Children and cirque de soleil?

Heading to orlando in august. Would really like to see cirque de soleil but not sure about the kids. Mine are twelve and five, both girls. Has anyone brought their kids to it and do they have any advice? Thanx.

Children and cirque de soleil?

We brought our 3 children two years ago and they loved it, especially my daughter who was 7 at the time. My boys were 8 and 10 and they liked it also. There is so much going on during the show. Try to get seats up close and the performers will interact with them throughout the show.

Children and cirque de soleil?

We first saw La Nouba when our daughter was 5 yrs old. She (along with us) was mesmerised. Loved it.

We%26#39;ve since seen five more Cirque shows in London,Las Vegas,Birmingham etc., and she%26#39;s seen them all with us.

We%26#39;re doing two more in the coming months, and would highly recommend them for all ages.

Hi, I took my 3yr old grand daughter in 2006 and she loved it, when asked what she had enjoyed most about her holiday she said the chicken lady from the circus. When we went back this year it was the first thing she wanted to see even before micky and minnie.

Your daughters will love it and so will you. have a great holiday, only 45 weeks till we go again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Spring Break 08

Although Easter falls (early) next year on 22/23 March, our UK school is having its 2 week holiday later in April - I am wondering when Spring Break will be in the USA and whether Orlando/theme parks will be particularly busy from 5th April onwards?

Spring Break 08

That was answered here recently, if you cannot find the message, your Google Gods will have the answer. USA schools have Spring Break at different times - not the same two weeks for everyone.

Spring Break 08

It%26#39;s different for each state there not all the same and Catholic schools have a different schedule also my kids spring break here in New Jersey will be the same week as Easter they go to public school

white makeup

myspace top

I am watching a web cam of Daytona Beach. It is a good

feeling knowing we are going to actually be on the beach by late

Saturday afternoon.

I am watching a web cam of Daytona Beach. It is a good

your%26#39;e gonna loveeeeeeeeeeeee it!!!!

punz

I am watching a web cam of Daytona Beach. It is a good

Thanks punz, will you be going back to Daytona this year? I hope you are.

f you have the money I can find the time. Piggy bank is empty right now. You want my snail mail address to send the money to? LOL

punz

Well for one of the biggest contributors to TA I think we should all take up a collection for you. You deserve it. LOL

i keep it on my screen 24/7 in a little box the size of 2 cigarette packs.

i use the microsoft active desktop which makes your wallpaper any webpage you desire. I set it to the beach cam, then resize the window to the size of the video screen and park it at the bottom of my screen. When you restart your pc, it shows the top left corner of the webpage and you just use the slider bars to reset the image of the webcam.

I keep several live images of daytona, lauderdale, miami etc on my screen, it is really cool. I used to keep like 6 live cams from around the world but it got to be too much work.

I check the web cam shot of Daytona daily - and several times a day as it gets closer to leaving! When folks at work hear that familiar surf sound as it loads, they say ';oh no, we%26#39;ve lost her again!'; :)

John,

I really think that is so cool.

punz

Rags,

I did the same thing here at home. Just think, it won%26#39;t be long before you will be there in person!!!! We have been home for 3 weeks and I so wish I was back there right now! I hope you have as good of weather when you go as we did, it was glorious. Those white caps look so pristine and white when the sun shines on the ocean, just awesome!

punz

Hey Marion !!

You folks send me the webcam website address of Daytona, (gonna be there mid-late Aug), and I will send you a webcam site at Port Canaveral (see the Cruise ships dock)...

will be THERE mid-late October...

http://www.sunrisemarina.com/

I too check it everyday. I also look at the weather 10 day forecast. Not sure why it always has scattered thunderstorms and highs n the 80%26#39;s, sometimes 90%26#39;s. LOL Arriving Sunday about 1:00 PM .

We like to cut over at Flagler Beach and drive A1A the rest of the way. I love that first gimpse of the ocean. Even though I was just there, we arrived at night and didi not get much quality ocean time.

Here is the link to the webcam.

http://www.volusia.org/beach/daytona.htm

Dining for 15 in Pensacola, FL near Hampton Pensacola Beach

We are traveling next week to Pensacola, FL. We have never been there before, so we don%26#39;t know the area. We want to go out to a steakhouse or a seafood restaurant one night. There are 15 of us, so we would need a little bit mor space. We are staying at the Hampton Pensacola Beach, so we would like a restaurant that is nearby. Any suggestions?

Dining for 15 in Pensacola, FL near Hampton Pensacola Beach

I would suggest Flounder%26#39;s for seafood. You can walk there from the Hampton.

It%26#39;s owned by the same people who own McGuire%26#39;s in Pensacola (and Crabs on P. Beach). I would definitely suggest going to McGuire%26#39;s one night too.

Here are the websites:

http://www.flounderschowderhouse.com/

http://www.mcguiresirishpub.com/

Cottage on the beach ....Beachview ????? Anything better ???

Family and I Myself ,Husband and 3 boys ( 14,15,16) will be going to Sanibel Island at the end of July from East coast FL. and I came across Cottage on the beach Cottages looks perfect or is it too good to be true... Is there any other Cottage style rentals on the West Coast anyone has had first hand experience with? I am looking for the laid back feel but worried ithis rental is, please forgive the expression '; trailer park like';. Would like something right on the Beach. Over the past summers we have enjoyed Marco Island and renting a boat.. Do they have boat rental nearby and how about a relaxed laid back place to eat ? Would love to hear from a local.. Thank you to any and all replies.......

Cottage on the beach ....Beachview ????? Anything better ???

With teen boys, I would check out a two-bedroom or three-bedroom condo - for privacy%26#39;s sake. And the rates are comparable to ';cottages';.

You should check one or more of the rental firms or private owners. Their web sites can show you interiors and exterior views.

Boats can be rented at the Boathouse in Sanibel Marina.

Lots of casual restaurants on Sanibel - mostly casual, in fact.

I like Grandma Dot%26#39;s, also in Sanibel Marina, Lazy Flamingo, McT%26#39;s, Island Cow, Hungry Heron, Lighthouse Cafe or Sanibel Cafe for breakfast. (No offense intended) I%26#39;m sure I have left some off that should be included. Others may add to the list.

If you are adventurous, you might wait until you arrive on Sanibel in late July and see what is available at last minute in the Chamber Welcome Center. It is the second drive on the right as you come on island.

Cottage on the beach ....Beachview ????? Anything better ???

Condos will have much more square footage but less charm. Another place to look at is Forty Fifteen.

Unfortunately the only part of Sanibel that has a few %26#39;walk to%26#39; spots is the East End and the beach accommodations there with a pool are condos. There are cottages off beach. If you don%26#39;t need a pool, try Gulf Breeze Cottages. They are east end.

There are only a very few places to eat near the beach and they are associated with resorts. The vast majority are located along Periwinkle Way mid-island.

Boat rentals are also East End at the Sanibel Marina or up on Captiva. Sounds like you%26#39;d enjoy Captiva in the village area, but there is nothing like Beachview there. The houses at Sunset Captiva are a good buy and units #1-8 are beachfront and there is a community pool and tennis. Walk to restaurants and shops.

we stayed at beachview cottages last christmas and loved it! i did not get the ';trailer park'; feeling either. it is true old time feel florida. read the reviews on the beachview cottages. i don%26#39;t know anything about boat rentals, we mostly did shelling which was great when we were there. we ate at a few resturants, doc fords, hungry heron and a pizza pasta place. they were all laid back.

Waterside Inn has both cottages and condos for rent, very family friendly, small pools. Cottages are only 1 bedroom. COndos are 2 bedroom.

Island Inn has several cottages available - nice place with a restaurant on site, not sure if open in summer. Neither of these places is ';trailer park'; LOL, but they are beachy and old Florida style.

Beachview, waterside and island inn are all within walking distance of each other, great part of the beach, Have fun.

Best month to visit KW?

Just wondering, in your opinion, what is the best month to visit KW and why?

We just returned last week from our first trip and understand it is not high season. We were really surprised by the lack of crowds and rates seemed reasonable. It was hot and humid, but we%26#39;re used to that. Granted, don%26#39;t think I would like it too much hotter for vacation.

Just wanted to keep in mind a good time of year for a return trip. By the way, why is this forum so addictive after you return to real life and aren%26#39;t planning a trip anymore?

Best month to visit KW?

We always go in May, because the room rates are cheaper, it%26#39;s not as humid as July, and the crowds aren%26#39;t too big. I%26#39;ve been down for New Year%26#39;s Eve, and it%26#39;s totally different. Weather is great (compared to MN), but there%26#39;s a LOT of people including youngens%26#39;.

I think the reason we all visit this sight, is because it%26#39;s the only way we can get our ';fix'; until we return to the rock.

Plus, some of the topics just turn into cheap, great enetertainment---thank you Seabus, keywestaxi and BK. ; ) (and the others-you know who you are...)

Best month to visit KW?

Two of the best trips for me have been middle of May, %26#39;07 and %26#39;06. Weather was very good and the only crowded days were when cruise ships were in, and this mainly made the north end of Duval crowded.

My favorite snorkel trips were not filled and there was no waiting for any of my usual places to eat.

Pjk

I have visited KW in March once and hated how crowded it was. All of my other trips have been in July, and I definitely prefer July. It is hot and humid, which is what I%26#39;m used to here in Houston, but I still prefer it because there are so few tourists around compared with other times of year. As I%26#39;ve said elsewhere, locals make KW for me--and I find them to be more relaxed during July.

Steve in Houston

Best months?

IMO, May and November. Avoid special events (ie the offshore races in November) and holidays. The weather is great, the rates are lower, and you can actually get a seat for dinner and/or a drink.

A disclaimer.......November is still part of hurricane season (June 1-November 30), but statistically, hurricanes extremely rare after October.

My favorite time is the first couple of weeks in Dec. The weather is nice, not too hot, hurricane season is over and the crowds are gone.

We went at the beginning of November once, and we loved it. The weather was perfect, and the island was so quiet. We haven%26#39;t been back during that time, because summers are much easier for our dog-sitter (that is important to us). However, we do love coming in the summer. It%26#39;s much cheaper, and I happen to love the warm weather.

We had a trip booked this past New Year%26#39;s, but ended up cancelling because it was too expensive, and we weren%26#39;t looking forward to the crowds.

i usually go once in the summer then always for fantasy fest in october and always for New Years Eve. great time.

%26lt; By the way, why is this forum so addictive after you return to real life and aren%26#39;t planning a trip anymore?%26gt;

I%26#39;m ALWAYS planning the next trip! :)

I agree with Arnie67, If I did not live here the first two weeks in Dec. would be when I would visit

Lowest hotel rates, Nice weather and not too many people.

November is nice but Parrotthead, boat races and Thanksgiving put the rates up, and it is also a peak wedding month so book well in advance if you want to stay in November. Lots going on so it can be a fun time to come down.

May is another nice month but again Weddings galore. Weekends book up early.

A simple answer to '; what is the best month to go to KW ';

ANY MONTH

A simple answer to '; WHY ';

IT%26#39;S KEW WEST

Concern about Hail ...

I have heard about large sized hail coming down quite frequently in the Fort Myers area during Thunderstorms ... Should I be extremely concerned about this when I rent my car and purchase additional coverage .. ? Has anyone had this experience ?

Concern about Hail ...

Find out first, by asking the rental company, if you will be held liable for hail damage. My guess is I don%26#39;t think you will be.

Concern about Hail ...

don%26#39;t be extremely concerned...

If it hails (which is very hit or miss when it does), it is often too small to do damage.

thanks to everyone for the responses... this thing about the hail was just driving me bonkers ... lol

vc

Restaurant that used to be Montys?

I think there was a restaurant with a pool near Half Shell that might have been called Monty%26#39;s and if I recall it is now known as something else? Is that correct and if so what is it now called and ( most importantly) is it any good for casual dining /drinks ?

Restaurant that used to be Montys?

It%26#39;s called Dante%26#39;s now we like it when they have someone playing at HH 4 to 8 Mon. - Fri.

PJ

Restaurant that used to be Montys?

We found it to be pretty much the same as Monty%26#39;s. Food was mediocre, drinks were mediocre, but it%26#39;s a great option for those looking for a pool.

white makeup

Looking for inspiration....

My girlfriend and I fly out on 25th Aug. We are stopping at the Marriott Grande Vista (south I-Drive). We are stopping for two weeks and hiring a car.

Last Sept 2006 we stopped in Clearwater. Couple of years before that we stopped in a villa on the Southern Dunes complex in Davenport. We chose the Marriott because its close enough to I-Drive so we can shop and dine at night without having to drive everywhere, meaning I can have a few drinks as well. Whilst we are there the only %26#39;planned days%26#39; are Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, MGM and 2-3 days of Golf ! Thats 6 days maximum.

I%26#39;m looking for some inspiration from the experts to fill the other days? Maybe knock off another 3 days of the holiday for lounging around the pool and stuff like that.

Has anyone got any good ideas?

Thanks in advance !

Looking for inspiration....

Have you no desire to visit the other theme parks in the area?

Epcot is an excellent place to spend a day, if you haven%26#39;t already done so in the past.

Have you considered at trip to Tampa to Busch Gardens?

Have you considered at trip to the Canaveral National Seashore and Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge?

Looking for inspiration....

Hi Kat,

Thanks for the reply.

We have done all the parks before (in 2004). We are looking at a more tranquil holiday this time. Don%26#39;t want to be on our feet for 12 hours a day queuing in the sweltering heat ! Been there done that thank you very much.

What about Silver Springs at Ocala. Much more relaxing than a day with the mouse.

Here%26#39;s a web address:

http://www.silversprings.com/

That%26#39;s great, Sid. Glad you%26#39;ve gotten the theme parks covered.

The Canaveral National Seashore would be a more relaxing day trip away from Orlando. It%26#39;s a totally uncommercialized beach on the Atlantic side of Florida just east of Titusville.

I can also recommend a good seafood restaurant in Titusville for you to try if you should go: Dixie Crossroads. They are famous for their rock shrimp.

Paulpelican - excellent choice ! That looks really good, a nice relaxing day by the looks of things. I%26#39;ll definitely check that out.

Any more hidden gems in Florida?

^^ oops replied whilst I was signed in as my girlfriend lol

if you%26#39;re up for it, you could take some water skiing lessons! I went to college in Lakeland, FL at Florida Southern College, and my roommate was on the waterski team there. i always wanted to learn when i was there, but i never did. my parents and i went to florida a year ago and i finally learned! it was great. we just found some guy in one of those travel brochures, but disney has lessons on site at Sammy DuVall%26#39;s

http://www.sammyduvall.com/index.htm

just be prepared for some achey muscles the next day - its worth it though to say u learned!

ps i did one lesson that was about 1 hour and i was up on the skis within like 15 mins. i cant wait to do it again!

Golf in Florida...

Hi folks,

It%26#39;s that time of year again when I log onto trip advisor and start asking lots of questions about my upcoming holiday to Florida !! Myself and my girlfriend work for the same company and have just seen a very nice return on some shares we bought a few years ago. Guess what our first thought was !? Yep, lets go to Florida !!

We last visited Sept 2006 and stayed in Clearwater. Whilst it was relaxing, which is exactly what we wanted we found it to be a little quiet in the evenings. So this year we have decided to go to Orlando again.

We%26#39;ve been a few times now so I know all the different areas and what to do/what not to do. However we have recently taken up golf and would love to try some courses out in Florida. We are currently looking at a few villa complexes (with attached golf courses). My question is can you rent clubs from most courses in Florida or do they expect you to bring your own?

Also if I wanted to take my own set of clubs with me on the flight how would that work? That might be a silly question but I%26#39;m just looking for some clarification from other golf enthusiasts !

Many thanks.

Golf in Florida...

yes, most courses rent clubs.....as far as bringing them with you, buy a bag cover to cover your bag and put your clubs in upside down so the heads won%26#39;t get broken during transport.....not sure what the airlines would charge you, if anything, for over baggage allowance.....maybe some of your fellow UK golfers can shed some more light on that part

here is eddie k%26#39;s fairly comprehensive golf list for the orlando tourist area

tripadvisor.com/GoListDetail-i2074-Nice_Golf鈥?/a>

Golf in Florida...

All the major carriers to the states will ship you clubs for free.

When you are there you must not discount the Disney courses as they are magnificent.

If you have just started you might like th Oak trail course which is a 9 hole walking courses at the Shades of Green complex.

We are going to Orlando for the first time in August, I am also a golfer. We are flying with Monarch and they carge 拢30 return for transportation of my clubs. Rental clubs cost $60 at the Villas of Grand Cypress where we are staying, I am thinking about trying to get at least 4 rounds in therefore, cost effective to buy bag to transport my own clubs and take them. The only concern I have is getting from baggage claim to rental car, going with wife %26amp; 13 yr old daughter, neither of whom travel lightly..

I%26#39;ve done the deal now. Cost me and my girlfriend 拢20 each for the golf carriage on the flight with Thomsons. Just need to buy a golf travel bag now!

Does anyone how strict clubs are in Florida regarding dress code? Considering its 90+ degrees I%26#39;m assuming shorts are allowed? Not swimshorts obviously, but smart knee-length ones?

shorts okay, but most require a collared shirt...polo/golf type

going on holiday there...

hello

me and my family are going on holiday there in august... dont really know the area...we are looking for a nice beachy holiday with places to go out and eat and and drink at night time

any suggestions??

this the right place for us ????

thanks

going on holiday there...

While Port Charlotte is not known as a tourist destination, it is a very central jumping off point to go to several superb beaches. Englewood and Venice beaches are the nearest. A little further North you will find Siesta Beach, Lido Key, Longboat Key, Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria Island, or go South to Ft. Myers Beach and Naples.

You will need a car to get to anywhere as there is no public transport.

What make you choose Port Charlotte and not one of the more well known places?

going on holiday there...

The last sentence should of course be:

What made you choose .....

chose port charlotte as it was a good holiday deal... never been to america before. not fussed about disney world.

is there a good night life near abouts??

yeh car rental is all sorted!!

how hot is it in august roughly??

thanks for answering all of my little questions

I think you will have a great time in Port Charlotte. Our family discovered the area about 5 yrs ago- we Love it!!

You may enjoy a day at the beach in Boca Grande- it is about 30 minute drive from Port Charlotte.

You will find shopping and restaurant choices in Port Charlotte. And If you do go over to Boca Grande the ';Loose Caboose'; in downtown Boca Grande is a favorite of ours for lunch. If you want to have another fun outing charter a fishing excursion for 1/2 trip. Some of the best fishing in the world is in this area.

Weather in August will be warm and humid but isnt that why we go to Florida?

You%26#39;ll have a great trip!

Since you%26#39;re from London, if you%26#39;ve never experienced a Florida summer you will find it uncomfortably hot and humid when out in the open unless you%26#39;re at the beach and in the water. All buildings and rental cars are, of course, airconditioned.

Don%26#39;t leave a visit to the public beach at Siesta Key for last as I%26#39;m sure you will want to go there more than once.

You have a few months yet to go so I would suggest you read the other forums here, particularly the Sarasota, Ft. Myers Beach, Bradenton, Anna Maria Island ones. Also consult your Google Gods for more information on any of those places in my previous message, including Port Charlotte.

Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If you burn easily stay out of the direct sunlight between 12 and 4 pm and put on sunblock lotion when outside at all times.

Also if you don%26#39;t want to buy extra suitcases, each person should bring an empty one to take back your purchases. Yes, it happens to everyone - with the favourable exchange rate Brits have now.

And of course if you have other questions, feel free to ask.

thanks for all this helpful information on places to go.

all the beaches you have suggested are they all far to travel by car ?

There is actually a small beach at Port Charlotte - not up to some of the others mantioned but not too bad. Englewood is about 15 miles away I guess, with a very good beach.

You might consider a boat trip from Punta Gorda to the outlying barrier islands like Cabbage Key. You will often see dolphins following to boat. Fishermans Village here is good for shopping

For all the places mentioned so far, it%26#39;s an easy day trip by car, with more than enough time to spend at each place. Check into Google Maps to determine distances. The drive from Lido Key up the coast road to Anna Maria Island is very scenic.

And I don%26#39;t remember if this is where I said it, so I%26#39;ll say it again. Don%26#39;t leave a visit to Siesta Key for last as you will likely want to go there more than once.

I, too, am curious as to your choice of Port Charlotte. Port Charlotte is about an hour away from the larger Sarasota (north) and Fort Myers (south) where they have ';night life'; and beaches that are directly on the Gulf. Port Charlotte%26#39;s beach is on the Charlotte Harbor so it is a quiet, ';no wave'; beach. While Venice and Englewood beaches ARE directly on the Gulf, they are at least 30 minutes from Port Charlotte, so making that trip every day might not make for a ';great beachy vacation.'; Port Charlotte is also a retirement community, so there is not a huge ';night life.';

Port Charlotte is a great place! I am just not sure it has what you are looking for in your vacation plans....

My fiancee and I are moving to this area in a few weeks and we have travelled there extensively over the last three months looking for houses.

You will have a GREAT time in this area-especially Boca Grande. It is a very, very low-key, but very,very wealthy little resort area where everyone gets around on golf carts and bikes-even though there aren%26#39;t any golf courses, there-just the most beautiful, peaceful, wide open white sand beaches you will ever see. If you want to relax, unwind, soak up the sun and then drive to Sarasota for real night life-this will be a perfect vacation for you.

It costs 4.00 to go over the little bridge onto Boca Grande -just an FYI.

There is adorable and fun shopping with charming, cute little stores, but, for us, the highlight was at the very tip of the island. This is where the old, preserved lighthouse is and one of the most fantastic views in all of the area. Don%26#39;t miss it!

If you enjoy fishing, canoeing, bird watching, sailing, boating, shopping-you will find this area to be paradise. To be sure, Ft. Myers and Sarasota offer more to see-especially Sarasota. Sarasota is very cultured and charming. Make sure to go to the Ringling Musuem and the very famous botanical gardens there if you like that sort of thing. Also, for shopping, St. Armands Circle is incredible. Lots of independent shops there that sell the cutest and best.

If you love to sail, go to the Sarasota Marina for lunch. However, we prefer two restaurants down by Englewood and Boca Grande. One is Howard%26#39;s in Englewood and the other one is The Fishery which is a hole in the wall with the very best view on the water- it is right on your way to Boca Grande. A local place-not too many tourists. Great food, service and reasonable-watch the dolphins gambol right outside the windows.when they come in to feed on the flats.

I hope this helps you and have a great vacation!

Key West Sub

Looks like it%26#39;s up (down?) and running...

http://www.keywestsub.com/

Pjk

Key West Sub

Looks like fun but would like to know how much $$ it is. Only 35 minutes under the water doesn%26#39;t seem like much time.

Key West Sub

I too am interested in the price - its a great idea for those that don%26#39;t want to snorkel or scuba.

OK I got the poop.

$95pp.

They leave at 10, 12, and 2pm.

The ferry goes out to the Cayman Salvor, a wreck in 95 feet 6 miles past the reef, then go view some corals and fish.

Locals are 2 for 1 through the end of the month. They%26#39;ve been going for about a week.

Thanks for the price info. Now someone needs to do this and give a TA review : )

We%26#39;re going Saturday.

There was a boat just like this in Key West many years ago. It didn%26#39;t actually submerge but the seats were under the waterline and I thought it would be a good way to see the reef. It lasted about a year. (Maybe it%26#39;s still out there somewhere?)

Did you all notice that there are jobs being offered? One is deckhand. Isn%26#39;t this an old joke? Heckhand on a sub?

Pjk

If I%26#39;m thinking of the same thing pjk, the old sub may be located right outside of the Hogfish on Stock Island.

It looks like the kind of thing they had in St. Thomas about 17 years ago. The delightful Mrs. Gam and I took it though we thought it a bit pricey. I don%26#39;t scuba. I think it was about $100 a pop back then. It was an actual submarine that went down about 100 feet to the reef where a scuba diver would be releasing food to attract interesting fish. It was a good trip but awful brief. I remember that the surface was kind of rough but it calm down quickly when we dove beneath the waves. I%26#39;ll be interested in hearing about the KW version.

Yes, it is a real sub. And it goes down to about 100 feet. I have yet to do it, but I met with the owner and researched it myself.

It is the submarine Sirena, formerly of Saipan. Here%26#39;s a link with more information.

http://www.submarine.co.mp/

It holds approximately 40 people, and the crew have mostly all been imported. (They are training a locally-based captain, as I understand, but for safety reasons, they brought in experience people.)

The most difficult part is moving from the ferrying boat to the actual submarine at rendezvous. For this reason, if there is any significant ';chop'; they don%26#39;t go at all.

One word of honest alert, and what I have heard from both owners and passengers:

Anyone even remotely claustrophobic, think twice.

I had a chance to try this out. I have to say I would have had more fun snorlkling.

You hop on a boat, head about 30 minutes out. From there hop on the sub and go about 90 ft. down. You look at a ship wreck and spend some time looking at the reef.

The trip is partially narriated by a '; natrualist ';. Personally I did not feel he knew alot since anytime someone asked him about a fish he just refered them to the cards with pics of fish that come with every seat. We did see a grouper, some parrot fish , and of coarse a boatload of yellowtail snapper.

Seats are low to the ground, you then kneal forward..kind of like on a pew. Your window is about 30 inches in diamitor. So you have a good view.

Of coarse it is a little darker at 90 ft and lights on the outside of the sub would have been nice. They do a couple of passes at the shipwreck and personally I thought they went too close. Yes I want to get in close. But I also would have liked seen the enormity of it as well.

After about 20 minutes on the ship wreck they head over to a reef. Perhaps I am spoiled by living here , seeing the reef is alot more fun when you are snorkling or scuba.

a few suggestions if you go.

Use the restroom before you get on the boat. There is none on the sub and you do not want to use the one on the boat.

There is no food served. For those used to food served on the other KW cruises.

The only drinks served is water and a limited supply of Publix soda. Which the crew scarfed down on the way out. So really, just water.

You have to be able to climb down an eight foot ladder unassisted to enter the sub.

Try to get up near the front of the sub. This way you have your window to look out of and you can also look over your shoulder , into the cockpit and see the Captains veiw as well.

programming

Horizons,Grand Vista,or Cypress Habour????

We are going in Sept. and these are all available as timeshare exchanges.There will only be one kid (8yrs.) and 4 or 6 adults.I am leaning towards Cypress,but would like some advise.Also,are all of these resorts around the same location?How close/far from M.K.?Any advise/tips/experiences would be welcome.Thanks in advance.

Horizons,Grand Vista,or Cypress Habour????

The Horizons look real good when I come in August I%26#39;m gonna go check it out for next year.

Horizons,Grand Vista,or Cypress Habour????

I stayed at the Grande Vista and loved it. See my report under hotels.

You could pick any of those resorts out of a hat and they would be perfectly fine. If I were you, I%26#39;d choose the biggest unit that you can get.

Grand Vista and Cypress Harbor are right across the street from one another and both are in great shape. I%26#39;ve never been to Horizons but have heard all positive news on it.

All of these resorts are within driving distance to Disney (10-15 minutes). Grand Vista and Cypress are right next to Sea World.

We were at Grand Vista 2 years ago-loved it!! It is very big and spread out, so if you want to be near the main pool area, I suggest you call and try to request an area, if not you%26#39;ll have a long hike to the main area-Absolutely a gorgous resort! We%26#39;re going to Horizons 4 weeks from this Friday (but whose counting??!!). As the previouis post said, excellent reviews, but I believe Horizons is smaller than Grand vista-again, I don%26#39;t think you can wrong with any of them.

We have stayed at Cypress Harbour a few times (we%26#39;re pretty frequent orlando visitors haha) and each time it%26#39;s been great. The most recent time was April 2006. There was some construction, but the parts of the resort where the construction was going on were closed, so nobody was staying close enough to be bothered by it. The resort has a little lagoon/lake thing in the middle of it and there is a boat you can take around the water. There are activities to keep you busy on days when you aren%26#39;t at the parks, when I was younger my mom and I painted some pottery and placemats.

The villas are good sized. Each time that we have stayed there this has been the overall layout: When you first enter, there is a little entryway and a mini-laundry room off to the side. Walk in a little further and there is the ';2nd'; bedroom - it has one bed (I%26#39;m not sure if its double or queen?) and also a pull out sofa IN that bedroom. Right past that bedroom is the ';2nd'; bathroom - this is the bathroom that goes along with the bedroom thats right there, but also can be considered as the one off of the living room area too... After this bedroom and bathroom, there is a nice sized kitchen with a counter and stools leading to the %26#39;dining%26#39; area. In the dining area there is a table that will easily fit 5-7 people. The dining area and the living area sort of combine together to form a large %26#39;common area%26#39;. The living area has one couch and two chairs. THe couch is a pull-out. (This was usually my bed, and it isn%26#39;t too bad as far as pull-outs go - not wonderful, obviously, but being the youngest in my family, i%26#39;ve slept on worse). Off of the living area there is a beautiful screened in porch with a fan, light, and dining table. Depending on the temps and humidity its nice to eat breakfast out here before you go! At the end of the living area, there is a master suite with a king bed, big whirlpool tub, ample closet space, and separate shower. This is a huuge room. My parents own a few timeshares and this is one of the biggest (or at least it seems that way) master suites that i%26#39;ve seen.

When we went last year, it was my parents (who are in their 60s), my sister (31), my niece (1.5) and me (22). We had a great time. Like I said before there are activities that are offered to the guests (even though we didnt do any of them last time). We rented a car and drove to the parks and it wasn%26#39;t that bad of a drive... just make sure you have a capable navigator sitting next to you when you%26#39;re driving!! :) There is also a playground and lots of room for kids to just run around and be kids.

ALSO - by the lobby and the pool there is a little market and a take-out pizza hut. You can get the pizza hut delivered to your room too (this was always one of my favorite parts of this resort!!!).

I will look around tomorrow and see if I can find any pictures to go along with this and put them up on my profile page. Hope this helps!!!

Thank you all so much for the great info.I am at this point leaning towards Cypress Harbour.It sounds a bit more kid friendly than Grand Vista and the units are bigger than Horizons.Any additional information would still be welcome.Again,thanks a million.

16 hours until...

our flight takes off to FLL!!! All packed, still have three hours of work left, but the excitement has started to set in!!!

We are supposed to land in FLL at 10:03, heading to Alabama Jack%26#39;s for lunch, and then to the KWHI (after a stop at Publix for water and other necessities). We should be at SWB tomorrow night, so I hope I get to meet some of you!

Just so you don%26#39;t get confused when we come up to you excitedly, my name is Tara, my husband%26#39;s name is Mike, he is bald (not by choice) with tattoos on his arms, I have shoulder length brown hair and a lovely fairy tattoo on my left ankle! :)

Bruce, my cell phone pooped out on me this week and deleted like 20 of my numbers. Of course, one was yours. I%26#39;m sure I can spot you!

Ok, enough babbling. I%26#39;m WAY too excited!

I can%26#39;t wait to meet some of you!

16 hours until...

Have a GREAT time! I am truly envious. Can%26#39;t wait to hear about your stay at KWHI. And if you go to the Conch Farm, look for a a very built girl with long blonde hair, usually pulled up. That is Angelina, she rocks!!

You will now Bruce, he will be surrounded by bewbies %26gt;;-)

16 hours until...

';You will now Bruce, he will be surrounded by bewbies %26gt;;-)'; I didn%26#39;t know Key West had these:

鈥ikimedia.org/wikipedia/鈥?50px-Booby.jpg

You will now Bruce, he will be surrounded by bewbies %26gt;;-)

NOT that kind - this one:

tripadvisor.com/MemberProfile-ccf-a_uid.83A7鈥?/a>

Sorry cheap shot by buffetguy - 2 minutes - unsportsman like conduct

We may let BK out if he behaves himself... You can dress him up but... Well.

I%26#39;m just one day behind you, tbc -

We land in FLL from Detroit at 10:07am Saturday morning

Then off to rent the convertible and then after a stop at CVS,

we%26#39;ll also do lunch at Alabama Jack%26#39;s!

We might stop a bahia honda on the way but I suspect we%26#39;ll just want to push through...

Then to the KWBnB, and off to Happy Hour!

I%26#39;ll be in a group of three friends, two girls and a guy.

KW, here we come!!

The timing on our posts were on the spot... Yup! That%26#39;s me... I%26#39;m a bewbie! :-)

Too funny! See you tomorrow!

Have a great time. We moved our trip forward to July 23rd can%26#39;t wait. Please don%26#39;t forget to let us know about the BWH we will be staying there also. Have a safe trip.

Poop -- I have like 16 WEEKS until we%26#39;re in Key West. :(

Everyone have fun and drink some for me!!

(I LOVE KWB%26amp;B!!)

Hope you have a great time in KW! Wow - I wish we were making that drive down on US 1 right now - I can%26#39;t believe it%26#39;s already been a month since we were there. Next year - sigh....

You will have a blast meeting all the KW locals %26amp; TA members - I know we did!

white makeup

Which resort would you choose?

I%26#39;m plannig a trip to Fort Lauderdale and the Keys in April of 2008 and looking at a timeshare exchange in Fort Lauderdale. Would either the Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort (909 Breakers Ave) or Coconut Bay Resort be a good choice? We would like to be able to walk to a nice beach. Any information would be helpful.

Which resort would you choose?

They are right next to each other about one or 2 blocks from the beach just off Sunrise Blvd.

Ft Laud Beach Resort (Sunterra/Breakers) is managed by VRI and had a big renovation program going on. It is a high rise condo with lock out units.

Cocoanut Bay is right across from it, and offers a low rise with some dockage avalable....some units are on the ICW.

They are across the bridge from a very upscale shopping center, Galleria Mall...which isn%26#39;t good for wives so much....Saks 5th Ave %26amp; Neiman Marcus are some of the shops.

Th beach is right across A1A and is really very nice. You are right next to the Bonnet House....a historic home....nice art, nice home %26amp; grounds.

The Holiday Inn across from the Ft Laud Beach Breakers (I don%26#39;t know about the resort term) will be or is being renovated.

I%26#39;ve been to the FLBR and saw both a old room prior renovation (Goodwill would not have taken the furnishings) and a new room, which was very nice. I have only seen the exterior of the Cocoanut Bay. Tuggers like it as a standard resort (both places), but many years ago, the FLBR was rated very low.

Which resort would you choose?

I just completed a week at the old Sunterra Resorts, now called Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, as mentioned above, We booked it thru RCI as an exchange, and paid $300 for 7 days. It is almost a 5 star facility, as far as the renovated rooms go!!! We were on the 14th floor and we the first to occupy this room. Brand new from ceilings to floor tile to carpet to furniture!! 2 32inch TV,s one in living room and one in kingsize bedroom, dining table and chairs for 6, which it will sleep, a double murphy bed and a sleeper sofa. The rest of the facility, while upgraded, is still around 3-4 stars, 24 hour desk, okay pool, no food but right out the door is 2 blocks down the street to the BEST BEACH in Fort Lauderdale!!, part of the cities%26#39; 3 1/2 mile world class beach. A couple of nice restaurants, and a great pizza place. Other classier places are up and down A1A, a short taxi ride, or bus which stops right on the corner. The Water Taxi, $9.00 all day, from like 11:00AM to Midnight, every 30 minutes, stops about 10 minutes from the Resort, across the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW). Also that%26#39;s about 4 minutes from the Galleria shopping mall.

We loved sitting on our balcony eating breakfast an watching the world go by. It was a fantastic experience, alot to see and do, We would recommend a rental car, it%26#39;s about 10 miles from the FLL airport, and you can park free in the basement garage.

Hi

You didn%26#39;t get an idea of about how many apartment units might not have been refurbished yet, did you?

This is a place where one group of exchangers gets a great new room, writes up a glowing report, and another gets one of the units that still needs help....and their report clashes.....and the unknowing review reader doesn%26#39;t know what to think. ( Except maybe the positives are corporate plants). I did see the model of the refurbed units when they first started, BUT, they needed to try and get major building problems squared away ..... like new elevator systems, roof, %26amp; so on... (the real main basic stuff that every condo owner hates to face due to the large assessments they bring.

KenK:

Good perception! I didn%26#39;t mention that the elevators are definately the originals, very slow and creaky, plus there are only 2 of them, and you have to share them with the renovators!! Sometimes they seemed to have them blocked open, or at least one, and you can wait 10 minutes or longer for the elevator. Especially in the mornings, when people are trying to check out!

Also the noise from the floor above me (15th) and perhaps below, were very noisey with banging, hammering, etc after about 8:30am, but we left everyday for most of the day, and in the evenings it was of course quieter.

Still, it was a very good experience for us!

Teenage Girls and Shopping

I am taking my teenage daughter and a friend to PCB in July and they want to shop....imagine that! Does anyone know of any beachy type shops that they can get souvenirs, beach clothing, jewelry, etc. for reasonable prices? Also, is there a mall in PCB for the usual Abercrombie and Hollister pilgrimmage?

Teenage Girls and Shopping

you shouldn%26#39;t be lacking for beach shops, but they may not be ';cheap';

there is a mall in pc in town where 23rd street, highway 77 and hwy 231meet.....have heard good things about the silver sands outlet mall in destin but i have never been there....it%26#39;s prolly about a 45 minute drive from pc and the pc mall is prolly about a 30 minute dirve from the beach...........depending on what part of the beach you are staying and the time of day you go, you could prolly get to destin as easily as you could get to the mall in pc

Teenage Girls and Shopping

Alvin%26#39;s Islands has some interesting things but don%26#39;t know if I%26#39;d call it cheap.

Karen

Laundrymat

My husband and I will be spending 12 nights in a studio condo on the beach on Okaloosa Island. There will be no laundry facilities available to us. We are staying in the Cloisters Townhomes. Does anyone know of any laundry facility nearby? Also, how far is the Holiday Inn from the Cloisters?? Thanks.

Laundrymat

We went to Las Vegas a few week ago and the first thing I ask the hotel was ';where is the closest one'; . It seems like we are not the only people concerend about this. I just went to yahoo and their yellow pages, type in laundromat for ft walton beach and found several. Try it and maybe you can find one close to your condo. Have a great trip, jim

Laundrymat

With all the condos to rent from I don%26#39;t understand why you would want to ';live there'; for your vacation. However with so much there I am certain you will have no problem finding a laundromat prob at a strip mall. Good luck.

In response to this message

';With all the condos to rent from I don%26#39;t understand why you would want to ';live there'; for your vacation. However with so much there I am certain you will have no problem finding a laundromat prob at a strip mall. Good luck.';

I have stayed in the condo before and fell in love with it. However, I did not stay this long before. We normally stay 2 weeks on vacation and rent a fully furnished condo with washer and dryer. However, this time, we chose to economize. This condo is totally booked for the summer, so apparently more people than myself love it. We stay away from resorts and larger complexes. When you rent from a rental company, vrbo, etc, most of the time, you never know what you are getting. I do. Plus, the owners live upstairs. If anything goes wrong they are right there. Not having a washer and dryer is, to me, a small price to pay!

Scuba Girl-I%26#39;m the person who%26#39;s renting your unit in the Cloisters before you. Don%26#39;t know whether or not things have changed since your previous stay but there seems to be a washer/dryer there. At least that%26#39;s what it says on the vrbo listing. I sent you a private e-mail-did you get it?

Yes, I got your post and discovered there are now 2 studio apartments for rent at the Cloisters. Ours has the sofa and chair and yours has the washer and dryer. Have a great time!!

desktop issue

good sports bar for opening day

Can anybody tell me the best sports bar to watch on opening day.I saw that Willies has a sports bar is it any good the atmosphere seems like it would be great.

good sports bar for opening day

I second Calypso, not on the water, but way better food and service!

good sports bar for opening day

Nothing like a good sports bar while on vacation!! Reminds me of home.

Bamabatt- Seychelles or Treasure Island

Bamabatt,

I noticed you have stayed at both. Last year we stayed at Seychelles. I have been looking at both for this year. Which did you prefer and why?

Bamabatt- Seychelles or Treasure Island

Hi cancun4us! Sorry it took me so long to reply.I wasn%26#39;t on the computer at all this past weekend.I liked both seychelles and treasure island but i think i prefered treasure island.The condos are a little more spacious as are the balconies.I also like how the treasure island complex is turned slightly toward the west to make for better sunsets.This also makes for a better view of st andrews bay and state park from the front of the complex.My wife and i stayed on the 23rd floor and it was the best view we%26#39;ve seen so far.So if you stay there i suggest the higher floors for the view.The pools at both places are about the same although i think treasure islands is a little bigger.The only drawback to treasure island is it doesn%26#39;t have a hot tub.This wasn%26#39;t a big deal to my wife and I but i know some people prefer to have a hot tub.We will be going to pcb in may and probably either august or september.I%26#39;m sure for one of those times we will be staying at treasure island.Also if you are going to rent a condo at treasure island go to vrbo.com.There you can rent directly from the owners and it will save you money.I have used vrbo.com the last couple of years and it is worth it.Sometimes you can save a few hundred dollars going through vrbo.com instead of the resorts themselves.I hope this helps.And if you have anymore questions just post them and i%26#39;ll do my best to answer them.

Bamabatt- Seychelles or Treasure Island

Hey cancun4us,We have booked at seychelles 94687 12th floor I say you stayed there last year was everything o.k. with this owner and management co.Was this condo o.k.

Hi lisastyling. We are also staying at vrbo 94687 on the 12th floor. We will be there July 14 to 28. When will you be there? What was your impression of american hospitality?

hi,nge,We are staying the week before you are,Did%26#39;nt get much information from them.I meant to ask about their cancellation policy but I will have to call them.Not very professional.What did you think.

Hi lisastyling, It took a good 2 months before they finally mailed me my confirmation. Matt told me the cancellation policy is a $25 cancellation fee if cancelled up to 2 weeks before arrival, after that there is a 1 night plus tax and if you cancel on the same day you lose your deposit. He was very professional until we reserved, after we reserved though, he never answered our emails about sending me my confirmation, I called him several times and he said he would mail and wasn%26#39;t doing it . Finally after I called the owner and complained, then all of a sudden I got my confirmation. I hope we won%26#39;t have a problem when we get there. Although the owner seems very nice.

nge,I spoke to the owner first and he gave me a comf. no so I did%26#39;nt say anything about it to the management.But I%26#39;m like you and hope everything will be o.k.Keep in touch if any problems arise.Or anything we need to know.Thanks and good luck.

lisastyling- sorry, I just now saw your post. The unit and the owner were great but we had a couple of problems with the management company. We stayed in the 9th floor unit but I think they are both the same. Again, the condo and beach were really nice.

cancun4us,May I ask what problems you had with the management.Just so we will know what to expect.

Lisastyling- When we went to check in, we were told our unit was not ready (no big deal really) so we drove around for awhile. It was finally ready 2 hours later. But the check in is at the Baordwalk %26amp; they had people lined up complaining. Apparently many of the condos at Boardwalk were not ready and the people could not check it. A few people asked if they could just change %26amp; sit on the beach or by the pool until the condo was ready but they were told that they could not because they had to have a wrist band to use the facilities and they could not get a wrist band until they checked in. They were told to go drive around and they would call them on the cell phone when the condo was ready. We were not offered the cell phone option. I stood in line twice to be told ';not yet';. It was just really bad service. anyway.. when we finally did get to check in, they could not find the keys. The girl waiting on us just kept going over to a drawer and looking at the envelopes for the keys. There were 2 envelopes, one for each unit he owns and the envelope for our unit was empty. But she literally walked back %26amp; forth between us %26amp; they key envelope 4 times! Like the keys were going to ';grow'; in the envelope if she kept looking. She finally asked someone %26amp; they ask her if it was their unit. She replied ';no it is JUST an owner unit'; the guy then shrugged and told her to ask someone else. Finally the manager came out and said he found one key in his office and he gave us that one. At this point I am tired and getting angry. I ask for a second key %26amp; was told that there was only one for that unit. I asked how my husband was supose to get into the condo if I was off with one of my daughters with the only key?? He shrugged! I asked if I went to a hardware store and had a copy made would they reimburse me...I was told no and that duplicating the key was illegal! FINALLY after I said ';you have got to be kidding, you are telling me we only have one key to our condo for our whole week'; he then went over to the same envelopes and matched his key with one in the envelope for the 12th floor unit and it matched. It took almost an hour to check in after already being late. The final straw was that we noticed the parking area at the condo was gated when we did our driveby when we were waiting and I asked if there was a card or code to get in ant they said no. I said ';are you sure because we just dove by and the parking are is gated. Again they said ';no';. Of course went we got there, we did need a code. so I had to get our of the car and go in to the onsite Resortquest agent (who the condo owner had just switched from) and ask them for the code. She asked us which unit and when I told her she laughed and gave me the code. But once we finally got to the condo it was awesome. Beautiful condo with a great view. Hopefully it has been almost a year and they are better now but I thought they gave really bad customer servcie not only to me but with the guests at Boardwalk. I complained to the owner when we got back home and he was very nice %26amp; appologized and forwarded the letter toi the management company who responded by ';it was not their fault'; it was a new property for them and they did not have all the information on it. Again, if you set aside the unhelpful management company we had a great trip.

Weather temps in August?

I%26#39;m from PA and right now it%26#39;s muggy and hot and pretty uncomfortable to be outside. We%26#39;re planning a week vacation to Sanibel in mid August and I%26#39;m a bit concerned about the prospect of 90+ degrees every day there. Is there usually a good breeze off the Gulf or anything to cool it down and make it ok to be outside and not dripping sweat just sitting on the beach?

Weather temps in August?

It is hot and humid and the Gulf is in the mid to high 80%26#39;s. One local called the weather %26#39;disgustingly humid%26#39;. Take for what it%26#39;s worth. I find the breeze from the Gulf makes it pleasant, but it sure isn%26#39;t like being on Lake Champlain.

Weather temps in August?

Hot and humid it sure is but if you have a pool and a few cold drinks it%26#39;s worth being there. Take it from me if the Brits can live with it you sure should cope easy!

Sanibel in August is HOT. On or near the beach, you might get a breeze, especially in the morning-evening.

Also humid, but it%26#39;s almost always humid here. After all it is very nearly the tropics.

As I write this, it is %26amp;6 degrees heading to 89 degrees today, 89 degrees tomorrow and 91 degrees on Sunday.

As for the Brits, I%26#39;ve been in London in August. Talk about hot and humid. Whew.... Even the beer was warm.... %26lt;grin%26gt;

Incidentally, my last trip to the islands I spotted an ';a'; by the side of the causeway road. Apparently someone had laughed it off and left it behind.

hi rainydaysinpa,

I am from Pittsburgh and just recently moved to Cleveland.

I have been to Captiva in August and it is nothing like being in this hot muggy stuff we are experiencing now. I don%26#39;t know what it is there, the gulf breeze, the small amount of clothing, being in paradise?

We always go to Florida in the summer and my kids never complain about it being too hot in Florida, but compain here.

Here you walk out the door and it just chokes you.

There, we never felt that way.

GO!

Thanks everyone! I%26#39;m from Pittsburgh too and it is truly gross up here in the summer. I%26#39;m so relieved to hear that it should bearable down there. I was really worried about this. We usually stick to beach vacations in New Jersey but this year we want to do something different.

You%26#39;ll find the water much warmer, but Sanibel is MUCH nicer than the Jersey shore! Enjoy! [No taffy on the boardwalk though. In fact, no boardwalk. heheheheheh]

I have stayed in Sanibel in mid august a couple years ago and it was blisteringly hot. With the new lack of shade too at many of the beaches and on the bike paths it makes it even worse. Don%26#39;t get me wrong, It was WAY better than being landlocked in Ohio in August, but don%26#39;t underestimate it. Bring plenty of shade and frozen water bottles everywhere you go (your water, if not frozen, will be warm as bath water in no time, yuk) and lots of sunblock. I keep thinking about what seemed like a very looong walk from bowman%26#39;s beach to the parking area while the midday sun cooked us to a crisp. Just be prepared. Did I mention it was hot? I had a wonderful time and I%26#39;d to to Sanibel in august in a heartbeat, just remember july and august are the hottest months and that%26#39;s no joke

I live a couple hours north of Sanibel and it is HOT and STICKY and RAINY in August. Bring very light clothes (do not wear brown, black, etc). August is such a hot time of the year. We try to do things inside to escape the heat. Wear a LOT of sunscreen if you go to the beach and reapply often or you will fry!!!

Hey Cincychick - I thought it was just %26#39;Mad dogs and Englishmen %26#39; who went out in the mid day sun!

How do we get around?

Will be staying at Marriott in July with two 13 year olds. Can we walk from the resort to the area where restaurants, etc. are, or do we need to drive? Wondering at the distance.

How do we get around?

Sorry I can%26#39;t help you with this but why not give the hotel a call and ask them. You%26#39;re right here in Florida.

How do we get around?

Besides the restaurants in the Marriott (and the Hilton a couple of doors down), if you come out of the Marriott and turn right and walk for about 5 minutes you will be at Marco Walk Plaza. It has been renovated recently and has the following restaurants: Konrads (Steak/Fish), Five Brothers Pizza, Nacho Mamas (Mexican), Capt Briens (great for breakfast and dinner, raw bar), Da Vinci%26#39;s (Italian), Rookies Sports Bar (good for happy hour) and Cathy O%26#39;Clarkes (Irish). There is also a cinema there. Across the road there is another restaurant called Sassos. Another minute walk will bring you to Bimini%26#39;s (they have a band in the evening). If you go on zwire.com and restaurant round-up you will be able to see the reviews of all restaurants on the island. Hope you have a good vacation. Lee

holidayholic: thanks for your help. We were in London Easter vacation and loved it. Great, great city.

be sure to get hold of a copy of the free marco review magazine.. has loads of information on restaurants and activities...can be seen online also...I cant wait to get hold of a copy....

official myspace

How far to beaches in Key Largo?

We will be staying in the Mariner%26#39;s Club hotel in Key Largo and just wondering what to do about the beaches - are there any? WE will be hiring a car but do not want to travell all day to find one!

How far to beaches in Key Largo?

Anne%26#39;s beach is about 30 minuets away in Islamorada.

Besides John Pennekamp, which didn%26#39;t have a great beach the last time I was there, a LONG time ago, but it does have one) I can%26#39;t think of any beaches in Key Largo, but I could just be forgetting about one.

Further down the road is Long Key State Park, Curry Hammock State Park, Sombrero Beach (about 45 mins and free) and Bahia Honda State Park.

How far to beaches in Key Largo?

The Marriott has a tiny beach. So does the former Sheraton, now the KL Grande. Skip Pennekamp%26#39;s beach. Down in Islamorada is of course, Holiday Isle. That%26#39;s where most folks go for a beach, since you can get drinks and bathrooms there, too. That%26#39;s MM 82. I don%26#39;t know if they are still running the shuttle out from Holiday Isle to the sandbar on weekends or not. The county was trying to stop it, but that%26#39;s what a lot of folks do on the weekend.

My reaction to your message title was ';2 hours - back in Miami';. The are a few beach like areas but what is it that you want to do on the beach? Key Largo isn%26#39;t really a beach scene (although I have never been to Holiday Isle%26#39;s beach - - which certainly is a scene!)

The pools at Mariner%26#39;s Club are nice if you want to sit in the sun (I think they%26#39;ve opened a 2nd one). You should book a snorkel or other boat trip if you want to be in the water. There%26#39;s lots of great things to do in the Keys but you may need to get in %26#39;Keys%26#39; mode'; to make the most of the trip.

Brickell - Distractions

I am in Miami for a month in August, staying in an apartment in Brickell, with my wife and baby (age one).

I know it is not a big tourist area, but it is close to my office.

What attractions/cafes/restaurants/etc are in walking distance?

Thanks!

Brickell - Distractions

These are the places I like on Brickell. Deli Lane Cafe is great for lunch this location may even have dinner service not sure though. Au Bon Pain is another place we liked for lunch. I like Gordon Biersch brewery for some things (they serve dinner and lunch), I don%26#39;t like everything of theirs however (kind of like they are trying to much with their food). For dinner there are two good places on Brickell Key Brasserie and Azul. Also on Brickell Key is a gourmet market called Gardners that has many great things.

Brickell - Distractions

Great, logged those.

Are there any distractions for my wife and our son, or would she need to drive elsewhere...

You are just a few minutes drive from the Museum of Science and Planetarium and Viscaya. Also a few minutes away (by car) over the Rickenbacker Causeway are the Miami Seaquarium and public beaches. Sorry, no attractions that I can think of within ';walking'; distance.

PS. You are also near to Coconut Grove....nice area for dining, shopping etc.

Jim%26gt;

Check this post about that area:

tripadvisor.com/鈥?202009

AG

Brickell is a fairly long street so what is in walking distance will vary, especially pushing a stroller in the August heat. Your apt. will probably have a pool, which will be a nice place to spend some time.

There is a metromover/metrorail stop on Brickell and 14th Street. www.miamidade.gov/transit/metromover.asp Metromover is a free train loop around downtown Miami.

Metrorail runs north and south. Just riding the train can be a fun event for your child. For your wife, she may want to get off. I%26#39;ve never taken it north. To the south, there is a stop for Vizcaya - but that may not be very wheelchair friendly. The Coconut Grove stop is not near where you want to be - do not take that stop.

Dadeland North is a good station if you want inside places to walk around. There%26#39;s big mall there.

I would look around for groups your wife and child can join. It%26#39;s a short cab ride to the My Gym www.my-gym.com/schedule.asp鈥?/a> August is a bit of a hard month to find things because many of the usual places are running summer camps. I%26#39;ll try to pick up a local parenting guide and see what I find.

supermarket

can anyone tell me of a supermarket near international dr(quality Inn) or anywhere we can buy cereals,bread etc. also beers and vodka.

thanks

supermarket

There are several convenience stores up and down I-Drive and there are a couple of Publix supermarkets in the area too.

supermarket

Oh yes, beer can be bought at most convenince and supermarkets, but Vodka must be purchased at a licensed liquor store.

I%26#39;m sure there%26#39;s a licensed liquor store in the area, but not sure where.

If it%26#39;s near Quality Inn Plaza try Plaza Liquors across the road opposite the Best Western Plaza which is very close to you.

Goodings supermarket will be about 6 blocks north from your hotel on I-Drive.

There is a liquor store right on I-drive 2 doors down from the 7-11 right after you turn left at the light on Sandlake Road and it%26#39;s on the right hand side.And I didn%26#39;t see any grocery store on that part of I-drive it%26#39;s one at bothe ways on I-drive but there not by that hotel it would be a little walk up by Boston Lobster feast if I can remember it%26#39;s heading west on I-drive.

Isnt Goodings supposed to be the most expensive supermarket or is this only for the one near LBV or DTD?

If your staying at the Quality Inn Plaza there is a small shop on site for all your basic needs, or across the road there is Walgreens which has a food section and is cheaper , not sure about alcohol though.

Goodings prices are very similar to those of Publix.

imo, goodings more spensive than publix

publix at the corner of conroy and kirkman north of universal (older store), publix on sand lake road just west (or north depending on how you look at it) of I 4, publix on central fla parkway just east of I drive (older store), publix on vineland at I drive by dolly parton (biggest of all of them)............the one on sand lake and the one on vineland are the newer choices..........i think a wal mart stupid center just opened on turkey lake on the other side of I 4 from drive, but not sure exactly where

thanks eveybody,thats a great help x

Orlando Disney Attraction Tickets

We usual purchase our tickets in the UK but with such a great $ rate been thinking about purchasing online in the states.

We will look to buy. 3/5 day Magic Kingdom hopper type, plus Universal/islands of adventures, plus we are looking to book Discovery Cove.

Has anyone seen any recent bargains by buying online through the states.

Orlando Disney Attraction Tickets

I always use this site .

http://www.park-tickets.com/?villa=393

They are good on service and prices and charge you in $ which is even better if you have a Nationwide cc as they have no extra charges.If you want you ca n have them delivered to your hotel /villa in the area , your home in UK or collect them from their office.

Orlando Disney Attraction Tickets

smithy53 - don%26#39;t take this the wrong way but I don%26#39;t think you should be recommending links to sites that are paying you commission as an affiliate link. I%26#39;ve just looked at some of your previous posts and they all have the same theme.

Surely the purpose of TA is to provide opinions and impartial advice. IF you are making money out of affiliate linking, this defeats the point.

If you don%26#39;t believe me, take a random selection of your last dozen or so posts.

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k129197鈥?/a>

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k126880鈥?/a>

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k126194鈥?/a>

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tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34352-i79-k125678鈥?/a>

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k123000鈥?/a>

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k119937鈥?/a>

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k115972鈥?/a>

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g34515-i19-k112010鈥?/a>

I don%26#39;t wish to fall out over this but would suggest you simply provide links to the main websites. This way, no-one can infer that you are trying to make money out of your recommendations. I hope this makes sense and is taken in the spirit of the TA ideal.

well spotted chinners

Try looking on undercovertourist.com

They are reliable, cheap and deliver free of charge.

Cinners

Although you are right and the poster does always recommend the same site in his defence he has, it the past pointed out that he has a personal interest .

Fair enough - as long as it is mentioned in each post. Otherwise, see Rule 2 of posting guidelines:

No self-promoting advertising or solicitation postings of any kind. It鈥檚 fine to share places you鈥檝e been with other people, but this is not a space for you to tout your business or the business of a friend or relative. And while we鈥檙e on this subject, it鈥檚 not a space for you to bad-mouth your competitors, either. Neither of these things is fair鈥攐r remotely professional.

I wish I did make money out of it but I don%26#39;t .It is a link provided to me by the owner of the villa I use and as far as I am aware they don%26#39;t make money either .

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Independance Day

I know a lot of folks from the U.K. wiil in the U.S.of A. July 4. How do you all feel about this? Do you celebrate the anniversary of our freedom from you, do you feel resentful that we threw you out and now make you pay to come back, or do you just pretend it never happened and cash in a few more pound sterling?? Welcome back!!

Independance Day

We always celebrate 4 July in our house as it%26#39;s my daughters birthday.

The english hold no grudge against the americans, and to be honest, I would say that a huge part of the population in this country would not have a clue as to why you celebrate on this day.

Personally, I love the fact that the USA is independant. If you were still under english rule, your currency would be sterling and it would be too expensive for us to visit!!

Independance Day

I think the time that the people from the UK might feel a little regret is when they%26#39;re at Magic Kingdom, waiting in a 90 minute line outside in 95 degree heat for a ride, after having paid $71.36 per ticket, and the kids are fighting, and they%26#39;re thinking ';if it wasn%26#39;t for George Washington, et al, I wouldn%26#39;t be stuck here right now.'; But after a spin or two on ';Its a Small World';, they%26#39;re then too disoriented to feel any regret.

We do not feel or hold any grudge for you and France with some help from Spain and Russia kicking the UK out of Amercia, do you any grudge against the UK for burning your little White House and stopping you from expanding your borders into Canada?

To keep you in our empire was just too much when we had to control about a third of the planet already

Still if you fel you want to return to the commonwealth at any time you would be most welcome I am sure

It is best this way with 2 great countries as the closest of Allies

Mick

:)

Actually, a thank you is in order for keeping us from overrunning Canada. We are socialist enough already without having enlisted their help. I%26#39;m surprised the separatists haven%26#39;t demanded a pavillion at Epcot! And we certainly do enjoy visiting you guys as well

NO problems from us Tom.. thought it was a great movie.. Will Smith is great.. and the spacecraft...fantastic...

its fine we like to party as much as the next man,and we do let you use out language and have the we are the greatest nation in the world attitude we%26#39;ve had for centuries. in the end of the day we make our money back with all the bargains we get when over there.

it could be worse we could go to france.

Pretend what happened? You did not throw us out BostonTom, our supply lines were a little stretched that%26#39;s all. No, such things are not mentioned over here!! Guess we still have censorship in some ways!!

Sometimes it takes a fight to make a bond.

If we had a party to celebrate the independence of every nation that we used to %26#39;own%26#39; then we wouldn%26#39;t sober up all year.

You%26#39;ll find there will be loads of pubs in London having July 4th specials.

Anyway, we couldn%26#39;t afford to manage your trade deficit now so we probably got lucky :-)))

Sounds like this rates right up there with Guy Fawkes Day!!

Look on the bright side Tom. its the only war u have actually won without us on the same side!!!!!!!,,,

going to release

Clearwater, Siesta Key, or Panama City??

Between these 3, which do you think is the better beach/area/vacation? I will post this question on all 3 forums.

Thanks!

Clearwater, Siesta Key, or Panama City??

Depends on what you%26#39;re looking for beach-wise and how far you%26#39;re willing to travel. All have nice beaches, all are on the same body of water (Gulf of Mexico) and all offer different ';selling points';.

Clearwater, Siesta Key, or Panama City??

Depends on the atmosphere you are looking for. Panama City is defintely more of a college party type of place. Clearwater and Siesta Key are more family oriented. Clearwater has a lot of construction going on right now (shouldn%26#39;t interfere with your down time but could be annoying at times.) We have that powder soft sand, lots of shops, restaurants, and water excursions. At pier 60, there are lots of kiddie things to do at sunset. Street performers, playground, those big inflatable slides, music, vendors displaying thier art/crafts, and henna tattoos. I am not so familiar with Siesta Key, hopefully someone else will chime in on SK.

I don%26#39;t know about Clearwater yet,(going next week) but I would definately choose Siesta Key anytime I could stay a whole week. My husband and I went there last year and we absolutely fell in love with the place. The sand never gets hot to walk on and some of the most beautiful sunsets I%26#39;ve ever seen. The water was so clear. The people were so friendly. I don%26#39;t like Panama City, it%26#39;s really a college town all though if you camp the state park is a good place to park. Good luck and have fun where ever you go. The beach at siesta is also wonderful for kids if you have any.

Tower Rooms @ Intern'tl Resort & Spa??

Has anyone been to the International Resort %26amp; Spa lately and stayed in the Tower Rooms? I know the other rooms don%26#39;t get good reviews, but I haven%26#39;t heard anything about the Tower.

Thanks!

StL Cardinals Family

Tower Rooms @ Intern'tl Resort %26amp; Spa??

Just for clarification: it%26#39;s name is the International Plaza Resort %26amp; Spa. I believe it%26#39;s on International dr.

Thanks!

long term stay

heard joemammy was local expert in destin. Wondered if you knew best lodging for long term stay in either destin, panama city, or ?

awaiting the birth of first grandchild and looking for clean, quiet, respectable and affordable for month or two, walking distance to beach to wait for blessed event a bit farther north.

can you assist? I have called so many inns and rooms with suites, kitchenettes etc. what would you recomend?

kindly

t-50+

long term stay

Depends when the baby is due. The summer is the high season for rentals and most owners make the majority of their money renting by the week. In the winter there are many snowbirds who rent by the month.

There are also units on the Bay that can only rent with a minimum of by the month.

I%26#39;d check vrbo.com and NW FL Daily News classifieds:

www.nwfdailynews.com

You may find someone looking to rent for a long term that would be willing to lease for a couple of months.

long term stay

Yes, depends on when. Do you an idea when? I own a condo that I rent but it is booked solid at times and empty at other times. Let me know...

What kind of budget do you have? Some people are accepting reasonable offers.

You posted on another thread asking about the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel. You don%26#39;t want to stay there. Most of the people are construction workers and about a third are non-english speaking.

Just like JoeMammy said, it also depends on the time of the year.

thanks all for good info, especiallly about the extended america place, the gent was very curtious and negotible on rate, might be reason why, I mentioned i was looking for quiet, clean accomodations ...... on another note, trying not to sign any type lease or make any permanant commitments as grandbaby is due in Jan %26#39;08. Just want to be able to be closer than now and between 1/2 way both my sons, and florida is where i raised them. So if you have any ideas i might loook into, let me know and we might be able to work something out. Plan is to arrive in FL late july/early august

You may want to arrive in September. Rates drop then and also, the owners and rental managers may be more willing to cut a deal because season will be over. Rents are MUCH less.

looking for more insight on the suburban extended stay place mentioned in above thread. Actually it was the destin chamber of commerce that recommended it as it has just been remodeled in March until recently it seems. Wondered if the construction workers are just doing the remodeling or are always staying there. Guess quiet small community for grandmother relocating means different things to different folks. Also wondering about people that private email via trip advisor. Trip advisor has always been my source for personal travel even to europe and still email people ..

anyhow, hope to gather valuable info on where, how, when (best month) to relocate, places not to go to etc... and other things to look forward to anywhere in the panhandle (like the spring breakers) Yes I know of hurricanes as I lived in Tampa for 10 years+. My thoughts are to just nice hotel for a week and see for myself after i get there but would like to get familiar with places like pensacola vs destin vs panama city beach vs ft walton beach. one other piece of info is I do not drive anymore and plan on taking bus or train (amtrack) to do my traveling, visiting etc. Might i be expecting too much to need convenience, safety, clean lodging, friendly people and keep budget minded?

thank you all for your comments and advice

You might try looking here:

http://www.sowal.com/bb/forumdisplay.php?f=5

It%26#39;s the Beaches of South Walton Vacation and Long Term rental board. It has people like you, looking for a place, and people who rent out places also.

thank U to ft worth lady

The America Extended Stay hotel was sold a few months ago and they repainted the rooms. The construction workers are not doing the work, they are construction workers for various projects around town. I spoke with the customer service manager the other night over drinks. I would not stay there.

traveler 50 the only advice I have to add to this is listen to the locals they willnot steer you wrong. you could probably get a good deal from a condo owner if you were going to rent for a long period.

Lake Buena Vista Resort Village and Spa

Hello!

Has anyone from the UK stayed at the Lake Buena Vista Resort Village and Spa??? We%26#39;re due to stay there towards the end of August. We would love to hear what anyones experience has been like there.

Christine

Lake Buena Vista Resort Village and Spa

Hi

We have booked for February next year - I keep checking this site for info and also the expedia site as this gives a review on travellers to the resort and their feedback - let me know how you get on..... Have fun

Louise

Lake Buena Vista Resort Village and Spa

Hi Louise,

Yes we%26#39;ll post a review on the Hotel when we get back! We are quite nervous about going to this resort with all the different reviews we%26#39;ve read. But we have been to Orlando many times so we know we%26#39;ll love it whatever, we%26#39;re just hoping that we might get a room upgrade! Penthouse will do!

Christine

Hi

Just saw your post - stayed here feb 19- mar 3 this year. Had a fab time. Great spot for being close to everything and being able to spread out and chill when you get home. We had two older children with us (11 %26amp; 15) and stayed in a 3 bed 2 bath and were really pleased with how much room we all had. Nice when everyones tired and just need a little down time.

You back onto the retail outlet - not the biggest one around but great bargains all the same.

Kitchen is fully kitted out must admit we did not use it much but everythine there had we wanted too! No kettle tho so we resorted to a saucepan - they have a coffee machine and seem to presume thats all you%26#39;ll need.

Is there anything in particular you wanted to know?

Elaine Jacobs

Hi Christtabel

We are also staying here from 3rd Aug - 24th Aug. What date do you arrive there. Might be able to post you a review before you set off if it%26#39;s later than this.

ej

While you were there did you notice or go to any restaurants/pubs that were within walking distance of LBV. Also did you use the free shuttle to the theme parks and if so was it any good or is it better to drive.

Hi

We hired a car as to be honest the shuttle was useless! a pick up about 7.50am in the morning but you won%26#39;t get to epcot (the only drop off) until 11ish and again restricted for return which is about 6pm. We thought this was far too restrictive. Try and hire a car if you can, after the first day the roads are great, big, with lots of traffic info on the overhead signs. It makes disney a 5 - 10min journey and Universal 10mins.

Restaurants and pubs, there are a couple in the outlet 2mins walk but these are not really a sit down nice meal more a self service cafe! We took a taxi (which the hotel will book for you, just call reception) on most nights out and headed to down town disney which is heaving with choice but also made use of the more local sizzlers/ponderosa and the like. Cab to down town return $30 (approx 拢15) so not too bad. Check out the Pirate Golf it is on a complex that has everything, TGI%26#39;s, Maccied%26#39;s, Taco bell, steak house etc. We played a round went of to dinner and went back and played another round. Nice end to a busy day!

Thanks for that ej. Also can you tell me how the building work was going while you were there.? Is it still one pool and has the restaurant and irish bar opened yet.? What about the tennis courts? sorry for so many questions.

Condos look fab from what I%26#39;ve seen !!

Hiya

We overlooked the building works from the side of the balcony - right in front of us was trees and lake which was real pretty in the morning. Building works was no problem at all - we used to laugh at the end of the day (having been out all day) and compare notes on how they were doing noise, dust not an issue!

Still only one pool while we were there which was fine - kids enjoyed it to cool of at the end of the day but signs up everywhere saying Irish Pub was coming soon so dare say by the time you get there may well be open! Gym was open but very small... No sign of tennis courts.

Hope this helps ... anymore questions fire away, was very nervous myself when we were going so could have used someone who had been to pick there brains!

Thanks v much that%26#39;s a big help. If I think of any more I%26#39;ll get back to you. which I%26#39;m sure i will.

Hi ej

Was also just wondering about towels and pillows in the condos, are there enough and what about HANGERS!!!!

thanks

Hiya

Plenty of pillows and towels - good job too as we didn%26#39;t really want to spend extra money on the maid service and a fair few hangers - could always do with more!

EJ

Clearwater Beach vs Sarasota area??

Hi--

I%26#39;m new to this site so let%26#39;s see how this works. =) 10 years ago I went to the Clearwater Beach area with a friend. Stayed in a cute little cottage in Indian Rocks Beach. I%26#39;d like to go back to that area but there were so many little nice towns between Clearwater Beach and Sarasota--tarpon Springs, Madiera Beach, Treasure Island. I just can%26#39;t remember what they were like now. Rather than a cottage, the people Im traveling with this time around would prefer a nicer hotel. Any ideas of which towns I should consider? How do people prefer the Clearwater Beach area vs the Sarasota area? Just looking for a few opinions here. So, thank you. =)

--Mike

Denver

Clearwater Beach vs Sarasota area??

There are many nice hotels on Clearwater beach, though I have never been to the beach in Sarasota, I have been to the town. I prefer Anna Maria Island better, but it is all houses and cottages. Clearwater was my 2nd favorite beach when my husband and I drove the entire area a couple months ago--from Tampa all the way to Sarasota and back, following the coast starting at Clearwater Beach. Anna Maria was my 1st favorite. The beach was HUGE in Clearwater too, lots of room and very white sand.

Clearwater Beach vs Sarasota area??

My personal preference would be the Sarasota area beaches over Clearwater beach. They include Anna Maria, Longboat Key, Lido Beach %26amp; Siesta Key. The area is a little more upscale and less cluttered. Clearwater Beach attracts more of a teenage crowd.

I agree with Palm Harbor Traveler. They%26#39;re both nice, but I%26#39;d prefer a Sarasota barrier island.

I agree about the Sarasota area. We%26#39;ve been going to Siesta Key for 5 years now, and we love it there.

I haven%26#39;t been to clearwater yet, going next week, but I can say Siesta Key is one of the most beautiful beaches I%26#39;ve ever been to.

My husband I went in May of 2006 and when we can go back and stay a week we are going. During may school is still going on so the beaches are real crowded. Don%26#39;t get me wrong, we love kids but we are in our late 4o%26#39;s and love the quiet. Check out siesta-4-rent.com. They have some good choices.

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