| All Questions for Lucy Beebe Tobias |
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| Farmers Market in Ft. Lauderdale on Memorial Day Weekeknd |
| Asked by Sam on May 08, 2008 |
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Q: Can you tell me where i can find locally grown tropical fruits like guava, mangoes, jackfruits near Miami/Ft. Lauderdale like a farmers market on the memorial day weekend?
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A: Dear Sam,
The Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop at 3501 Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale is open every day and they have two farmer's markets (one small and one large) as part of the Swap Shop. When I called today, their receptionist said they are open Memorial Day Weekend (in fact, she pointed out, they are even open on Christmas). Hours are 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.
She advises coming in the 34th Avenue entrance to get close to the big farmers market that carries all kinds of fruits and vegetables and even has trees for sale. The 34th Avenue entrance is the only entrance with a traffic light.
Swap Shop is free on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. There is a per car charge on other days including weekends.
I think it would be cool to have a mango tree in the yard!
enjoy
Lucy
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| Rodeos around Florida in September |
| Asked by Sue Canfer on April 30, 2008 |
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Q: We are travelling around a part of Florida in September and would like to know if there are any rodeos at that time. Is there somewhere we could get this info. Our itinerary is Orland, St Petes, Naples, Miami, Key West, West Palm Beach, St Augustine.
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A: Dear Sue,
I couldn't find a central place for calendar information about rodeos in Florida in September. But I did find that Arcadia seems to be a rodeo hotbed. Here are their September dates: Monday, Sept. 1 (Labor Day) SBRA Barrel Race; Saturday, Sept. 6, Little Cowpokes Rodeo; Saturday, Sept. 27, Arcadia Youth Rodeo Association Rodeo Series. See their Web site for more information.
Lucy
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| Art Deco and famous people home tours in Miami |
| Asked by Sue Canfer on April 30, 2008 |
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Q: Could you tell me if there are tours in Miami that cover the art Deco district and also famous peoples homes.
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A: Dear Sue,
Yes, indeed. Here are some tour suggestions: The Duck Tours go for 90 minutes on land and sea past Star Island and homes of famous people. The GotoBus tour of Miami is four hours including getting off the bus and having a chance to take the Star Island boat ride, a short trip that goes by houses of famous people including Gloria Estafan and formerly famous Al Capone. Also check out our VISITFLORIDA page on Miami that has a wealth of tour possibilities.
The Miami Design Preservation League does great Art Deco tours - you can take a tour with a guide or rent audio tours in a variety of languages. Just FYI, the guided Art Deco walk is Chapter 44 in my book "50 Great Walks in Florida" published by University Press of Florida. My son Martin and I did the Art Deco walk with a guide. I'd go again in a heartbeat.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Quiet Romantic Place to Stay |
| Asked by Robyne on April 17, 2008 |
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Q: Dear Lucy,
I am looking for a nice quiet romantic place to stay for a long weekend. My husband is not much for the beaches but we do enjoy the outdoors. We live in the Bonita Springs area and we don't want to travel more than an hour or two. We go to Orlando alot so we really would like some place different. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank yoyu for your time
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A: Dear Robyne,
Ah, second honeymoons. My first suggestion is the Herlong Mansion Historic Inn & Gardens in Micanopy, 12 miles south of Gainesville. Florida Trend Magazine called the Herlong "Easily Florida's most elegant bed and breakfast." The best B&Bs are wonderful for both privacy and pampering.
Since you enjoy the outdoors, you only have a short drive from Micanopy on US 441 to visit Paynes Prairie State Preserve. Start at the Visitors Center for an overview of natural and cultural history. Take in the view of the preserve from the 50-foot-high observation tower. You may see wild horses or bison. Honest!
Ah, but I see by Googling it that Micanopy is three hours away, a bit more than you want to travel.
Closer to you is Chalet Suzanne in Lake Wales, two and a half hours away.
To know more about Chalet Suzanne and other getaways, check out a VISITFLORIDA article by Lisa Fowler in 2007 on the best honeymoon spots and romantic getaways in Florida.
enjoy
Lucy
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| All about Fort Lauderdale |
| Asked by Bonnie Seaton on April 09, 2008 |
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Q: all information regarding relocation to Fort Laurdel FL
(rental properties, taxes, etc
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A: Dear Bonnie,
the official site for the City of Fort Lauderdale is loaded with information about relocation. Under the menu, for example, I found the Property Appraiser and that page had booklets about homes and taxes you could download.
For rental property listings try Rental Homes Plus.
also take a look at our Visit Florida Fort Lauderdale page for a good overview of Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area and what they have to offer for art and history, sightseeing, outdoors, hotels and restaurants.
Isn't research fun?
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Getting a Florida Highway Map |
| Asked by Julaine Anderson on April 09, 2008 |
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Q: I have requested a Florida State Highway map 2 times already. We are leaving on April 30. HELP! Why can't I get a map?? Julaine Anderson, N5270 2nd St., Medford, WI 54451
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A: Dear Jullaine,
Hummm, I don't know who you asked for a map. But help is near. Here is our Visit Florida link for maps
And to be on the safe side, a map (slightly wrinkled because it has been used) is on its way to you from me.
walk in peace
lucy
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| Authentic Night Tour in Miami |
| Asked by miriam levy on April 08, 2008 |
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Q: I'm interested to find a authentic night tour in miami.Any suggestions?
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A: Dear Miriam,
How about twilight? On Friday, April 18 the Historical Museum of South Florida is giving a "secrets of Coconut Grove twilight walking tour" from 6-8 p.m., bring a flashlight. They offer other twilight and night tours and keep a three month calendar so you can check what's coming up next.
The Miami Design Preservation League in Miami Beach does a "Deco Underworld Tour" about the gangster days in Miami. I'm not sure if this is a night tour. Call them at (305) 672-2014.
Ghost Tours of Coconut Grove
gives nightly walks through old tropical streets and along Florida Bay. Coconut Grove is in the heart of Miami. This is billed as a walk into the past that is family friendly.
walk in peace
lucy
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| Exploring Island Waterways |
| Asked by Patti R. on April 07, 2008 |
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Q: We are planning on trailering our 15 foot Caribe boat to Florida next spring to explore the inland waterways. Where would be the best location to do this from and is there a condo or resort with docking facilities that anyone recommends?
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A: Hello Patti,
This is out of my know-how area. I recommend asking our Boating and Fishing Expert Doug Sease
In looking for reading material about the waterways, I saw two possibles - "Cruising Guide to Western Florida", 2004 by Claiborne Young and "Atlantic Cruising Club's Guide to Florida's East Coast" by Bridget Morton, Elizabeth Smith and Richard Smith.
walk in peace
lucy
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| Old Hotel Where Presidents Stayed |
| Asked by Bill Rodgers on April 02, 2008 |
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Q: There was an old hotel, I think in central Florida, where presidents and movie stars stayed. I seem to recall it was an octagon and on a river or lake. Any ideas?
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A: Dear Bill,
I was stumped so I asked a film commission friend Jude Hagin who wonders if it was the old Langford Hotel in Winter Park. A history page on the hotel certainly has the presidents and movie stars - Lillian Gish stayed there, so did Eleanor Roosevelt and Ronald and Nancy Reagan celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary at the Langford. The hotel boasted that a Langford family member was always on site.
hope this helps,
Lucy
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| Off Beat Festivals in Panhandle in April |
| Asked by Jack Helwig on April 02, 2008 |
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Q: Any off beat festivals during april 7-14 in the panhandle of florida?
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A: Dear Jack,
How off beat do you want to go? Way off? This one ought to do it - the Worm Grunting Festival in Sopchoppy in Saturday, April 12 (I am not making this up).
Is wine your thing? Tallahassee has the Florida Wine Festival on April 10,11 & 12. Events on the 10th and 11th are ticket events (reception on the 10th at the Brogan Museum, and wine and dinner pairings on the 11th) while Saturday, April 12 is free. The events on Saturday are from 12-4 at Kleman Plaza. Eight different Florida wine growers will be there with samples. Celebrities are going to compete stomping grapes. Local cultural organizations are doing make-and-take activities for kids.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Dee Dee on March 31, 2008 |
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Q: My husband's cousin is making her first trip to the US in April and will be spending it with us in FL. We are natives born in Miami but now live in Tallahassee so we are familiar with all sections of the state. She will be here a little over 3 weeks and has asked to see "Authentic Florida" saving the large tourist attractions for her next visit. We will be spending as much time as possible acting as her personal tour guides, like she does for us in Scotland, but would like to know if there are organized tour companies operating in FL so she could tour on her own part of the time.
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A: Dear Dee Dee.
You are going to have such fun showing your husband's cousin authentic Florida.
The organized tour companies that I looked at are mostly one day trips (example, exploring St. Augustine), some have two-day excursions but not longer.
Here are some examples:
Gold Coach Tours has two day tours of several areas including Key West, Orlando, Naples/Fort Myers and Tampa.
West Central Florida Day Trips, Tours and Excursions has lots of choices, all one-day as far as I could see.
By the way, since you are in Tallahassee, it is an easy ride down to Apalachicola, a truly authentic Florida town that has been named one of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations for 2008 by the Trust for Historic Places.
If the cousin is still here later in the month, Tuesday, April 22 is Earth Day at the Capitol in Tallahassee.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by KCopeland on March 27, 2008 |
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Q: Best place to fly in to tour Key West. We are from Houston,Tx.
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A: Dear Kcopeland,
Here is the link for the Key West International Airport (EYW). I flew into Key West once as part of a package tour on a vintage plane. My guess as to how to proceed is to fly fromHouston to Miami then take a shuttle plane to Key West.
Lucy
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| Asked by Robert Biloy on March 27, 2008 |
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Q: I am planning to visit Spring Hill and would like a street map of the city,where can I get one?
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A: Dear Robert,
I found several on the Web. Take a look at City Data
for an overview then get closer with this Florida hometown locator
It will show you Hernando County. Look in the right hand corner and you will see a blue rectangular box - move it until it is over Spring Hill and it will bring up every street.
Then again, it might be easier to call the Hernando Chamber of Commerce at (800) 601-4580 or (352) 796-0697 and ask for a Spring Hill Street Map (hopefully one exists), or visit their Web site.
Lucy
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| Asked by Chris Muggeridge on March 27, 2008 |
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Q: Our family of 2 adults, 3 kids is thinking of coming to Florida with pop up trailer in the first 2 weeks of July. Want to visit a citrus grove(farm vacation)on our way to Disney. Would there be facilities on farms that allow for visitors in trailers? Is there a directory of farms? And is it reasonable to expect to camp without the benefit of air conditioning in trailer at that time of year?
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A: Dear Chris,
let's take the last question first - camping without air conditioning in a trailer in hot, muggy, humid July when mosquitoes thrive. It would be really difficult. Some old-time natives do do it. they live in houses without air conditioning. It is easier if you live near the coast where there are breezes. I'm a transplant. Been here 39 years and I couldn't camp in July for two weeks without air conditioning. All right, I'm Ms. Whimpette but there it is. Did I mention hot, muggy, humid days and nights? And the mosquitoes?
As for citrus, I spoke with Ernie Neff, editor of "Citrus Industry Magazine" and he said he didn't know any growers that allow campers (agri tourism) but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist somewhere. Neff noted that in July there will be oranges (and other ctirus) but they will be small, green and not yet edible. He also doubts that growers would want anyone in their groves touching trees because everyone is very sensitive to the issue of spreading any citrus diseases from tree to tree.
But there are alternatives. Here are several:
Lake Placid Citrus Tower
gives a good view of surrounding orange groves and there is a petting zoo at the foot of the tower.
The Orange Shop in Citra (north of Ocala on US 301) opened in 1936 and still has a down homespun flavor. Their orange grove is right out back and they hand pick their oranges. You are welcome to walk around their grove.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by heather on March 25, 2008 |
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Q: Coming to Kissimmee in April. Looking for non-touristy day trips. Any suggestions?
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A: Dear Heather,
Yes, there are non-touristy day trips around Kissimmee waiting to be discovered. Wekiwa Springs State Park is about one hour north of Kissimmee/Orlando. If you like bicycling, this is a good spot and canoeing and kayaking are quite beautiful on the Wekiwa River and Rock Springs Run. You can rent canoes there. Here is a link to the park's activity page
Also check out our VISITFLORIDA page on Kissimmee. Something I found on that page that I've never done but would love to try - hot air ballooning. The Magic Sunrise Ballooning will show you Central Florida in a whole new way.
if you are bringing kids, a popular destination is Green Meadows Farm in Kissimmee, where you can see and pet farm animals - it is fun and educational.
About one hour south of Kissimmee is Lake Kissimmee State Park where they bring Florida's cowboy heritage back to life with living history demonstrations of early Florida "cow hunters" (the cows were left by the Spaniards centuries earlier).
Lake Wales is nearby (15 miles from the park) and you will enjoy historic Bok Sanctuary. It is spring - everything is blooming. Bok's carillion is one of only four in Florida. Carillion concerts take place daily at 1 and 3 p.m. plus there are usually clock music pieces playing starting at 9 a.m. and every half hour after t hat. During April they have a Colors of Florida Art Exhibit featuring the work of Brennan Gorrie of Sarasota.
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by April on March 22, 2008 |
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Q: Hi Lucy
I really would like a little advise. I currently live in St Louis Mo. I am 32 yrs old and I am really interested in moving to Jacksonville Florida in the next yr or so. I just wanted to know do you have any suggestions on how I can find information on neighbohoods/zipcodein Jacksonville. I want to make sure that I will be moving to a safe neighborhood. Thanks Lucy
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A: Dear April,
you ask a tough question, one only the locals can answer.
I'd ask everyone you talk to as you do research - where do you live in Jacksonville? What do you like about it? What don't you like? Call the chamber for a relocation packet, ask whoever you talk to your questions. The chamber divides places to live under "downtown", "historic" and "suburban".
here is another web link http://www.visitjacksonville.com/
look at the menu under "neighborhoods" and click on the name of each one - that gets you started with the names of neighborhoods. Another set of links is our VISITFLORDIA jacksonville listing under visitor services. And Realtors should be able to help.
If it is possible for you, nothing beats going to Jacksonville ahead of time for a personal visit and checking out the "vibes". Also, I'm a big believer in libraries and reference librarians. My advice - Try Jacksonville's main library,
or call them and ask for the reference librarian. They may say they can't answer your question but then you ask "where do you live and what do you like about it? "And so the conversation, and the research, begins.
walk in peace
Lucy
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| Asked by Cindy N on March 21, 2008 |
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Q: Hi,
My family will be staying in Largo, FL the week of the 25th of March, we will be joined by our German relatives for the week also, my son wants to treasure hunt he is almost 5 and his cousin is 8 is there a cheap place to rent ametal detector for them to look on the beach. I also have a 2 1/2 year olsd and 10 month old, any exciting kids activites in the area for the week?
Thank you,
Cindy N
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A: Dear Cindy,
Hummm, everywhere I looked there were metal detectors for sale but I couldn't find rentals. Largo is near Indian Rocks Beach and the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary
all the children might like seeing the sea birds. Sand and surf are irrisistable to all ages and nearby Honeymoon Island State Park has miles of beaches, good restrooms, plenty of parking. Go for a sunset at Pier 60 park in Clearwater Beach. They usually have face painting, live music, a dog-trick show. It is the Gulf Coast version of the sunddown celebration nightly in Key West.
Check out Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo. Your German relatives might see some tropical plants that are new to them! On Sundays they have free guided tours. On Saturdays there is a Saturday market.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater has hands on activities for children.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by scott eagleston on March 20, 2008 |
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Q: did palm trees always grow in florida
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A: Dear Scott,
Yes and no. Many of the palm trees growing in Florida are not natives, they were imported from China, Cuba and elsewhere, but some, a mere 12 out of about 2700 different varieties in the world, are natives.
Two famous natives are the Florida Royal Palm that can grow to 80 feet tall and are often seen lining the streets of older Florida towns, plus the Sabal palmetto or cabbage palm that is designated the Florida State Tree.
We know Native American Indians in Florida were making rope and mats from palm tree fibers so they've been around for a long time. Palm trees are a Florida trademark - it is practically required to have a palm tree in any postcard background.
To see the list of native palm trees, go to this Web site for native palms put up by the Central Florida Palm & Cycad Society.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Arlene Gardner on March 18, 2008 |
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Q: A friend and I would like to visit Florida and would like a trip around the loop from Tampa on the gulf back up to St. Augustine. Can you recommend a tour guide or how to plan this trip? Are there any escorted tours. There was one from where we live but it got canceled. Thanks.
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A: Dear Arlene,
A number of tour companies offer escorted tours but the ones I looked at took in more than you want to see - going, for example, from Miami to the Keys then up to Fort Myers, Tampa and across to Orlando and St. Augustine - one like this by American Sky is a self-drive tour, they take care of everything else.
For planning your own trip, I recommend going to our VISITFLORIDA page on Seven Counties in Seven Days.
It starts in St. Augustine then goes to Tarpon Springs then goes to Tarpon Springs, Ybor City and Tampa. You could quit there or continue on and do it all.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by robert bucheit on March 15, 2008 |
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Q: condo rental in seabring for the month of may?
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A: Dear Robert,
You got me. I know nothing of condo rentals in Sebring. But I did find some interesting vacation rentals. Start with our VISITFLORIDA Sebring Web site Under Visitors Services, the Highlands County Visitors and Convention Bureau has a listing for vacation rentals. One that looked good for you was Villa Lotela, a large lakeside home converted to apartments. There is one apartment that is a detached two-bedroom. Not quite a condo but close.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Anne M on March 13, 2008 |
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Q: We will be staying at Grayton Beach in one of the cabins April 6. Would you advise about what we should expect for day and evening temperatures? Also, is there any good snorkeling in that area?
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A: Dear Anne,
The Emerald Coast usually has warm temperatures year round. The high in April in Grayton Beach is 77 degrees F and the low is 52 degrees F . What does that mean? Short sleeves during the day, a light sweater in the evenings. Maybe some deer flies around by then but beach breezes should make short work of them. Here is a weather connection.
Grayton Beach is amazing. And I love everything about Grayton Beach State Park. Swimming along the park's one mile of shoreline is popular. I didn't find a specific reference to snorkeling, but if you can swim, you can snorkel.
Set aside time to visit nearby Eden Gardens State Park with its antebellum mansion and ancient live oak trees.
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by Nieves Barber on March 12, 2008 |
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Q: My husband and I would like your opinion on finding a place in Florida, preferly by or close to the beach where we can get away and do some fishing and just walk the beach w/out all the tourist attaction. We would like to maybe rent a home so if some of our grown children want to stop for a day or two they can do it w/out the hassle of a hotel/motel. Do you have any place you can think of that fits this description. Another thing is we don't want to pay a arm or a leg so nothing fancy just beachy type place.
Thanks,
Mrs. Barber
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A: Hello Nieves,
Let me start by recommending our Beach & Surf Expert David McRee
He is awesome and would have really knowledgeable answers to your questions.
Speaking from personal experience, my family (grown children and in laws) and I rented a house in the St. Augustine Beach area and walked the beach every day. It didn't cost an arm and a leg. We shared expenses including the house rental. They even said we could even bring our well-behaved dog. We felt far removed from busy tourist attractions. What fun it was to bring shells and other beach finds back to the house, go shopping for food, cook meals, sit out on the terrace, hang out with each other, walk the beach some more, make a fire in the fireplace in the evening.
Places like St. Augustine and Fernandina Beach have double attractions for those like yourselves who like to go fishing - there is salt water fishing in the ocean, and fresh water fishing in the Intracoastal Waterway, bays and rivers.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by jane on March 11, 2008 |
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Q: we will be lehigh acres, fl the middle of april. we are renting a compact car - this is our 1st visit to florida. we enjoy the out of the way places - not commercialized. we do snorkel and want to see as much of florida as can in 5 days. any suggestions. thank you. we may make this an annual trip.
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A: Dear Jane,
Nearby Sanibel Island has several snorkeling listings. There is a lot of Florida to see near Lehigh Acres where you are going to stay. For a true swamp experience (on the boardwalk, don't have to walk the swamp itself) go to Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve just south of Fort Myers.
Thomas Edison invented the light bulb and a whole lot more. I've often wondered if that man slept at night. He seemed to be always inventing something! Visit the Edison-Ford winter homes in Fort Myers and be sure to check out the museum that has many of Edison's inventions.
Go to J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island on a low tide and check out the birds, crocodile and other assorted wildlife.
Travel south a short distance and visit the Naples Museum of Art, then stroll around downtown Naples.
End every day of your stay near the water, watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico and planning where to have dinner. Are five days up yet?
If you make this an annual trip, let's talk again about other places in Florida that are not commercialized.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Luisa on March 11, 2008 |
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Q: Im an event planner for a large company that is hosting an event in Ft. Lauderdale. I'm looking for gift items that really "speak" to that area. For example, I'm from Maryland, "the place for crabs" Can you offer any ideas? Preferably below $10/unit as other gifts are being given. THANK YOU!
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A: Dear Luisa,
What a fun job your have! Ft. Lauderdale is known as the "Venice of Florida" for its many canals and the Intracoastal Waterway. A great way to see Ft. Lauderdale is to take an Intracoastal Waterway boat tour and get a gander at the houses along Millionaire's Row. Maybe a small boat and fill it with free literature from the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau
They have a free Ft. Lauderdale Vacation Planner and free Visitors Events Guide. If you could put a palm tree in there too - you've captured South Florida - sun, fun and water.
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| Asked by Rosemarie on March 06, 2008 |
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Q: My daughter,and family will be in Orlando,they are over from UK.I live in SC and will be joining them.
The second week will be spent on Ana maria Island.
We have 18 month old and 14 year old .
Want to leave Orlando travel aprox one hour or so with a stop overnight before going on to Ana Marie.
Any suggestions I thought about Weeki Watche?
Thank you.
Q
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A: Dear Rosemarie,
Weeki Wachee , the only city of live mermaids, is always a great destination. It doesn't quite fit your criteria of traveling about one hour from Orlando. Google maps put Spring Hill (where Weeki Wachee is located) at 1 hour 54 minutes from Orlando. If that's all right for travel time, go for it.
When will you be there? Here are some upcoming dates and events - on March 22 Buccaneer Bay, the water park at Weeki iWachee opens up. That same day they are having an easter egg hunt for all ages - iin the water park! Should be wet and wild and great fun.
consider going south of Weeki Wachee and stopping overnight at Tarpon Springs
It is my belief that when the Greeks are cooking, just show up. Nice walking area downtown past docks with colorful sponging boats. Their annual Fine Arts Festival is April 12.
Then next day - head down south to Anna Maria and its wonderful beaches.
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| Asked by lisa turgeon on March 05, 2008 |
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Q: Hi Lucy, my husband and I are looking to relocate to Orlando because an ideal job offer has come up. I am a huge fan of the Gulf Coast, not too familiar with Orlando. We are in our mid 40's and are very active(biking, running,etc.) Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
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A: Dear Lisa,
Pump up your tires. Orlando is hugely into an active lifestyle. The city has committed to building an interconnected biking trail of 150 miles of paved multi-use and rails trails (rails trails are former railroad tracks that are paved to make great, and safe, riding and running routes). They are well underway with the Wekiwa Trail, West Orange Trail and Cross Seminole Trail. If you are looking for new wheels, Orange Cycle has been in Orlando since 1972. I'm sure they'd have trail advice.
Strap on your running shoes for the same trails then switch to walking shoes and check out some of the awesome state parks nearby like Wekiwa Springs, Rock Springs Run, Lower Wekiva River and Blue Springs.
If you like to run 5ks or do triathions (yep, been there, not in race shape right now), you are going to find lots of company in Orlando. Here is a race link.
Congratulations on your move and the ideal job offer!
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| Asked by p reyat on March 04, 2008 |
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Q: disney tickets and discovery cove tickets, can advice is it easy to get them or arrival.
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A: Dear P Reyat,
Personally I haven't gotten tickets recently to either place so I can't speak from first hand experience.
but I did some research. In doing a Web search, a Web site called the Official Ticket Center in Orlando has both Disney World and Discovery Cove. Their Web site has a number to call and a Google search came up with a variety of other sites with discounted tickets. It looks like getting them ahead of time or right there in Orlando is easy.
Remember if you want to do the dolphin experience at Discovery Cove and you have children, they must be six years old or older.
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| Asked by Vanessa on March 04, 2008 |
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Q: We are staying on Siesta Key from 26th April. It is his birthday on 28th and would like to organise some kind of educational eco tour for the day
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A: Dear Vanessa,
You are near Mote Marine Aquarium in Sarasota which offers a number of eco tours through Sarasota Bay Explorers, a private tour company based at the Aquarium. The Sea Life Encounter Cruise is a one hour and 45 minute cruise taken three times a day on Sarasota Bay in a pontoon boat, lead by a naturalist. Their Nature Safari gets more in depth - taking you to the beach at Lido Key for a walk along the beach and nearby trails, then beaching the covered pontoon boat on a sandbar and wading to grass flats. Call (941) 388-4200 for times and prices, and to make reservations, or visit the Explorers Web site. Your idea of an eco tour will be a memorable birthday present and something that will be fun for everyone.
I couldn't find anything on his birthday, Monday, April 28th, but Oscar Scherer State Park, six miles south of Sarasota, has a number of ranger programs on other days - guided canoe trips on Wednesdays, ranger led walks on Fridays and volunteer led bird walks on Thursdays.
enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by Lisa on February 27, 2008 |
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Q: My grandson (5 years old) is coming to Florida to visit in April and he wants nothing more than to visit a maze (don't ask me where that comes from). However, I can't find any mazes near the Orlando area to take him to. Can you help????
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A: Dear Lisa,
Mazes are puzzles to be solved! Family-friendly mazes have low hedges so adults can always see children. The publicity for the 15th annual Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival from March 19 to June 1, 2008 says it has a DogGone Maze that is family friendly. Plus there are a lot of garden things for children to do.
Further away, in Sarasota, Selby Gardens has a children's area with a large family-friendly maze. The last time I was there several children had done the maze and were standing there laughing at their parents who were inside the maze still trying to figure it out. Fun!
Looking ahead to next year, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens in Gainesville is building a children's area with a maze and perhaps it will be finished and ready for children.
Another kind of maze is a seasonal maze, like walking through a corn field that has been made in to a maze. This would be a really tall maze - the family would want to hold hands. There is Scott's Maze Adventures northwest of Orlando at Mount Dora. They have closed their corn maze for 2007 but it will be back in 2008.
A third kind of maze is a floor maze. One example is at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach with its brick floor maze.
hope this helps.
Lucy
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| Asked by Charlie Campney on February 27, 2008 |
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Q: We live in The Villages and want to spend some time onthe gulf coast. Can you recommend some beaches wher my wife can get some sun and I could go metal detecting? Thanks
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A: Dear Charlie,
Load up the metal detector and the suntan lotion and head straight for Fort DeSoto County Park in Tierra Verde. It is west of St. Petersburg on the Pinellas Byway. In 2005 the park's North Beach was voted the best beach in North America by Dr. Beach. We're talking miles of sandy beaches, large parking areas, good amenities.
After that, try Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin and then take a pontoon boat from Honeymoon to Caladesi Island State Park.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Candi Haas on February 25, 2008 |
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Q: I was wondering if you could recommend any "must-see's" or "must-do's" for the Indian Rocks Beach area?
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A: Dear Candi,
You've picked a great place for "must-see's and do's". Visit the shore birds at Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores. Watch a sunset at Pier 60 Park in Clearwater Beach. Spend a morning at Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo, located in the same cultural complex as Gulf Coast Museum of Art and Heritage Village. Learn about Florida marine life at Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Clearwater Beach. You are close to Dunedin and Caladesi Island State park.
If you like biking, the Pinellas Trail goes from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. When you are in Dunedin, the Trail cuts right through the center of town.
Watch a sunset at any of the wonderful beaches along Indian Rocks Beach. Did I mention watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico is a "must do?"
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Barbara K from Key Biscayne on February 20, 2008 |
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Q: We want to drive up from KB thru FL in one week. We want to see communities along the inter-coastal. Can you suggest a route?
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A: Hi Barbara,
Highway A1A is right alongside most of the Intercoastal Waterway. Let me recommend a book by Herb Hiller titled Highway A1A: Florida at the Edge, published by University Press of Florida in 2005 (http://www.upf.com)
It tells the story of this amazing coast road running 500 miles from Fernandina to Key West. You can get on it in Miami Beach. Consider contacting the Art Deco Preservation League and talking their Art Deco walk in Miami Beach. Way cool.
Going north, spend a few hours in Delray Beach and walk around the downtown area - a Florida town as they used to be.
Along the way stop at Sebastian Inlet State Recreation Area and pick up brochures about loggerhead turtle nestings in July and August and how to sign up for taking a nighttime turtle walk. It is something you'll want to come back and do in the summer.
Visit Cape Canaveral and check out the winter feathered visitors at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
How far can you get in a week? Well, it is not the distance, it is the discoveries you'll find along A1A. I'm guessing you'll want to linger along the way.
If you get north of Cape Canaveral, visit the beautiful gardens at Washington Oaks State Park and check out Marineland. Nest stop - St. Augustine. Ut oh, by now you are running out of time. You could spend a week just in the St. Augustine area.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Mary Zahn on February 18, 2008 |
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Q: Will be staying in Islamorada the first week in March. Each year we go to Key West one day. This year I am interested in seeing some of "real Florida". What sort of day trips north of the keys in lower Florida would you suggest? Not looking for anything strenuous
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A: Dear Mary,
North of the Keys, for a day visit Everglades National Park in Homestsead. Stop at the Coe Visitor Center before the main entrance gate and get a good feel for the Everglades past, present and future.
Then drive into the park (there is only one road in the park with turnoffs for different spots) and do the Anhinga Amble. It is a fourth of a mile on boardwalk and paved road. And totally flat. Easy walk. Lots of wildlife to see including birds and alligators. Plus great vistas of the vast river of grass. It doesn't get any more "real" than this. Next to the Amble is the Gumbo Limbo Trail, another short walk. Gumbo Limbo trees look like they've been sunburned.
Back in Homestead, visit Coral Castle
who would believe it? A man barely over five feet tall built structures back in the 1920s people are still trying to decipher. Using native coral rock he built, among other things, a nine-ton gate that opens easily. The Coral Castle has become part of Florida's folklore. Does that make it real? Yep.
This last suggestion is on the Keys but easy to miss. It is the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical Site (whew! Long name) in Key Largo. From US 1 take County Road 905 north. The park will be on your right. Once slated to be a development, a road was built and an entranceway, and that's it. You park by the entrance and walk the road. It is a one-mile round trip. On Tuesdays and Sundays there's a guided walk, check with John Pennekamp State Park for times. PHone (305) 451-1202. (Pennekamp administers Dagny).
Imagine early explorers coming ashore and trying to go inland. They had to contend with vegetation just like this - so thick you cannot see through it. Only this small remnant remains of the tropical lushness that was . . .
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Eileen Brooks on February 15, 2008 |
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Q: We hope to spend say a week in the Pensacola -Panama City area in early/mid March. What should we be seeking to see?(2 adults)
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A: Dear Eileen,
Let's start with Pensacola. Visit Historic Pensacola Village in downtown Pensacola then walk to the neighboring Seville Square. Several historic houses facing the square have lovely restaurants with seating both inside and outside on the porches.
After lunch, walk to nearby T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum. Originally built in the early 1900s as a City Hall, it is a wonderful, dynamic building and the inside is full of collections.
If your toes itch for sand, try Big Lagoon State Park or Fort Pickens National Park. Both are close to Pensacola.
Between Pensacola and Panama City, there are miles of beach along US 98. My personal favorite spot is Grayton Beach State Park. Take the walk through sand dunes dotted with twisted trees that look like huge bonsai plants, sculpted by wind and weather. Then top the last rise and walk along the beach for the last half of the walk. They call this the Emerald Coast because the water sparkles like green jewels.
Do take a detour off US 98, at Grayton Beach, onto what is called Scenic Route 30-A. This 12-mile stretch of road runs right along the Gulf of Mexico. Like to bike and hike? There is a Hike and Bike Trail on this route. By car, foot or bike, you will go through new urban living towns of Seaside (the first), Watercolor and Rosemary Beach(new), all planned to be walkable communities. All have the beach right across the street.
At Seaside, take County Road395 north to Eden Gardens State Park, with a sweet, two-story mansion and lakefront gardens.
Enjoy,
Lucy
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| Asked by cynthia steeples on February 13, 2008 |
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Q: We are flying to Orlando and driving to Jensen Beach Feb 20. Would like to see inland Florida. Route suggestions? No kids, just 2 adults.
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A: Hi Cynthia,
Take Route 50 west out of Orlando then turn south on SR 27. Or take Interstate 4 going west, turn south on SR 27. You'll be tempted very soon along SR 27 to turn off at Winter Haven and visit Cypress Gardens plus historic Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales.
Continuing south on 27(and 25, they are joined together) before long you'll be in Lake Placid. Take a leg stretch, walk around, see all the murals. Stop by the Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce for a mural brochure.
Just below Lake Placid turn east onto Highway 70. You'll be going past the northern end of Lake Okeechobee that sits on the map like a huge liquid eye. It is the largest lake in Florida and a scenic trail runs all the way around it (110 miles). Detour by turning south onto US 441 in Okeechobee and you'll end up at the lake's edge.
Back on Route 70 heading east, it will connect with US 1. Turn south and head for Jensen Beach. The turn off for Jensen Beach is Route 707.
By the way, while you are in Jensen Beach, go south on US 1 and visit Jonathan Dickinson State Park. There's always something happening there. One Sunday afternoon I stumbled on a bluegrass band playing near the shore. Canoes were pulled up so people could listen to the concert.
enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Anthony Cotton on February 12, 2008 |
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Q: We will be in Florida the whole of March,the final week will be with the grandkids in Orlando but we want to explore the North. What should we be looking to do/see?
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A: Hi, Anthony,
Start your exploration by leaving Orlando and going north . Your destination: the Micanopy and Gainesville areas. From Interstate 75 take the Micanopy exit (Exit 374). You are going to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park in Micanopy. At the end of the exit ramp, turn right. Now you are going east on CR 234. In just over a mile it intersects with US 441, turn left and the park entrance is a half mile on the right.
Start with the Visitor's Center. It is full of exhibits and an audio-visual program. Walk a short distance to the observation tower. From the top you have a view of the vast prairie. You might catch a glimpse of sandhill cranes, alligators, Spanish horses and buffalo. You read that right! The wild herd of Spanish horses are often seen from the tower. But the buffalo, reintroduced on the prairie in the mid-1970s, have 6,000 acres to roam. And nobody, not even a park ranger, tells a 1,000 pound animal where to be. It is a rare treat to see buffalo (American Bison).
Check out the prairie's schedule of light walks and ranger talks. You may want to come back for some of these. Now is such a great time to explore natural areas like Paynes Prairie with a guide - perfect weather, sunshine and no bugs!
Next go north on US 441 a short distance to Gainesville. See our Gainesville listings to find places to stay, eat and play. I'd recommend visiting the Harn Museum of Art then going next door to the Florida Museum of Natural History. Attached to the Museum is a large outdoor exhibit called Butterfly Forest. Bring your camera. The butterflies are everywhere.
One really unique place in northwest Gainesville is Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park with a sinkhole and streams going down 120 feet. There are stairs all they way to the bottom.
Gainesville is right in the middle of the state. You can go east and be at the Atlantic Ocean in less than two hours, strolling along the ancient streets of St. Augustine and shopping on St. George Street. Check our our St. Augustine listings.
Or go southwest and meet the Gulf of Mexico at Cedar Key. Stay for a fresh seafood dinner and watch the sunset. You might even see the famous flash of green just before the sun sinks beneath the water.
Enjoy
Lucy
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| Asked by Joyce on February 11, 2008 |
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Q: We're in Port St. Lucie for spring training the last two weeks of March, but want to fill in non-game days with a look at old Florida. Any suggestions?
No kids, just 2 adults.
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A: Dear Joyce,
You are in luck. Port St. Lucie is near the Indian River Lagoon, a place teaming with wildlife - largely because the coastal cities have a strong partnership to protect this natural treasure.
Here are some suggestions: The Manatee Observation and Education Center in Fort Pierce, just north of Port. Saint Lucie, hosts Indian River lagoon boat tours on a pontoon boat. You might see fish, birds, manatees and dolphins. Now that's authentic. Manatees have been in Florida for millions of years. Web site: www.manateecenter.org
Or try the Dolphin Watch Tour on the St. Lucie River. Check out www.floridadolphinwatch.com In Port St. Lucie itself the "River Lilly" does a cruise they call a "taste" of natural Florida. They are in Rivergate Park. Call them at (772) 489-8344.
To get even more up close with Florida water and nature, go to Savannas Preserve State Park in Jensen Beach, just south of Port St. Lucie. Large amounts of rainfall have filled marshes with water. Once there were savannas all along southeast Florida. Canoe and kayak rentals are available every Saturday morning October through May. This is a guided trip and reservations required. Call (772) 398-2779.
I'd recommend dropping down a little further south to Juniper Island and walking around Blowing Rocks Preserve, run by the Nature Conservancy, on Hobe Sound. (see www.nature.org then type in Blowing Rocks Preserve). It is hard to imagine as you walk the dunes that this was the old A1A highway many decades ago. Afterwards, have lunch at the Crab House in Jupiter. Sit outside and catch the great view of Jupiter Inlet and the red lighthouse.
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| Asked by bonny cooper on February 03, 2008 |
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Q: i'm trying to plan clothes for a 2/8 trip. are white cotton pants worn at this time of year or is it too early?
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A: I'm tempted to say it is too early for white cotton pants BUT when I step outside and the temperature is in the 80s, I'd say GO FOR IT
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| Asked by ms on January 28, 2008 |
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Q: do you have any suggestions on fun activities for children in the Ft Lauderdale area, in March? thanks!!
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A: Dear MS,
On March 1-2 is the Las Olas Art Fair in Fort Lauderdale. That sounds fun.
Do your children like to swim? Take them to be inspired at the International Swimming Hall of Fame (www.ishof.org). Lots of amazing stuff plus an IMAX theater with swimming videos.
On the same property is the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center (www.fortlauderdale.gov/flac). On March 2 there is a Master competition. Also, the pool is open to the public, see their Web site for pool hours and cost (reasonable!)
For hands-on fun, visit the Museum of Discovery and Science (www.mods.org)
To get really creative, head for the Young at Art Children's Museum (www.youngatartmuseum.org). They have drop in art classes throughout the week and these classes are included in the price of admission. See the Web site for times and days.
Fifteen miles north of Fort Lauderdale is Butterfly World in Coconut Creek (www.butterflyworld.com)
Pretty amazing place. Butterflies everywhere.
Enjoy
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| Asked by lisa white on January 28, 2008 |
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Q: Hi, i am a collector and like to go to stores with architectural salvage. I heard that Sarasota Architectural Salvage is a good place to visit. Have you been there? What can you reccommend.
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A: Salvage history
No, I haven't been to Sarasota Architectural Salvage but I'd love to go.  Like you I gravitate
to places that save Florida history. Here's one place I know that often gets there ahead of the wrecking ball -
Florida Victorian Architectural Antiques, 112 W. Georgia Avenue, DeLand, Florida, phone (386) 734-9300. Web site:
http:www.floridavictorian.com
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| Asked by Dianne Earle on January 23, 2008 |
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Q: We are visiting Dunedin towards the end of Febuary. What adventures are there in Dunedin?
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A: Dear Dianne,
Dunedin is delightful - old Florida ambiance, wide sidewalks, big parks, antique stores, funky eateries.
Bring your bikes. The Pinellas Trail runs from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. See the Web site:http://www.pinellastraills.org. The paved trail goes right through the heart of downtown Dunedin and the town loves the trail. Visit the Box Car right alongside the trail - a railroad car converted to a coffee shop.
Just off Dunedin you'll find Caladesi Island State Park (accessible by ferry from Honeymoon Island) and Honeymoon Island State Park. Check out the Dunedin Causeway and rentals for windsurfing, sailing, kayaking.
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| Asked by john pitchford on January 20, 2008 |
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Q: have visited hollywood the last two years and love it.is there any other place in florida with a boardwalk,small hotels,motels?love the fact that at hollywood beach you can walk to eat right on the beach.
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A: Oh yes. Fill up the gas tank and head for Delray Beach in southern Palm Beach County.You'll drop back in time at the Colony Hotel on Atlantic Avenue, family owned since 1935.
Downtown Delray Beach is fully restored with wide sidewalks, outdoor dining, antique stores. Lots of vibrant buildings built in the 1920s in Mediterranean Revival and Masonary Vernacular.No condos here. This is literally a piece of vanishing Florida.
And the beach? Just a pebble's throw away, across the Intracoastal Waterway to the end of Atlantic Boulevard. Atlantic Boulevard ends at Ocean Boulevard, also known as State Road A1A. You can sit outside at a number of restaurants and two miles of white sandy beach are right across the street.
Try the Luna Rosa Cafe at 34 South Ocean Boulevard. Then go across the street and take off your shoes. It is sand between the toes time. Life is good.
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| Asked by Joan McKniff on January 18, 2008 |
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Q: Can one get email delivery of your wonderful items? Might you include links to maps, i.e., where on earth is chiefville (quilts)?
Plus I'd like to be able to email your entries to my friends. How about adding an email this link? Thank you.
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A: Dear Joan,
You are a mind reader. Even as we speak,VISITFLORIDA's web developer has getting one of those handy-dandy icons "Mail this to a Friend" on the ever growing "to do" list. Look for this and other site improvements soon.The teckies are at work.
walk in peace
Lucy
ps Chiefland is 37 miles west of Gainesville. It is also 125 miles north of Tampa. And adding maps is a good idea. thanks!
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| Asked by Owen Rainford on January 17, 2008 |
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Q: Hi, we are visiting Florida for six weeks and would be interested in any ideas to make the trip interesting, I intend to do a couple of short cruises one in the first week we are there and another week in week 5, we are coming on the 2nd of feb until the 15th of March, we are in our 50s, and have done disney seaworld epcot. So your comments are welcolm. Thanks Owen
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A: Ah, you are so ready for Authentic Florida. Since you like cruises,here are some of my favorite day trips on Florida rivers. Take a river cruise out of Sanford (close to Orlando) on the Rivership Romance (see the Web site: www.rivershipromance.com). I suggest the Sunday brunch cruise from 11-2, then step ashore and stroll around revitalized historic downtown Sanford, loaded with art galleries, book stores and more.
In Ocala, the Silver River, Ocklawaha River, Rainbow River and Withlacoochee River are all the real Florida. Some areas must be just like the explorer William Bartrum saw them in the 1700s. Take a river cruise (three hours or more) with Captain Tom, who has a wealth of history and local lore to share. Or he can do a fishing trip for you. He'll even bait your hook, and he'll still tell you the history. See the Web site: www.captaintom'scustomcharters.com
To really experience a different side, head towards the Tallahassee area and visit Monticello. This is supposed to be the most haunted town in the South. The ghosts don't come out much during the day, but walking around and seeing the historic places they haunt is fun. The Chamber has a brochure(check out www.monticellomadisoncounty.com). You can even stay in a B&B that has ghosts in certain rooms. Sometimes the Big Bend Ghost Trackers give tours, dressed in period costumes from the 1800s. Call (850) 508-8109. Web site: www.bigbendghosttrackers.homestead.com
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| Asked by Helen Ernest on January 14, 2008 |
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Q: Dear Lucy, I am looking for Florida cities that have gateways. Kissimmee, Fl has one, are there any others? Thanks, Helen
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A: The Great Florida Birding Trail has nine gateway sites at outstanding birding locations. Here they are:
East Florida Section: Fort Clinch State Park in Fernandina Beach; Merrit Island National Wildlife Refuge in Titusville and Tenoroc Fish Management Area in Lakeland.
West Florida Section: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park in Gainesville and Fort De Soto Park in St. Petersburg.
Panhandle Florida Section: Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge near Tallahassee.
South Florida Section: Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in Naples and Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in West Palm Beach.
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| Asked by bonnie on January 10, 2008 |
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Q: is there a state park in florida near where we can see manatees and that my husband can scuba?
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A: No, there is no state park where you can put scuba and manatees together at the same time. The reason? The sound of scuba gear frightens them and they swim away from the sound. If you must get in the water with a manatee,use snorkel gear.
On the Web check out Crystal River, Florida to find a number of manatee snorkel tours. Manatees congregate in Crystal River during the winter months.
To see manatees up close and personal without getting wet or causing them stress by being in the water with them, visit Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, 4150 S. Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, FL 34446, phone (352) 628-5343.
You can see manatees there every day of the year. Manatee feedings and education program take place daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
A really cool underwater observatory called the Fishbowl puts you in the world of manatees and many kinds of fish.
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| Asked by Mrs Chakrabarty on January 09, 2008 |
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Q: We're a party of 6 Canadians visiting Orlando in March this year. Can you suggest some places which will give us an authentic historical flavour (also which isn't too far from central Orlando - the theme parks which the kids want to visit) which we can visit? I would love some info on Spanish heritage or early Pioneer sites etc. How far is St Augustine from the theme park vicinity? Thank you for your help.
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A: St. Augustine is 104 miles from Orlando. The kids will like the cannons at Castillo de San Marcos. They may even think it is a lark to climb ALL the stairs at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Lots of history everywhere you turn in St. Augustine. Be sure to walk St. George Street. Have lunch at the Columbia Restaurant for a touch of Cuban.
In Ocala, the fourth Saturday of every month there is a tour of the Cracker Village, a reconstructed early pioneer site at Silver River State Park. Ocala is 79 miles from Orlando. Call the park at (352) 236-7148 to know more .
South of Sarasota is the town of Osprey (143 miles from Orlando). Spanish Point is here. There are shell middens from American Indian times, pioneer life and homes and recent history. From time to time there are living history reenactments. Call (941) 966-5214 for more information.
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| Asked by Liz Wilkinson on January 05, 2008 |
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Q: We will be traveling to Florida next month--flying into Orlando, renting a car for 9 days and want to hit the high spots of the state. We want to go to St. Augustine, Cape Canaveral and Miami Beach, but we would like some other suggestions. We just mostly like to sight see. Have been to DisneyWorld, but may go to Epcot for a day and perhaps SeaWorld. Thanks for your help.
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A: While in St. Augustine do visit the fort Castillo de San Marcos and also take a carriage ride - good way to see the Ancient City. Cross the Bridge of Lions, check out St. Augustine Alligator Farm.
Both Epcot and SeaWorld are amazing places. Disney also has Disney's Animal Kingdom Park.
At Cape Canaveral go to nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, next month is a prime time to see winter wading birds including white pelicans.
Be sure to stroll the sidewalks (promenade) in the evenings in Miami Beach, everybody does. Go to Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens in Miami, take the tram for an overview, then walk around.
On the West Coast, sight see to your heart's content at Busch Gardens in Tampa. And take time to visit Ybor City, check out the Ybor City Museum and have a meal at the Columbia Restaurant.
In the center of the state find Silver Springs attraction near Ocala, and do the river cruise.
walk in peace
Lucy
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| Asked by Jeanie on January 01, 2008 |
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Q: We will be visiting Orlando area, and would like to see authentic Florida while in the area.
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A: My recommendations - start with Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, phone (407) 246-2620. Web site: www.leugardens.org.
And check out the Sunday Farmers Market at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando.
Take a short drive north on I4 to Blue Spring State Park, 2100 W. French Avenue, Orange City, phone (386) 775-3663. It is a designated manatee refuge and manatees love it here in the wintertime. This is authentic Florida.
walk in peace, Lucy
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| Asked by sandra riley on December 23, 2007 |
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Q: My husband and I lived in NW Florida many years ago and plan to be in the area in January, any nice housing for active 55+. Many thanks
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A: One suggestion - the duplex cabins at Grayton Beach State Park in Santa Rosa Beach. Reservations are through Reserve America (800) 326-3521. Great bicycle riding and hiking trails nearby.
Another suggestion - since it has been a while,you might want to rediscover Scenic Route 30-A, an 18-mile stretch of road dropping down from US 98 and running along the Gulf of Mexico. New small towns with names like Watercolor, Seaside and Rosemary Beach have a variety of rentals and everything is within walking distance of the beach. Visit www.discover30A.com
Lucy
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| Asked by Nadine Filion on December 20, 2007 |
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Q: Good day, Mrs. Beebe Tobias,
I'm a French Canadian of 38 years old l |
