Travel Man

Manatee News, special report

2010-07-05T06:28:00.000-07:00

Check out the only guide to Anna Maria Island you'll ever need. Marvin the Manatee delivers a special report to Manatee News live from the paradise island, as yet unaffected by the gulf oil spill.

Marvin the Manatee's Gulf Coast oil report

2010-06-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

Win over your Tweet-heart this Valentine's

2010-01-13T07:24:00.000-08:00

Here's some good advice from Gadling.com for all you die-hard romantics out there. Get Tweeting and you might be able to impress your, er, tweet-heart...

'You may not be able to say how you feel in 140 characters or less, but you sure can get leads on the best Valentine's Day experience that way. So, instead of tweeting a feeling, use the white-hot social media platform to grab the top travel specials for the most romantic day of the year. Several resorts are running Twitter-only Valentine's Day specials this year, so follow the right people, and you'll be able to wow your better half this year.'

And they come up with a perfect example right here in sunny old Florida...

'ONE Bal Harbour, a five-star luxury property in Florida, is offering a savings of up to $800 a night through its "Tweeterhearts" package. Follow @BalHarbourFL and look for the package that has a room rate of only $1,335 a night for three nights, champagne in your room upon arrival, a couples spa treatment in a private beachside cabana and a romantic dinner for two at 1 Bleu.'

Sounds like a good deal. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, we're @annamariavac (you'll find us under a search for Anna Maria). There is also a link on our website at www.annamaria.com as well as loads of other cool stuff.

99 cent Christmas present

2009-12-18T05:17:00.000-08:00

Got a dollar to spare? fancy a flight to Phoenix? Well, this might be your lucky day!

Allegiant Air hopes to alleviate some of the holiday pocketbook strain by offering a special fare of only 99 cents - good for two one-way flights this Saturday from Florida to Phoenix.

"We needed to move an aircraft from Florida to Phoenix to accommodate seasonal demand changes, so we thought this would be a great way to offer travelers an unbeatable holiday travel opportunity," said Robert Ashcroft, vice president of planning for Allegiant Air.

The travels from Orlando-Sanford International Airport on Saturday to Springfield-Branson, Missouri and will connect to Phoenix for another $0.99. The low fares only apply to those two flights only and other fees still apply. Visit www.allegiantair.com for more information.

Looks like Santa works for Allegiant Air...

Thanks for small mercies

2009-11-27T03:05:00.000-08:00

Even the Brits are picking up on the slightly slower traffic we all experienced over Thanksgiving. This article in the Daily Telegraph claims travel was down a third this year as the effects of the economic downturn continue to be felt.

The number of people traveling for Thanksgiving in America has fallen by more than a third since four years ago with the downturn in the economy blamed for the stay-at-home trend.

In 2005, around 58 million people made journeys to see family or friends for the holiday but this year the figure is expected to be 38 million, according to research by AAA. The number of people taking flights has fallen by 6.7 per cent since last year as those that do travel opt for the cheaper option of going by train or car.

Amtrak said it expected the day before Thanksgiving to be its busiest of the year with around 125,000 passengers. On an average Wednesday it carries 74,000 passengers. Most people have decided that car travel makes the most financial sense and about 33 million are expected to drive.

Thanksgiving journeys fell by 25 per cent between 2007 and 2008 and there is not likely to be a reverse of that trend this year, AAA said.

Well, actually it still seemed pretty busy here on Anna Maria Island. Perhaps we should count ourselves lucky...

Visit www.annamaria.com for the very best in vacation rentals on this paradise island

Work, work, work on Anna Maria Island

2009-11-20T04:43:00.000-08:00

Just in case you were wondering what those orange barricades, barrels and road-construction signs were doing cluttering up the roads on Anna Maria Island and nearby Longboat Key, get used to them, they’re going to be around for a while.

According to the Bradenton Herald, the Florida Department of Transportation has planned almost two dozen projects spread out over 18 months, possibly the heaviest construction schedule the islands have ever seen.

Some residents who attended the open house meeting where the work was unveiled opposed plans to build a sidewalk along a portion of North Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria. They question whether the $48,416 project, funded entirely by federal economic stimulus money, is justified.

Other projects include rehabilitating bridges on Crescent Avenue and North Bay Boulevard in Anna Maria; resurfacing parts of Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive in Anna Maria; installing sidewalks along Gulf Front Park; and upgrading the traffic signal at East Bay Drive and Gulf Drive.

I'm sure it will all look lovely when it's all done, but, well, y'know, it's a shame they can just swoop in at night and then disappear by daybreak.

Come to Anna Maria Island and stay with us at www.annamaria.com for the very best in vacation rental property this side of heaven

Join Mickey's club

2009-10-09T06:17:00.000-07:00

If you're Canadian, you can give a little, get a lot – of Mickey Mouse.

The new "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" promotion from Disney Parks offers a free one-day admission to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida or Disneyland in California in return for one day of volunteering, reports thestar.com

Through Volunteer Canada, you can sign up for work at volunteer centres and more than 160,000 non-profit agencies.

Many of the projects are family-friendly, and the only stipulation for "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" says helpers must be at least six years old. The program starts Jan. 1 and a list of available volunteer projects can be found at www.disneyparks.ca. You must pre-register and ticket quantities are limited. Disney is looking for 1 million volunteers for this promotion.

So get out there and get volunteering.

Disney spending Fantasy money

2009-09-14T09:04:00.000-07:00

This from the Associated Press wires...
Disney executives have announced the largest expansion in the history of Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in central Florida. The new development will nearly double the size of Fantasyland and include a new ride based on the Little Mermaid movie.
Disney will be hoping that analysts who predict it will re-ignite travel to Orlando, which has lagged in the global recession, have got it right. Disney's parks contribute about a third of the giant entertainment company's entire revenue - so it's a fair bet that they see any money spent on this development will be worth it.
The Fantasyland overhaul will be complete by 2013. Disney declined to say how much it will spend on the projects.
Information from: Orlando Sentinel, http://www.orlandosentinel.com

Fewer planes, fewer seats

2009-08-20T07:03:00.000-07:00

Here is something to consider if you are thinking of traveling by air between now and December this year. According to Rob Lovitt, writing on CSNBC.com, there will be approximately 307 million seats available on U.S. airlines during the period, a drop of 3.6 percent from the year before. He writes: 'Although smaller than the cut between 2007 and 2008 (8.1 per cent), the cumulative effect is still substantial'.
The states get more telling: only two of the 10 largest U.S. carriers increased their fourth-quarter capacity over the last two years, and the other eight all posted significant drops, with American (down 12.5 per cent), United (down 14.2 per cent) and Frontier (down 16.2 per cent) leading the plunge.
Rob continues: 'The impact on airports has been equally severe. All 67 of the FAA’s “Large” and “Medium” hubs, says ATA, have lost some scheduled service over the last two years. Based on scheduled departures, the hardest hit have been Cincinnati/North Kentucky (down 41.6 percent), Ontario (down 36.3) and Oakland (down 34.2 percent). Other painful cuts include Orlando (25.9 percent), LAX (17.2 percent), O’Hare (9.6 percent) and DFW (5.3 percent).
For passengers, of course, the contraction means fewer choices and less flexibility, but it’s seen by industry analysts as the only viable response to the recession and years of billion-dollar losses. “By the end of the year, capacity will probably be down 12 percent,” says Mike Boyd of Boyd Group International. “The airlines have finally begun to cut capacity faster than the recession has been killing demand.”
The upshot is fewer seats on fewer flights, which is fine if you don't mind a crowded plane, but could lead to some more travel-related headaches before you have even left the ground.

There really is only one company to trust with your Anna Maria Island vacation, and only one website you need to visit. Click on www.annamarianetwork.com for the very best in vacation rentals on the island. From two-bed cottages, to huge homes for the whole family, waterside, gulf front, secluded, we have it all.

Be a Viva Diva

2009-08-07T06:16:00.000-07:00

Check out this press release from Viator, which offers families advice on getting the best deals from days out in Florida and beyond.

It reads:
Viator.com the leading resource for researching and booking more than 5,500 trip activities and experiences in 75 countries at the best prices, is continuing its summer series, Viva La Viator, aimed at inspiring every traveler to explore as they never have before in any destination they choose. This week the team at Viator has selected a theme rather than a destination to highlight - Family Friendly Experiences. Viator features a "Family Friendly" category of tours and activities in top cities so families can easily find and book the best things to do in the destination they are visiting.

Check out the full details here

There really is only one company to trust with your Anna Maria Island vacation, and only one website you need to visit. Click on www.annamariavacations.com for the very best in vacation rentals on the island. From two-bed cottages, to huge homes for the whole family, waterside, gulf front, secluded, we have it all.

Wake up and smell the coffee

2009-07-28T05:37:00.000-07:00

Flying in to Orlando? Smell coffee? You must be on a Southwest Airlines plane...
Here's the tale from the Telegraph newspaper, London, England.

Flight 693 departed from Bradley International Airport in Connecticut at 7.21 on Sunday morning, bound for Orlando, when a flight attendant reported an electrical smell.
But after the 131 passengers and five crew members were safely evacuated after the plane made an emergency landing at Long Island Islip MacArthur Airport at 8am, it emerged that the odour had been caused by a coffee maker in the back of the aircraft, a company spokesman said on Monday.
The aircraft was examined and the smell was determined to be from a coffee maker in the back galley of the Boeing 737. The aeroplane was put back into service by 12.30 pm on Sunday, said Chris Mainz, a Southwest spokesman.

Read the full story here

There really is only one company to trust with your Anna Maria Island vacation, and only one website you need to visit. Click on www.annamariavacations.com for the very best in vacation rentals on the island. From two-bed cottages, to huge homes for the whole family, waterside, gulf front, secluded, we have it all.

Save money on Orlando parks

2009-07-21T05:27:00.000-07:00

We love hitting the parks in Orlando, but if you've got a large family in tow it's hard to escape without spending your kids' college fund.
Thankfully, Carmel Snyder at examiner.com has some great tips for enjoying all the Disney, Sea World and the rest have to offer, without breaking the bank.

Most of the major theme parks often have special offers throughout the year such as Busch Gardens, Sea World and Adventure Islands’ buy one day, get another free day option. In-state visitors get even a better deal, paying the price of one-day admission for a season pass.
If you’re traveling with older family members, check out discounts by most parks. Military families also can get discounts at theme parks in Florida. Check the theme parks Web sites before you go to get the best deals.
For families, food and drink can be a major expense in theme parks. Bring a cooler that you can leave in the car and go out for meals. Check the park policy, but don’t hesitate to call and ask, often the “no cooler” ruled is waived for the small soft-sided packs you can carry in.
Places like Busch Gardens in Tampa also sell souvenir cups that get you a discount on refills. In addition, most will refill the drink cup with water for free. If bringing a cooler is not practically, tuck a few snacks into back packs.
Parks sometimes offer a one-price eat all day pass. This can be a major saver if you are going to be in the park all day for more than one meal.
Another money-saving tip for families -- check out the local Wal-Mart for theme park character T-shirts and other “must haves” for kids. Have them wear their T-shirts to the park and save some of the goodies for later.

Great advice Carmel! Read the whole article on examiner.com here. Also check out Carmel's home page here which is full of top tips for those visiting our fabulous Sunshine State!

What's going on in Florida - August

2009-07-14T04:58:00.000-07:00

Here it is again folks, the best darn rundown of everything going on in Central Florida there is, courtesy of the good folks at the Orlando Sun-Sentinel. You can read the guide to the whole of Florida for this month here

Aug. 1: First Saturday Jam, Barberville. On the first Saturday each month visit the Pioneer Settlement for entertainment and fun for the entire family. 9 a.m to 5 p.m. There will be informal music jams, free workshops, food, and a barn-style dance at 3 p.m. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org

Aug. 1: WaZoo, Tampa. Featured as one of the "10 Great Beer Festivals in the Country" by USA Today, this 14th annual tropical taste explosion features beers and beverages from around the world, food sampling from local restaurants, a wine garden, and live music. Admission $50 per person, $20 for designated drivers, $75 per person for Beastly Beverage Club. At Lowry Park Zoo. 813-935-8552 x276. www.lowryparkzoo.com/calendar_events.php

Aug. 1: A Day in Florida History of DeLeon Springs, DeLeon Springs. Historical reenactment of an early 1800s skirmish between Seminole Indians and soldiers and settlers of the period. Explore an authentically replicated Indian village and soldiers encampment, examine Indian artifacts and old weaponry, watch artisans ply their crafts, and join in the performance of Indian dances. At DeLeon Springs State Park. Admission $6 per vehicle. 386-985-4212. www.floridastateparks.org/Events-State-Proc.cfm?criteria=*

Aug. 4: Lake Louisa Summer Cycling Series, Clermont. Continuing bicycle race series. Races will be split into two categories ranging between 15 and 30 miles long. Top three finishing racers in each category will be awarded trophies. At Lake Louisa State Park. Admission $4 per vehicle. 352-217-1673. http://www.floridastateparks.org/EventsDistAll.cfm?Dist=3

Aug. 4: National Night Out, Ormond Beach. Cookout with live DJ, face painting, cotton candy, raffles for prizes. At Nova Community Center, 5:30-9 p.m. 386-677-0311. www.ormondbeach.org/Events/Default.htm

Aug. 6: 18th Annual Gourmet Feastival, Tampa. Annual fund raiser for Centre for Women. Features delectable foods and beverages from Tampa Bay's best restaurants, caterers, wineries and other purveyors. Also includes live music and fabulous Opportunity Prizes including upscale travel and leisure, home entertainment, event tickets and more. At Hyatt Regency Downtown. Admission $60 at door, $50 in advance. 813-251-8437 x251. www.centreforwomen.org

Aug. 7: National Lighthouse Day, Ponce Inlet. Join the staff at Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, Florida's tallest, to observe National Lighthouse Day. Enjoy family-oriented activities, demonstrations and newly installed lighthouse exhibits. Watch as children participate in turn of the century children's activities. Included with regular admission of $5 adult, $1.50 children 11 and under. 386-761-1821. www.ponceinlet.org/

Aug. 7-8: ArtWalk, Bradenton. Visit the various galleries, studios, restaurants and other small businesses in the arts district on the first Friday of every month, 6 to 9:30 p.m., and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located in the Village of the Arts neighborhood just south of downtown Bradenton. 941-747-8056. www.artistsguildofmanatee.org

Aug. 15: Grape Stomp and Music Fest, Lake Placid. Henscratch Farms presents the ninth annual Grape Stomp featuring California Toe Jam Band from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the winery located on Henscratch Road. This award-winning '50s and '60s musical group brings toe-tapping energy to its four-hour concert. Attendees will join the stomp buckets with this year's MC__TBA, in an attempt to crush two tons of grapes for this year's "Foot Stomped Vintage." Participants may purchase finished wine in November, complete with their picture on the label and a caption reading "Foot stomped by my diligent feet." Included in the day is a walking tour, winery presentation, complimentary cheese and wine tasting and All You Can Eat Grapes. Admission adults $6, children 6 and under free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com/impcal2/event.php?ID=33

Aug. 15-16: Pioneer Settlement Outdoor Extravaganza, Barberville. First annual Outdoor Extravaganza, on 30-acre facility with 18 historical buildings set to the late 1800s era. Event features hunting, archery shoot, canoeing, hiking and kayaking, venison cook-off, black powder and pioneer reenactors. Admission adults $6, children $4. At Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org/outdoorcolor2.pdf

Aug. 22: Caribbean Night and Island Market, Ormond Beach. Caribbean themed celebration at The Casements, including Island Paradise Outdoor Oasis, Kids' Caribbean Castle, Island Market crafters and Caribbean cuisine. Admission $5. 386-676-3216. www.ormondbeach.org/Events/Default.htm

Aug. 22-23: The August Stomp, Lake Wales. Live music, wine, food, grape stomping. At Lakeridge Winery. Admission $2. 800-768-WINE. www.lakeridgewinery.com/aboutus-events.php

Aug. 28-30: Caladium Festival, Lake Placid. Includes bus tours to the colorful caladium fields, sale of caladium plants and bulbs, exhibits on caladium history, Florida-friendly landscape and ornamental plants. Also includes wine display featuring the area's growing grape industry, plus arts and crafts, entertainment, and the 13th annual Antique and Classic Car Show. Admission free; bus tours $10 per person. 863-465-4331. www.lpfla.com/events/caladium.htm

And don't forget ... When you get to Florida, be sure to call in on Anna Maria Island, a little gem of a place off the Gulf Coast. Check out www.annamaria.net for the very best in vacation rentals on this paradise island.

Florida's other theme parks

2009-07-07T03:01:00.000-07:00

Check out this fantastic advice from the Atlanta Journal Constitution about the alternatives to the sometimes crowded, huge theme parks for which Florida is famous. There are some real gems in here, so thanks to Kim Ware for the advice.

Dinosaur World
For a Jurassic Park-like experience, look no further than Dinosaur World in Plant City, Fla., about 25 miles east of Tampa. The prehistoric becomes the present with more than 150 life-size dinosaurs, a boneyard, museum, caves, skeleton garden and fossil dig, where you can sift through sand in search of authentic fossils. One of the more affordable theme parks, Dinosaur World also offers various pricing specials throughout the year.
5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, Fla.; Phone: 813 -717-9865; Web: http://www.dinoworld.net/. Admission is $12.75 for adults, $9.75 for children ages 3 to 12, $10.75 for seniors over 60.

Wannado City
Wannado City, an indoor role-playing theme park in South Florida’s Sawgrass Mills Mall, allows children to experience their grown-up professional dreams. Choices run the gamut from dance club DJ to ER doctor and everything in between. Kids—-or “kidizens,” as they’re called in Wannado City —- can also set up a bank account and receive payment for their work, in “Wongas,” the park’s official currency. The park is indoors, making it a great option for rainy days. 12801 W. Sunrise Blvd., Sunrise, Fla.; Phone: 954-838-7100; Web: http://www.wannadocity.com/; Admission for children ages 3 to 13 is $35, and for adults (over 14) and children 2 years and under is $5.

Silver Springs
Silver Springs celebrates the beauty of Ocala’s clear, natural springs, giving visitors an up-close view through glass-bottom boats. Animal lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe birds, alligators and crocodiles around the river, as well as learn about a variety of animals in the wildlife exhibits. The Silver Springs gardens are rich with natural beauty and provide a lovely setting for photo opportunities with the family. And finally, if the kids are in need of a little more excitement, check out Silver Springs’ new waterpark, Wild Waters, featuring a variety of slides and wave pools.
5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Silver Springs, Fla.; Phone: 352-236-2121; Web: http://www.silversprings.com/; Check the Web site for information on special offers or to purchase tickets. Admission to Silver Springs is $34.99 for adults, $30.99 for seniors age 55 and older, $24.99 for children ages 3-10. (Online purchases are discounted $5.) Pricing for the waterpark is $25.99 for adults/visitors 48 inches and over, $22.99 for children under 48 inches ($2 discount online).

Flea World/Fun World
One might not expect a massive flea market and amusement park to coexist, but that’s exactly what visitors find at Flea World/Fun World in Sanford, Fla. Rides, mini-golf, go-carts, arcade games and plenty of fair food highlight this entertainment extravaganza for kids. The park also hosts various shows, such as animal acts and jugglers, and young children can enjoy the Kids World area that features smaller rides.
4311 S. Orlando Drive, Sanford, Fla.; Phone: 407-330-1792; Web: http://www.fleaworld.com/. Free parking. Wristbands for rides are available for $6 (ages 6 and under), $12 (includes one go-cart ride) and $15 (includes unlimited go-cart rides).

Weeki Wachee Springs
Known as the “City of Live Mermaids,” Weeki Wachee Springs is different from your typical aquatic attraction, as it features underwater mermaid shows in addition to its spring-fed waterpark, Buccaneer Bay. Since 1946, the theme park has served as the setting for several movies, television shows and music videos and will be featured in an upcoming edition of the Travel Channel’s “Extreme Roadside Attractions” as well as Animal Planet’s “Into the Wild.” In 2008, the park joined the Florida State Parks system.
6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, Fla.; Phone: 352-596-2062; Web: http://www.weekiwachee.com/; Weeki Wachee is open year-round. Admission to the park when Buccaneer Bay is open is $24.95 for adults and $16.95 for children ages 6 to 10; when Buccaneer Bay is closed, admission is $13.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages 6 to 10. Children 5 and under are always free. Parking is $3 per vehicle and $10 for buses/RVs.

Don't just visit Anna Maria Island, stay here. For the very best in vacation rental properties visit www.1annamaria.com and spend your vacation in a real home from home.

Akron unveils non-stop Florida flights

2009-06-29T03:09:00.000-07:00

Good news for residents of Akron who want to come visit us in our Florida paradise. AirTran Airways announced Friday a nonstop service between the Akron-Canton Airport and two popular Florida vacation destinations, Fort Lauderdale and Ft. Myers.
Flights to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will be offered four times per week and flights to Southwest Florida International Airport in Ft. Myers five times per week initially and then daily beginning in mid November.
Football Hall of Famer Anthony Munoz and comedian Mark Malkoff were on hand at the Akron-Canton Airport to help make the big announcement.
President and CEO of Akron-Canton Airport is thrilled to announce the return of the service to Florida. "With nonstop flights to four Florida cities on AirTran Airways, getting to 'sunsational' leisure destinations is easier than ever. Travelers will love the simplicity of flying from Canton and will love the affordable fares, too," said Rick McQueen.
Read the full story here

Don't just visit Anna Maria Island, stay here. For the very best in vacation rental properties visit http://www.annamaria.com/ and spend your vacation in a real home from home.

Travel to be down on July 4 - AAA

2009-06-26T03:18:00.000-07:00

This July 4 might be the best time to travel to Florida, if the predictions of a quiet one are anything to go by.
According to Bloomberg, travel in the U.S. during the July 4 holiday weekend will decline 1.9 per cent from last year as the recession and high gasoline prices keep motorists off the highways, the AAA said.

The number of people traveling at least 50 miles from home will drop to 37.1 million from 37.8 million in 2008, AAA, the nation’s largest motorist group, said in an annual outlook today. The 2008 total showed an 11 per cent decline from 2007.
Gasoline at the pump, averaged nationwide, has risen 65 per cent this year, pulled higher by a rally in crude oil. The fuel fell 0.7 cent to $2.676 a gallon, AAA said today on its Web site. Prices for regular gasoline rose to a record $4.114 a gallon on July 17, 2008.
The airline industry, which will account for 5 percent of holiday travel, is expected to see a 4.9 percent rise in bookings over the weekend, partly because of declining airfares, AAA said in its report.
The motoring organization projects a 2.6 percent decline in auto trips to 32.6 million in 2009 from 33.4 million last year. AAA’s projections are based on research by IHS Global Insight of Lexington, Massachusetts.
Gasoline futures for July delivery slid to the lowest since May 22 today and profit margins tumbled 8 percent after the government reported that stockpiles rose the most in five months last week. Prices fell 5.07 cents, or 2.7 percent, to settle at $1.8425 a gallon on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

There really is only one company to trust with your Anna Maria Island vacation, and only one website you need to visit. Click on www.annamaria.com for the very best in vacation rentals on the island. From two-bed cottages, to huge homes for the whole family, waterside, gulf front, secluded, we have it all.

How much longer a free ride?

2009-06-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

Are the days of the free Anna Maria Island trolley over? They may be if Manatee County chiefs get their way.
Manatee County Area Transit has announced it may start charging $1 a day for the trolley as most county departments undergo budget cuts to offset falling revenues. In that belt-tightening environment, it is getting harder to justify any more free rides, county officials say.
The county established the free service in March 2002, largely to reduce traffic on Gulf Drive, the island's only north-south road. The trolley quickly became a hit. During the summer low season, about 22,000 passengers climb aboard each month. During the tourist season, the monthly count swells to more than 71,000.
According to the Herald Tribune website, local and state taxpayers cover the trolley's $955,000 annual cost. In 2010, however, the state may cut its $588,000 subsidy to $280,000.
It might just start at a buck, but the real fear among residents and those who use the free service will be that this is only the thin end of the wedge. Today a dollar, what tomorrow?

There really is only one company to trust with your Anna Maria Island vacation, and only one website you need to visit. Click on www.annamaria.com for the very best in vacation rentals on the island. From two-bed cottages, to huge homes for the whole family, waterside, gulf front, secluded, we have it all.

Countdown to lift-off!

2009-06-12T03:08:00.000-07:00

The countdown has begun for tomorrow's launch of space shuttle Endeavour on a mission to deliver a porch to the International Space Station. It's nice to think that even NASA is interested in home improvement like the rest of us.
The new platform will complete Japan's elaborate three-part Kibo laboratory complex, the station's newest and largest module.
"This has been a long journey for us and our Japanese colleagues," said Scott Higginbotham, who oversees station payloads at NASA's Florida launch site.
For about six years, Japanese space agency technicians have worked side-by-side with NASA personnel in Florida to prepare Kibo. The first two sections of the lab were launched last year and this will complete the structure.
The astronauts plan to conduct five spacewalks to hook up Kibo's new porch, replace batteries on one of the station's solar panel wings and to position spare parts on platforms outside the station. The porch is a platform for experiments that require direct exposure to space - it's not somewhere to enjoy a cool drink in an easy chair and watch the sun go down.
The shuttle and its seven-member crew is scheduled to lift off at 7:17 a.m. EDT/1117 GMT tomorrow for a 16-day mission. Good luck to them...

No longer the final frontier

2009-06-02T05:09:00.000-07:00

There was a time when every little boy wanted to be a spaceman. When space travel was in its infancy the idea of going to the moon fired a whole generation. It was the 60s and everything seemed possible.
Space travel no longer has the same mystique for the young for some reason, which is a shame because going into orbit has never been more achievable.
Where once only a chosen few could dream of space travel, now it is open to almost all thanks to a company offering a training regimen for would-be space tourists that the proprietor describes as "Space Camp on steroids". The center opened for business May 1 at the Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport in Tampa Bay, Fla.
Aurora Aerospace offers enhanced gravity and microgravity aircraft flights and other astronaut training services for paying customers, who would then be prepared for more expensive sub-orbital or even orbital flights.
The complete program includes an aerobatic ride in an L-39 trainer, a two-seat aircraft built in the Czech Republic that is the same type of aircraft used by Russian cosmonauts in their training. The aircraft performs various aerobatic and high G-force maneuvers.
Okay, so it's not quite Neil Armstrong and walking on the moon, but right at the moment, it's the next best thing.

When you're down on solid ground, come and stay at Anna Maria Vacations' wonderful selection of villas, condos and cottages on this delightful island. From two-bed to houses to sleep 12, we have something for everyone. Visit www.annamaria.com for more details

In search of a bargain?

2009-05-26T04:21:00.000-07:00

A survey of more than 600 travel agents has revealed that most consumers, despite the economic recession, think a summer holiday just too important to give up, even if it puts a dent in their wallet.
According to Reuters, almost 90 per cent of travel agents said they are getting more questions about deals for this year than they did in the past. Forty-five percent said travelers are not cutting short vacations this year and are booking the same amount of holiday time as in previous years.
Instead of shortening vacations, people are making concessions in other areas to save money. They will consider altering destinations and the type of accommodation to stretch their money further.
But although taking connecting flights can be cheaper, many travelers will not even consider the idea, insisting on flying direct to their destination, according to the poll.
Sixty percent of the travel agents questioned said more consumers are also asking them about tips to save money, such as traveling midweek to get the best deals on flights, looking for holiday packages that offer free night promotions and taking an all-inclusive cruise so they know exactly how much the trip will cost.
We hope they are all being told that the best value to be had on vacation is to visit a rental agent and spend your week or two weeks in a glorious home. For the best on Anna Maria Island, visit www.annamaria.com and discover the true meaning of affordable luxury.

Hit the road, Jack

2009-05-22T04:47:00.000-07:00

Where are you going this holiday weekend? According to AAA more Americans will go on road trips this Memorial Day weekend than they did last year to take advantage of discounted hotel rooms and a 39 per cent decline in gas prices.
About 32.4 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home this holiday weekend, a 1.5 percent increase from 2008, according to AAA, the biggest US motoring organization. Memorial Day, which commemorates US armed forces killed in service, falls on May 25 this year and marks the traditional beginning of the summer travel season.
But it's not just about road travel, domestic airfares are as much as 10 per cent less than last year’s Memorial Day weekend as well, and hotel rates for the summer months have fallen as much as 14 per cent from a year ago after the deepening US recession cut demand.
The average price of a gallon of unleaded gas was $2.334 on May 19, compared with $3.80 a year ago, according to AAA.
So get out on the road, and get down to Anna Maria Island. Visit www.annamaria.com for the best in vacation rentals on this perfect patch of Old Florida.

Big Apple to Sunshine State made easy

2009-05-19T04:43:00.000-07:00

Just a quick message for anyone considering traveling from New York to Florida by air.
As part of their most recent flight discount announcement, Jetblue is offering flights between New York and Ft. Lauderdale Florida for $89 each way. That makes it $180 round trip.
The only flight restrictions are that the fare requires a 10-day advance purchase. Travel must be completed by June 17, 2009. Travel must take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and/or Saturday.
If you can work around those dates, why not just get on the plane?

When you get to Florida, come visit us on Anna Maria Island. And when you are on this beautiful patch of sand and seclusion, you really should be staying in the very best the island has to offer in terms of luxury rental accommodation - at a price you can afford.
Check out www.annamaria.com to start your dream vacation now!

What, where, when for Central Florida

2009-05-10T17:07:00.000-07:00

Here's another one of those hugely useful calendars of events for Florida, as compiled by those helpful souls over at the Orlando Sentinel.

May 14-17: Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival, Sarasota. World-class weekend of food and wine including vintner dinners, a late-night kick-off soiree, and The Grand Tasting with visiting wineries, food demonstrations, delicious samples, live entertainment and a charity auction. At various venues along the Suncoast. Admission varies per event. 941-955-3663. www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks/events.php
May 15-17: Wild Amelia Nature Festival, Amelia Island. Educates residents and visitors about the bioregion, and encourages stewardship of the area's natural resources. Started in 2006 by a group of residents who realized that Amelia Island's unique position of being almost surrounded by State and National Parks made it the perfect place for a nature festival. This year's focus is on the Northern Right Whale, which comes to the waters off Amelia Island each year to give birth. Wide variety of tours and outings offered, ranging in price from free to $80. 904-251-0016. www.wildamelia.com
May 16: Arcadia Watermelon Festival, Arcadia. Held annually in May, which is height of watermelon harvesting season. Features a variety of pageants, contests, vendors and activities. Downtown. Free admission. 863-494-2020. www.arcadiamainstreet.com/events.htm
May 16: Blueberry Bluegrass Festival, Lake Placid. Day filled with blueberry treats of all kinds, from shakes and shortcakes to fritters, pies and more, and the sounds of live Bluegrass/Country music. Also offered is the farm's walking tour feeding the chickens, a presentation in the winery, and complimentary cheese and wine tasting. Lawn chairs and umbrellas recommended. At Henscratch Farms. Admission. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 17: Annual Blueberry Bash, Lake Placid. Blueberry pancake breakfast with bluegrass music, and arts and crafts for sale. All things blueberry are offered: blueberry wine, blueberry muffins, blueberry fritters, blueberry jams and blueberry syrup. At Henscratch Farms. Free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 23: Red, White and Brew, Daytona Beach. This third annual event takes place on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. It takes advantage of the summer Boardwalk fireworks program kick-off, and features live music, food vendors, food courts, giant inflatables, giveaways and radio station live remotes. Each of Main Street's bars and restaurants showcase up to seven American Microbreweries. The micro-brews are on sale in both sample and full sizes. 386-255-9300. www.whog.fm
May 23: Art Walk on Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach. Features, in the five blocks between the Indian River and the ocean, a variety of interesting and unique art works by resident and visiting artists. Also entertainment, demonstrations and free prize drawing. Held fourth Saturday each month January-June. Free. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com
May 23-24: Tampa Travel Show and Tastes of the World, Tampa. High-energy show consisting of 450+ travel- and culinary-based exhibitors, special appearances by celebrity chefs, travel experts, adventure activities such as rock climbing and on-site scuba lessons, and professional live entertainment. At Tampa Convention Center. Free. 877-STL-TRAVEL or 314-481-8100 x109. http://tampaadventureexpo.com/
May 23-24: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. At W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy and Celebration Blvd. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
May 23-25: Blue Crab Festival, Palatka. Florida's largest Memorial Day celebration. Includes Memorial Day Parade, seafood cook-off, live entertainment, helicopter and airboat rides, arts and crafts, antiques, and more. Downtown. Free admission. 386-325-4406. www.bluecrabfestival.com
May 25: Memorial Day Celebration and Remembrance, Cocoa. Old-fashioned Memorial Day celebration featuring a variety of speakers, musicians and more. Food and beverages will be available for sale. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets. At Riverfront Park in downtown Cocoa Village. Free admission. 321-631-9075. www.cocoavillage.com
May 28: Memorial Day Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Half-hour carillon concerts at 1 and 3 p.m. present a musical salute to the nation's veterans and current members of America's armed forces. To honor the military, free admission will be offered to all branches of the military as well as active, retired and disabled veterans. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/
May 29-31: Mount Dora Blues and Wine Festival, Mount Dora. Sample wines from the best vineyards and listen to Blues artists and groups. At Lakeside Inn. Admission. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/events.php
May 30: Picnic in the Vineyard, Lake Placid. Henscratch Farms hosts an end of season picnic for the community. Activities include a tour of the winery and a video of the winemaking process, plus complimentary wine tasting with cheese and nibbles. Entertainment by the "Front Porch Fiddlers" is scheduled 11am -2pm. It is blueberry u-pick season on the farm and the ice cream shack will be open for creamy Blueberry & Strawberry treats to enjoy with lunch . Guests may tour the farm by strolling through the nine flagged educational stations, complete a scavenger hunt and feed the 101 free range hens. Door prizes and giveaways will be awarded every 15 minutes. It's all for free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 31-June 1: Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival, Sarasota. More than 100 talented crafters display their wares, from baskets and homemade soaps to jewelry and much more. On Main Street downtown. Free. 941-957-1877. http://www.escape-to-sarasota.com/sarasota-calendar-of-events.html

State fears grow over flu suspects

2009-05-01T01:32:00.000-07:00

Florida has so far escaped the spread of swine flu, but news last night of three cases bein sent for analysis at the CDC headquarters have caused some to fear the worst.

Here is the news as the Herald Tribune reported it: Florida's surgeon general said samples of three suspected cases of swine flu have been sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more testing. One each came from Lee, Orange and Broward counties. Results could take up to 48 hours, Dr. Ana Viamonte Ros said Thursday. No cases of the illness had been confirmed in Florida as of Thursday night.
Meanwhile, samples from two Manatee County residents have been sent for initial testing at a state lab in Tampa, according to the county's director of disease control, Ron Cox. It is too early to know whether those tests will show enough potential to be swine flu to be sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta for confirmation.
State labs have tested about 70 samples, but only three cases needed more testing.

Read the whole article here

Look before you leap

2009-04-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

A lot of people retire to Florida. You can hardly blame them, with our climate, beautiful scenery and abundance of attractions. But that does not mean a move down here is for everyone. As this interesting article from USAToday states, what more people should be doing is looking before they leap.

Read the whole article here

Retirement can be the best of times or the worst of times. What can make the difference, says psychologist Nancy Schlossberg, is planning.
Most people who plan for retirement focus only on their financial portfolio, but they should pay as much attention to their "psychological portfolio," says Schlossberg, whose new book, Revitalizing Retirement: Reshaping Your Identity, Relationships, and Purpose, was published in February by the American Psychological Association.
Q. What is a psychological profile?
A. Retirement challenges your identity, changes your relationships and may leave you feeling rootless. These three components — identity, relationships and purpose — make up each person's psychological profile.
Q. Are some people better prepared, emotionally, for retirement than others?
A. The lucky few are those who know exactly what they want to do. (They) start playing around with ideas in advance — how will they identify themselves? What gives them purpose? What will their new mission be?
Q. What steps can people take to get ready?
A. Maybe this is the time to join a volunteer organization, church group or community group and start making new friends or organizational ties. If you're thinking, "When I retire, I'm going to move to Florida," take your vacations there so by the time you move there, you know a few people. Is there something you've always wanted to do? Take a course and try it out. You have the same issues as the football player, the roofer, the lawyer, when you retire. There are ways you can begin to prepare. Retirement is just a continuation of your career development. Get involved. Engage in life.
Q. How can people combat loneliness?
A. Make a conscious effort to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Some people move to retirement communities with active social programs. Others take on new jobs or volunteer activities that are both satisfying and fun. One woman got together with friends to plan a Boomer party. Getting together regularly to plan the party was in itself rewarding. Fun provides relief, distraction from negative reality, bonding with others and a way to survive in troubled times.
Q. What are some of the unexpected pitfalls of retirement and how can people prepare for them?A. Relationships change. Former colleagues may not return your calls, and the relationship with your spouse or partner can be dramatically altered. I cannot tell you how many women, more than men, complain about being in the same place all day with their spouse. Couples may need to negotiate ground rules. One retired man was shocked to learn that his wife didn't want to spend every day with him. "As they say," he said, "for better or for worse, but not for lunch."
Q. What do we need most for a happy retirement?
A. We need to matter. It is important for people to believe that they count in others' lives. The loss of the challenge of the work itself, the relationship with colleagues, the connection to an environment, an office to go to, and the daily routines can leave people wondering whether they matter anymore. We all need to figure out ways to bolster our own sense that we count.

Drink up, eat up, be merry

2009-04-24T04:02:00.000-07:00

Are you a foodie with a hole in your social calendar? Well, why not check out these great food and drink events going on in a city or town near you (so long as you live in Anna Maria Island that is...)

Wine festival
Esprit Du Cochon: The Winefest’s Esprit Du Cochon, “Spirit of the Pig,” begins at 6:30 p.m. April 23 at Mattison’s City Grille, 1 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota. Sample spirited and exotic flavors of a traditional pig roast by Chef Paul Mattison, hand-made charcuterie (prepared pork dishes, artisan cheese from around the world, a 1,000-piece chocolate truffle display and hand-rolled cigars by Bennington Tobacconist. Wines will be offered from Cambria Estate Winery, Cremashi Furlotti, Miner Family Winery, Tierra del Fuego and Zaca Mesa Winery. Cost: $95 per person ($47.50 tax deductible). Information: 952-1109 or www.floridawinefest.org.

Amy’s Southern Comfort Cuisine: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays at Bonni Bakes in the Village of the Arts, 930 12th St. W., Bradenton, featuring shrimp and grits, roast pork po’ boy, Bradentucky Boil, Cracker mac & cheese, sweet tater corn bread and more. Cash only. Information: 746-6647.

Cooking classes
Apron’s Cooking School: Publix holds classes and demonstrations at 2875 University Pkwy., Sarasota. Classes in April include culinary basics, couples cooking/appetizers and vegan. Reservations are required and classes fill up quickly. Information and reservations: 358-7829. A complete schedule, menus for each class and a reservation form can be found at www.publix.com/aprons.

Euphemia Haye: Chef Raymond and D’Arcy Arpke, owner-proprietors of Euphemia Haye Restaurant on Longboat Key, will offer their Famous Lesson Luncheon Series through May 6. Topics include From Russia with Love, Sunday Brunch, San Francisco cuisine, Via Duck, spring lamb, birthday treats and Little Italy. Space is limited and reservations are required. Classes will be held from 10:30 a.m. to around 1:30 p.m. Call Euphemia Haye at 383-3633 or visit www.euphemiahaye.com to make a reservation.

Wine events
WineStyles: 8225 Natures Way Suite 111, Lakewood Ranch, will host a free wine tasting on “Spring Wines,” 5-7 p.m. April 24. Information: 306-5804.

Wine tasting: The Waterfront Restaurant, 111 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, will hold weekly wine tastings 5-7 p.m. Thursdays beginning April 30. Hors d’oeuvres pairings are supplied. The cost is $10 per person. Vendors are present to talk about the products. Information: 778-1515.
Michael’s Wine Cellar at Michael’s On East: 1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota, offers monthly open house wine tastings and winemaker dinners that offer friendly conversation and good cheer while sampling more than 50 world-class wines. Remaining open house dates are April 23, June 5, July 10, Aug. 7, Sept. 4, Oct. 2 and Nov 6. Admission is free to Gulf Coast Connoisseur members; a one-time $10 fee enrolls you as a GCCC. Information: 366-0007.

Mattison’s Riverside: 1200 First Ave. W., Bradenton, hosts Tuesday Tasting 5-7 p.m., offering the opportunity to sample a variety of wines from a featured vineyard, varietals or regional. This is a free event with light appetizers offered. For reservations and information, call 748-8087 or visit www.mattisons.com

New bridge going up, across

2009-04-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

Breaking news from the Anna Maria Islander this week: the Anna Maria Island Bridge will be replaced by a 65ft-high span. Here is their report:

Florida Department of Transportation project manager Chris Piazza said that the DOT will recommend that the Anna Maria Island Bridge be replaced by a 65-foot-high, fixed-span structure.
Piazza told a meeting of the Manatee Council of Governments that the recommendation will next be forwarded to the U.S. Coast Guard for final approval.
Piazza said the recommendation is based on a number of factors, including a DOT survey that indicates 77 per cent of respondents favor a high-rise structure to replace the 22.5 foot-high drawbridge that opened to motorists in 1956.
Other factors in the decision, said Piazza, were engineering data, costs and traffic flow.
The cost of a high-rise bridge was estimated at $102million, about $30million less than a drawbridge, Piazza said.
But the DOT has neither money nor a timetable for the project. There are no funds for engineering design or an environmental impact study on a new AMI Bridge in the Manatee-Sarasota Metropolitan Planning Organization’s current five-year master transportation plan.
DOT officials have indicated that, if the Coast Guard approves the recommendation, it would be a minimum of 10-12 years for a new bridge project to get under way. A more likely time frame is 15 to 20 years, Piazza said in March at the final public meeting on the bridge proposals.
Opponents of a high-rise bridge said the DOT announcement was not unexpected.
Save Anna Maria president Ursula Stemm said she was “disappointed,” in the DOT decision, but “I knew it was inevitable.”
Stemm said the organization, which fought against a similar high-rise bridge a decade ago, would again take up the fight.
“We’ve already spoken to our legal counsel and we have the same grassy bed issue as before. We are going to fight the DOT,” she said.
Stemm dismissed the 10-15 year timetable as irrelevant. “If it’s going to take that long, why did county commissioners go to Washington looking for money for a new bridge?” she asked.
SAM favors repairing the existing bridge as long as possible, Stemm said.
Holmes Beach City Commissioner Sandy Haas-Martens, however, said public opinion polls show Islanders are overwhelmingly in favor of a high-rise bridge as a replacement.
“This project is still a long way off,” Haas-Martens said, “but 83 per cent of the people said they wanted a replacement bridge and 77 per cent said they wanted a high-rise bridge. The public is in favor of this and I believe the Island needs at least one high-rise bridge.
“We need a non-opening bridge for the Island that will have emergency lanes,” she said.

Island life has wide appeal

2009-04-17T02:34:00.000-07:00

We know Anna Maria Island is a special place, but it's always nice when someone else recognises the beauty and unique charm of the place.
This blog post comes from the news site isawnews.com in their travel section.

There’s something special about an island. Surrounded by water and often only accessible by one causeway road across a bridge, the remoteness adds a feeling of isolation that is hard to come by in today’s super connected, WiFi world.
While some of the world’s most exotic islands will require a long plane ride and a passport for US travelers, there are plenty of islands waiting to be discovered just off the Florida coastline.
Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island offers a private island feel. Located about 20 minutes west of Bradenton, Florida off the Gulf Coast, you won’t find a plethora of convenience stores or chain restaurants on Anna Maria Island. You also won’t find - and probably won’t miss - the lines and crowds often associated with Florida tourism.

To read the full post click here

Timely turtle tips

2009-04-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

Here's a timely story from the Bradenton Herald, warning both visitors and locals alike of the danger of invading the privacy of nesting turtles. Remember, they have been visiting Anna Maria Island for longer than we humans, so leave them alone and hopefully they will be around to bring us joy for many years to come.
Read the full story here

Endangered sea turtles are expected to begin nesting any day now on Anna Maria Island beaches, and officials are asking for the public’s help not only in observing the ancient ritual but also in protecting the turtles.
Sea turtles are among the oldest creatures on earth and are believed to have been nesting on beaches for 110 million years, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
But the journey from water to sand and back again is fraught for the turtles and their hatchlings, with peril from artificial lighting and scavengers. Survival of hatchlings depends mostly on beach-goers and residents.
Efforts to educate the public about the perils of beach lighting on hatchlings heading to the ocean from their nests have increased.
Turtle become disoriented and thousands are killed each year as they wander onto roadways instead of using natural light as a guide to the ocean, according to Fish and Wildlife. Artificial lights not only can send hatchlings in the wrong direction, but cause females to abort nesting and head back for the ocean without laying eggs.
Each year Turtle Watch teams up with the state to certify dozens of beach patrol volunteers to monitor one-mile stretches of Anna Maria for turtle activity.
The patrols are done daily at sunrise to search for nests and signs of turtles nesting. Data is tabulated and compiled for state research. And it is a popular endeavor, according to Fox.
Those wanting to volunteer for this year’s sea turtle season with Turtle Watch must attend an April 23 workshop held by the group at Holmes Beach City Hall, Fox said.

Orlando hit hard by recession

2009-04-07T05:47:00.000-07:00

Not even the mouse is immune from the effects of the recession it seems. Walt Disney Co announced last week a series of cuts brought about by falling numbers of visitors, about 1,900 jobs at its domestic theme parks in total.
The bulk of the cuts occurred at Walt Disney World in Orlando, where about 1,400 jobs were eliminated. About 300 jobs will be cut from the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, with the remainder coming from corporate headquarters in Burbank.
Disney, which employs about 80,000 people in its parks and resorts unit, said 1,200 people were laid off and about 700 positions were left unfilled.
The figures get worse for Orlando, where the number of passengers traveling to Orlando International Airport declined 14% in February compared with a year earlier, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority said. Hotel bookings are down by double digits as well, according to Smith Travel Research.
Well, you know the answer, book into one of our wonderful vacation rental homes, and travel up to Orlando and back in a day. That way you get to save money by sharing the cost of accommodation in a rental home, and get to enjoy all that Anna Maria Island has to offer. Visit www.annamaria.com for the best rental homes on the island.

Preservation for future generation

2009-04-03T03:53:00.000-07:00

It's been around for such a long time, sometimes we take it for granted. But thanks to some forward thinking individuals, Anna Maria Island can look forward with confidence that it will remain true to its roots.
That's because last week a local business owner, an elected official and an historian announced the formation of the Anna Maria Island Preservation Trust.
David Teitelbaum, owner of several island resorts; Anna Maria Commissioner, Jo Ann Mattick, and Sissy Quinn, former director of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, organized the trust to complete the audit of historically significant buildings on the island.
The trust also will work to place sites that are 50 years or older on the Florida Master Site File in Tallahassee, install historic plaques and markers, save cottages, piers, churches and other historically important structures, create a historical walking tour map, and pursue grant funding for preservation activities.
The official launch of the trust will be on April 13, in the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N.
For more information about the Anna Maria Island Preservation Trust, contact Quinn at 778-5120.

Be prepared for a Florida vacation

2009-03-31T02:27:00.000-07:00

Good advice is priceless. And here is some real gold dust from Carmel Snyder, the Family Travel Examiner from examiner.com. Find out more about her and read all her articles here.
If anything can create angst on a family trip, it’s checking in baggage at the airport. Most airlines now charge per bag, and have size and weight restrictions on top of the TSA travel restrictions.
Not only will packing wisely save money, it will also cut down on other problems such as all your bags not fitting in the taxi or rental car.
Adopt the Girl Scout motto "Be prepared".
Every family member – with parental supervision for the young ones – should make a list of what they want and need to take on the trip. Make the list, check it twice, and cut it down.
Pick a suitcase – ideally one suitcase per two family members – measure to ensure that it complies with airline regulations.
So much to bring, so little room
One of the biggest contributors to suitcase weight is toiletries. Buy the small travel size of your favorites, or put some of your must-have conditioner into a small plastic bottle that you can pick up at most stores. Condense. Take an item, such as lotion, that you can use for a variety of things.
Shoes are another big weight contributor. A good pair of walking shoes, and a pair of flip-flops should be all you need for a family vacation in Florida. Of course, add the dressy pair of shoes if you know you have an event to attend.
Consider the climate. Evenings, even in summer can get cool. Take into account what you will be doing most of the time.Don’t forget, most hotels offer laundry service or have laundry facilities on the premises. Pack lightly and do laundry in the middle of the week. If you plan right, you can do a load in an hour while you read your book or local paper without interruptions from the kids, who surely won’t want to follow you down to the laundry room.
The carry-on bag
Carry-on bags should be light enough that kids can carry their own.
For kids: A coloring book and colors, or hand-held video games or reading material for older kids. A snack – no liquids, you can buy those after you go through security – most airlines don’t provide snacks anymore. Sunglasses, a hat, and a light jacket also are handy.
And, just in case the airline loses a bag or your family gets bumped on your connecting flight -- in a sealable bag, bring a clean T-shirt or dress and underwear. The change of clothes doesn’t have to be complete, but being able to change into a clean T-shirt and underwear goes a long way to making you feel better.
Adults: Reading material or whatever keeps you entertained, your own snack and minimal change of clothes. Pack your prescription and over-the-counter meds. No need to bring that 100-count bottle of pain reliever. Pack a few in a clearly labeled pill box.
Other items that are great to stick in your carry on: Extra pens and paper, band-aids, small bottle of antibacterial gel.Use common sense when you pack. If you know it’s going to be a close call getting under the weight limit, pack a lighter pair of khakis versus the jean shorts. Think small.
Don’t forget to bring your photo I.D., passports and tickets! Making a travel folder, that includes printed out reservation confirmations for hotels and sticking all the important items in the pockets also makes travel easier.
After all is packed. Weigh your bags. Review your list.

What's going on ... in May

2009-03-27T04:54:00.000-07:00

Here's another of those completely useful guides to what's going on in Central Florida this month from the good folks at the Sun-Sentinel. Check out their full list here
Thanks fellas, keep up the good work! (Hope you don't mind us using the links...)

Apr. 29-May 3: Sunscreen Film Festival, St. Petersburg. Over the course of five days, Sunscreen will showcase more than 50 films, including comedies, dramas, music videos, student films and documentaries from around the world. Additionally, the festival will host multiple parties, workshops and panels with celebrities and special guests from the film industry. Venues include BayWalk and other locations throughout St. Petersburg. Admission. 727-259-8417. www.sunscreenfilmfestival.com
Apr. 30-May 3: World of Nations Celebration, Jacksonville. Celebration of rich cultural traditions and unique heritage of people from around the world, where you can experience the cuisine, artistry and customs from lands near and far. At. Metropolitan Park. Admission. International Party on May 1 is free. 904-630-3690. www.coj.net/Departments/Recreation+and+Community+Services/Special+Events/World+of+Nations/Default.htm
May 1-2: Smoke n' Blues, Bikes and BBQ, St. Cloud. Florida BBQ Association sanctioned competition for both pros and backyard teams. Festivities include live blues entertainment, bike show, crafts, children's play area, BBQ vendors and much more. At St. Cloud Lakefront. Free admission. 407-498-0008. www.stcloudmainstreetflorida.org
May 1-2: Planes, Trains and Barbeque, Tavares. Enjoy train rides, a Red Bull racing airplane, seaplanes, and tasty barbeque from competitors vying for top honors in this Florida BBQ Association-sanctioned competition. Event was inaugurated last year. At Wooton Park. Free admission; all rides $5. 352-394-8618. http://www.flbbq.org/contest.htm
May 2: Planes, Trains and Barbeque, Tavares. Enjoy train rides filled with robbers at this event inaugurated last year. On land, barbeque rules as Florida BBQ Association-sanctioned competition heats up. At Wooten Park. Admission. 352-394-8618. http://www.flbbq.org/contest.htm
May 2: Concert Under the Stars at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Moonlight concert on the Great Lawn with a performance by the Imperial Symphony Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/
May 2: Taste of Inverness, Inverness. A night of food and wine sampling while enjoying artwork and music, held the first Saturday in May. This is the third annual. It began in 2006 with the opening of Inverness Government Center, and last year featured 10 restaurants serving up everything from Cubans and pasta to ice cream and pizza. At Inverness Government Square. 352-726-2611 x1309. http://www.inverness-fl.gov/index.asp?NID=298
May 2-3: Ruskin Tomato and Heritage Festival, Ruskin. Held annually the first weekend in May. Free tomato slices and free tomato plants, while supplies last, and a wide variety of heirloom and other tomatoes to sample. Also includes a blacksmith, wood carvers, spinners, quilt makers and a Frontiersman Camp setup. Among Cracker food offered will be catfish and hush puppies, fried green tomatoes, grits, swamp cabbage and more. At E.G. Simmons Park. Admission. 813-645-6028. http://ruskinfoundation.org/festival.html
May 3: Taste of Mount Dora, Mount Dora. A spectacular evening of culinary delights prepared by Mount Dora's finest restaurants. At Chamber of Commerce. Admission. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/events.php
May 8-10: Cotee River Seafood Festival, Bright House Networks Boat Show, and Blues by the River, New Port Richey. Event combining live Blues music with tasty seafood and beautiful boats, plus an arts and crafts fair and activities for the entire family. Also offered are fishing and boating demonstrations, boat tours, and children's games and activities. At Sims Park and Orange Lake. VIP seating for Blues Concert available. Most, but not all, activities are free. 727-842-8066. www.nprmainstreet.com
May 9: Sand Sculpture Contest, Siesta Key. Annual event where children and adults alike compete for cash prizes for first, second and third place in several categories of competition. Sponsored by Sarasota County Parks and Recreation and the Pelican Press. At Siesta Key Public Beach. Free. 941-349-1911. http://siestakeychamber.com/events.php
May 9-10: Mayfaire-by-the-Lake, Lakeland. Begun in 1974 as a crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, this event has grown into one of Florida's premier outdoor art festivals. Held on Mother's Day weekend each year, Mayfaire is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Morton in the downtown area, and is one of the largest and oldest outdoor art festivals in Central Florida. Lake Morton Drive. Free. 863-688-7743. www.PolkMuseumofArt.org
May 9-10: Jazz on the Vineyard Green, Clermont. Live jazz music, free tours and wine tasting, and food and beverages available for purchase. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Admission. 800-768-WINE. www.lakeridgewinery.com
May 14-17: Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival, Sarasota. World-class weekend of food and wine including vintner dinners, a late-night kick-off soiree, and The Grand Tasting with visiting wineries, food demonstrations, delicious samples, live entertainment and a charity auction. At various venues along the Suncoast. Admission varies per event. 941-955-3663. www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks/events.php
May 15-17: Wild Amelia Nature Festival, Amelia Island. Educates residents and visitors about the bioregion, and encourages stewardship of the area's natural resources. Started in 2006 by a group of residents who realized that Amelia Island's unique position of being almost surrounded by State and National Parks made it the perfect place for a nature festival. This year's focus is on the Northern Right Whale, which comes to the waters off Amelia Island each year to give birth. Wide variety of tours and outings offered, ranging in price from free to $80. 904-251-0016. www.wildamelia.com
May 16: Arcadia Watermelon Festival, Arcadia. Held annually in May, which is height of watermelon harvesting season. Features a variety of pageants, contests, vendors and activities. Downtown. Free admission. 863-494-2020. www.arcadiamainstreet.com/events.htm
May 16: Blueberry Bluegrass Festival, Lake Placid. Day filled with blueberry treats of all kinds, from shakes and shortcakes to fritters, pies and more, and the sounds of live Bluegrass/Country music. Also offered is the farm's walking tour feeding the chickens, a presentation in the winery, and complimentary cheese and wine tasting. Lawn chairs and umbrellas recommended. At Henscratch Farms. Admission. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 17: Annual Blueberry Bash, Lake Placid. Blueberry pancake breakfast with bluegrass music, and arts and crafts for sale. All things blueberry are offered: blueberry wine, blueberry muffins, blueberry fritters, blueberry jams and blueberry syrup. At Henscratch Farms. Free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 23: Red, White and Brew, Daytona Beach. This third annual event takes place on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. It takes advantage of the summer Boardwalk fireworks program kick-off, and features live music, food vendors, food courts, giant inflatables, giveaways and radio station live remotes. Each of Main Street's bars and restaurants showcase up to seven American Microbreweries. The micro-brews are on sale in both sample and full sizes. 386-255-9300. www.whog.fm
May 23: Art Walk on Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach. Features, in the five blocks between the Indian River and the ocean, a variety of interesting and unique art works by resident and visiting artists. Also entertainment, demonstrations and free prize drawing. Held fourth Saturday each month January-June. Free. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com
May 23-24: Tampa Travel Show and Tastes of the World, Tampa. High-energy show consisting of 450+ travel- and culinary-based exhibitors, special appearances by celebrity chefs, travel experts, adventure activities such as rock climbing and on-site scuba lessons, and professional live entertainment. At Tampa Convention Center. Free. 877-STL-TRAVEL or 314-481-8100 x109. http://tampaadventureexpo.com/
May 23-24: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. At W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy and Celebration Blvd. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
May 23-25: Blue Crab Festival, Palatka. Florida's largest Memorial Day celebration. Includes Memorial Day Parade, seafood cook-off, live entertainment, helicopter and airboat rides, arts and crafts, antiques, and more. Downtown. Free admission. 386-325-4406. www.bluecrabfestival.com
May 25: Memorial Day Celebration and Remembrance, Cocoa. Old-fashioned Memorial Day celebration featuring a variety of speakers, musicians and more. Food and beverages will be available for sale. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets. At Riverfront Park in downtown Cocoa Village. Free admission. 321-631-9075. www.cocoavillage.com
May 28: Memorial Day Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Half-hour carillon concerts at 1 and 3 p.m. present a musical salute to the nation's veterans and current members of America's armed forces. To honor the military, free admission will be offered to all branches of the military as well as active, retired and disabled veterans. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/
May 29-31: Mount Dora Blues and Wine Festival, Mount Dora. Sample wines from the best vineyards and listen to Blues artists and groups. At Lakeside Inn. Admission. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/events.php
May 30: Picnic in the Vineyard, Lake Placid. Henscratch Farms hosts an end of season picnic for the community. Activities include a tour of the winery and a video of the winemaking process, plus complimentary wine tasting with cheese and nibbles. Entertainment by the "Front Porch Fiddlers" is scheduled 11am -2pm. It is blueberry u-pick season on the farm and the ice cream shack will be open for creamy Blueberry & Strawberry treats to enjoy with lunch . Guests may tour the farm by strolling through the nine flagged educational stations, complete a scavenger hunt and feed the 101 free range hens. Door prizes and giveaways will be awarded every 15 minutes. It's all for free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 31-June 1: Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival, Sarasota. More than 100 talented crafters display their wares, from baskets and homemade soaps to jewelry and much more. On Main Street downtown. Free. 941-957-1877. http://www.escape-to-sarasota.com/sarasota-calendar-of-events.html

Space news from the ground

2009-03-17T04:34:00.000-07:00

Did you all see the Space Shuttle launch Sunday night? WaS it not just the best thing ever and reminded you of how incredible space travel is?
Since take-off, the shuttle Discovery is well on its way to the International Space Station today.
Here's the latest update on what is happening up there in space from the good guys at Space.com.
NASA engineers are keeping close tabs on a piece of Soviet-era space trash to decide whether to move the International Space Station before the arrival of the shuttle Discovery on Tuesday.
Discovery launched toward the station with seven astronauts aboard on late Sunday, and is due to dock at the orbiting lab tomorrow at 5:13 p.m. EDT (2113 GMT). But the offending piece of space debris, a remnant from the Soviet navigation satellite Cosmos 1275, will zip close by the station before the shuttle arrives.
"We haven't gotten data in our office yet on how big it is," said NASA spokesperson Kylie Clem at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Clem told SPACE.com that flight controllers know the debris is expected to make its closest pass by the space station at 3:14 a.m. EDT (0714 GMT) at a distance of about 2,600 feet (793 meters), Clem said.
If NASA engineers decide they need to move the space station to dodge the space junk, they would fire the rocket engines on the outpost's Russian-built Zvezda service module at about 9:54 p.m. EDT (0154 March 17 GMT) for a short maneuver.
"We don't necessarily need to do the burn until we get more data," station commander Michael Fincke radioed down to Mission Control.
Discovery's STS-119 crew, commanded by Lee Archambault, plan to inspect their space shuttle's heat shield for damage in the first of a series of in-flight surveys to ensure their spacecraft is healthy.

Check out more news from Space.com here

Get out and go

2009-03-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

Here's another great guide to everything that's on in our area for the next month courtesy of those wonderful people over at the Sun-Sentinel.
You have no excuse to be at a loose end!

Mar 27-Apr 5: Sarasota Film Festival, Sarasota. Featuring more than 200 films, public events, panels, parties, filmmaker discussions and musical performances. At Regal Cinemas Hollywood 20. 941-364-9514. www.sarasotafilmfestival.com
Apr. 2, 18: Festival of States, St. Petersburg. Grand Prix Illuminated Night Parade on Apr. 2 has been an audience favorite since 1969, winding through downtown St. Petersburg's beautiful waterfront with lighted floats, music, dancing and beads galore. On Apr. 18 are the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Show, the Festival of States Day Parade, and the Festival Familyfest, the city's largest family event, with two areas of entertainment, games, inflatables, rock climbing wall, bungee jump, batting booth, Radio Disney and more. At North Straub Park. 727-821-9888. www.festivalofstates.com/
Apr. 3-4: Central Florida Dragon Boat Festival, Tavares. Dragon boat racing was born out of myth and legend more than 2,000 years ago in southern China, commemorating the life and death of a great patriot who threw himself into the Mi Lo River. When news of his death spread, local fishermen raced out onto the water and splashed their paddles to prevent fish from eating his body. Today, worldwide, some two million people participate in dragon races. This year the government of Taiwan is sending 40 entertainers to Tavares to take part in the 2009 event. Action-packed contests begin with a crew of 20 paddlers led by the loud, steady beat of the drummer. As the long and colorful boats compete, an ancient rite is revisited, all in the spirit of charity and fun. At Wooten Park. 352-343-2531. www.cfdragonboat.org
Apr. 3-5: Spring Fling, St. Cloud. Springtime celebration with arts and crafts, food, kid's activities, carnival rides and games, and classic boat and car shows. At St. Cloud Lakefront Park. Free. 407-892-9141. www.floridakiss.com/do/events
Apr. 3-5: Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg. International field of elite race car drivers compete on a challenging 14-turn race circuit through downtown St. Petersburg. Admission. 727-824-7223, 898-4639. www.gpstpete.com
Apr. 3-5: DeSoto Seafood Fest, Bradenton. One of Florida's largest outdoor festivals, this downtown riverfront event combines outstanding cuisine with multi-stage entertainment, a large variety of vendors, and fun for the entire family. Downtown on the riverfront. Free admission. 941-747-1998. www.desotohq.com
Apr. 3-5, 10, 25: DeSoto Heritage Festival Seafood Fest, Children's Parade and Party in the Park, and Grand Parade and After-Parade Party, Bradenton. The Apr. 3-5 seafood event features fresh area seafood plus other tasty offerings from area food restaurants. Also continuous entertainment on two stages, arts and crafts and other activities. At downtown riverfront. On Apr. 10, The Heritage Festival Children's Parade proceeds from Manatee County Fairgrounds to Sutton and Lamb Parks, where food and fun activities including games and a magic show fill the rest of the day. The DeSoto Grand Parade on Apr. 25 is the grand finale of the Heritage Festival. Acclaimed as the area's most dazzling, it is an illuminated night parade with more than 150 entries and more than 180,000 spectators as it wends its way from Manatee High School to the downtown area. An After-Parade Party follows at Bradenton Auditorium. Admission. 941-747-1998. www.desotohq.com
Apr. 4: Collector's Day and Mosquito County BBQ Cook-Off, Kissimmee. Includes live entertainment, great BBQ, a huge rummage sale, Veteran's Museum display, antique coins and musical instruments. At Osceola County Historical Society. Free. 407-396-8644. http://osceolahistory.org/index.php/events/collectors-day/
Apr. 4: King of the Wing Chicken Wing Competition, Inverness. Chicken wing competition sponsored by Citrus County Builders Assn. At Liberty Park. 352-341-1365. www.visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=760
Apr. 4: Best of Tampa Bay 2009, Tampa. Bay Area's premier food event, hosted by The Producers Volunteer Group as a benefit for Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Stroll the Hillsborough River to enjoy live entertainment and sample food and drinks from the Bay Area's best restaurants and caterers. At TBPAC. Admission. 813-229-7827. http://events.tboextra.com/tampa-fl/events/show/84988169-best-of-tampa-bay-2009
Apr. 4-5: Anna Maria Island Art and Craft Festival, Holmes Beach. Fine arts and crafts, music, food. To benefit the Butterfly Park. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 4-5: Antiques on the Avenue Festival, Holly Hill. This annual festival features an array of quality antiques and collectibles from premier vendors. On the avenue downtown. Free. 386-248-9435. www.antiquesontheavenue.net
Apr. 4-5: Eighth Annual Celebration Spring Art Festival, Celebration. The creations of more than 120 fine artists will be displayed, with paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more for sale. Also offered are kid's crafts, entertainment and more for the whole family. At Celebration Town Center. 407-566-4007. www.celebrationtowncenter.com
Apr. 5: National Philharmonic of Russia, Daytona Beach. Performance by the National Philharmonic of Russia, with the most recent Tchaikovsky Competition winner. At Peabody Auditorium. 386-671-3461. www.peabodyauditorium.org
Apr. 7: Moonlight Carillon Concert at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Hear the famous 60-bell Singing Tower in a moonlight concert that will be the last in a once per month over three months series.. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Apr. 9-12: The Ultimate National Championship, Kissimmee. Cheerleaders compete for the Ultimate National Championship. At Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center. Admission. 800-252-4337. http://www.COAcheer.com
Apr. 11: Easter Beach Run, Daytona Beach. Kids' races start at 3 p.m., the 2-mile and 4-mile at 3:45 and 4:30 respectively. Staging area has been permanently moved to the new Breaker's Oceanfront Park adjacent to the Main Street Pier. 386-671-3409, 671-3402. www.easterbeachrun.org
Apr. 11: Underwater Egg Hunt, Crystal River. Underwater egg hunt at Bicentennial Park Pool. For more advanced swimmers there will be different levels of difficulty based on swimming ability. Also a land-based egg hunt for non-swimmers and little ones, plus kids can even paint an egg bigger than themselves. 352-795-1478. www.visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=777
Apr. 11-12: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 12: Easter Sunrise Service at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Easter morning worshipers are invited to greet the dawn of this special day atop peninsular Florida's highest point, as the sunrise is heralded with music from the sanctuary's 60-bell Singing Tower carillon and the Lake Wales Chorale. Free admission 6 to 8 a.m; regular admission rest of the day. Easter buffet offered in the Blue Palmetto Café for an additional fee. Carillon selections also played at 1 and 3 p.m. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Apr. 16-19: 2009 NSSA East Coast Championships, Melbourne Beach. National Scholastic Surfing Association East Coast Championship. At Sebastian Inlet State Park. 321-984-4852. www.floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet/default.cfm
Apr. 16-26: Central Florida Fair, Orlando. Enjoy rides, arts and crafts, food, music and much more. At Central Florida Fairgrounds. Admission. 407-295-3247. http://www.CentralFloridaFair.com
Apr. 16-May 2: Daytona Beach International Festival, Daytona Beach. Biennial festival featuring the London Symphony Orchestra, previously known as the Florida International Festival. Its mission is to enhance demand for diverse, artistically brilliant live music performances in the Daytona Beach region. At Peabody Auditorium and other venues. 866-978-3243. http://dbif.com/
Apr. 17-20: Bern's Winefest, Tampa. The steakhouse long known for its 15-pound wine list and gargantuan cellar hosts four days of dinners, parties and a grand tasting at both Bern's and SideBern's and under tents near Bern's wine store. Admission. 813-250-9463. www.bernsfinewines.com
Apr. 18: St. Johns River Paddle Battle, Orange City. Enjoy the 3.5-mile kayak and canoe race on the St. Johns River from Blue Spring State Park to Hontoon Island State Park. Originally planned around National Public Lands Day in September but moved to a date near Earth Day when high water caused a postponement. 386-775-3663. www.floridastateparks.org/bluespring/Events.cfm
Apr. 18-19: Inlet Harbor ShrimpFest, Ponce Inlet. Benefit for Daytona Beach College Culinary Institute. On Saturday students will serve visitors and hone their presentation skills for the competition Sunday evening. Shrimp dishes will be prepared by teams of students and be judged for taste, presentation and creativity. There also will be shrimp stations offering fried, coconut and peel-and-eat shrimp served by students and restaurant employees, plus entertainment and activities for children. At Inlet Harbor Marina and Restaurant, 386-767-5590. www.daytonabeach.com/calendar.cfm/caldate/2009-04-01
Apr. 18-19: Celebration Exotic Car Festival, Celebration. Town Center at Celebration will exhibit some of the world's most exotic and rare automobiles. Free admission and parking. 407-566-2200. www.celebrationexoticcars.com/
Apr. 18-19: Mainsail Arts Festival, St. Petersburg. Thirty-fourth annual. Juried fine art and craft show with live entertainment, Young at Art student show, a children's art activity tent, and a culinary arts food court. At Vinoy Park. 727-892-5885. www.mainsailartsfestival.org
Apr. 18-19 : Sponge Docks-Tarpon Springs Art and Craft Festival, Tarpon Springs. Fine arts and crafts, food, music. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 19: Earth Day Celebration at Oscar Scherer State Park, Osprey. Annual celebration traditionally held on the third Sunday of April. Includes plant sales, exhibits, music, guided walks, food and children's activities. 941-483-5956. www.floridastateparks.org/OscarScherer/Events.cfm
Apr. 23-26: Florida Winefest and Auction, Sarasota. Wineries from all over will strut their stuff during four days of tastings, winemaker dinners, parties, seminars and an auction of notable wines. Event benefits children's charities and the arts. 800-216-6199. www.floridawinefest.com
Apr. 25: Sea Grapes Fine Wine and Food Festival, Tampa. Sample over 100 wines, dine on cuisine from 20 premier Bay area restaurants, bid on unique and exciting auction items, enjoy live jazz and other entertainment throughout the aquarium, and explore all exhibits. At Florida Aquarium. Admission. 813-273-4030. www.flaquarium.org/cm/templates/planvisit.aspx?articleid=154&zoneid=41
Apr. 25: Sixth Annual Dark Sky Festival, St. Cloud. Outdoor festival offering stargazing through telescopes, along with knowledgeable guides to explain what guests are seeing. Also featured are informative speakers, live entertainment and a kid zone with hands-on interactive exhibits. At Harmony. Free. 407-957-0207. www.darkskyfestival.com
Apr. 25: Art Walk on Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach. Features, in the five blocks between the Indian River and the ocean, a variety of interesting and unique art works by resident and visiting artists. Also offers demonstrations, entertainment and free prize drawing. Held fourth Saturday each month. Free. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com/
Apr. 25-26: The Great American Pie Festival, Celebration. Includes never-ending pie buffet, National Pie Championships, culinary demonstrations, pie-eating contest, children's pie-making, cooking demonstrations, and children's games and crafts. Also entertainment both days. At Lakeside Park. Admission. 847-371-0170. www.piecouncil.org/pie_events/gapf/index.php
Apr. 25-26: Siesta Fiesta Craft Fair, Siesta Key. Includes handmade jewelry, ceramics, stained glass, paintings, photography and more. At Siesta Key Village. 866-831-7778. www.siestakeychamber.com/events.php
Apr. 25-26: Blues at the Winery, Clermont. Live music, food, wine. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Admission. 800-768-WINE. http://www.lakeridgewinery.com/aboutus-events.php
Apr. 26: Taste of South Tampa, Tampa. Includes food and beverages from 40 restaurants, plus live music. Third annual. At Hyde Park Village Circle. Admission. 813-637-0156. http://events.tboextra.com/tampa-fl/events/show/85986472-3rd-annual-taste-of-south-tampa

Watch the skies...

2009-03-10T02:57:00.000-07:00

If you have never seen one before, you really should make time to travel over to the east coast to watch the space shuttle Discovery lauch after NASA managers on Friday cleared it for launch on a construction mission to the International Space Station.
Liftoff of the 125th shuttle mission, the first of five planned for this year, is scheduled for 9.20pm EDT (0120 GMT on Thursday) from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission had been on hold to resolve safety concerns with the ship's fuel pressure valves.
"We're feeling really, really good," shuttle launch director Mike Leinbach told reporters at a press conference. "It's great to have a launch date."
The shuttle will deliver the final set of U.S.-manufactured solar wing panels to the station, a $100billion project of 16 nations that has been under construction for more than a decade.
NASA is scheduled to complete station assembly next year and retire its three-ship shuttle fleet. The shuttle program has been the cornerstone of U.S. human space exploration for nearly 30 years. The replacement vehicles, designed to travel to the moon as well as the space station, are scheduled to debut in 2015.
During the previous shuttle launch in November, one of the three valves cracked, raising questions about what could happen if the damage was more severe or if it occurred at a more critical time during ascent.
Managers replaced Discovery's valves with spares that have made fewer flights and ordered extensive tests and analysis to understand worst-case scenarios.
After four launch delays, the managers felt confident the ship was safe to fly and unanimously decided to proceed with a launch attempt next week. "The vehicle is in great shape," said shuttle program manager John Shannon.
So why not head over to watch this incredible spectacle for real. We guarantee you won't regret it.
FYI, it looks something like this...

What's on in the Sunshine State

2009-03-03T10:54:00.001-08:00

Florida is a big old place, and as one of the top vacation destinations in the world there is always something going on. We would try to trawl the web to find you all the interesting diary events and bring them to you in one handy list.
But why would we when the good folks at the Orlando Sentinel have done such a thorough job?
Here is their guide to what's on in Central Florida over the next month. For the full listing, check here

Feb. 26-Mar. 8: Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City. Strawberry celebration dating back to 1930. Features daily entertainment by some of music's biggest stars, and competition ranging from cook offs and strawberry shortcake eating to clogging contests. Also includes agriculture shows, livestock, a baby contest, and the Midway with more than 60 rides. At Plant City Festival Grounds. Admission. 813-752-9194. www.flstrawberryfestival.com
Mar. 7: Wing Break '09, Orlando. Sample tasty wings from 10 to 12 of Orlando's top chicken wing purveyors. Event was created to provide residents and visitors an engaging way to get outside while savoring what makes life wonderful good wings, drinks and friends. Includes wing-eating contest, vote for people's choice on best overall wing at festival, and a variety of live entertainment and performers. At Waterford Lakes Town Center. Free admission, free parking; purchase tickets for wings. 404-841-8335. www.K92Fmwingbreak.com
Mar. 7: Kidfetti Music and Fun Fest, Ocala. This is an action-packed event of child-focused cultural activities and family-oriented interactive workshops for children of all ages as well as their parents and caregivers. It features performances by nationally recognized, youth-oriented entertainers as part of a large outdoor music and cultural festival focusing on the importance of protecting and nurturing children's mental and physical wellness. 352-291-5462. www.kidfetti.com
Mar. 7: Third Annual Red Ribbon Historic Homes Tour, Crystal River. Learn some history of Crystal River by touring historic buildings and homes in the Crystal Street and Michigan Town areas. Co-sponsored by Crystal River Heritage Council and Citrus County Chronicle. Admission. 352-563-0097 or 423-0048. http://www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 7: St. Cloud Life Extravaganza, St. Cloud. Many feature activities for the family to enjoy are Taste of St. Cloud, Wing Wars, Dessert Fest, Kid's Fair and more. At St. Cloud Civic Center. Admission. 407-892-3671. www.stcloudflchamber.com
Mar. 7-8: Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest, Weeki Wachee. A good, old-fashioned family fun festival presented by three community organizations. Includes swamp food, swamp costume contest, arts and crafts, entertainment, drawings and more. At Linda Pederson Park at Jenkins Creek. Donation. 352-596-3987. http://www.wwswampfest.com/
Mar. 7-8: Azalea Festival, Palatka. One of Florida's oldest festivals, enduring for 63 years and surviving WWII, floods and financial disaster. Held in the historic downtown area and Memorial Park. 386-328-1503. http://www.flazaleafest.com
Mar. 7-8: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 7-8: Second Annual Leesburg Fine Art Festival, Leesburg. Featuring more than 120 fine artists and craftsmen, festive food and live entertainment. Presented by Leesburg Center for the Arts. Downtown. Free. 352-365-0232. www.ffea.com/events
Mar. 7-8: Floral City Strawberry Festival, Floral City. Primary focus of the event is, of course, the celebration of strawberries - by the berry, by the flat, atop shortcake or covered in chocolate. These and more are among the many strawberry delicacies offered to tempt the palette. Each day includes continuous live entertainment, contests, children's games and activities, and more than 200 arts and craft booths. Special features include an antique car show, pony rides, rock climbing wall, pie eating contest, Strawberry Princess pageants, and continuous children's activities. At Floral Park. Admission. 352-726-2801. www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 10: Moonlight Carillon Concert at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Hear the famous 60-bell Singing Tower in a moonlight concert that will feature music including selections from The Sound of Music. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Mar. 13: Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, Daytona Beach. Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra returns to Daytona Beach. Performance at 7 p.m., Keith Lockhart, conductor. 386-671-3461. www.peabodyauditorium.org
Mar. 13-15: Gulf Coast Rhythm and Ribfest, Palmetto. The nation's top Rib Masters from Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Ohio and Florida will serve their award-winning specialties as they compete for this year's coveted 2009 Gulf Coast BBQ Champion award. Entertainment includes a variety of local, regional and national bands performing a mix of Country, Blues, Jazz, Pop, and Rock, and for children, the Interactive Kid Challenge Fun Zone. At Manatee County Fairgrounds. Admission. 941-746-7470. http://www.gulfcoastribfest.com/
Mar. 13-15: All-Florida Championship Rodeo, Arcadia. 81st annual. Includes Calf Scramble, Mutton Bustin', barrel racing, Shootout and more. Admission. 800-749-7633. http://www.arcadiarodeo.com
Mar. 13-22: Firefighters' Indian River County Fair, Vero Beach. Since 1980, proceeds from this event have supported Indian River County Burn Fund, high school scholarships, Fairground Improvements and other charitable activities. At county fairgrounds. Admission. 772-562-2974. http://www.firefightersfair.org
Mar. 13-22: Sarasota County Fair, Sarasota. 73rd annual, featuring exhibits, midway rides and fair food. At Sarasota County Fairgrounds. Admission. 941-365-0818. www.sarasotafair.com
Mar. 14: St. Patrick's Day Open Horseshoe Tournament, Beverly Hills. The Beverly Hills Horseshoe Club is located in central Florida just off state road 491 in the beautiful city of Beverly Hills. There are 24 clay courts on the grounds, mostly in shaded areas and open during daylight hours seven days a week for anyone who wishes to play or practice. The Club holds a full schedule of sanctioned tournaments on the second Saturday of the month,September through the end of the season in February or May. 352-746-4058. http://www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 14-15: Nature Coast Civil War Reenactment, Crystal River. This living history reenactment, the 12th annual, will once again be held at the Holcim Mine property seven miles north of Crystal River. Authentic costumes, modern concessions, battle reenactments both days at 2 p.m. Admission. 800-587-6667. www.crystalriverreenactment.org
Mar. 15-16: Fort Cooper Days, Inverness. Includes living history demonstrations, period arts and crafts, entertainment, food and refreshments. Second Seminole War battle reenactments that depict events taking place during the construction of the Fort will be held daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. At Fort Cooper State Park. Admission. 352-726-0315. http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortcooper/default.cfm
Mar. 17: St. Patrick's Day at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Enjoy special carillon music featuring lively Irish melodies during two afternoon concerts. Free with admission to Gardens. That evening there is a special authentic Irish Dinner followed by a lively evening of high-spirited music and dancing (be prepared to get pinched by a leprechaun if you forget to wear green). At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Fee charged. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org
Mar. 18-21: 57th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. Sebring. Each year on the third Saturday of March, Sebring International Raceway hosts thousands of race fans from around the world to witness the historic 12-hour classic. All the legends have raced at Sebring, including Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt, Dan Gurney, Stirling Moss, Juan Manuel Fangio, Phil Hill and dozens of others, driving race cars built by the world's great manufacturers such as Ferrari, Porsche, Jaguar, Audi, Ford, Maserati, Aston Martin and Nissan. Gates open on Wednesday and remain open 24 hours a day through Saturday's title race. Admission. 800-626-RACE. www.sebringraceway.com
Mar. 18-May 31: International Flower and Garden Festival, Lake Buena Vista. Spring special event filled with flowers, gardens, topiaries, live music and educational events. See millions of blooming flowers and a vibrant collection of specially themed topiaries. Meet with top horticulturists at one of the many Garden Town Programs and learn helpful gardening tips. Attend public demonstrations of advanced gardening techniques from around the world or get up-close with hundreds of colorful butterflies inside Minnie's Magnificent Butterfly Garden. Enjoy music under the stars at the Flower Power Concert Series. At Walt Disney World's EPCOT. Admission. 407-W-DISNEY. http://www.disneyworld.com/flower
Mar. 20-22: Tampa Bay Blues Festival, St. Petersburg. Each year since 1995 Tampa Bay Blues Festival has been staged at Vinoy Waterfront Park on the shores of Tampa Bay, with popular St. Petersburg Pier serving as a brilliant backdrop. The festival established itself as one of the world's preeminent blues music events, having presented more than 195 of the world's greatest blues performers. In addition to world class music, you can enjoy arts and crafts, taste treats from seafood and barbecue to Cuban cuisine, plus premium beer and wine. Admission. 727-502-5000. www.tampabaybluesfest.com
Mar. 21: Kowtown Festival, Kissimmee. Celebrate Kissimmee's birthday with a family-friendly festival that honors the city's cattle ranching heritage. Enjoy live entertainment, unique games, food and festivities. At Toho Square. Free. 407-846-4643. www.kissimmeemainstreet.com
Mar. 21-22: Palm Harbor Art and Craft Festival, Palm Harbor. Fine art and crafts, music, food. Florida Avenue downtown. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 26-28: International Rum Festival, Ybor City. Largest rum festival in the nation. Features dozens of world class spirits, industry experts and master distillers, authors, aficionados, master mixologists, judges and celebrities. Seminars cover a mix of history, culture, distillation, mixology, tasting techniques, culinary demonstrations and consuming news. Also includes an outdoor BBQ and a formal rum tasting dinner. 727-947-3522. http://www.polishedpalate.com/events/irf/2009/
Mar. 26-29: Sunnyland Antique and Classic Boat Society Show, Tavares. 22nd annual gathering at Lake Dora. View antique boats on land and in the water, plus amphibious cars, Jersey Speed Skiffs, antique woody cars, and antique canoes. Also live entertainment, nautical flea market, Sunnyland Ships Store, food court, beer garden, tour boats and train rides. At Wooten Park. Admission. 352-742-6338. www.acbs-sunnyland.com/show/index_show.php
Mar. 27-29: SPIFFS 2009 Folk Fair, St. Petersburg. A world celebration of food, culture and entertainment, presented for the 34th year by St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society, Inc. (SPIFFS). Ethnic villages capture the flavor of each country, and costumed villagers demonstrate crafts and prepare ethnic food specialties. Visitors eat their way around the world, moving from village to village. Folk dancing and music similarly offers outstanding performances and demonstrations. At Vinoy Park. Admission. 727-552-1896. www.spiffs.org
Mar. 27-29: Spring Car Show and Swap Meet, Daytona Beach. This popular car show and swap meet, set inside Daytona International Speedway's infield, showcases more than 3,000 collector cars and trucks. 386-255-7355. www.daytonabeachcarshows.com
Mar. 28: Family Tree Climbing at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Tackle the challenge of trying to scale one of the tall live oak trees, climbing 60-80 feet high above the ground, or just sit in the harness to study the environment, Singing Tower carillon and rolling hills of citrus. An international sport, Family Tree Climbing is led by qualified trainers and the tree is prepared by an arborist. Participants use ropes, harnesses and helmets for safety. Reservations and release forms required. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Fee charged. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Mar. 28-29: Battle at Narcoossee Mill, St. Cloud. Authentic reenactment of a Civil War battle. Roam through civil war camps, watch the mounted cavalry ride back from the past, and enjoy music from the era of the Rebelaires. Educational and entertaining for all ages. Held at Ralph V. Chisholm Park in Narcoossee. Admission. 407-931-7003. http://www.jacobsummerlin.org
Mar. 28-29: Images in Art Festival, Cape Canaveral. Fine art and craft, food, music. Second annual. At Manatee Sanctuary Park. Free. 352-344-0657. . www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 28-29: Fourth Annual Garden Expo and "A Fair to Remember," Stuart. Annual Garden Expo with educational seminars and vendors plus Biennial Flower Show featuring exotic horticulture and award-winning design arrangements presented by The Garden Club of Stuart. At Martin County Fairgrounds. Free. 772-283-1529. http://www.gardenclubofstuart.org
Mar. 28-29: Chocolate Festival, Melbourne. Brevard's best chocolatiers, pastry chefs and restauranteurs come together with community volunteers to raise funds to support programs that improve the lives of women. Guests may sample chocolate confections, cakes and desserts, then vote to select "Brevard's Best Chocolate Fix." In addition, there are beverages, appetizers, entertainment by local musicians, and an Emerging Artist Showcase. At Front Street Park Community Center. Admission. 321-729-0755. www.zontaspacecoast.org
Mar. 28-29: Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival, Sarasota. Begun in 2002, this popular craft show takes place annually on the last Saturday and Sunday of March, with approximately 200 crafters exhibiting their wares. Downtown. Free. 941-957-1877. www.escape-to-sarasota.com/sarasota-calendar-of-events.html

Sharks feeling the bite

2009-02-27T01:32:00.000-08:00

If you think times are tough for us in economic terms at the moment, spare a thought for the sharks, who are having a pretty lean time of it themselves.
According to a story on Reuters, even the sharks are feeling the impact of the global economic slowdown.
It says: Shark attacks on humans dropped worldwide in 2008 to their lowest level in five years, apparently because the recession has curtailed seaside vacations, University of Florida researchers who compile the annual tally have said. They confirmed 59 shark attacks on humans in 2008, down from 71 the previous year and the fewest since 2003.
"I can't help but think that contributing to that reduction may have been the reticence of some people to take holidays and go to the beach for economic reasons," said George Burgess, who directs the International Shark Attack File at the university.
"We noticed similar declines during the recession that followed the events of 2001, despite the fact that human populations continued to rise," he said in a reference to the September 11 attacks.
The number of shark attacks in the United States, which typically accounts for about two-thirds of the global total, dropped to 41 last year from 50 in 2007. Thirty-two were in Florida, which has a higher concentration of sharks because its warm waters are home to species not found in cooler regions.
As in past years, surfers were the victims of most of the world's attacks, 57 percent. Sharks often mistake them for prey.
"The splashing of arms and particularly the kicking of feet at the water's surface where visibility is poor is provocative to sharks," Burgess said.

Actually, on second thoughts, as far as humans are concerned, this might just be one of the big positives to come out of the economic downturn...

You can't get friendly with a crocodile...

2009-02-24T02:47:00.000-08:00

Alligators are as much a part of Florida as sunshine and Mickey, but their reptilian friends, the crocodiles, are not always so warmly welcomed by those who live in the Sunshine State.
But help is at hand after a new study has revealed that the temporary use of magnets to disrupt the internal navigation of federally and state-protected American crocodiles, which have been spotted most often in neighborhoods of Miami-Dade and Monroe counties in Florida.
“Scientists in Mexico have reported success in using magnets to break the homing cycle,” said Lindsey Hord, crocodile response coordinator for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
A report in the Sun Sentinel newspaper says: When crocodiles show up where they don’t belong, they’re typically captured and transported to a suitable habitat as far away as possible, according to commission officials. “Unfortunately, they usually return,” said spokeswoman Gabriella Ferraro.
As part of the study, trappers have been told to attach magnets to sides of the reptile’s head where it’s captured. The magnets are supposed to disorient the crocodiles and disrupt their navigation so they can’t find their way back.
Besides protecting crocodiles from vehicles and other hazards that could injure them if they try to return, the magnets could also help keep more of them in the wild.
Generally, if a crocodile returns three times, and under certain other circumstances, it gets placed into captivity. An estimated 2,000 crocodiles are thought to be in the wild in South Florida.
And remember the old song from Peter Pan: Never smile at a crocodile...
We don't have crocs on Anna Maria Island. Come and find out why it is consistently voted the top secret tourist destination in Florida. Visit Anna Maria Vacations to find out more and check out some of the best vacation rentals money can pay for.

Charity begins at home

2009-02-20T04:25:00.000-08:00

Here's a story from Florida's News Channel 7, about what you can do to help Florida's economy in the short term. And, according to their report, it starts much closer to home than you might think.
Florida business leaders want stimulus money spent on infrastructure. Tax groups, economy experts, and construction contractors have looked at different ways to spend the money, and they have a plan to spend half of Florida’s 12 billion stimulus dollars to create 150-thousand jobs.
As state tax revenues dwindled this summer, so did the road construction jobs they funded. Since September road builder Craig Elmore has laid off 50 workers.
“We’ve been in business for 56 years and I don’t know how much longer we can go on if we don’t get some help.”
Help is around the corner as Florida looks for ways to spend 12 billion federal stimulus dollars. State Senator Mike Fasano is siding with business leaders who say the 1.3 billion earmarked for roads should be used as soon as possible.
“It’s making certain that every dollar goes to exactly what it’s suppose to, resurfacing, building and repairing.”
Some of the money could be spent to update water treatment plants and pipelines.
“Getting money to stimulate change in infrastructure makes it better for you and me to drink water and it also puts people to work.”
And if the money begins to trickle down, businesses and retailers are asking consumers to shop locally. An estimated 12 billion dollars that could be spent in Florida stores is being spent online or in other states.
And for every 100-thousand of those dollars spent out of state, one Floridian loses their job… causing businesses to close their doors.
Floridians are not only being encouraged to shop locally, business leaders are also asking them to take instate vacations.

So that's a pretty clear message. Shop local and take vacations in-state if you want to help out. And for the very best vacation rentals in Anna Maria Island, visit the website annamaria.com and grab yourself a piece of affordable luxury in paradise...

Get crabby in Cortez

2009-02-17T03:37:00.000-08:00

We don't usually recommend that you stray too far from Anna Maria Island but this weekend we will make an exception.
That's because this weekend is the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival and a crowd of 30,000 people is expected to visit the historic waterfront community on the shore of Sarasota Bay.
There are many reasons to go along and join in the fun, not least the promise of live entertainment, some yummy food and drink, and displays of traditional arts and crafts.
This year it's time to get crabby - stone crabby that is which are harvested along Florida’s west coast from the Florida Keys north and Cortez is a major port of call for the claws. You'll be able to enjoy crab cooked in all the ways you can imagine - so don't have a big breakfast whatever you do.
Admission is $2, and children under 12 are free. The fun starts at 10am and runs to 6pm on both Saturday and Sunday. If you want to park up and walk along, off site parking is available at Sugg Middle School, 3801 59th St. W, Bradenton, or Coquina Beach Bayside, Bradenton Beach, with a shuttle bus service to Cortez for a $2 round-trip fee. You could also park east of the village off Cortez Road and enjoy a 10-minute walk.
The Anna Maria Islander newspaper reports that proceeds from the 27th annual festival will support expansion of the FISH Preserve and restoration of vitally important wetland habitat. The preserve is 100 bayfront acres just east of the village, dedicated as a nature preserve.
The blessing of the fleet and an awards ceremony is scheduled for noon Saturday. Winners of The Islander newspaper-sponsored Cortez Crab Cookoff will receive their awards on stage at noon. And the winning restaurant in the crab cake category, Banana Cabana of Bradenton Beach, will have a booth at the event with a menu including owner Michael Rapport’s “Mango Island Crab Cakes". Yum yum!
Entertainment features the Richard Culbreath Group, Sunshine Express Cloggers, Gumbo Boogie Band, The Alternators, Gulf Drive Band and the Manatee River Bluegrass Band.
It promises to be a great weekend, so get along there and enjoy yourself.

Visit Florida quizzed on spending habits

2009-02-13T07:31:00.000-08:00

The fallout from the investigation into the spending habits of Visit Florida continues, with senators spending a second day quizzing officials about their decision to employ a Missouri vendor to field telephone calls about Sunshine State vacations.
Yesterday, as reported in the Palm Beach Post, they questioned executives of the non-profit corporation, which receives more than half of its cash funding from the state, about salaries, travel expenses and the $587,000 contract which has since been canceled and will now go to a Florida-based business.
The report read: Senate Majority Leader Alex Diaz de la Portilla, who serves on the committee, said he telephoned the Kansas City-based vendor Tuesday afternoon and four out of five times an operator was unable to tell him where the capitol of Florida is located.
Visit Florida received $35million from the state this year, and Gov. Charlie Crist put back in $5 million lawmakers had tried to take away for advertising during a budget-cutting exercise earlier this year.
The Senate Transportation and Economic Development Appropriations Committee today learned that at least one Visit Florida executive earned a $50,000 bonus last year and that the five highest paid officials there earn collectively more than $800,000 annually. Visit Florida president Bud Nocera earns $222,000 per year.
Crist said he expected the salaries to be trimmed as lawmakers are struggling to come up with ways to handle a $5 billion spending gap in next year's budget and deal with a $700 million shortfall before the end of this fiscal year in June.
"This is not a time when high salaries are the kind of order of the day. I think we'll probably see some reductions," Crist said. He said he would defer to the legislature regarding whether some executives should be fired.
Visit Florida also spent more than $1million for staff to travel internationally to promote the state, officials told the committee.
And they paid $500,000 for non-employees - travel agents, meeting planners and others - who don't live in Florida to visit the area.

President aims to bring back sunshine to state

2009-02-10T12:31:00.000-08:00

President Obama traveled to recession-hammered Florida yesterday to make his case for passage of the economic stimulus package. On Monday, in a town in Indiana, he noted the community is 'shedding jobs at an alarming speed'. The over $800billion plan was due to be passed in the Senate yesterday. It must be reconciled with an earlier version passed in the House. Obama hopes to sign the stimulus bill into law next week.
En route to Florida, Obama said, "The American people don't need to be convinced" about the need for action.
"We just wanted to shine a spotlight on how severe this downturn is all across the country, and to make sure that members of Congress understand the sense of urgency that I feel in getting something done," Obama said in explaining his travels to reporters aboard Air Force One.

Cuba still a hot potato

2009-02-06T02:56:00.000-08:00

It's the issue that refuses to go away, whether or not the new Obama administration will shortly open up trade and travel links with Cuba. Whatever your thoughts on the situation, it is currently up for discussion among our leaders.CNN reports that many travelers and travel industry professionals hope the Obama administration will soon loosen Cuba travel rules. During the campaign for the White House, President Obama promised to lift travel restrictions on Cuban Americans trying to visit family.
It says: under Bush's policy, Cuban Americans had to wait three years between visits to relatives in Cuba. The policy also complicated travel for Americans with no ties to the island.
In 2007, about 45,200 Americans, including Cuban Americans, legally obtained a license or approval from the U.S. government to enter Cuba by air, a dramatic drop from nearly 84,500 travelers in 2003, according to reports from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Office of Travel and Tourism Industries.
Easing travel restrictions for Cuban Americans alone isn't enough for many in the travel industry. The American Society of Travel Agents, the nation's largest group of travel professionals and companies, would like all Americans to be allowed to visit the island.
The group formally requested the Obama administration lift all travel restrictions.
American travel to Cuba remains tightly controlled and highly bureaucratic for most Americans since the U.S. imposed a trade embargo on the country in the 1960s. Many American critics say opening U.S. travel to Cuba would be supporting an oppressive, totalitarian government.
Several academics say Obama's administration wouldn't go as far as allowing American leisure travel, and the president indicated he will maintain the trade embargo.

Whatever President Obama decides, it appears there will be some relaxation of some kind with Cuba. Let me know whether you think this would be a good idea or a bad idea.
Come to Anna Maria Island and stay with us in paradise at www.annamaria.com

Crist vetoes tourism cut

2009-02-03T08:12:00.000-08:00

The tourist industry in Florida received a major boost this week with the news that Florida Governor, Charlie Crist, vetoed a $9.9million cut to the state’s tourism agency, Visit Florida.
“Tourism is the largest industry in Florida and it has a huge economic impact,” said John Reyes, president and CEO of Visit Jacksonville. “During these tough economic times, why would you want to kill the goose that lays the golden eggs?”
Crist released his veto list for the fiscal year 2008-2009 Tuesday. He restored $90.9million in projects and programs throughout the state, leaving a cut of $2.5billion in total from the special session.
The $10million cut to Visit Florida that legislators approved previously concerned many tourism officials because its marketing and advertising projects would be reduced in the public and private sector. The five welcoming centers across the state run by the agency were also at risk of being closed.
Thankfully that will no longer be the case and Visit Florida can keep getting the message out there that the Sunshine State is the place to come on vacation.
When you get here, come stay on Anna Maria Island, a haven of peace on the Gulf Coast. Check out www.annamaria.com for the very best in vacation rentals.

Florida could benefit from Cuba change

2009-01-28T02:14:00.000-08:00

With Barack Obama in the White House and Fidel Castro getting older and more ill, it seems relations between the US and Cuba are getting warmer.
A report in the South Florida Business Journal says that with frosty relations getting warmer, Florida could be one of the main beneficiaries from open trade between us and them.
It says: In the immediate term, there’s wide agreement that Obama will lift Bush-era restrictions on travel and cash remittances, as promised during the campaign. The biggest impact in the tri-county area will be on the agencies that service the area’s many Cuban-American travelers, said Uva de Aragón, associate director of the Cuban Research Institute at Florida International University (FIU).
Obama has promised unlimited travel for Cuban-Americans visiting family on the island, but, under the rules imposed by Bush, “you can travel only every three years, no matter what,” de Aragón explained. This has resulted in lots of illegal travel through third countries and a siphoning of business away from South Florida, she noted.
...Given normalization, South Florida’s larger travel industry would benefit, too, said Dario Moreno, an FIU professor who studies Cuban-American politics. He envisioned full ships owned by South Florida-based cruise lines leaving local ports and heading across the straits. That scenario would also mean a boost for local hotels, restaurants and airports servicing the additional cruise passengers.
So, while it is unclear quite how long it will be before relations return to normal with Cuba under Obama, we can all look forward to a brighter future it seems.

To read the whole of the article click here

Take the tour of Bowl venue

2009-01-26T03:08:00.000-08:00

When you come to Anna Maria Island, why not take a tour round the scene of this year's Super Bowl, the Raymond James Stadium?
The stadium tours are a great, and cheap, day out, with the tour itself lasting about an hour and lunch boxes available on request.
You will get to visit the security area, take the field through the Bucs tunnel, see inside the player locker rooms through service level entrance, get a look at the club/suite area through service level entrance and walk on the main concourse to the pirate ship. And all that for just $3 for children 6-15, or $5 for adults.
For more information call 813-350-6545 - but you might want to wait until after the big event, something tells me they are going to be a bit busy for a while...

Latest offers for Florida travel

2009-01-22T09:39:00.000-08:00

Check out these latest travel deals, as featured on Newsday.com from the Orlando Sentinel.

Orlando puts on a smiley face -- Orlando has introduced the Orlando Smile Card, offering free deals valid through June. The smiles make that offers--cover lodging, attractions (including adults at kids' prices at SeaWorld Orlando), dining, etc. and range from stay-two-nights, get-one-free and children stay free to complimentary parking, free tokens in the game room and buy one attraction ticket and get a kid's ticket free. In all there are more than 50 offers. Visit www.bundlesoffreesmiles.com.

The game is on -- The big game is on at the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort with a Super Bowl gridiron getaway advance purchase program with rates from $220 to $259 per room per night, Jan. 20-Feb. 2. The resort is 70 miles from the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, but those who do not wish to drive to the game, can cheer for their team in the High Velocity sports bar sporting 28 flat panel HDTV's. The bar's doors open at 5 p.m. on game day for an all you can eat Super Bowl Buffet Party for $50 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Visit www.marriottworldcenter.com.

Snap away for a chance to win vacation -- Fodor's Travel and VisitFlorida.com have teamed up to offer a photo contest entitled "Show Us Your Florida." People are invited to submit their photos and the stories behind them at www.fodors.com for a chance to win a three-night Miami vacation package and an opportunity to appear in the ne xt edition of Fodor's Florida guide. The contest is open to U.S. residents and photo submissions will be accepted at www.Fodors.com/contest/florida through Feb. 16. Prize sponsors include AirTran Airways, South Beach's Shelborne Hotel and the Miami Seaquarium.

And don't forget the best place to stay on Anna Maria Island is with www.annamaria.com where all your vacation rental dreams will come true...

Vacations still top Brit list

2009-01-19T02:49:00.000-08:00

It's not all doom and gloom on the other side of the Atlantic it seems - Brits are refusing to let the global economic situation ruin their plans for a vacation according to a new poll.
The poll claims most Britons hope to spend as much or even more on holidays this year than they did in 2008 despite, or even because of, the credit crunch.
The research, carried out by the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) has found that while the number of package deals and flights is reducing in the economic downturn, more than two in three people in Britain still dream of increasing or at least maintaining their vacation budget and escaping the financial gloom.
The upshot means that the average vacation price which people anticipate paying for 2009 is just over £630 ($925) per person, equating to more than £2,500 ($3,700) for a family of four, that's up on the previous year.
And an incredible eight per cent of those surveyed said they would be prepared to more than double that amount.
The real telling answer came when they were asked to rank vacations in importance and, despite widespread redundancies and job fears, respondents said that summer vacations were three times more important to them than pay rises, with nearly half describing a break from routine as a vital way of escaping fears over the economy.

So Brits, come to Anna Maria Island and forget about a whole lot more. Just put your feet up and relax - you're on AMI time now...
Visit annamaria.com for the best in vacation rentals

Just plane crazy prices

2009-01-13T02:42:00.000-08:00

There are still good value flights to be had, with a lot of major carriers continuing their offers until April, May or June, which is virtually unheard of.
According to a Chicago Herald Tribune report: A handful of major carriers and discount carriers have launched fare sales since Dec. 31. Others are expected to follow with sales of their own, or to at least match discounts offered by rivals on competitive routes.
Discount carrier AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of Orlando-based AirTran Holdings Inc, said Tuesday it was offering a nationwide sale with one-way fares starting as low as $39 and some good for travel through May 20.
"We are uncertain about the economy and we are trying to build business on the books for the winter and spring," AirTran spokesman Tad Hutcheson said.
Burlingame, Calif.-based Virgin America also announced a fare sale Tuesday for travel through June 10 to all of the cities the carrier serves. New York-based JetBlue Airways Corp. said it was offering a fare sale involving more than 40 destinations in the Northeast, Florida, California and the Caribbean. For most city pairs, travel must take place before April 1.
So what exactly are you waiting for? Get on a place and get down to Anna Maria Island, Florida's jewel of a destination on the golden Gulf Coast.
For the best in vacation rentals, visit annamaria.com to make your time here just that bit more special.

Flights you might fancy

2009-01-08T09:22:00.000-08:00

New York news channel NY1 reports good news for travelers planning a trip to Florida, with a host of airline companies slashing their prices amid a worsening economy.
It says: Airlines are keeping prices low in a new year's attempt to draw customers in the sour economy. Carriers are offering discounts as pressure mounts to fill seats, even after drastically reducing capacity.
Several airlines are offering discounts for travel extending as late as May or June, compared with sales in a typical year which apply for travel through March.
Some airline executives had expected less need for sales this year, but dropping fuel prices have put more people back in their cars and the economy has slowed demand for air travel.
Competition between airlines to advertise the lowest fare is also helping drive down the costs for travelers.

Check out some of these offers
AirTran Airways
AirTrain is offering a nationwide fare sale with one-way fares starting as low as $39. The fares, available for purchase through January 15th, are good for travel to and from Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico, through March 11th, while all other sale fares are good for travel through May 20th.
Virgin America
Virgin America announced a fare sale for travel through June 10th to all of the cities the carrier serves. Nonstop one-way fares range from $59 for flights from San Francisco to Las Vegas, for example, to $139 from New York to Los Angeles.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue is offering a fare sale involving more than 40 destinations in the northeast, Florida, California and the Caribbean; including a $74 one-way fare from New York's JFK airport to Orlando, Fla. For most city pairs, travel must take place between January 12th and April 1st.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest has sales for travel between January 15th and April 30th.
American Airlines
American Airlines has sales for travel within the U.S. between January 14th and March 4th, and between March 5th and April 30th at slightly higher fares.
United Airlines
Check out United Airlines for deals on travel within the U.S. from January 14th to March 4th, and for travel to several foreign destinations as late as April 30th.

So what you waiting for? Get online and get booking!
And while you're there, check out the very best in vacation rentals at www.annamaria.com

Anna Maria hotter than ever

2009-01-05T02:26:00.000-08:00

Come on over to our place! The winter might be beating down heavily in the north right now, but we know somewhere that's warm and toasty year-round: Anna Maria Island.
And, despite the economic downturn, now might just be the best time to book your stay in paradise as the cost of flights and accommodation drops - especially if you happen to live in Canada.
This from the Sun Sentinel:
Airlines and hotels are touting bargains to lure Canadians. State tourism agency, Visit Florida, features a Canada section on its website with deals, including some hotels that are half-off from last winter. Round-trip airfares from Toronto to Fort Lauderdale now can run $300, down from $600 or more a year ago.
"I've never seen such (airline) seat sales," said Henny Groenendijk, Visit Florida's public relations manager in Toronto.
Canada matters, because the nation of 33 million residents sends more visitors to Florida than any other country. Canadians also tend to stay relatively long: 17 nights on average. And they include tens of thousands of "snowbirds" who own homes in Florida and often come for three-month stays in winter.

So get booking your flight, and then check out the great vacation rental properties at annamaria.com for the best the island has to offer

Don't give up the important things in life

2008-12-31T09:29:00.000-08:00

Just about every industry expert is predicting a tough year for vacation companies in 2009, but who wants to listen to them?
Yes, times are going to be harder, but that is no reason to give up your hard-earned break - especially when you can spread the cost by vacationing as a family or with friends at one of our great vacation rental properties on Anna Maria Island.
By going in a group you immediately cut the costs, not only of travel, but the provisions you purchase, the cost of rental vehicles, and gas to name but a few. But if you come as a family you will also get to spend some quality time together in a real home from home. And isn't it about time you did that?
For more information and to find out about some of our excellent online discounts for 09, check out www.annamaria.com and get planning that dream vacation.
After all, there are few better places to forget all about the worries of the world than Anna Maria Island...

Come on in, the water's lovely

2008-12-29T02:36:00.000-08:00

When you live in Florida it's easy to forget how the rest of the world lives. Not for them the year-round sunshine, warm seas, sandy beaches and glorious sunsets. Some people actually have to put up with snow!
Perhaps that is why so many visitors flock to our beautiful part of the world every winter for the vacation of their dreams. Anna Maria Island is just the best place to see out the really cold months experienced in the north and remind yourself that the best things in life are free: a stroll along a quiet beach, dipping your toes into a warm sea, watching the sun go down on another perfect day.
And you can do all these things on Anna Maria Island.
Traditionally, the snow birds start to arrive in January, many from Canada as the winter weather starts to get out of hand. And even though the loonie has taken a hit on the global exchanges (but let's face it, which currency hasn't?), they are still expected to travel in numbers.
Sean Shannon, managing director for Expedia Canada, certainly thinks so. "We're starting to see prices and deals that we haven't seen in a couple years, despite the dollar," he says . "It's simply supply and demand."
So come on down to Anna Maria Island, where we can supply all you demand all year round.

Visit annamaria.com for the best in Florida vacation rentals

Winter weather still affects Florida

2008-12-24T05:52:00.000-08:00

We might not get lots of snow and ice, but the wintry conditions being felt across the rest of the country are having their effect on us nonetheless.
According to a report in the Miami Herald, hundreds of travelers trying to get in and out of Florida are being held up because of weather delays elsewhere. The report reads:

South Florida was feeling the effects of blizzard-like conditions in other parts of the country that stranded travelers and left some roadways near impassable.
Piles of snow and plunging temperatures meant major delays for planeloads of passengers in and out of South Florida - heralding the start of the Christmas holiday season.
Even cruise lines were not immune from the impact.
''We've seen a higher number of people showing up at cruise terminals late and missing the ship altogether, because they have been delayed by the weather,'' said Jennifer de la Cruz, spokeswoman for Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines.
The weather was blamed for at least 11 deaths over the weekend, including a collision between a car and a tractor-trailer near New Carlisle, Ind., that killed four Marines based near Detroit.
In New Hampshire, the deep snow added to the misery for nearly 11,000 customers still in the dark from an ice storm more than a week earlier.
Across northern Indiana, nearly 50,000 customers remain without power because of an ice storm last week.
In Marysville, Wash., north of Seattle, heavy snow collapsed part of the roof Monday at a factory. No one was injured.
The 14.5-inch snowfall Sunday in Portland, Maine, surpassed the old record for Dec. 21 of 12.4 inches, set in 1933.
In Portland, Ore., a total of 11 to 13 inches was the biggest snowfall since January 1980. Depending on how much more fell Monday as the snow trailed off, the storm could rank as one of the city's 10 worst on record.
Motorists hitting the roadways were expected to inch over some slippery terrain in their holiday travels.
AAA predicts that more than 52.4 million travelers nationwide will travel by auto during the holiday season, down 1.2 percent from last year.
In Florida, 2.5 million auto travelers are expected this year, an increase of 0.2 percent from last year, said Gregg Laskoski, spokesman for AAA Auto Club South.

So, if you're going anywhere over the holiday period the message is clear and simple: take care.

And have a very happy, peaceful and safe Christmas!

Tourists still taking flight

2008-12-22T06:12:00.000-08:00

Check out this story from The News-Press, for all those who were thinking that fewer and fewer folks are going on vacation because of the expense.

'Procrastinators are in luck this year when it comes to holiday air fares — especially in Southwest Florida, travel experts say.
This season’s low prices popped up in a hurry as the price of oil crashed this fall, said Rick Seaney, chief executive of the travel Web site FareCompare.com.
“I can’t even remember a crazier fall and winter,” Seaney said. Airlines are trying to loosen the pocketbooks of people frozen in fear by this year’s financial turmoil.
“This is really, really good for air travel consumers,” Seaney said. “The airlines are trying to get ’em off the fence. They traded an oil crisis for a global economic crisis.”
Nowhere is that more true than Southwest Florida, Seaney said, noting that a typical flight from New York City to Southwest Florida International Airport would have cost $400 to $600 in October but is now in the $250 to $350 range.
Carol Obermeier, the Lee County Port Authority’s director of aviation market development, said the season’s off to a strong start at Southwest International.
“For the next two or three weeks out the bookings look really solid,” Obermeier said. But the situation is so volatile it’s hard to make predictions much past that. Typically, Obermeier said, business at the airport slows in January.
“Christmas is over, everyone’s back in school,” she said. Then, as the winter tourist season kicks into gear in February, the number of flights and passengers will go back up.
The airlines aren’t dialing back their service here as they are in most Florida markets, Obermeier said. In the week ending Dec. 12, there were 210,874 seats on 1,627 flights compared to 190,000 seats on 1,472 flights in the same week last year, she said
“Compared to December 2007, we’re looking to be up in flights 10 percent and in seats by 3 percent,” Obermeier said. “We’re the only one up in capacity and seats.”
For example, Fort Lauderdale is down 9 percent and Tampa is down 11.5 percent in flights, Obermeier said. That’s a marker of the confidence the airlines have in this area’s growth potential, she said. “Carriers look at those numbers: Who’s coming here, where are they coming from? So they make that decision” on how many flights to have.
Kinda makes you think, no?

What are you waiting for? Visit annamaria.com for the best in vacation rental properties in Anna Maria Island, Fl

Panthers prowling back

2008-12-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

This story from the Naples Daily News makes interesting reading. Watch out for a big cat near you!"A plan setting benchmarks to take the Florida panther off the endangered species list is set to be announced.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has taken years to finalize the plan, which changed little since the agency unveiled a draft plan in January 2006.
The big cat has been staging a precarious comeback from a toehold in Southwest Florida, but the plan envisions taking decades, if ever, to declare the panther back from the brink.
Scientists credit a program that transplanted eight female Texas cougars into the panther population with replenishing the gene pool and boosting the number of panthers from fewer than 30 in the 1970s to between 100 and 120 panthers today.
Despite the progress, the panther continues to face an uphill climb to recovery because of threats from increasing human population and development in panther habitat, the recovery plan says.
“Working with our partners and the public is critical if we are to continue making strides toward recovering the Florida panther,” Fish and Wildlife Service regional director Sam Hamilton said in a statement Wednesday.
The plan sticks to an earlier goal of having three “viable, self-sustaining” populations of panthers totaling 720 animals — a goal that will require reintroducing the panther across the southeastern United States.
New to the final plan is an interim goal of having at least 80 panthers in each of two unspecified reintroduction areas and not losing any ground in Florida. The next step is to translate the 230-page recovery plan into more panthers in the wild, environmental advocates said."
Go Panthers! And if you ever make your way across the Manatee, Cortez or Longboat bridge don't forget to look up annamaria.com for the best in vacation rentals. Perfect homes for those with a big pride.

Crist (on a bike)

2008-12-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

If you think the travel industry is in dire straits, at least we have Governor Charlie Crist.
Gov. Crist, like anyone else in his position, is entitled to go on trade missions to drum up new business for Florida. But to judge from the costs he racked up and the size of his retinue on the trip to Europe, Mr Crist seems to have lost his sense of proportion.
The trip was supposed to cost $255,000, a hefty sum by most measures but apparently within the expected range for gubernatorial jaunts of this sort. No doubt the dollar's weakness in Europe this summer increased costs. But by $170,000? That's a lot of business development.
The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported that Crist's trade trip far eclipsed the original estimated price tag of $255,000. The newspaper found that among the governor's entourage were nine bodyguards. Crist stayed in hotel suites in London, Paris, Rome and St. Petersburg that ran as high as $2,179 a night, and he traveled first-class air at a cost of $8,000, round trip. Oh, lest we forget, there was a $1,300 tab for hotel room service and minibar expenses.
And then there is the question of Carole Rome, Crist's then fiance. Rome tagged along on the trip but was listed on the travel list as a "delegate" representing her New York company. That company is a wholesaler of Halloween costumes.
Crist's staff has defended the trip, saying it was largely funded by Enterprise Florida, the public-private partnership that promotes economic development in the state. Enterprise Florida officials say the junket enabled Florida companies to make $5.5 million in sales and laid the groundwork for another $96 million in business and 2,245 new high-tech jobs.
Even if that's true, overspending on an official trip and going first class and maybe beyond is either a sign of cluelessness or crassness on Crist's part. Especially at at time when so many of his constituents are worrying about having a job or, worse, a home.
Florida leads the nation in jobs lost. Florida is being hit harder by the mortgage crisis than any state but California.
The latest forecast by state economists shows the state facing a potential $6 billion revenue shortfall for the coming year, on top of $6 billion in cuts last year.
And as of now, neither the governor nor the Legislature has a plan to keep our schools and our social services adequately funded.
Crist should quit trying to defend a trip that was filled with unjustifiable extravagances and was shamefully over budget. That's hardly a message a man who calls himself "the people's governor" should be sending.
Times are tough, and in Florida, they are worse than most places. The governor should act like it when conducting his own affairs and the public's affairs, and not just when it comes time to cut the budgets for public services.

Florida still a big draw

2008-12-07T07:27:00.000-08:00

This from CBS News.

ORLANDO -- Central Florida's theme parks and attractions have played host to more than 100 international travel agents this week as part of a big push to bring in more visitors from abroad.
News 13 caught up with the visitors as they made through way through Universal Orlando Resort.
Nearly all the agents News 13 spoke with said they were having a great time in Central Florida, and felt extremely welcome, something they did not feel a few years ago.
"After 9/11, there was this possible misconception that Americans didn't want a lot of tourists to come over," said Iain Fleming, a travel agent from the United Kingdom.
The Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau brought over the travel agents, saying international travel is becoming increasingly important.
The number of international travelers coming into Orlando International Airport was up 10 per cent in October.

Check out the video that accompanies this news piece here

Any positive news for the Florida tourism industry is good, we say. So come on all you Brits, you're more than welcome...

Great White visitors in Florida

2008-12-04T05:57:00.000-08:00

Hello there travel bugs!
And that goes double for all our Canadian friends. It seems more and more of them are making the trip to Florida for vacations and conferences - and they are most welcome as far as we are concerned.
A report in the Orlando Sentinel quotes a new report from the federal government which shows that Canadian travel to Florida climbed 18 percent in 2007.
It says: 'Just under 2.8 million Canadians visited Florida during the year, according to the US Commerce Department. That made Florida the No. 2 destination for travelers from the Great White North, behind only New York state. Florida ranked ahead of New York in total number of nights spent by Canadian visitors.
'Altogether, Florida drew 14 per cent of all Canadian traffic to the US but 33 per cent of the total number of visitor nights spent in the US by Canadians. Not surprisingly, the vast majority (86 per cent) of Canadian travel to Florida was for either vacations or conventions.'
As Florida gears up for high season, we say keep em comin!

If you want to stay somewhere really special, check out the vacation rental properties at annamaria.com

It's Black Friday shoppers!

2008-11-28T04:28:00.001-08:00

If you're still indoors on Black Friday, you are either unwell from too much Thanksgiving turkey, or you hate shopping. Everyone else is out in search of a bargain at the many malls and shopping outlets around the Anna Maria and Bradenton area.
One outlet in Ellenton took some interesting steps this year - opening at midnight and encouraging shoppers to come dressed in their pyjamas!
Take a look at this news excerpt from ABC news. Were you one of the midnight shoppers?

Here's the 511 for travelers

2008-11-26T05:48:00.000-08:00

Here is some important news for Thanksgiving travelers from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) which encourages drivers to plan for holiday travel by using its free 511 Travel Information System before getting on the road.
The 511 system provides free, real-time travel information that can save drivers time and money by helping them avoid congestion on all Florida interstate highways, toll roads including Florida’s Turnpike and many metropolitan roadways.
Drivers can also plan trips before getting on the road by creating up to 10 personalized travel routes on http://www.fl511.com/, the website accompanying the service. The site allows users to access and hear roadway updates on their specified routes immediately when calling 511. By creating alternate travel routes, travelers can hear information on other roads if their primary travel route is congested.
The time-saving system is a resource from FDOT that helps manage congestion, reduce emissions and increase safety. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), knowing of congestion or delays helps prevent accidents.
If you are on the roads this week, then be a smart traveler and call 511 before you set off.

Florida Aquarium up there with the best

2008-11-24T02:52:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow Florida travelers,

Did you know that ForbesTraveler.com, one of the most prestigious travel websites for world travelers, has recently named The Florida Aquarium among the top dozen US aquariums?
According to the site, The Florida Aquarium was included for its 'diverse guest programs including Dive with the Sharks, Penguins: Backstage Pass and Explore A Shore, the outdoor water fun zone for children'.
This is the fourth such honor the aquarium has received in as many years. Coastal Living and TripAdvisor.com ranked Tampa's aquarium in its top 10 aquariums in America and Parents Magazine ranked it in their top five "family-friendly aquariums in the country".
Thom Stork, president and CEO of The Florida Aquarium, likes the trend. "We are constantly striving to improve our guest experience," says Stork. "With the addition of our new gallery, Ocean Commotion, we feel we have added to the ways people can enjoy the wonder of our aquatic world."
See for yourself the wonders of the deep, check out the aquarium's website here

Anna Maria recession proof?

2008-11-20T02:28:00.000-08:00

Despite almost everything working against us, the figures released by the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau show tourism on Anna Maria Island during October climbed nearly 15 per cent compared with the same month last year.
Even with the Anna Maria Island Bridge closed for the month, occupation rates on the island rose from 40.9 percent in October 2007 to 46.6 percent for October 2008, a 14.1 percent rise.
A recent national news story claimed that, according to government figures, Americans have reduced their discretionary spending dramatically because of the economy. Consumer spending dropped 2.8 percent in October, the largest decline in history.
It seems there are some things we just cannot give up - and Anna Maria Island is one of them!
If you haven't come to stay with us yet, visit annamaria.com for the best in island accomodation.

Hidden doors no more

2008-11-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

Heaven forbid you do, but should you ever have occasion to visit city hall on your visit to Anna Maria Island, that particular task is about to become a whole lot easier.
At present there is a sign on the door to the entrance that faces Gulf Drive which advises you to use another (unspecified) entrance. The door to the side of the building facing Pine Avenue says it's for employees only. The east side entrance provides access to the Sheriff's Office, and most of the time, deputies are out in the city, so that entrance is locked.
"People really wander around up there before they find the entrance," Commissioner Jo Ann Mattick said.
But change is afoot. Soon the Pine Avenue parking lot will be open to callers and an entrance placed leading directly from it.
"We have an address on Gulf Drive, and we should have an entrance on Gulf Drive," Mayor Fran Barford said. "As it is now, people can’t find our entrance off Spring Avenue, and if they do get into one of our parking lots, they can’t find the entrance to the building." Not for much longer Fran...

Head for the beaches!

2008-11-17T09:55:00.000-08:00

Trust a survey to tell us something we already know - like when people come to Anna Maria Island, they want to head straight for the beaches. Well, d'uh...

A study by Research Data Services Inc conducted for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau between March and August, found 96.4 per cent of visitors interviewed said the principle activity during their stay was enjoying the island's beaches, while their second favorite activity was dining out. So people come here to enjoy the beaches in the day, then dine out at night? Hmmm, interesting...

Perhaps more surprisingly, a huge 38.9 per cent said the Anna Maria City Pier was their second favored attraction to visit, following St Armands Circle, which had a 58.9 per cent approval rating. Perhaps even more surprisingly, the Rod & Reel Pier came in as the third most favored attraction to visit, with 38.7 per cent of those surveyed saying they enjoyed the private pier in Tampa Bay just north of the Anna Maria City Pier. Maybe those fishing tales are starting to work.

The study reported 246,800 visitors came to the area during the six-month period, with Florida the most common point of origin. Between March and May, 26.4 per cent of visitors came from a Florida location, while 34.5 per cent of visitors between May and August came from Florida. European visitors accounted for 15.2 per cent of visitors during the winter months and 16.2 per cent during the summer period.

In terms of spending, visitors had a total economic impact of $223 million in the area between March and August, the study said.
Among the respondents between March and May, 59 per cent said they did not consider another location to visit, while 44 per cent had the same answer during the summer months. An average of 33 percent said it was their first visit to the area and 83.5 percent said they planned a return trip.

More than 66 percent of visitors said they received information about the Island from the Internet, while 27.5 per cent said they heard about the Island in a recommendation from friends and relatives.

Well, we're telling you straight, if you don't come to Anna Maria Island, you must be 100 per cent crazy!

Want to see what we're talking about?

2008-11-14T01:44:00.000-08:00

If you want to know why Anna Maria Island is so popular with tourists from all over the world year after year, check out this YouTube video produced by the good folks at VisitFlorida. It offers just a brief look at all the attractions Anna Maria has to offer - but don't just take our word for it, come visit yourself.
For the best in Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, click over to annamaria.com and make a reservation today. You won't regret it.

Special day on Anna Maria

2008-11-12T04:33:00.000-08:00

Anna Maria Island is not just popular with regular holidaymakers, who bring their families year after year to enjoy its safe waters, clean beaches and wonderful weather, there is another niche market who choose our island over any other.
Anna Maria has long been a top destination for happy couples wanting to get married and spend their special somewhere, well, special.
To help those undecided take the final step, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will host the second annual Strolling Wedding Festival to showcase and market ceremony and reception sites and vendors on the island. The event, which will be held January 25, 2009, will feature at least 40 bridal vendors among 12 locations.
As last year, the free island trolley will be available to shuttle couples to merchants, and there will also be a complimentary limousine service for that extra touch of class.
The event will be held from 11am to 6pm. Advance tickets are $7 a person, a $10 per person the day of the event.
This from the AMI Chamber website: 'The registration fee along with visiting at least nine out of the 12 location sites automatically enters you into the prize drawings. There is over $15,000 in prizes including a wedding package which includes many of the amenities for a wedding. Examples of the prizes include dinner gift certificates, spa services, beach or wedding portraits, limo rentals, floral arrangements, music or DJ services, jewelry, island business gift certificates, complimentary resort stays, water sport certificates, sailing certificates and much, much more.
'Upon check in each attendant will receive a complimentary wedding festival tote (to collect information in throughout the day), an island map to all the vendor sites and a schedule of activities and events going on throughout the day. At 5pm everyone will meet at the Sandbar Restaurant for the Sunset celebration where visitors can view a mock wedding after which the prizes will be awarded.'
For more information or to pre-register, call (941) 778-1541 or click on this link

Fears for missing woman

2008-11-11T02:23:00.000-08:00

Anna Maria Island is in the news as police step up their search for Sabine Musil-Buehler, the co-owner of Haley’s Motel in Holmes Beach, who was officially reported missing on November 6. Friends and family on Anna Maria Island say they last saw the 49-year-old on election day.
Musil-Buehler was first reported missing by her husband — from whom she was separated — business partner and friend, Tom Buehler.
Buehler and Musil-Buehler have been married for 14 years. They have been separated for six years even though they continued living together recently, he said. They own Haley’s Motel on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.
Buehler reported his wife missing Thursday morning after he received a 3:30am call from authorities, when deputies made a traffic stop on her car — a white 2000 Pontiac Sunfire — saying three men were in the car.
Deputies stopped Robert Corona, 38, of Bradenton, driving her car. Corona told deputies he had been partying with Musil-Buehler all night and he had lost track of her.

Bridging the gap

2008-11-10T03:28:00.000-08:00

Hello there. Those of you who have been to Anna Maria Island before will have travelled over one of the bridges connecting our beautiful island to the mainland of Florida. If you came here recently you will also have noticed the repairs going on to Anna Maria Bridge as part of a $10.1million renovation and repair project.
Well, after pre-construction estimates said the bridge would need to close for 45 days it was re-opened Thursday, six days ahead of schedule.
FDOT representative Audrey Clarke, speaking to ABC7 news, said: "The bridge is 51 years old. This is basically just regular maintenance. We know that this is a tourist season and the tourists are starting to come back into the area, so it provides access to the business owners, to the visitors, and to residents who live in the area. You don't want to hit tourist season with that thing closed, that was for sure."
You're not wrong there Audrey, but thanks for making our lives, and those who are coming to vist Anna Maria, that much easier.

Vacation staying, says America

2008-11-07T03:55:00.000-08:00

Hello travel fans, welcome to our new travel guide. It will concentrate on Anna Maria, where I work, but I'll be adding all sorts of goodies here from now on, so make sure you check back regularly and keep up to date with all that's going on in the world of travel.
The credit crunch and global financial troubles might be biting, but it seems the world still needs a break and according to research done by Apple Vacations. Sandy Babin, Vice President of Marketing, Apple Vacations said: "Consumers will be able to keep their vacation plans for 2009 without giving up the things they love."
That's right, so why not get your new year off to the perfect start with a break in sunny Florida? Check out the prices on Annamaria.com and come join us in paradise.

Happy trails...