Abraxi Taxi offers a comprehensive range of services to meet various transportation needs in Saint Augustine and the surrounding areas. From airport shuttles and sightseeing tours to special event transportation and even delivery services, the company aims to be a one-stop-shop for customers. Our drivers are local experts, adding an additional layer of value to the service. Not only do they provide reliable transportation, but they also serve as informal guides to the city’s attractions, restaurants, and historical sites. Payment options are flexible, and the drivers are equipped to accept major credit cards and even PayPal, offering a seamless experience for the customer.
While Abraxi Taxi appears to excel in many areas, potential customers might want to compare services and prices among other local taxi companies. Ace/Yellow/Ancient City is cited as the largest company in the area with reasonable rates and handicap-accessible vans. Clean Taxi provides an eco-friendly alternative, particularly effective for early morning medical appointments. Marks Taxi offers day-time services and airport shuttles, while Affordable is suggested as a good option for large groups and concert nights.
Abraxi Taxi has carved out a niche in Saint Augustine’s taxi market by offering a broad array of services and focusing on customer satisfaction. Their commitment to safety, flat-rate pricing, and local expertise makes them a strong contender for anyone seeking transportation services in the area. However, competition exists, and it may be worthwhile for potential customers to shop around, particularly if they have specific needs like handicap accessibility or eco-friendly options.
Saint Augustine, Florida, holds the title of being the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, the city serves as a living museum, with its historic sites, cobblestone streets, and unique attractions.
Brief Bio of Ponce de Leon Juan Ponce de León is often mistakenly credited with founding St. Augustine; he actually landed in Florida in 1513, searching for the mythical Fountain of Youth. While he did not find the fountain, nor did he establish Saint Augustine, his exploration laid the groundwork for future Spanish expeditions and claims to the territory.
Tourist Attractions
Beaches
Saint Augustine is not just rich in history but also in natural beauty. The city boasts stunning beaches like Vilano Beach and Saint Augustine Beach, offering a blend of relaxation and water-based activities. These sandy stretches are perfect for sunbathing, beach combing, and water sports.
Lighthouse
The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a must-visit. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, and the museum provides a deep dive into the maritime history of Florida.
Fort
The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. Built from coquina, a unique sedimentary rock, the fort has never been breached despite multiple sieges. Its unique architecture and storied history make it an educational stop.
Fountain of Youth
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is another key attraction. Though Ponce de León never found his mythical fountain, the park serves as a tribute to his quest and offers visitors a glimpse into the early history of America.
St. George Street
St. George Street is the heart of the city’s historic district. This pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historical sites. It is a bustling area, perfect for souvenir shopping and people-watching.
Ghost Tours
For those interested in the paranormal, Saint Augustine’s ghost tours are a spooky treat. These tours often explore the city’s oldest and most haunted locations, adding an eerie twist to the city’s rich history.
Red Train Tours
Red Train Tours provide a convenient way to see the city’s landmarks. These hop-on-hop-off tours offer an informative and comfortable way to explore.
Horse and Carriages
For a more romantic or leisurely pace, horse-drawn carriage rides are available. They often come with guides who offer historical anecdotes, making for a charming and educational experience.
Meehan’s Restaurant
Meehan’s Irish Pub & Seafood House is a popular spot located on the waterfront, offering a mix of Irish fare and local seafood. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic views, it is a wonderful place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Some Forgotten History
The Minorcans, along with Greeks and Italians, are a significant part of St. Augustine’s rich cultural tapestry, particularly reflecting the city’s diverse history of settlers who have faced hardships and contributed to its development. Their story intertwines with the broader narratives of exploration, colonization, and struggle that characterize the region’s past.
Arrival in Florida
The Minorcans came to Florida in the late 18th century as part of an ambitious plan by Dr. Andrew Turnbull, a British settler who established the New Smyrna colony south of St. Augustine. Turnbull recruited over 1,400 people from the Mediterranean regions, including a significant number from the Balearic Island of Minorca, promising them land and a new beginning in Florida.
Life in New Smyrna
Upon their arrival, the settlers found the conditions vastly different from what had been promised. They were subjected to harsh treatment, grueling labor in the indigo plantations, and poor living conditions. The situation in New Smyrna deteriorated to the point where it resembled enslavement more than indentured servitude, with the settlers suffering from malnutrition, disease, and mistreatment by the overseers.
Journey to St. Augustine
After enduring nearly a decade of hardship, the surviving Minorcans, numbering around 600, petitioned for relief and, in 1777, were granted permission to leave New Smyrna. They trekked to St. Augustine, seeking refuge and a new start. The governor of Spanish Florida welcomed them, and they were given sanctuary and land within the city, where they could begin anew.
Contributions and Legacy
In St. Augustine, the Minorcans became an integral part of the community, contributing to its cultural and economic development. They brought with them knowledge of Mediterranean agriculture, fishing, and culinary traditions, which they adapted to their new environment. Over time, the Minorcans’ influence became deeply embedded in the city’s identity, with their traditions, food, and annual celebrations becoming a part of the local heritage.
Commemoration and Recognition
Today, the Minorcan heritage is celebrated and recognized in St. Augustine through various means. The annual St. Ambrose Church Fair, for instance, highlights Minorcan culture with traditional foods, music, and crafts. The Minorcan Museum in St. Augustine also serves as a testament to their story, preserving artifacts, documents, and oral histories that chronicle the journey and contributions of the Minorcan people to the city.
The story of the Minorcans in St. Augustine is a powerful example of resilience in the face of adversity. It illustrates how diverse groups of people, despite experiencing exploitation and hardship, have shaped the unique cultural landscape of one of America’s oldest cities. Their history complements the narratives of Native Americans, Africans, and other groups, enriching our understanding of the complex social fabric of the region.
Butler Beach & Fort Mose: Touchstones of Black History
Butler Beach, named after Frank B. Butler, an African American businessman and civil rights activist, is more than just a beautiful stretch of coastline. During the era of segregation, Butler Beach was one of the few beaches where African Americans could safely visit. Its history serves as a poignant reminder of the struggle for Civil Rights in the United States.
Fort Mose Historic State Park is another significant site. Established in 1738, it was the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in what would become the United States. The fort served as a haven for escaped slaves from the Carolinas and Georgia who sought freedom under Spanish rule. Today, the park offers historical reenactments and a museum.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s Visit
Martin Luther King Jr. visited St. Augustine in 1964. His presence was part of a larger movement to desegregate the Old City. Dr. King was arrested during his stay, and his activism helped make St. Augustine a focal point in the broader Civil Rights Movement. The visit is commemorated by plaques and educational materials scattered throughout the city.
The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s was a pivotal era in the United States, marked by widespread efforts to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. St. Augustine, Florida, played a significant role in this national struggle, with key figures and events that highlighted the city’s place in the fight for racial equality. This chapter explores the contributions of these individuals and the impact of their actions in St. Augustine’s civil rights history.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)
One of the most prominent figures in the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., brought national attention to St. Augustine’s struggles with racial injustice. In the spring of 1964, King and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) joined local activists to challenge the city’s segregation laws. King’s presence in St. Augustine, including his arrest outside a restaurant that refused to serve black customers, underscored the city’s importance in the broader civil rights movement.
Teaming with golf courses and fish.
Bill Murray’s Caddyshack Charity Golf Tournament
The Murray Bros. Caddyshack Charity Golf Tournament, co-founded by actor Bill Murray, has been held in nearby St. Augustine. This charity event brings together celebrities and athletes for a weekend of fun and fundraising. It is a much-anticipated annual event that adds a sprinkle of stardom to the local culture.
The Players Championship in Sawgrass
While not located directly in St. Augustine, The Players Championship at Sawgrass is close enough to be a significant event for the community. The tournament, considered the “fifth major,” showcases some of the best talent in golf and attracts a global audience. Its proximity offers an excellent short-trip option for sports enthusiasts visiting St. Augustine.
Deep-Sea Fishing Excursions
For those who prefer adventure, St. Augustine offers numerous deep-sea fishing excursions. The Atlantic Ocean is teeming with a variety of fish, making it a paradise for anglers. These excursions can be half-day or full-day and offer the chance to catch anything from kingfish to sailfish.
A Wedding Destination
St. Augustine’s historic charm, picturesque beaches, and romantic horse-drawn carriage rides make it a popular wedding destination. With a plethora of quaint chapels, luxurious resorts, and scenic beach spots, the city offers a myriad of options for couples looking to tie the knot.
In summary, Saint Augustine is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and unique attractions. Whether you are interested in history, looking for outdoor activities, or simply wanting to soak up the local culture, this ancient city has something for everyone.
