Pensacola

HERE we have a location that is tucked away in Florida - and is often overlooked. But Pensacola is worth a visit. Its buildings have a blend of Old Spanish brickwork, colonial French balconies and magnificent Victoria mansions. There is a modern side, too

HERE we have a location that is tucked away in Florida - and is often overlooked.

But Pensacola is worth a visit.

Its buildings have a blend of Old Spanish brickwork, colonial French balconies and magnificent Victoria mansions.

There is a modern side, too, with Pensacola being the location of the National Museum of Naval Aviation which celebrates the US Navy and Marine Corps pilots who trained there.

Pensacola has probably one of the most bizarre events of the year when residents from Florida and Alabama converge on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico to throw mullets into the opposing state.

It is, however, all in the name of charity.

WHERE TO STAY

There are plenty of budget chain hotels in the area.

TIP

Pensacola's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the US. The sand is practically pure white and a large proportion of them are protected by the Gulf Islands National Seashore National Park Service.

STAT

Pensacola is known as the City of Flags because the Florida panhandle had at one time or other been governed by the Spanish, French, British, the Confederate and the US.