Gulfport sits on the Gulf of Mexico quite close to St. Pete Beach and South Pasadena. I have not visited Gulfport but the more I hear about this laid back beautiful place, the more I want to go.

Consider their festivals:

Get Rescued in Gulfport is an event for animal rescue groups from around the state to showcase adoptable pets. Last year 50 animal groups participated. This is a free event.

The Gulfport Gecko Fest (I am not making this up) is their signature event and takes place Labor Day weekend, Saturday, Aug. 30. It is a free event with strolling street performers, three main stages with live entertainment and lots of family activity including sidewalk chalk art, face painting and drum circles. Wearing costumes is encouraged.

And why wait for festivals? Gulfport has Art Walks the first Friday and third Saturday of every month. A new event has just been added: Gulfport Goes Green the fourth Saturday of the month. The first GGG is Saturday, Dec. 27. All things healthy and green will be part of this celebration on Beach Boulevard.

Like to dance? Put on your dancing shoes and head for the Gulfport Casino Ballroom, a Quonset-hut style casino built in the 1920s, where you can dance five nights a week.

If your feet are tired from dancing, a trolley is near. Gulfport offers free waterfront trolley service in the City's Waterfront District every Friday and Saturday 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Lori Rosso is the owner of Sea Breeze Manor bed and breakfast inn. The grand old Florida home was built in 1923 and has been lovingly restored. She left a fast-paced life in Washington D.C. because Lori says "I needed to tell the world to stop."

She says Gulfport found her. Coming to look at two bed and breakfasts in St. Pete, she asked if there was anything more and was directed to Gulfport. That was six years ago. Lori is here to stay.

By the way, last week Lori Rosso won the Spirit of Gulfport Award and the mayor gave her a key to the city. Congratulations!

And did I mention the beaches and the sunsets are part of the package? Can't you tell I'm talking myself into going to Gulfport?  See you there.