Florida and Rats
According to the annual ranking by Orkin, a pest control company, no Florida city appears among the top ten U.S. cities most affected by rats. However, three cities in the state appear in the Top 50: Tampa ranks 22nd, followed by Miami at 26th and Orlando at 32nd.
This ranking is based on new rodent control treatments performed between August 2025 and August 2026. Orkin notes that rats and mice easily adapt to any climate as long as they have access to food, water, and shelter. The company recommends sealing openings, repairing water leaks, maintaining trash cans, and taking swift action at the first signs of an infestation.
Flying Cars Take Off in Florida
Florida is pursuing its ambition to become a leader in advanced air mobility. On October 30, a flight demonstration of an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft—often compared to a “flying car”—took place between Tampa and St. Petersburg. The event symbolically retraced the route of the world’s first regular commercial passenger flight, which took place between the two cities in 1914.
Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the potential of these aircraft to serve as air taxis, delivery vehicles, or emergency medical transport. Officials believe this technology could reduce traffic congestion and improve regional travel.
Although eVTOLs are still in the experimental phase, Florida is investing in the necessary infrastructure, particularly “vertiports,” designed to accommodate these aircraft. The state is also supporting the creation of a future air network and dedicated flight corridors, with the goal of making Florida a major testing ground for this new generation of transportation.
Five Meteor Showers to Watch Before the End of the Year
Astronomy enthusiasts in Florida will have several more opportunities to admire meteor showers before the end of 2026. The Southern and Northern Taurids are currently visible and will peak on November 4–5, then again on November 11–12. They are known for their spectacular “fireballs.”
The famous Leonids will then take over, with peak activity expected on November 16–17. In December, the Geminids—considered among the most impressive of the year—will peak on December 13–14 with up to 50 meteors per hour. Finally, the Ursids will be visible around December 21–22.
To get the most out of the show in Florida, it’s best to get away from city lights, choose a clear night, and watch the sky between midnight and dawn. The darkest areas of the state will offer the best viewing conditions.
Tiger Woods Makes a Comeback
After a year marked by legal troubles stemming from an arrest for driving under the influence, Tiger Woods is making headlines again with a major professional project. His Florida-based company, TGR Design, has announced the renovation of a historic 18-hole golf course in Brookville, on Long Island, near New York.
The site was once part of the Linden Hill estate, linked to the Deering family, known in Florida for building the famous Vizcaya Mansion and the renowned Deering Estate in Miami.
Art Alert!
Mark your calendars—the art season is approaching in Southeast Florida:
- The Miami Book Fair will take place November 15–22, 2026, at the Vagabond Hotel Miami. miamibookfair.com
- Miami Art Week will be held November 30–December 6, 2026. miamiartweek.org
- Design Miami will take place from December 1 to 6, 2026, at the Vagabond Hotel Miami. designmiami.com
- Art Basel Miami Beach will be held from December 4 to 6, 2026, at the Vagabond Hotel Miami. artbasel.com/miami-beach
