccosukee handicrafts are available, notably the intricate and colourful quilting patterns made into jackets, pants and skirts. There's a good variety of tropical fruit (both fresh and in the form of preserves and other prepared foods), much of which can be shipped directly home or to friends. Beach and resort clothing is for sale year-round - you'll have no trouble fitting yourself out for oceanfront holiday leisure and enjoy your stay at your private Florida villa.