New month, new State as I have entered "the historic state of Georgia, home of the 1996 Olympic games". At least that`s what it says on all the road signs as you enter the state. Obviously was a big thing in these parts. On the way up stopped at St Augustine, which in 1565 became the first European village established in the new world. Lots of old buildings full of history, and a wonderful old fort built by the Spanish settlers to protect the village from English pirates. There was a demonstration of a real cannon firing which sent the school groups into fits of ecstasy. Americans love a big bang.

Spent the day touring the sights of the Kennedy Space Center. A fascinating day with so much to see. Discovery was sitting on launch pad 39b, ready for its departure one week from today. It`s a night time launch so so should be pretty spectacular, apparently it lights up the coast. I don`t think I would like to be sitting on top of all that fuel. The acceleration on the Hulk ride yesterday was quite enough thank you. Now in Daytona, which, judging by my walk to the 7/11, is populated by drop outs and junkies. So back in the Motel, sitting on my balcony overlooking the beach, and listening to the waves.

Miles driven: 95

Well I had to visit one theme park while I was in Florida, so following the advice of my sister, I spent today at Universal. Have been spun, twisted, flung upside down, dropped from a great height, attacked by a shark and soaked to the skin. Great fun though. My motel room is now gently rocking back and forth and I`m feeling slightly nauseous. It didn`t help that there were no queues, so I was able to try out almost all of the rides.

Spent the day on either side of Tampa bay. This morning in St Petersburg and this afternoon in Tampa city itself. St Petersburg has a wonderful position right on the bay with great views over to the water. Lots of pelicans on the pier. Tampa was a lot busier. Loads of police and roads closed. I couldn`t work out why until I saw the news 9 truck reporting on the big game tonight.

Spent the morning exploring the Florida Capital building. It always amazes me how you can wander around legislative buildings in the US. Imagine being able to wander around the Palace of Westminster. I was able to look in the Senate as well as the House, and even the Governor`s reception area. Didn`t see Jeb, although his receptionist gave me a rundown on the paintings. Travelled down into central Florida and in Homosassa park saw some of the weirdest creatures ever. Manatees are native to Florida and are a sort of cross between an Elephant and a wood louse. They live in rivers where they hang around hot springs. Although totally harmless, imagine the shock if you were swimming and one of those showed up.

Travelled another hundred odd miles along the coast and lost the hour I previously gained when leaving Chattanooga. It must be very confusing for those living on the time zone border. Just popping to the shops and having to change your clock. Stopped in at the gulf world ocean show to see a couple of dolphins do some leaping about. Now in the state capital Tallahassee, built, as so many capitals are, midway between two rival contenders, Pensacola and St Augustine.