I've been a firefighter down here for 30 years, and lived here all of my life so here's some advice.
1. The old people down here can't drive worth a crap, but.. most of them are from up north, and they go back around May.
2. Yes, the 50 ft rule concerning alligators is a good one, however, we do have some mosquitos that are as large as alligators.
3. We have cockroaches that are the same size.
4. Hurricanes are serious, when someone says leave, it's probably a good idea, but at least the water will run off of Florida, unlike New Orleans.
5. Being able to speak at least a little Vietnamese/French/ will be helpful. Being able to speak Spanish will be REAL helpful.
6. About every 10 years, we burn the state to the ground, it keeps the mosquitos down at least.
7. Being a car guy, you will learn about "love bugs", these things inhabit every square inch of the interstate during mating season and can completely obscure your windshield.
8. Oddly enough, because of the humidity, it still gets cold, especially in the middle of the Ocala national forest.
9. Oddly enough, because of the humidity, it gets horribly hot, especially in the middle of the Ocala national forest.
That's the bad stuff, now for the good.
10. I've seen snow in Florida exactly 3 times in 50 years.
11. There's a state law that says if you're being threatened and are in fear of your life, you can use deadly force and not be held liable.
12. Generally the weather is awesome and you can cruise almost every day of the year.
13. We have some of the best beaches and waterfront property in the world.
14. Alligators love marshmellows
15. Gatornationals, Daytona, Sebring, St. Pete Grand Prix
16. Spring break, Bike week, Biketoberfest
17. Disney World, Cape Canaveral, Key West
18. T-backs and tan lines.
I think that should cover most of it, hope to see you soon.