The sun was rising above Tampa Bay when I found myself on the open deck. The passenger dock in Tampa port is conveniently located on the edge of the downtown, near Florida Aquarium. I said goodbye to the crew and went down to the terminal building. There was passport control, but the officers did it quickly and professionaly.
How to get to my Best Western last expensive hotel? I crossed the river and found the 19 bus stop. The fare is 2 USD – they do not respect overseas seniors!
After check-in I took this bus again – back to downtown. It is clean and bright. The Tampa Theatre built in 1926 is the main attraction, but I loved most the old (and free till the end of 2024) old tram line operating every 15 minutes from Franklin St to Ybor City. Ybor is a restored part of the Tampa from the 20ties and 30ties. Practically there are two parallel streets with bars, shops and balconies overlooking the streets. Many people in the sidewalks cafes smoke cigars… This creates special atmosphere… I like Tampa!
