Tunes, Tides & Tan Lines: A Gulf Coast Getaway

Fly from the UK to New Orleans, USA.

Kick things off in the Big Easy, where every street corner has its own soundtrack and the food doesn't do subtle. Your base is the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, a characterful stay right in the heart of New Orleans and perfectly placed for tuning in to the city's rhythm. Drift down the Mississippi aboard the Natchez Steamboat, paddlewheel keeping time behind you, before losing yourself in the city's heady mix of history, jazz and beignets. It's the perfect way to ease into a Gulf Coast road trip, one note at a time.

Next stop: Mobile, a city with old Southern charm and a playful side. Settle in at The Battle House Renaissance, an architectural beauty with no shortage of stories to tell. Your Attraction Pass unlocks the city's highlights, whether that's museums, waterfront views, or a dive into Mardi Gras history. It's a quiet, unhurried taste of the South before you push on toward Florida's beaches. 

Roll into Pensacola for a breezy coastal pause. Sugar-white sands, historic forts and a lively downtown compact enough to wander at your own pace — this is a city that rewards slowing down. Think fresh seafood, gentle surf and a sunset that sneaks up on you before you've even noticed the day slipping by. It's a short but sweet seaside stop before your beach time ramps up. 

Time to sink into full beach mode at Panama City Beach, where the water shows off every shade of blue you can imagine. Here, it's all powdery sand, sparkling water and lazy days in the sun, with nothing on the agenda but sunshine. When you're ready to wander, hop between waterfront dining, beautiful state parks and wildlife-filled stretches of coast, or head inland to Cypress Springs for a dip in some of the clearest water in Florida. Whether you're chasing sun, seafood or the perfect photo op, this stretch of Florida doesn't disappoint. 

Perry is your peaceful breather, a quiet slice of Old Florida where pine forests outnumber people — trading sand for pine needles 1 night. Take it slow with a wander through the surrounding woodlands, a stop by the Forest Capital Museum, or simply the calm of small-town life at its own pace. It's a gentle pause on your journey south that sets you up nicely for the coastal adventures ahead. 

Gainesville serves up leafy trails, springs so clear they make you question reality, and an easygoing charm that's hard not to enjoy. Spend your time exploring museums and botanical gardens, or take a dip in one of Florida's iconic freshwater springs, calm and inviting all year round. Expect a mix of culture, nature and friendly charm that often surprises first-timers. 

Here comes the memory-maker. Crystal River is famous for its gentle manatees, and you'll have the chance to swim alongside them in their natural habitat. Beyond that, the area rewards a slower pace — springs to explore, trails to wander, or a kayak glide through glassy waters. It's one of those rare experiences you'll be talking about long after you've left. 

Wrap things up in vibrant Tampa at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street where luxury, waterfront views and a prime downtown location really say it all. Sip, snack and savour your way through local markets, waterfront pathways and bright city neighbourhoods. With its mix of culture, sunshine and culinary swagger, Tampa is the perfect harbour to drop anchor on your last night. 

Fly from Tampa to the UK.