Great things to do in St Pete Beach and the Tampa Region this month

Magic Treehouse Tickets	May 3rd, 2009 Sunday	Kravis Center - Dreyfoos Concert Hall West Palm Beach, FL	View Tickets
Florida Marlins Vs. Cincinnati Reds Tickets	May 4th, 2009 - May 5th, 2009	Dolphin Stadium Opa Locka, FL	View Tickets
Tampa Bay Rays vs. Baltimore Orioles Tickets	May 4th, 2009 - October 1st, 2009	Tropicana Field Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Horrorpops Tickets	May 5th, 2009 Tuesday	Culture Room Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
Kevin Devine Tickets	May 5th, 2009 Tuesday	Tampa Theatre Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Kevin Devine Tickets	May 5th, 2009 Tuesday	Orpheum - FL Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Madame Butterfly Tickets	May 5th, 2009 - May 9th, 2009	Ziff Opera House At The Adrienne Arsht Center Miami, FL	View Tickets
Spinal Tap: Unwigged and Unplugged Tickets	May 5th, 2009 Tuesday	The Fillmore Miami Beach At Jackie Gleason Theater Miami Beach, FL	View Tickets
Florida Marlins vs. Atlanta Braves Tickets	May 6th, 2009 - September 3rd, 2009	Dolphin Stadium Opa Locka, FL	View Tickets
Kevin Devine Tickets	May 6th, 2009 Wednesday	City Limits Delray Delray Beach, FL	View Tickets
Miami Heat Tickets	May 6th, 2009 - May 12th, 2009	American Airlines Arena Miami, FL	View Tickets
Kings of Leon Tickets	May 7th, 2009 Thursday	Bankunited Center At Um Miami, FL	View Tickets
Amos Lee Tickets	May 8th, 2009 Friday	Culture Room Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
Gavin Degraw Tickets	May 8th, 2009 Friday	State Theatre - FL Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Kings of Leon Tickets	May 8th, 2009 Friday	Usf Sundome Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Miami Contemporary Dance Tickets	May 8th, 2009 - May 16th, 2009	Colony Theatre Miami Beach, FL	View Tickets
NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals: Miami Heat Vs. Cleveland Cavaliers - Home Game 1 (If Necessary - Date TBD) Tickets	May 8th, 2009 Friday	American Airlines Arena Miami, FL	View Tickets
Nine Inch Nails & Jane's Addiction Tickets	May 8th, 2009 Friday	Cruzan Amphitheatre (formerly Sound Advice Amphitheatre) West Palm Beach, FL	View Tickets
Spinal Tap Tickets	May 8th, 2009 Friday	Mahaffey Theatre Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Spinal Tap: Unwigged and Unplugged Tickets	May 8th, 2009 Friday	Mahaffey Theater At The Progress Energy Center Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Amos Lee Tickets	May 9th, 2009 Saturday	Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL	View Tickets
Corey Smith Tickets	May 9th, 2009 Saturday	Jannus Landing Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Magic Treehouse Tickets	May 9th, 2009 Saturday	Youkey Theatre - Lakeland Center Lakeland, FL	View Tickets
MC Chris Tickets	May 9th, 2009 Saturday	Orpheum - FL Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Nine Inch Nails & Jane's Addiction Tickets	May 9th, 2009 Saturday	Ford Amphitheatre At The Florida State Fairgrounds Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Alkaline Trio Tickets	May 10th, 2009 Sunday	Revolution Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
Hinder Tickets	May 10th, 2009 Sunday	The Ritz Ybor Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Mothers Day Concert Tickets	May 10th, 2009 Sunday	Colony Theatre Miami Beach, FL	View Tickets
NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals: Miami Heat Vs. Cleveland Cavaliers - Home Game 2 (If Necessary - Date TBD) Tickets	May 10th, 2009 Sunday	American Airlines Arena Miami, FL	View Tickets
Rickey Smiley Tickets	May 10th, 2009 Sunday	James L Knight Center Miami, FL	View Tickets
Shirley Caesar Tickets	May 10th, 2009 Sunday	Hard Rock Live At The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - Hollywood Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
The Drowsy Chaperone Tickets	May 10th, 2009 Sunday	Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL	View Tickets
Amy Grant Tickets	May 11th, 2009 Monday	Carol Morsani Hall - Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Kreator & Exodus Tickets	May 11th, 2009 Monday	St Pete Garage Bar Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Suicide Silence Tickets	May 11th, 2009 Monday	Headliners Toledo, OH	View Tickets
Alkaline Trio Tickets	May 12th, 2009 Tuesday	Jannus Landing Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Cirque Dreams: Jungle Fantasy Tickets	May 12th, 2009 - May 17th, 2009	Ziff Opera House At The Adrienne Arsht Center Miami, FL	View Tickets
Kreator Tickets	May 12th, 2009 Tuesday	Culture Room Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
The Wizard of Oz Tickets	May 12th, 2009 - May 17th, 2009	Kravis Center - Dreyfoos Concert Hall West Palm Beach, FL	View Tickets
Crystal Method Tickets	May 14th, 2009 Thursday	Revolution Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
Disney on Ice: Worlds of Fantasy Tickets	May 14th, 2009 - May 17th, 2009	St. Pete Times Forum Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Don Henley Tickets	May 14th, 2009 Thursday	Hard Rock Live At The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - Hollywood Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
Madame Butterfly Tickets	May 14th, 2009 - May 16th, 2009	Au-Rene Theater - Broward Ctr For The Perf Arts Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals: Miami Heat Vs. Cleveland Cavaliers - Home Game 3 (If Necessary - Date TBD) Tickets	May 14th, 2009 Thursday	American Airlines Arena Miami, FL	View Tickets
Tampa Bay Rays vs. Cleveland Indians Tickets	May 14th, 2009 - May 17th, 2009	Tropicana Field Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets
Coldplay Tickets	May 15th, 2009 Friday	Cruzan Amphitheatre (formerly Sound Advice Amphitheatre) West Palm Beach, FL	View Tickets
Eric Church Tickets	May 15th, 2009 Friday	The Dallas Bull Tampa, FL	View Tickets
Florida Marlins vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Tickets	May 15th, 2009 - May 17th, 2009	Dolphin Stadium Opa Locka, FL	View Tickets
Trombone Shorty And Orleans Avenue Tickets	May 15th, 2009 Friday	Culture Room Fort Lauderdale, FL	View Tickets
War Tickets	May 15th, 2009 Friday	State Theatre - FL Saint Petersburg, FL	View Tickets

Getting Ready for the Newest Reef off the Keys

KEY WEST, Florida Keys – Final work has begun to sink the ex-military missile tracking ship Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenber as an artificial reef off Key West.

The Vandenberg arrived in Key West April 22, after an 1,100-mile voyage from Norfolk, Va., and is docked behind the USS Mohawk, a historic Coast Guard ship open as a floating museum, at the East Quay Wall in Truman Annex Harbor.

“We’re all pretty excited here in Key West and particularly in view of the fact this is going to be the second largest artificial reef in the world,” said Key West City Commissioner Bill Verge, who is serving as a project liaison between the city and various state and federal agencies.

Project organizers said the scuttling should take place sometime between May 20 and June 1, about six miles south of Key West in 140 feet of water in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

That work primarily involves the cutting of hundreds of large holes on the ship’s decks and sides to help ensure the vessel sinks in an upright position.

Seventy percent of the $8.6 million project’s funding resources and some 75,000 man-hours were required to rid the vessel of contaminants with that work executed in two Norfolk, Va., shipyards.

Pollutants removed include 71 cubic yards of asbestos, 193 tons of materials that contained potentially carcinogenic substances, 46 tons of refuse, 300 pounds of mercury-containing materials and 185 55-gallon drums of paint chips, officials said.

The ship first saw duty as a U.S. Army troop transport named the General Harry Taylor. It became the Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg in 1963 and tracked the U.S. space program’s launches off Cape Canaveral. It also served in the Pacific monitoring U.S. defense missile test launches and eavesdropped on Russian missile launches during the Cold War. Port Canaveral, Fla., was the Vandenberg’s last active duty home port beginning in 1976.

The Vandenberg was formally retired in 1983 and was transferred to the James River Naval Reserve Fleet. But, according to Patrick J. Utecht, who managed the ship’s electronic systems, a team of six technicians would visit Vandenberg every six months to power up all shipboard electronics and make any necessary repairs. Despite the state of readiness, more

Check here for great beach rentals in the Florida Keys

Things To Do - Pensacola Beach this Summer

THINGS TO DO on PENSACOLA BEACH THIS SUMMER:

Restaurants and Attractions

• Bull Feathers Beach Bar and Grill opened on the Portofino Boardwalk in Pensacola Beach. Bull Feathers offers burgers, seafood, steaks, pasta, chicken and ribs. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner with a Sunday brunch at 11 a.m. (850) 934-7511, www.bullfeathersbeachbarandgrill.com.
• Bridge Bar has opened in Gulf Breeze, providing patrons with spectacular views of sunsets over Pensacola Bay from its open-air deck. (850) 677-0616, www.thebridgegb.com.
• Famous Dave’s offers visitors great Southern barbecue, award-winning ribs, tender brisket and homemade fixins and desserts near Cordova Mall. Famous Dave’s also caters for events, meetings and weddings. (850) 332-8377, www.famousdaves.com.
• The Pensacola Historical Museum is offering Tour-iffic Summer Ghost Tours. Tours of Pensacola’s haunted history are May 22-23, June 26-27, July 24-26 and August 21-22. Visitors can choose from a family-friendly Seville Tour or an adult redlight tour. Tours are $10 for adults and $5 for children. (850) 433-1559.
• Islanders Surf & Sport is back on Portofino Boardwalk on Pensacola Beach featuring island-style service and a huge selection of apparel, accessories and beach gear. Shoppers will find bikinis, boardshorts, sandals, tees and dresses including brands such as Rainbow, Reef, Oakley, Hurley, Billabong, Roxy, Quiksilver, Ray Ban and more. (850) 916-0454, www.IslandSurf.com.
• Great Scotts will soon be fully open at Soundside Centre on Pensacola Beach specializing in a large selection of west coast-style, fresh breakfast items from 7 a.m.–2 p.m. and lunch including fresh salads and sandwiches, as well as daily specials, fresh-roasted coffees, milkshakes and smoothies. (850) 932-9997.
• Will Call Sports Grille, a popular spot for catching your favorite game on more than 44 flat-screen TVs, has expanded its offerings with a dance club and a Sunday Jazz Brunch. Will Call “After Dark” rocks Friday and Saturday nights with the hottest dance mixes and videos, and Sundays slow things down with a cool jazz brunch, bottomless champagne and a Bloody Mary bar. (850) 912-8644,

Transportation

• J. Earle Bowden Way, the scenic road from Pensacola Beach to Navarre Beach has re-opened. Visitors now have access to the 7-mile drive through Gulf Islands National Seashore. (850) 934-2600, www.nps.gov/guis.
• Fort Pickens Road is expected to re-open after Memorial Day, with construction nearing completion. The area west of the Ranger Station including campground Loop A remains open, but is only accessible by private boat or through an authorized shuttle. Visitors can reach Fort Pickens shuttle at (850) 698-7492, Blue Marlin Water Taxi at (850) 723-4907, or Key Sailing at (850) 932-5520.

Travel Deals

• Check out the great Inventory of Pensacola Vacation Rentals available at www.FloridaGulfVacation.com
  

Summer Events

• Bands on the Beach. Tuesdays, May-Sept. (800) 635-4803, (850) 932-1500,
• Evenings in Olde Seville Square. Thursdays, May–Aug. (850) 438-6505.
• Wounded Warrior Bicycle Rally. May 16. www.escarosaindependenceweekend.com.
• Military Appreciation Month, Downtown Street Festival. May 24. (850) 438-4081.
• Sounds of Summer. Most Sundays, June-Sept. (800) 635-4803, (850) 932-1500,
• Juan Sebastián de Elcano. June 3-9. (850) 432-1450, www.celebratepensacola.com.
• 60th Annual Fiesta Days Celebration and Boat Parade. June 4-11. (850) 433-6512, www.fiestaoffiveflags.org.
• Bud Light King Mackerel/Cobia Tournament. June 20-21. (850) 393-1602, www.pensacolakingmack.com.
• Boater’s World Shallow Water Slam. June 20-21. (850) 393-1602, www.pensacolakingmack.com.
• 39th annual Pensacola International Billfish Tournament. July. (850) 453-4638, www.pbgfc.com.
• Sertoma’s Fourth of July Celebration. July 4. (850) 433-9866, www.pensacolasertomajuly4th.org.
• Gallery Night. July 10. (850) 432-9906, www.artsnwfl.org.
• Pensacola Beach Air Show. July 11. (850) 932-1500

Florida Gulf Vacation Press Release

PRLog.Org - Global Press Release Distribution


Florida Gulf Vacation Hits Milestone with 200 Vacation Rentals by Owner
By Florida Gulf Vacation LLC

Dated: Apr 19, 2009

www.FloridaGulfVacation.com, the five year old vacation rental by owner website has reached a new milestone with over 200 vacation rentals by owner on the Florida Gulf of Mexico Coast.
Florida Gulf Vacation, the five year old vacation rental site has reached a new milestone with over 200 vacation rentals by owner on the Gulf of Mexico.

The company expanded its reach from its origins on the Tampa Bay Beaches to include over 35 beaches all along the Gulf of Mexico Coastline with the launch of its new site on February 1, 2009.

"We are committed to remaining diligently focused on our Niche market and delivering quality vacation rentals to our traveling visitors", stated Jim Swartwout, Operating Manager and Founder of Florida Gulf Vacation LLC. "When I got into this business there were plenty of reasonably priced options for owners who wanted to market their own properties, but the consolidation that has occured over the last few years has made it outrageous for an owner to go it alone. We are focused solely on the Gulf Coast in Florida so that we can deliver to owners as well as the travelers who come to Florida Gulf Vacation," he continued. Florida Gulf Vacation has also partnered with Visit Florida and Cardiff2Florida to expand the marketing potential of owner listings.

ABOUT Florida Gulf Vacation

Florida Gulf Vacation LLC is a marketing website dedicated only to beachfront and near beach properties along the west coast of Florida from the Florida Keys in the south to Perdido Key Florida in the north, and everywhere in between. Listings for owners are $6 per month with discounts for multiple property listings. The company philosophy is that good targeted marketing to travelers is really the only effective way to get exceptional returns on vacation properties by owner.

Find the perfect Florida Vacation Rental By Owner

Find Florida Gulf Vacation Rentals on the Gulf Coast

SEARCH FLORIDA GULF COAST VACATION RENTALS Area: Arrival Date: Select from Below Any Area Indian Shores Alligator Point Anna Maria Island Beaches of South Walton Biltmore Beach Bonita Beach Cape San Blas Clearwater Beach Crystal River Destin Dune Allen Beach Florida Keys Fort Myers Beach Fort Walton Beach Holmes Beach Indian Rocks Madeira Beach Mid-Destin North Redington Beach Panama City Beach Pensacola Beach Perdido Key Redington Shores, Florida Rosemary Beach Santa Rosa Beach St George Island / Carrabelle St Pete Beach Treasure Island Vacation Rentals - Other Florida Beaches West Panama City Beach Property Name: End Date: Bedrooms Guests Any 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Any 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Cardiff-2-Florida

For all our readers from across the pond. We are happy to announce that there is a new website that specializes in travel to the Sunshine state directly from Cardiff.

While the site offers great information for those wishing to visit the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida Gulf Vacation has partnered with Cardiff 2 Florida to also provide Florida Vacation Rentals on the Gulf Coast.

For anyone who has not done this before - one of the best vacations in the world for a family with small children (or adults who love fun in the sun) is to spend a few days at Disney in a wonderful vacation rental followed by a week at the beach on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

We did this a few years ago with another family. We rented a 3 bedroom home in Windsor Palms and then spent a great week at the beach at Beach Cottage II in Indian Shores, Florida! The kids are still talking about that trip two years later.

So check out Cardiff2Florida then hop over to Florida Gulf Vacation and plan your families next great Florida Vacation!

Madeira Beach Brings back Fireworks after 1 year absence

MADEIRA BEACH – After a year’s absence, the city will once again have its own fireworks display on Independence Day.

This year’s city budget has set aside $10,000 for fireworks, and City Manager W.D. Higginbotham has awarded a contract to Bell’s Fireworks of Tampa to run the show.

The company was recommended by Fire Chief Derryl O’Neal, who noted in a letter to Higginbotham that they had previously provided private displays in Redington Beach “without any problems.”

The fire department recommendation was especially important this year since the area is facing a severe drought, creating dry and possibly hazardous conditions. In fact, O’Neal stated that “open burning type activity (which would include fireworks) could become a problem due to the risk of fire if conditions are windy and dry on the Fourth of July.”

Conditions permitting, the planned display appears to be impressive. A description of the show contained in the contract indicates a duration of 20 to 30 minutes during which 3,938 rounds of premium display fireworks will be set off. The company promises “a traditional show opening, continuing at a consistent pace, and ending in a spectacular finale of lights.”

Safety has been a concern in the past, and O’Neal indicated the shell sizes being proposed “are more appropriate for our shooting area and the safety zone, particularly since there have been several fireworks mishaps in the past.”

The display will be fired from the city recreation park on Rex Place next to the City Hall complex.

Things to Do in Cape San Blas this Spring

Things to Do in Cape San Blas this spring!

FIND GREAT CAPE SAN BLAS RENTALS at FLORIDAGULFVACATION.com

April 2009

9th Annual Mexico Beach Photography Contest

When: 04/01/2009 - 08/01/2009
Where: Mexico Beach Visitor's Center
More Information

Enter your photograph in the Photography contest. Pick up your entry form at the Visitor's Center and submit your 8 x 10 picture. All photographs must be taken in Mexico Beach. Categories include: animal life, people, sunrise/sunsets, landmark, beach, boating & fishing, and flora/fauna. Winners are displayed at the Visitor's Center throughout fall of 2009.

SaltAir Farmers' Market

When: 04/04/2009 - 11/21/2009 10;00 am - 2:00 pm
Where: Downtown port St Joe
More Information

The Port St. Joe SaltAir Farmers' Market brings fresh seasonal produce from local small farmers and much more to Florida's Forgotten Coast. Throughout the growing season, regionally grown vegetables and fruit, locally harvested Gulf seafood, carefully crafted artisan goods, and educational opportunities highlight the market's. Located in downtown Port St. Joe, the SaltAir Farmers' Market serves as a community gathering place and cultural center where attendees can enjoy arts, workshops, live music, and exhibitions while shopping the market and Reid Avenue's retail district. There is no better place to be on a Saturday Morning.

The Market is open the first and third Saturday each month from April through November.

Easter Egg Hunt

When: 04/11/2009 - 04/11/2009
Where: 8th Street Park, Port St Joe

The Junior Service League of Port St Joe hosts this annual Easter Egg Hunt for children of all ages with games and prizes at the 8th Street Park. Everyone is welcome!

Beach Blast Triathlon and Duathlon

When: 04/25/2009 - 04/25/2009
Where: Veteran's Memorial Park of Beacon Hill, St Joe Beach
More Information

Don't miss this year's excitement. Athlete's will run, bike, and swim in a raceof speed and endurance. After the race the fun continues at the Beacon Hill Park in St Joe Beach with food to celebrate the day.

A Taste of the Coast

When: 04/25/2009 - 04/25/2009 10:00 am - 11:00 pm
Where: Frank Pate Park & the Centennial Building Port St Joe
More Information

A Taste of the Coast; An Artful Affair Saturday, April 25, 2009 Art in the Park, Frank Pate Park, Hwy 98 & Hwy 71, 10 AM - 4 PM Main Event: Art Auction and Restaurant Tasting, Centennial Building, Port St. Joe, 6 PM Contact Dana Boyer, 227-3777, for more information.

Old Friends Get Together Bluegrass Pickin

When: 04/30/2009 - 05/02/2009 Day & Night
Where: Fisherman's Landing & RV Park

4th year of the Old Friends Get Together Bluegrass Pickin will be held at the Fisherman's Landing & RV Park 7681 Doc Whitfield Road, Howard Creek. For more information contact Helen Muncher 850-827-2255.

May 2009

First Fridays - A Fine Art & Music Series

When: 05/01/2009 - 08/07/2009 6:00 pm
Where: The Port Inn & Thirsty Goat
More Information

Gulf Alliance for Local Arts hosts a music and art reception the first Friday of each month during the summer with a little bit of everything as the sun goes the down. First Fridays May 1st, June 5th, July 3rd, and August 7th.
850-227-4960.

Derby Days

When: 05/02/2009 - 05/02/2009
Where:

Sponsored by the Junior Service of Port St Joe.

Plein Air Paint Out 2009

When: 05/07/2009 - 05/17/2009
Where: Gulf County
More Information

Nationally acclaimed artists gather on Florida's Forgotten Coast, the noteworthy stretch between Mexico Beach and Alligator Point, to participate in the 4th Annual Plein Air Invitational, May 7-17, 2009. Painters will set up their easels and pull out their brushes to document the landscape and culture of this last vestige of authentic "Old Florida". The public may view the artists at work in several venues. Contact The Forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition for more information 850-227-4255.

The communities of Mexico Beach, WindMark Beach, Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, Indian Pass, Apalachicola, Eastpoint, St. George Island, Carrabelle, SummerCamp and Alligator Point have joined forces to produce the most impressive art event seen along the coast. Artists will be painting on the beach, across the marsh, beside the lakes and throughout the streets of these waterfront towns. Experience beauty through the eyes of America's finest plein air artists!

7th Annual Kids Win Fishing Tournament

When: 05/15/2009 - 05/16/2009
Where: Port St Joe Marina
More Information

A wonderful event just for kids! This children's fishing tournament is for kids 3-16 where each registered child receives a FREE rod & reel, tackle box, t-shirt, and goody bag! Fish from anywhere and bring your catch to weigh in. Prizes are awarded in several categories. Contact 850-227-1099 for details.

Tupelo Honey Festival

When: 05/16/2009 - 05/16/2009 9:00 am - 4:00 pm CST
Where: Lake Alice Park, Wewahitchka

The annual Wewahitchka Tupelo Honey Festival celebrates this local delicacy. The honey festival features live music, food, arts & crafts, children's activities, and Honey. Contact the City of Wewahitchka for more information 850-639-2605 or gwenexley@gtcom.net.

Indian Shores Aviary looses Bird

INDIAN SHORES – The Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is asking the community’s help to locate a missing bird and long-time resident, “Peeps,” an American Oyster Catcher.

The bird escaped Monday, March 2 from the aviary located at 18328 Gulf Blvd. in Indian Shores.

It is a small black and white bird with bright orange eyes and a long orange skinny beak. It has pinkish legs and an orange rehabilitation tag on his leg.

Peeps is friendly and recognizes his name. Sanctuary staff said he is one of the most recognizable birds in the facility and is popular with hundreds of children in the area.

The bird is habitualized and has never been in the wild before and has no survival skills. Peeps needs to be returned to the sanctuary as soon as possible to survive.

Anyone with information should call 391-6211 or 391-2473.

For Florida Gulf Coast Rentals near the Sanctuary

Calypso Beach Resort Towers

If you are traveling to the Panama City Beach area and are looking for a great place to stay - check out http://www.beachquestresorts.com/ for all the best accommodations at Calypso Beach Resort Towers. Ask for Dennis. He manages four great properties that can also be seen at www.floridagulfvacation.com .

Enjoy the Beach!

Myths and Realities of Vacation Rentals

For a family of four, the availability of a full kitchen can mean a savings of hundreds of dollars compared to having to eat every meal at a restaurant.

Far from being a bad thing, the recession could just boost awareness of the vacation rental option.

Some vacationers still perceive a vacation rental as being more expensive than a hotel.
Nothing could be farther from the Truth in most areas. We're working to make sure the advantages of a vacation rental versus a hotel are understood by vacationers.

Take the example of the Tampa Bay Beaches - The local Marriott gives you a "1 bedroom suite" (760 sq ft) for $239 per night, a 2 bed/2 bath 1300 sq foot beachfront condo goes for $125- $150 per night.

It looks like vacationers probably will be doing even more last-minute booking in hopes of finding discounts. Our analysis of statistics from Florida Gulf Vacation search data for February of 2009 confirm this, as almost 80% of searches for Florida winter destinations were for February or March.

This morning we received a call from a gentleman in Canada planning a vacation in Florida this fall. He was wanting to know if there was anything he could do to protect his deposit because the owner did not take credit cards. He decided against renting the condo he was interested in because he could not pay by credit card.

It is always best to rent from owners who support credit card payments.

Vacation rentals are a more than $24 billion business in the U.S. alone, with expectations of strong growth.

Here are some other key findings from a recent study on the industry:

1. Nearly two thirds of vacation rental guests researched online for their last trip.
2. 20 percent of online travel shoppers (who used at least one website to plan their travel) booked a vacation rental in the past year.
3. Vacation rental guests are well-off, well-traveled, well-educated and savvy internet users.
4. Vacation rental guests are very satisfied: 89% of vacation rental guests indicated that they will rent again within three years.

Another bit of information included in the study showed that four out of five vacation rental owners surveyed said they did not receive good value from their property managers.

So, if you are still paying a property manager to secure tenants for you, why?

Check out great marketing sites like Florida Gulf Vacation for assistance in marketing your property and cut out the middleman and get more money in your pocket

Traveler Sentiment Makes a Big Move Up

(ORLANDO, FL) -- Seems like the bad news just keeps coming from both within and outside the industry. As such, we were delighted to see, and are now pleased to share, some welcomed good news: the U.S. Traveler Sentiment Index™ is now rising, the first increase we have observed since January of 2008.

The Traveler Sentiment Index™ is a nationally-representative survey by the U.S. Travel Association (formerly the Travel Industry Association) since early 2007. The survey is the only national survey that tracks the near-term travel intentions of Americans viewed through the lens of emerging economic, social and political developments. The most recent survey flight was conducted the week of February 7, 2009 with a national sample of 2,270 U.S. adults.

The Traveler Sentiment Index™ isderived of six variables: interest in travel, availability of time to travel, availability of money to travel, perceived affordability of travel, quality of travel services and safety.

All measures increased from the levels observed in October 2008 (the last survey flight). And four measures displayed double-digit increases: interest in travel (+10.3%), availability of time to travel (+12%), quality of travel services (+14.1%) and perceived affordability of travel (+97.2%). The result was a 15.3 percent increase in the overall Index from the level recorded in October 2008, although the February 2009 index remains 3 percent below the level recorded in February 2008. The trend line we have observed since early 2007 is revealed below The spike in the perceived affordability of travel appears to be a direct result of many travel suppliers' recent efforts to stimulate short-term demand through the aggressive promotion of discounted fares and rates. Promotional pricing and related incentives are now offered by suppliers representing practically every segment of the travel industry including airlines, cruise lines, hotel companies, attractions, restaurants and rental car companies, some of which are featuring up to 50 percent off fares and rates they were quoting just 6 months ago.

New Florida Vacation Rentals make 120+ on Florida Gulf Vacation

FloridaGulfVacation.com now lists over 120 of the absolute best beach vacation rentals on the Gulf Coast of Florida!

Check out our newest Listings:

Cudjoe Key Executive Home

Plantation Key - Islamadora

Sand Key Condos - Indian Rocks Beach

Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort - Panama City Beach

Perdido Sun on Perdido Key

Before you Plan Your next Vacation - check out the By Owner Beach Front rental Deals at Florida Gulf Vacation - Gulf Coast Rentals since 2004!

Panama City Beach - Featured Beach February 2009

Gear up for Spring Break with a refresher on things to do and places to stay in

PANAMA CITY BEACH FLORIDA

Florida Gulf Vacation now represents a large number of Vacation Rentals on the beach and near the Beach in Panama City Florida. Choose from 1, 2 and 3 bedroom beach rentals and golf course rentals.

Check Out the rentals in
Calypso Resort and Towers Panama City

Calypso Resort #402
Calypso Resort #409
Calypso Resort #509
Calypso Resort #609
Calypso Resort #1609
More Calypso Resort
Other Calypso Resort Rentals
Other Panama City Beach Rentals

Panama City Beach

Restaurants and Dining

Boars Head 17290 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Telephone: 850-234-6628 Location: One quarter mile West of Highway 79 on Front Beach Road Business Hours: 4:30 until, 7 days a week Credit Cards Accepted: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, Diners and Carte Handicap Accessible Visit their website: Boar's Head Restaurant Food Served: American, Seafood, Steak Meals Served: Appetizers, Dinner Reservations: Not Required Dress Code: Casual Specializes in the roasting and char grilling of meats and fresh seafood. Acclaimed for Prime Rib quality. Boatyard 5323 N Lagoon Dr Panama City, FL 32408 Telephone: 850-249-9273 Location: On Grand Lagoon off Thomas Dr. Business Hours: 11am-till Open Year Round Credit Cards Accepted: American Express, Mastercard, Visa Handicap Accessible Visit their website: Boatyard Food Served: American, Regional, Seafood, Steak Meals Served: Appetizers, Dinner, Lunch Reservations: Not Required Dress Code: Very Casual Alcoholic Beverages Served: Full Bar, Excellent Wine List, Beer After a few years of growing pains, Boatyard has won the hearts of the locals and delivers on every level. From the stunning outdoor gardens upstairs, to oysters on the half shell and gourmet sushi downstairs at the Food Bar... to the waterfront fireplace in the Florida Room, Boatyard earns its title of Best Waterfront Restaurant Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville 16230 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Telephone: 850-235-7870 Location: Pier Park - Panama City Beach, FL Visit their website: Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville The songs of the gulf have now met a salty piece of land on the Emerald Coast! Margaritaville Panama City Beach is open, serving up tasty Floribbean cuisine, and of course all your favorite frosty beverages. And what better way to enjoy it all, than with great live music and views of the Gulf. While you're here, be sure to check out the Smuggler's Hold with exclusive Margaritaville Panama City Beach gear! The Firefly 535 Beckrich Rd. Panama City Beach, FL Telephone: 850-249-FFLY (3359) Location: In the Shoppes at Edgewater Visit their website: www.fireflypcb.com Casual Fine Dining Exquisite wines and full bar Reservations excepted Business Hours: 5:00PM nightly Montego Bay 473 Beckrich Rd. Panama City Beach, FL Telephone: 850-233-6033 Business Hours: Spring: 11AM - 10PM Sun-Thurs, 11AM-11PM Fri & Sat Summer: 11AM - 11PM 7 days a week Winter: 11AM - 9PM Sun-Thurs, 11AM-10PM Fri & Sat Visit their website: www.montegobaypcb.com Saltwater Grill 11041 Middle Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL Telephone: 850-230-2739 Location: Middle Beach Rd. near post office Business Hours: Open 4PM daily Credit Cards Accepted: American Express, Mastercard, Visa Dress Code: Casual Visit their website: www.saltwatergrillpcb.com Food Served: Sandwiches, Salads, Seafood, Raw Oysters Schooners 5121 Gulf Drive Panama City, FL 32408 Telephone: 850-235-3555 Location: Near the east end of Thomas Drive, right on the beach Business Hours: 11am - 3am Credit Cards Accepted: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa Handicap Accessible Visit their website: Schooners Food Served: American, Regional, Seafood, Steak Meals Served: Appetizers, Brunch, Dinner, Lunch Reservations: Optional Dress Code: Beach They call this place “The Last Local Beach Club,” because it is one of the last holdouts for the classic beach style... with danceworn wood floors and tin roof... a bar perched out right on the Gulf. The bands start early and by sunset, the dance floor is packed. Every sunset, someone from the crowd lights the fuse on the old cannon and everyone counts down to “blast off” just as the sun dips below the horizon. Schooners keeps the prices low, the beer ice cold and the seafood fresh. Schooners chefs challenge the finest in the country. Voted “Best Place for Live Music” and “Best Place to Take Friends from Out of Town!” Live music daily. Web site has great live cams and popular local bulletin board. If you're looking for the perfect souvenir of your trip to Panama City Beach, the “Last Local Beach Club” has it online.

Shopping

Alvin's Island Panama City Beach, FL 1-888-4ALVINS Liz & Jane's Clothes 15612 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 850-234-7522 Shipwreck Ltd. 10570 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 850-233-6750 Sunsations 3 locations Panama City Beach, FL 850-235-8998 Wings 12208 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 850-235-3243 Treasure Ship Gifts 3605 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 850-234-8881

Attractions and Recreation

Rocket Lanes Bowling 513 Beckrich Rd (In the Shoppes at Edgewater) Panama City Bch, FL 32407 Telephone: 850-249-2695 Business Hours: 10:00 am to 2:00 am 7 days a week Credit Cards Accepted: Mastercard, Visa Discounts Offered: Child, Group, Senior, Military Handicap Accessible Visit their website: Rock It Lanes At 50,000 Sq Ft, Rocket Lanes is Panama City Beaches' largest and most diverse family entertainment complex. Bowling, Pool Tables, Arcade, Roller Skating, Sports Bar and Grille all under one roof. This is the place for clean family fun that appeals to all age groups. Gulf World Marine Park 15412 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Location: 2 Miles East of Highway 79 on Front Beach Road. Telephone: 850-234-5271 Business Hours: 9am-Last Entry 3pm Credit Cards Accepted: Mastercard, Visa Handicap Accessible Visit their website: Gulf World Marine Park Whether it be the whiskers of a sea lion touching your nose or tasting the salt from a dolphin splash, Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach creates memories for your entire family. At Gulf World, you’ll see live animal shows, fascinating exhibits, and you’ll experience hands-on interaction with our animals. So, take a deep breath and introduce yourself to the experience of a lifetime. Shipwreck Island Water Park 12201 Middle Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Location: Located at the intersection of Middle Beach Road and Alf Coleman Road. Telephone: 850-234-3333 Business Hours: Hours vary, but we are usually open at 10:30 and close between 4:30 and 5:30 depending on month and day of week. See website for details. Seasonal Dates: Dates vary, but usually April - September. Credit Cards Accepted: Mastercard, Visa, Travelers Checks Discounts Offered: Child, Group, Senior, Prices vary. See website for details. Visit their website: Shipwreck Island Water Park Shipwreck Island is Panama City Beach's ONLY Waterpark and is a great value for thrill seekers, families and kids! Fun for the entire family... from gigantic kids area to huge thrill rides! Aquatic Adventures 647 Clara Avenue Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Telephone: 850-235-8051 No one can show you Panama City Beach, Florida like Aquatic Adventures - from waverunners on the beach to pontoon boats on the Bay, or snorkeling or dolphin encounters, and of course, Parasail in the sky. Add in electric fun buggies and mini-cycles on the strip. Barnacle Bay Mini Golf 11209 West Highway 98A (Next to Edgewater Beach Resort) Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Telephone: 850-234-7792 Two complete tropically landscaped 18-hole-mini-golf courses on one spacious site. Capt. Anderson Cruises 5550 N. Lagoon Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 Telephone: 850-234-3435 Come out for a beautiful cruise to Shell Island, see the sunset and watch the dolphins. Enjoy a narration while on the cruise about the area from the Captain. Ebro Greyhound Park 6558 Dog Track Rd Ebro, FL 32437 Telephone: 850-234-3943 Visit their website: Ebro Greyhound Park Pari-Mutuel Wagering

Charter Fishing

Capt. Billy‘s Watersports Behind Treasure Island Condos Panama City Beach, FL 32408 Telephone: 850-814-9712 Jet Ski rentals and the the most incredible Dolphin Tours on the Emerald Coast. Fishing Trips, Kayak Rentals and Tours, Surf Lessons, Dive Trips, and Sail Boat Rentals. Let Capt. Billy show you great time in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico! Great Escape Charters 5550 N Lagoon Dr Panama City, FL 32408 Telephone: 850-258-1734 The "Great Escape" is a 47 foot long, U.S. #1 hull, air conditioned fishing vessel. equipped with 6 bunks, bathroom, and freshwater shower, all for your convenience. All fishing gear and license included with trip. Island Time Sailing Cruises 3605 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 Telephone: 850-234-7377 Sail, snorkel, swim with dolphins, beautiful romantic champagne sunsets. Miss Kelley Fishing Charters 5550 N. Lagoon Drive Panama City, FL 32408 Telephone: 850-866-2363 Florida Gulf Fishing Charters in Panama City, Destin Florida Area. Custom Deep Sea Fishing Charters up to 16 Passengers, Kid Friendly -Handicap Accessible, New Beautiful Boats!

Night Clubs

Big Kahuna 14896 Front Beach Rd. Panama City, FL 850-233-5706 Boar's Head Restaurant and Tavern 17290 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 850-234-6628 Breakers On the Beach/Harpoon Harry's 12627 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 850-234-6060 Calypso Beach Cafe 15812 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 850-234-6788 Club La Vela 8813 Thomas Dr. Panama City, FL 850-234-3866 Spinnaker’s Paradise Grill 8795 Thomas Drive Panama City, FL 32408 Location: One block west of Joan Avenue on the west end of Thomas Drive Contact: Phone: 850-234-7892 Alt. Phone or Fax: 850-235-4196 Business Hours: M-Su 10am -4am Credit Cards Accepted: American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa Handicap Accessible Visit their website: Spinnaker's Paradise Grill Entertainment: Bands, Dance Floor, Dj Music: Hip Hop, Rock Site of MTV’s first Spring Break broadcast... this is the club that started it all! A legendary giant in the history of rock! For over 25 years, Spinnaker’s Rock Arena has hosted top name concerts in one of the world’s most awesome beachfront amphitheaters. From Collective Soul to Jimmy Buffett. They’ve all played Spinnaker. The huge club sprawls along the beach... during the day, there are volleyball games and waverunners on the beach, beautiful bodies basking in the sun on the multi-level tanning decks overlooking the sparkling beachfront pool. At night, Spinnaker throbs with excitement... bars inside and out, two live band stages, jam-packed dance floors, massive crowds, killer concerts and even a few little hideaway bars when you want to take a breather from the dance floor. You won’t find another club like this anywhere else in the world!

Perfect Family Vacations in a Tough Economy

Finding Your Family Beach Vacation Rental has never been easier!

We keep hearing that the economy is struggling, but I'll be honest, everytime I drive past the mall near my home I find that hard to believe. The parking lots are full, the restaurants are swamped and people in general are out and about spending money.

If you are like me the one area of my expenses that simply cannot suffer is our annual family vacation.

Working 70-80 hour weeks myself and with my kids participating in sports, band, piano, and the list goes on and on...we simply do not spend enough time
as a family as we probably should. Don't get me wrong, we are not odd or abnormal. In today's market this is all very normal.

Kids are swamped between school and extracurricular activities. Employers demand ever more of our personal time to meet deadlines with fewer workers and we're all plugged in like a giant appliance by laptops, cell phones and PDAs.

No longer do you need to spend thousands of dollars on a Florida Beach Vacation. As the years have gone by more and more vacation rentals have become available to the average traveler via the internet and this is making it not only easier to find, but cheaper to rent a condo or beach home for your family's one week of sanity. Most management companies charge the owner from 10 - 25% and so the management fee is built into the price you pay. Go straight to the source for real savings!

Many websites list Vacation Rentals By Owner. Simply do a search on Google for the area or city you wish to visit (example: Indian Shores Vacation Rentals) and get back a variety of websites where you can compare properties, view photos and contact the owner directly for the best deal.

A great example of this is Florida Gulf Vacation. The site has been connecting Florida Gulf Coast renters and property owners since 2004. Properties are currently available in the following Florida Beach towns along the Gulf Coast: Key West, Anna Maria Island, Fort Myers, St petersburg, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, Indian Shores, Indian Rocks, Crystal River, Clearwater, Perdido Key, Panama City Beach, Biltmore Beach and St George Island.

Visitors can contact the owners directly and Florida Gulf Vacation does not charge any fees to the traveler for the service.

The web site offers photos, availability, links to the owner's website and email as well as phone numbers if you prefer to call.

Owners pay a minimal annual listing fee for their property to appear on Florida Gulf Vacation.

Find great weekly rates for this summer from $950 including all the taxes and fees. Drive or fly to the beach, buy some groceries for your full kitchen and have a fantastic week at the beach without the crazy expenses of a resort.

Two words of advice - Book Early! Many owners build a loyal following and often have reservations on the books several months in advance.

Most require a small deposit or security deposit with the balance of the rental rate due somewhere between 30 and 60 days before you arrive.
As costs have come down many owners have added the ability to pay via credit/debit card or as always by personal check.

So fire up your web browser do a little surfing for your next Great Family getaway!

Superbowl Weekend is Coming!

Here are some great things to do if you can't make the game

Gator's Parasail & Watersports
We are offerring unbeatable SuperBowl specials from 1/24/09 through 2/8/09 here at Gator's Parasail @ John's Pass Village. We will offer our 1200' flight for $50 vs. the normal rate of $75. All other flights will be $10 off. In addition, our "SHUT UP & FLY" signature extra warm hoodies, tanks & t's will be 50%. We will also meet or beat all other coupons & specials!


Lee Roy Selmons
We are planning a BIG Superbowl party here at Lee Roy Selmon's! Starting at 5 pm, VIP customers Pay just $63 (That was Lee Roy's number with the buc's). VIP customers are treated to ALL you can eat and drink. With our great home- cooking and hospitality- it should be a great day!

BATS Taxi
BATS Taxi is offering $70 take over rides to the Superbowl . Towncars are available for Airport Pickup ($65), Airport Drop-Offs ($60), and charters at $70/hr with a 6 hour minimum.
For more infomation or to make a reservation call (727) 367-3702

Florida Gulf Vacation Launches new Website

Florida Gulf Vacation - the premier niche marketing site for Vacation Rental Owners and Florida Family Vacation Travelers - has announced the introduction of their 5th anniversary version of the website Florida Gulf Vacation.

What's New for Travelers?
Travelers looking for the best deal in vacation rentals on the Florida Gulf Coast now have expanded options. The site previously focused on the Tampa Bay Beaches but now has expanded coverage north and south along the coast. Properties listed now include St George Island, Perdido Key, Key West, Panama City Beach, Crystal River, Anna Maria Island, Fort Myers Beach, Bradenton / Cortez Beach, Indian Shores, Indian Rocks, Treasure Island, St Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach.

In addition, Travelers can now see up to 15 owner photos per property, can search by beds, baths, availability and location! Registered users can also save properties and forward them to far away family if planning a group trip.

Whats New for Vacation Rental Owners?
Owners along the west coast of Florida can list their properties for a FREE TRIAL or lock in their position on their beach by purchasing a one year or lifetime listing. The prices are extremely reasonable given that the lifetime membership is cheaper than some other sites one year rate.Owners can add up to 15 photos, link to their own website and virtual tour and receive inquiries directly from customers all at no additional cost beyond the member fee.

About Florida Gulf Vacation
Florida Gulf Vacation has been marketing Vacation Rentals along the Florida Gulf Coast since 2004. The site's Alexa Ranking places it within the top 2% of all websites in terms of daily pageviews and traffic. Florida Gulf Vacation does not list ski resorts, foreign destinations, mountain cabins or rentals in Texas, Alabama or Connecticut on its site. All properties listed must be on or close to a Florida Gulf Coast Beach.