Tampa, FL + Add a trip

I like to stay with family, because hotels in Tampa are too expensive!

Also, try the Couch Surfing project (couchsurfing.com) if you're feeling adventurous.

I'd stay somewhere in Dunedin or Clearwater. There's more to do on the Pinellas County side.

The new Westin Tampa Bay Airport is a great hotel and great rates can be had. Usually occupancy is below 50% because no one knows it's there.

Mainsail Suites is at the northeast corner of the airport is great! You can have long term amenities like a kitchen for the price of a regular hotel room. Look for coupons online!

I like to stay around the airport/ Westshore area. It's in a central location right near the interstate so you're 15 minutes away from everything, including the beaches. The Hyatt Place (Tampa Airport/Westshore) has been my favorite so far because the room has a large couch, room divider and separate sink areas for the bathroom & mini fridge areas. It's also affordable, yet classy.