In January 2025, Alison Hammond will be bringing the Sunshine State to UK screens in her first travelogue series.
Florida Unpacked will see the beloved presenter visit Florida with her son Aidan across ten parts for BBC Two.
But in keeping with Hammond’s brand, there’s a relatable twist. The cost-of-living crisis has inflated the price of a holiday in Florida beyond the reach of many people’s budgets, so the mother and son duo will be heading off the beaten track in search of the state’s hidden, cheaper gems.
It sounds like the bubbly Bake Off presenter will be the perfect tour guide, and not just because of her gloriously chaotic vibes. It turns out that Hammond’s wanderlust has deep roots: “Travel is in my blood,” she says. “For years I worked as a tour rep following in the footsteps of my dear mum. This meant I was lucky and got to visit Florida from a young age.
“I was so captivated by America’s culture, food, TV shows, and films and some of my happiest memories are tied to those first formative trips to the U.S. We managed to budget our way to a place that totally captured our hearts… and now I can’t wait to share Florida’s best kept secrets with you all.”
Florida might be best-known for its theme parks, but Alison and Aidan will reveal the state’s vibrant variety of alternative experiences: from its national parks to the local cuisine to local conservation efforts.
And along the way, Alison and Aidan will share money-saving tips that we can apply to any trip: eschewing tourist traps for local affordable restaurants, or camping in Florida’s beautiful outdoors instead of forking out for luxury stays.
Florida Unpacked will air on BBC Two and iPlayer from Monday 27 January 2025.