
I hate connecting flights. We're lucky to have an airport like Tampa International. But when I book a trip and see that I have to connect in New York or New Jersey, it's a downer. But there are a few destinations you can fly to non-stop from TPA.
Grand Cayman

Go check out Stingray City.
London

Ride a double decker and see Big Ben. Or just connect in London and go somewhere else in Europe. Do keep in mind though Tampa flights go to Gatwick Airport, not London's biggest one Heathrow.
Amsterdam

This is a relatively new one for Tampa. Until a year or so ago, you definitely needed to connect to get to Amsterdam. And this is good because from Amsterdam's enormous airport, you can get anywhere in Europe fast. And of course, you can get into a little trouble and have some fun while you're there.
Frankfurt, Germany

Germany is probably my favorite country to visit. But honestly Frankfurt doesn't have the cool factor like Berlin and Munich. Frankfurt is more of their big city - the best sights are in Berlin and Munich. But take a train ride and see all of Germany.
Montreal

Cross enemy lines and go see the Tampa Bay Lightning play up in Canada! While you're there, be sure to try squeaky cheese and ketchup chips for a snack. Brush up on your basic French. Montreal is one of the few cities in Canada that speaks little English.
Toronto

... or fly up to see the Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Toronto Maple Leafs. Toronto's a great place to go this time of year. Today (August 28) it's sunny and in the mid 70s! Plus they speak English!
Cancun

Maybe you didn't go to Spring Break when you were in college. Drink as much as these girls did and maybe you'll feel like you're college age again... until the next morning.
Havana

Have a cigar.
Panama City

Look up Copa airlines to make this trip.
Zurich, Switzerland

Maybe do some skiing or buy a watch?