Tampa is known as a cosmopolitan city with an international flair.Tampa_Museum_Of_Art
Home to world-class medical facilities, universities and banking, Tampa lives large but is a small city surrounded by unique communities such as Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor and Dunedin.
It’s proximity to the white-sand Gulf Coast beaches make it a desirable winter home for many northern visitors.
Ybor City, the Cuban community where Spanish is freely spoken boasts restaurants that serve up tasty island cuisine and famous rolled cigars. World class shopping is found at International Plaza and Bay Street where you’ll find Nordstroms, Neiman Marcus, Gucci, Tiffany & Co. and more.
Tampa is home to the sprawling University of South Florida where several well-known medical research facilities – including the Moffett Cancer Center – treat patients from around the world.
Boaters and fishermen enjoy the proximity to Tampa Bay, the Gulf of Mexico and several area lakes. Sports fans enjoy the Tampa Bay Bucs and the Tampa Rays.  Others enjoy meandering through the Tampa Lowry Park Zoo,  The Florida Aquarium or marvel at the Museum of Science and Industry. Busch Gardens is known for its African safari theme park and world class roller coasters.
A popular day trip destination is Tarpon Springs made famous by Greek immigrants who made their living as sponge fishermen. The downtown area by the docks boasts more than two dozen shops and restaurants and is walker friendly.
Winter visitors often stay in nearby Palm Harbor and Dunedin, known as small, safe and friendly communities. Most winter visitors rent an area vacation rental, rent in one of the numerous RV parks or buy or rent in Over-55 communities.