Sudipta Dev – Mumbai
Tarpon Springs in Florida, US is a unique destination that is regarded as the ‘sponge capital of the world’, well known for its Mediterranean village like atmosphere and a distinctive Greek identity. A short distance from Orlando, the destination is yet to get many visitors from India, which the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce would like to rectify. Talking about the uniqueness of the destination Maria Reza, president, Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce said, “In late 1800s, fishing and sponging industry grew in this area, and a lot of people from Greece came and settled here. That culture is still very rich in our city today. We have two visitor centres and there 50,000 visitors coming in annually. ” She added that the destination is famous for its lively sponge dock area with its quaint shops and restaurants, many of them are run by third and fourth generation Greek families. Not surprisingly, Tarpon Springs is famous for its Greek and Mediterranean food.
The boats bring the sponges which are unloaded on the side walks which is an interesting site to see. “A lot of sponges were living organisms and there is a variety of sponges which can be seen at the dock,” mentioned Reza. Visitors can also buy natural sponges harvested by local divers. The activities include sponge diving exhibitions, deep sea fishing and cruise excursions.
The little town also has a vibrant art scene. “We are celebrating the 42nd annual fine arts festival. We select only the best artistes who come from all over the US,” stated Reza. The local museums are Safford House, Heritage Museum, Train Depot, Cultural Center, Center for Gulf Coast Folklife and Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art. Epiphany is another important ceremony, which includes young men diving in the water for a cross.