Tampa: an introduction
Tampa, part of the Tampa/St. Petersburg/Clearwater metropolitan area, is usually referred to as Tampa Bay. The four-county area has about 2.7 million residents, which makes it the second largest metropolis in Florida, behind Miami/West Palm Beach, and is know for its world class tourist accommodations, outdoor sports --- including golf --- fine cuisine, and, of course, beaches.
Tampa is a Native American word, the meaning of which has been lost, though sometimes it’s said to mean "sticks of fire" because of the many lightening strikes in the area each year. Tampa is the lightening capitol of the world and during the summer is an excellent place to witness some of the most amazing sky light shows anywhere
Throughout most of the year, it’s pretty warm here, as it is a subtropical environment. There’s usually a couple frosts a year, but those aren’t usually much of a concern for residents, except for area farmers who are concerned about citrus and strawberry crops and plant lovers who dash about throwing their best bedroom sheets across the yard to protect them. But most times, it’s usually between 65 and 95 degrees across the region; humid and surprisingly comfortable.
Good thing is, though it’s hot, it has never broken 100 degrees; the hottest it’s been here was 99 in 1985. Hot, but not desert hot. Temps stay pretty much hot from May through October, also known as the rainy season, when the days are filled with moisture and humidity. Thunderstorms usually threaten summer afternoons with rich, beautiful, warm, pounding rains that clean everything, but last only a short period --- sometimes just a few mere seconds.
Yes, winds, hail and lightening accompany the storms, but storms can be seen from miles away and are easily prepared for. Honestly, the weather, during these times can be romantic and moving, perfect for exploring a favorite shopping haunt, bookstore or coffee house, or simply singing in the rain.
Most days, more than 300 each year, it’s sunny and bright, the perfect backdrop for a day spent at the beach, exploring the city, shopping, boating or fishing.
This has been just a little introduction on the city for now; more to come soon. Feel free to drop us a line. Let us know what your favorite Tampa hot spots are, some of your experiences, or what you’d like to know more about.
