En Route to the Everglades – Big Cypress National Preserve [April 1-2, 2016]

We started our stay in the Everglades in the Big Cypress National Preserve a 729,000 acre fresh water swamp that protects some of the fresh water sources of the Everglades.  We picked up the Tamiami Trail south of Naples and headed across the Florida peninsula.  We had heard about Tamiami Trail in novels.  It is long, straight and desolate, with swamp to the left and right punctuated by collections of pine trees or sometimes dense hardwood forests islands in the swamp called hammocks.  Occasionally, Indian Villages (marked as such by signage) dot the side of the road.

Along the Trail were signs warning us about Florida Panthers that live in the region.  There are believed to be only 100 of these rare animals still alive, and 10 are killed by automobiles on the Tamiami Trail each year.  One of our neighbors in the campground saw 2 panthers that evening as they drove along the Trail.  Though all the photos show them as buff in color, our neighbors described the panthers they saw as being a darker color similar to Tiki’s brown.  How exciting for them to see these rare and reclusive animals!

We camped in the Midway Campground, 30 campsites arranged around a lake (no swimming allowed).  Tiki blasted out of the motor home as we got out for the first time, and raced for the lake with us running behind calling and whistling.  Those of you who know Tiki know that she is well trained and generally compliant.  She was so hot and uncomfortable, she could only smell the cool water and headed for it.  We got her out quickly.  10 minutes later, a 10-foot long alligator silently floated by.  Gasp.  Needless to say, she was attached to a leash before the camper door opened from then on.

 

 
The next day we continued on to the Everglades, completing the Tamiami Trail and skirting Miami.  Before entering the Everglades we had to stop at Robert is Here a fruit/vegie stand that makes amazing tropical fruit milkshakes in 25 flavors.  Part local vegie stand, part tourist trap, Robert is Here is worth a stop.  We had filled up our fridge in Tampa, but still purchased more lovely fruit and vegetables to take with us. 

Folks at Robert is Here gave us the name of the AOK Fish Market about 3 miles away.  The tiny store was loaded with whole fish, which the owner will fillet for you after you choose one.  There were two other people in the store, watching a slide show on the TV of a man spear fishing large fish.  Looking closer Russ recognized the spear fisherman as one of the 2 guys watching the slide show.  Russ was standing next to a supplier of fish for the store!  The owner filleted a lovely 2 pound yellow tail snapper for us, giving us fish for two great dinners – served with corn and avocados from Robert is Here.  Delicious!