Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Chapter 10: The Southern Coastlands

The Southern Coastlands are located along the southeast portion of the United States.  It is divided into two primary sections: the Rio Grande east to North Carolina and the US-Mexico Border area.  This particular area is known for its idealistic subtropical weather conditions and a long growing season.  Coastal California and the Southern Coastlands are neck and neck in terms of climatic appeal.  Both share pleasant weather conditions that entice millions to visit and in some cases even move.  The only difference is that summers in the Coastlands are frequently hotter and more humid than in San Diego. 

Those from the southeast also have to deal with the possibility of violent hurricanes while natives of San Diego are more likely to experience an occasional earthquake.  On a personal level, last Easter when I was in San Diego for our annual family dinner the ground began to shake for several seconds.  The shaking quickly subsided but the initial shock and fear from the earthquake took longer to wear off.  My story pails into comparison of many of the experiences of those who have gone through the eye of a hurricane.  Who could forget the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005?...




San Diego and the Southern Coastlines also share another commonality: Oranges!  Both Florida and Southern California are the top producers of oranges in all of the United States.  In the growing season of 2006-2007 Florida produced 6,300 tons of oranges while California produced 1,726 tons.  The only other location in all of the United States that produces any form of citrus in large quantities is Arizona.  In fact, only California surpasses Florida in the production of lemons and naval oranges.  The orange industry is especially labor intensive because each orange has to be individually picked.
Oranges ready for picking!


San Diego and portions of the Southern Coastlands also share one more similar feature: the presence of recreation.  San Diego is known for it's aesthetic appeal and popular vacationing hot-spots.  Long sandy beaches and water sports are commonplace in both San Diego and Florida.  SeaWorld is located in both San Diego, California and Orlando, Florida.  This theme park offers visitors an interactive experience with marine life.  San Diego also is home to the expansive San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Wild Animal Park.  Not to be outdone, Orlando, Florida calls Walt Disney World their own.  Walt Disney World is the largest theme park in the United States and turns a child's fantasy land into reality.  New Orleans also is a popular location for visitors due to it's Mardi Gras flavor, the French Quarter, and jazz-infused roots.   

Walt Disney World- Where Dreams Come True!

The French Quarter

Panda at the San Diego Zoo

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