DAY 12

We left St Petersburg this morning having decided it is a very attractive city. I would gladly visit again. This morning’s challenge was to find manatees. We found a place where they had injured animals which was a bit of a disappointment as they were captive. However, in the river outside of the preserve we found a number of them. They are strange creatures. They are so huge and only each sea lettuce and sea grass. They move so slowly and so gently. I am so glad we managed to see some wild ones. We have another place to visit in a couple of days time where we may find some. I love watching them, with their bristly chins and mermaid like tails.

We travelled to Mount Dora today, steering clear of the i75 and taking side routes. It was about a 3 hour drive and not very eventful. We arrived here about 4 pm. We are staying at the Lakeside Inn which is a beautiful 140 year old inn with an iconic verandah with traditional rocking chairs.