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- Destinations
- North America
- United States of America
- Pensacola
Pensacola
Pensacola, close to the Alabama state border on the Gulf coast,
is yet another of Florida's resort Meccas; but instead of theme
parks and excitement, the city relies on real history and natural
attractions to draw the crowds and the ambience is relaxed and
laid-back among fountains and parks.
Ancient Native Americans left their mark here around the natural
deep-water harbour, before European settlement arrived in 1559, in
the form of a group of Spanish colonists. It was the start of a
long rivalry for control of the port, with France, Great Britain,
the United States and the Confederacy battling it out over the
years, leaving the city with a blended architectural legacy ranging
from Spanish brickwork and French wrought-iron balconies to
Victorian mansions. Pensacola also now boasts the Seville Historic
District to showcase its heritage, containing treasures such as
Florida's oldest church. With plenty of interesting history, the
city also has a noteworthy Historical Museum.
Apart from ancient history, Pensacola is known for its current
stars, the Blue Angels precision flying team of the US Navy, who
are based here and hold thrilling exhibitions. The US Naval Air
Station is situated to the west of the city and also boasts the
National Museum of Naval Aviation.
In and around Pensacola powdery white sandy beaches abound along
the coastline and on the Gulf Islands, particularly at Perdido Key
and Pensacola Beach with their luxury resorts. The coast and
islands are a paradise for fishermen, and 'foodies' will enjoy the
plentiful local oysters.
Information & Facts
Climate
Pensacola has a temperate climate with mild winters and hot
summers, with summer temperatures moderated by the southerly
prevailing winds from the Gulf of Mexico. The city has an average
343 days of sunshine a year. Late summer and autumn can be very
windy.
Getting Around
The best way to see the sights in the centre of Pensacola is to
board the Five Flags Trolley, run by the Escambia County Area
Transit System; it departs frequently from the Pensacola Visitor
Center. The route passes through the historic Pensacola Village
every weekday, with two lines serving the downtown area, Palafox
Street, the waterfront and North Hill Preservation District.
Another trolley service, the Tiki Trolley, runs along Pensacola
Beach on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, between Memorial Day
weekend and Labor Day weekend. Escambia also runs public buses
around the city daily except Sundays, but these do not access the
beach. There are bicycles and scooters for hire, and taxis can be
ordered by telephone from various companies.
Language
English is the most common language but Spanish is often
spoken in south-western states.
Money
The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into
100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are
widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely
accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid
hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.