Meet Visit Jax Insider: Dea Howald

Hi there! My name is Dea (Day-ah) and my family immigrated from Albania to the United States when I was 8 years old. We won the Visa lottery and the only people that we knew in the entire country were in Jacksonville, FL!

We are still here over 20 years later! I am married to my high school sweetheart and we are raising our baby boy in the best city ever! I’m a stay-at-home mom who’s actually never at home because I’m too busy exploring town with my little sidekick. I’m always celebrating by popping champagne or confetti and trying out new local restaurants in town. You can sum me up with: faith, family, friends, food, flowers, and fun!

What do you love most about Jacksonville?

I love that even though Jax is the largest city by landmass in the US, it still feels like a small town and you run into someone that you know everywhere you go! Community is the most important thing to me and the locals are just the best!

What is one thing you tell a visitor that they must see/do when in Jax?

They must dip their toes in the ocean, especially at sunset! I highly recommend eating fresh seafood at North Beach Fish Camp, followed by a sweet treat at Whit’s, then walking on the beach or grabbing a drink at Casa Marina Penthouse Lounge!

Where is your favorite local spot to eat?

Josephine is at the top of my list! They are best all around for every category — atmosphere, décor, food, drinks, and most importantly the people! You always receive world-class service and leave wanting to return ASAP! It is my number one recommendation when anyone asks where to go!


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