The Gulf Coast...

We have been following the oil spill tragedy in the Gulf Coast and wondering how widespread the damage really is.  Mary Bill, our Vice President of Operations, agreed to go and check out the beaches in Destin, Florida.  Here is her first-hand report:

Calling All Beach Bums!!!
Florida beaches are open in the Gulf! My husband and I just returned from our vacation in Miramar Beach, located outside Destin, FL. Our condominium at Surfside Resort is located on a long beautiful white sandy beach and crystal clear water.  

Everyone asked us the same question when we got home: "How much oil was on the beach?"  

I am here to tell you I did not see a single drop of oil, or any sign of oil, during my two-week stay. One day we could even see a stingray swim by while looking out from our 9th floor unit!

There were quite a few people on the beach and in the water, but, I am sad to report, not nearly the numbers I usually see this time of year.  You will not find water more blue or sand more white on any beach—and I have visited many beaches around the world over the years!  And, Destin has a lot to offer everyone and this area is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.  

One of our favorite restaurants is Cuvee Bistro which is well noted for its wine bar.  The chef is not only wonderful, but also offers fabulous appetizers at half price during happy hour.  You will not be disappointed!  
 

You must also visit the area known as "Harbor Walk," where there is always a lot happening.  One of our favorite spots is AJ’s, offering live music and something for everyone.  We enjoyed visiting with friends on the upper outdoor deck where we could watch the boats in the harbor and enjoy the sunset.  Can you say, "Ahhhh." 

If you really want to get casual, check out the Boat House right on the pier along the Harbor Walk. This is what we call a real "dive" bar.  If you want to leave your mark and have a dollar you are willing to part with, you can sign it and pin it to the wall.  The guitarist played Jimmy Buffet-esque tunes while we enjoyed a beer, oysters, and fresh grilled fish sandwiches.  Can you say, "Party!"

Destin offers great golf courses and one of our favorites is Regatta Bay.  This beautiful course offers lots of sand and water, and I will not say how many golf balls were lost.  

A short twenty minutes down the road is a quaint, picturesque little town called "Seaside," offering cozy cottages for rent, you guessed it, right by the seaside.  After visiting the unique art galleries and lots of fun shops, we had to stop at Bud and Alley’s for some of the best creamy shrimp and grits you will ever eat.  They are so rich, but so worth the calories, and (being from Wisconsin) I never even knew I liked grits! Bud and Alley’s is yet another beachfront bar overlooking the sea. (You are probably seeing a trend here.) We had the best time just sitting on the deck, enjoying the great view, listening to the waves and watching pelicans fly by.  Yes, pelicans! I am happy to report they are alive and well.

The moral of my trip is that you should absolutely go to the Gulf and enjoy.  From one beach bum to another, I can attest that the coast is clear!  Now, we just have to get the word out!

~Mary Bill

Thanks to Mary, I can now say with full confidence that there is no reason to hesitate taking a Gulf Coast vacation.   Not only are there beautiful beaches just waiting for you, there are also lots of folks who call those beaches home relying on our travel dollars to make a living!  If you need more proof, check out this website for lots of updates: www.destinoilspill.com. Call us today to help you plan your Gulf Coast vacation!

Remember, "It’s The Experience"!

Andrea Shpall
President
Polk Majestic Travel Group