Author Archive
Introducing Your Maine Route To A Real Vacation
If you’re an avid reader of Steven King, you will already be aquanited with Maine; a good deal of its beaches as well as the cities and interior rural area is the setting for his initial books and are depicted in rewarding detail.
Despite his novel’s illustrious detail, they are no surrogate for booking a holiday rental alongside one of those Pine Tree State’s beaches, or even one of the several cabin rental accommodations in the luxuriant and plentiful winterland throughout that state.
The most sparsely-populated state in the the united states (even more so than Wyoming), there is plenty of space in Maine – much of which remains undiscovered rough country. Main is famed for the seaside views, in addition to over 200 miles of rough, virgin shoreline. Maine beach rentals are located by quaint fishing towns as well as a great deal of small islands offshore. Numerous bays in addition to fjords are spotted along the Maine coast, but you don’t have to go for too long away from the shore to uncover a few marvelous spectacular contradictions the romantic rocky shoreline unexpectedly fades away to unveil and deciduous winterland as well as mountain terrain.
A lot of Maine’s stunning beauty results from what geologists name as a “drowned coast.” Previous to the last Ice Age, the coast was a lot further out than you’ll find it these days; the bays as well as the inlets along the Maine coast had been at one time mountain valleys, that were cloaked as the glaciers retreated.
Those who vacation in one of the Maine cabin vacation spots along the shore as well as near among the list of the state’s striking lakes enjoy somewhat temperate weather during the spring season, the summer season or even autumn, but winters may be icy (temperatures in January rarely get above arctic. Nevertheless, it is these winter snows that cater for excellent winter recreation; snowmobiling as well as skiing include two of Maine’s renowned wintertime sports. Throughout these less harsh periods, those who enjoy hunting, fishermen and further al fresco sportsmen and women make temporary residences within Maine vacation rentals next to Dark Score Lake, considered on of the best fly-fishing hotspots within the Country. This Maine beach vacation needn’t be restricted to the coast, for you information; Maine Windjammer Cruises (http://www.mainewindjammer.com) provides tourists the opportunity the experience this state’s beachfront the way sailors had a hundred years ago on the decks of an actual 19th-Century schooner. This wonderful cruise, that lasts almost six days, is so well-liked that more than two-thirds of all explorers return.
You can find out much more regarding Maine’s scenic seashores,homely Maine bed breakfasts and historic attractions such as Brunswick’s quaint Penneville District by visiting the state’s official tourism website at http://www.visitmaine.com/.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on romantic travel accommodations and things to do.
A Great New Life In Mexico
“The fish are biting” is not really a everyday expression in Spanish (locals are likely to receive you quite factually if you say it and warn you to stay out of the water), but the reality remains that the ancient homeland of the Mayan empire on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is one of the leading off-shore fishing areas in North America.
There are actually countless sorts of saltwater fishing that is accessible from one of the scores of beach rentals or other trip rental facilities on the eastern coast of the Yucatan, and offshore deep-sea fishing is just one of them. Nearby are scores of outfits that sail into the Caribbean from the coast’s 3 key metropolitan areas (Playa del Carmen, Cancun and the near island town of Cozumel). These indigo waters are loaded for marlin, tuna, dolphin (the fish, not the mammal) and wahu. Thanks to the warm temperatures, scores of of these fish swim inside a few miles of the shoreline – meaning you won’t have to spend most of the daylight hours just to reach the top fishing.
You won’t have to set out to sea to enjoy a great angling experience, however. The Mayan Riviera is well-known for its outstanding inshore flats and fly fishing as well. Resident fishing guides will be glad to escort you to any of the native reefs in quest of a particular fish; the Yucatan in truth is home to the second-largest organism of reefs in the world (after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef). These reefs are primary hunting grounds for snapper, barracuda, grouper and mackerel. And don’t discount fly fishing; there are many streams flowing out of Yucatan’s flourishing jungles into mangrove swamps and salt marshes that are residence to snapper and – for the very adventurous – small shark. A vacation rental near Ascension Bay promises some of the top saltwater fly fishing in the world; try visiting the website Pesca Maya for more information regarding nearby accommodations and what kind of fish are plentiful at various times of the year.
When you and the relatives want to take a break from fishing you have further options. Fans of Indiana Jones may well like touring the near ruins of the ancient Mayan capital of Chichen Itza, home to a advanced, literate Native American society ca. 600-1100 AD. Found in the northern part of Yucatan, Chichen Itza consists of several of the best-preserved examples of Mayan structure in the region, counting the mystifying Temple of Kukulkan, the Mayan serpent deity.
Of course, there are additional leisure opportunities that you would expect to uncover at a Caribbean beach resort; the flat, sandy seashores are magnificent for kids plus there is some first-rate snorkeling in neighboring Cozumel. Afterwards, taste native foods and music at one of the area’s various excellent restaurants. As far as shopping goes, jewelry as well as arts and crafts stores are abundant, featuring works by native artisans. These citizens are not troubled to haggle over price, so be geared up to do a bit of enthusiastic bargaining with these merchants in order to get the best prices on souvenirs.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on cabin rentals and things to do.
categories: Accommodations,Lodging,Hotels,Inns
More Than Potatoes
Idaho encompasses the western side of the continental divide of the Rocky Mountains. Farmland, rivers and mountains fill the state’s landscape. The panhandle has bright green hillsides, wooded mountains and clear lakes. Central Idaho is covered with jagged peaks. The Snake River Plain, with its wide open vistas, irrigated farm lands and lively cities form the character of Southern Idaho. Today, Idaho is both cosmopolitan and small town friendly with Boise, the capital and largest city, containing a population of 190,000.
Idaho offers some of the greatest outdoor recreation and sightseeing in the west. Whether your interest is a day trip or camping in the backcountry, Idaho State Parks are perfect for those who want to be active in the majestic out doors. Cabin rentals are prevelent in this neck of the woods. One well known park is Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park. Walkers, hikers and bikers adore this flat park that follows the north shore of lovely Lake Coeur d’Alene. The Coeur d’ Alene Parkway runs the length of the north shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, following Centennial Trail east from Coeur d’Alene to Higgens Point. At Higgens Point, there is a boat launch facility, a picnic area overlooking the lake, and docks. Over 1,000 feet of public beach parallels the path. Also available are an exercise court, roadside picnic tables, toilet facilities and benches. This park is open all year and the entrance fee is $4.00.
Farragut State Park is located 30 miles north of Coeur d’Alene on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest lake. Previously the world’s second largest naval training station, these days the four thousand acre park offers a host of sports possibilities. This park provides swimming, fishing, picnicing, horse back riding, camping, disc golf, hiking and biking. The Eagle Boat Launch provides the only major entrance for boaters on the south end of Lake Pend Oreille.
Harriman State Park lies within an 11,000 acre wildlife retreat in the Yellowstone Ecosystem. Moose, Elk, and Sandhill Cranes are prevalent, as well as Trumpeter Swan. Known as one of the best fly fishing streams in the state, the Henrys Fork flows for eight miles through Harriman. Over 20 miles of trails are existing for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross county skiing. Guided horseback tours are offered. The Park was once owned by Union Pacific Railroad investors and formerly served as a cattle ranch and private retreat. Today, visitors are welcome to fish and take in the beautiful scenery. The Teton Mountains are in full view here, as are the elk, deer, and moose. People are invited to stay over in a cabin or yurt, or camp out and enjoy historic tours and the fabulous guided walks.
Whichever part of this scenic state you choose to discover, you’ll find spectacular scenery, fun events to do and welcoming, obliging people. You’ll also find a place that’s easygoing, well-preserved and modest. So linger awhile, stay in our charming bed and breakfasts, and discover Idaho.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on vacation rentals and things to do.
Its Ok To Sleep Under A Tree In Florida
Many do not realize that in addition to theme parks and beaches, Florida is additionally splendid for camping in its National Forests. Year round mild temperatures keep the National Parks operating through the winter months.
Ocala National Forest and Apalachicola National Forest are some of the premier hiking and camping destinations in Florida. Trails range from easy to moderate in difficulty. The temperatures for the dry months of November through February range from a daily average of 50 F to a high of 72 F.
There are a lot of activities to enjoy in Ocala National Forest. The Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail is a challenging 22 mile long ride through live oak domes, verdant prairies and stands of pines. Given that the trail is in a figure eight shape, shorter loops can be ended at the central point. Because this trail is not smooth, mountain bikes are ideal. There is not a charge to ride the trail and there is complimentary parking available at the trailhead at Clearwater Lake and the parking area of FR 538. Alexander Springs is located at the north end of the trail and Clearwater Lake is located at the south end. Water, showers and flush toilets are accessible at both areas, but please note there is a fee to use these amenities. Water is not available along the trail, so be certain to bring plenty of water. The trail is marked with yellow diamonds and arrows and posts at road crossings. Other interests are horseback riding, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. Camp fires are permited at camp sites.
If camping is a little too rustic for you, but you still enjoy day trips to the National Forests, Florida cabin rentals are plentiful all throughout the northern regions of Florida within short driving distances to parks.
Near Tallahassee is the Apalachicola National Forest. The Apalachicola National Forest offers water based recreation such as boating and fishing along the Ochlockonee and Apalachicola Rivers, and swimming in the numerous lakes. Trails and roads accommodate hiking, mountain bike riding, horseback riding, and off road ATV and motorcycle riding. Primitive camping is allowed throughout the Forest; fee campsites provide restrooms and water, picnic tables and fire rings. Hunting for deer is the dominant activity in December and January.
Subsequent to a couple of weeks traveling and camping in the National Parks, a little relief in a Florida bed and breakfast will feel like luxury. Inn keepers are very knowledgeable and obliging with area suggestions for restaurants, shopping, golf, night life and the like. Most country inns are near to city amenities so that you will be relaxed and geared up for your next camping event in more Florida National Parks and beaches.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on Florida beach rentals and things to do.
Oh How I Love Ohio
Ohio is not commonly linked with “outdoor adventure,” but you may be surprised to realize that the Buckeye State has an wealth of state parks where there is excellent rock climbing and rappelling, kayaking and wildlife tours in addition to a range of natural, historic, and urban attractions that include theme parks and more. An intimate Ohio bed and breakfast or one of the state’s comfy cabin rentals is a perfect source from which to explore everything that Ohio has to offer.
The Ohio countryside is a blend of fertile farmland and lush deciduous forest. One of the most scenic locations is the Hocking Hills region, a section of the Allegheny Plateau featuring lofty gorges, waterfalls and an abundance of caves. Ohio also has its share of remarkable archeology; a pre-Columbian civilization existed in the area over 2,000 years ago, leaving burial mounds and other earthwork structures behind that you can explore today.
There are a number of Ohio bed and breakfast houses in the Hocking Hills area, several of which are 100-160 years old. Many are open year round and some are open only at certain times of the year. You’ll want to do some investigation on this prior to planning your vacation. The fall colors in the Hocking Hills region are as outstanding as those in New England so plan in advance. Those who are looking for more economical lodging closer to urban centers will find a wide range of amenities from which to choose.
While in southern Ohio, a few places worth touring include the Wake Nation Water Park which provides thrills that you won’t find at an ordinary water park. A different attraction is The Wilds, a unique animal attraction where the animals wander uninhibited and people stay in their cars. History buffs will not want to pass up a trip to Amish Country, where the Amish have stood true to their traditions for nearly two centuries. Further north, close to Lake Erie, you can experience living history for yourself, riding a mule drawn canal boat and experience life in the 1850s directly at The Canal Experience. Amish country has many Ohio vacation rentals to pick from, depending on your resources and preference.
A lovely time to go to Ohio is in the spring and fall. The weather is mild, the humidity is low, and the colors in each season are beautiful. Amish country is really a treat for delectable home made meals, hand carved wood workings, quality hand made quilts for sale, and an instruction regarding a simpler way of life. Come to Ohio for outdoor activities and take pleasure in their plentiful picturesque bed and breakfasts.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on Ohio vacation rentals and things to do.
Jekyll Island And Wind Swept Oaks
Half way between Savannah and Jacksonville, is a scenic island haven, Jekyll Island, Georgia. Georgia’s smallest barrier island is 5,700 acres of bike trails, scenic shoreline, historic mansions, delicious restaurants and more. Jekyll Island is right in the middle of a renewal project to increase it’s eco-system and tourism and is one of the largest revitalization campaigns in the Southeastern United States.
The eight hotels on Jekyll Island include comfortable economy, internationally recognized resorts, suites and beach villas. Vacation cottages are available for short and long-term rental. Also, a secluded campground welcomes tent campers and motor homes. Jekyll Island vacation rentals are dispersed throughout this lovely island, so it is convenient to get around from any vacation rental you choose to stay at.
Jekyll Island was purchased from John Eugene duBignon in 1886 by some of the wealthiest men in America as a hunting resort. The names of the owners are recognizable to most, and include J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pulitzer, Marshall Field, John J. Hill, Everett Macy, William Rockefeller, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and Richard Teller Crane. As Florida was not developed yet, these men created their own clubhouse and througout the years, extended the clubhouse to include cottages. Many of these exquisite cottages (mansions) have been restored or are currently a work in progress. The principal “cottage” is almost 8,000 square feet. The Jekyll Island Clubhouse is now a romantic Victorian hotel.
Millionaire’s Village is a great attraction to see on Jekyll Island. A lot of the historic cottages described above have been restored, and tours are available. If you arrive by small cruise ship on the Intracoastal Waterway, you will dock at the same Jekyll Island Wharf where a number of the most luxurious pleasure crafts ever constructed are presently docked. From the wharf, you can see the entire Millionaire’s Village. If you do not plan to stay overnight on Jekyll Island, there are several lovely Georgia vacation rentals all along the coast.
Bike riding is a wonderful way to see this spectacular island. There are several bicycle rental stores on the island and a great bike path that encircles the complete island. It will take about 2 hours to get around the complete island, but there a few paths to take that cut across the midpoint to shorten your trip if you require it. From these paths are numerous sites to see.
On the other side of the waterway is the famous Georgia “Marshes of Glynn” made famous by the poet Sidney Lanier. “The Marshes of Glynn” became a highly acclaimed poem and Sidney Lanier made plans to write a series of poems entitled Hymns of the Marshes. Only a few in the series were actually composed. Through the 1900s, Georgia students were required to memorize the poem. Tours run from 10 am to 3 pm at the National Historic District Welcome Center, which is located on Shell Road a short walk from the wharf.
Jekyll Island is located right off the Georgia coast. A six-mile causeway separates Jekyll Island from the mainland. Jekyll is convenient to I-95, take Exit 29 and follow the signs east on U.S. 17 for about 10 miles. For more information regarding Jekyll Island, please call the Jekyll Island Visitor Information Center at 1-877-453-5955.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on Georgia beach rentals and things to do.
North Carolina Has Abundant Vacation Rentals And Sites To See
Fans of retro television programs might remember that the town of Mayberry was located in North Carolina. You won’t come across any such town as Mayberry out of the Andy Griffith Show, but the scenic and historic region of North Carolina will take you back to those less complicated times. Whether you choose a bed and breakfast in the Charlotte metro area or choose for one of the rustic cabin rentals on the eastern slope of the Great Smoky Mountains, you are certain to find romance, history, and a lot of family fun in North Carolina. There are three distinct regions in North Carolina, the mountains, the piedmont and the coast. Southern hospitality, gracious people and affordable rates are in each region across the state.
One of the most romantic destinations is the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa. Proudly located on the shores of Lake Lure, this facility attracts guests from all over. If you are travelling with your boat, the Lake Lure Inn and Spa is complete with boat launching facilities and dock.
North Carolina’s coast attracts visitors from all over the globe. The splendor of the ocean, sunny and temperate climate and the abundant marshes and wetlands are just some of the reasons that North Carolina beaches are one of the hottest attractions in the nation. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, North Carolina beach rentals are available. With more than 300 miles of unspoiled coast, it’s easy to find the perfect beach for your getaway … whatever the occasion.
North Carolina constructed 10 lighthouses along their coast line throughout history, seven of which stand today as reminders of the rich coastal culture. Perhaps the most famous of the lighthouses is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, completed in 1870. Today more than 175,000 visitors flock to climb the 257 steps to the top. Recently the lighthouse made quite a stir in the media as the enormous structure was moved nearly 3,000 feet in the summer of 1999 to ensure its preservation from the encroaching Atlantic Ocean.
North Carolina offers a wealth of historic and scenic places to visit. From the Carolina Beach State Park along the Atlantic Shore to the Fontana Village Resort just south of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll find no shortage of places to go and things to do when vacationing in the Tarheel State. In addition to outdoor recreation such as fishing and backpacking, North Carolina boasts several museums as well as a number of cultural institutions; many famous bluegrass, country and blues artists call this state home. There are also plenty of North Carolina cabin rentals throughout the state to lodge in.
Places to visit while in North Carolina include Tanglewood Park, residence to equestrian events, lush gardens and more, and Chimney Rock State Park, home to one of the most rare geologic formations in the eastern U.S. If you stay in Winston Salem, be certain to check out the Old Salem Museums and Gardens for a taste of what life was like during America’s colonial period; one more historic locale worth checking out is the Village of Ocracoke, one of the barrier islands where natives talk with a twang almost unchanged for two centuries.
North Carolina has romance, history, and a lot of family fun activities to participate in throughout this great state. Visit North Carolina and leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and proud of our national history.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on North Carolina vacation rental deals and things to do.
Miss Me In Kissimmee
Kissimmee is a city of 60,000 in the scenic center of Old Florida within effortless reach of Disney World and the family escape hotspots in the city of Orlando. What began as a small trading post on the Kissimmee River in the 18th century has become one of Florida’s most unique and inviting vacation hotspots, especially for families prepared to discover the magic of Disney.
Starting your retreat in Kissimmee additionally offers your family right of entry to the rest of Florida’s entertainment and recreation options, through simple access to the ranches of central Florida, the seashores of the Atlantic coast, the unaffected wonderland of the Everglades, or the spaceport at Cape Canaveral. There are various Kissimmee vacation rentals to choose from all through out this great city and the surrounding area.
Disney is the main theme park so there are numerous Kissimmee Disney rentals, but Disney is not the only attraction! Kissimmee’s Old Town is a shopping, dining, and entertainment attraction intended to appear and feel like an old fashioned amusement park. The park features rides like the 1,437 foot steel roller coaster, Windstorm, or the sixty-foot Century Ferris Wheel. Go-kart tracks and carnival games will keep the complete family amused for hours.
For the more adventurous guest, Kissimmee is additionally residence to the renowned Gatorland. Founded in 1949 as a roadside attraction, and housing very few actual alligators, Gatorland has grown to be one of the leading alligator zoos in the world. Gatorland now houses thousands of alligators and crocodiles on 70 acres. Facilities consist of breeding pens, nurseries, and “rearing ponds” which are dispersed throughout the park. Gatorland is additionally home to snakes and insects, and a crowd of other reptilian creatures native to the sands of Florida. Two thousand feet of elevated boardwalk coil through the swamp, giving visitors an exceptional vista of the native inhabitants.
For folks who are looking for a manner to get into the outdoors that doesn’t involve lethal predators, Kissimmee presents miles and miles of hiking trails that take guests into the back country of Old Florida. One entity to look out for while hiking is the obscure American Bald Eagle. Kissimmee has the largest nesting population of the national bird in the continental United States.
Shopping in Kissimmee is varied and plentiful. The historic downtown shopping area is the oldest and largest of its kind in the county, with a broad array of shops where you can buy collectibles, antiques, clothing, travel services, and much more, all in a charming, old-fashioned Florida atmosphere.
Lanier’s Historic Downtown Marketplace is another pleasant shopping experience. The 18,000 square foot showroom overflowing with antiques, collectibles, and design ideas for the home. It is located in downtown Kissimmee in the midst of other antique shops, art galleries and several bistros.
Stretch your legs and meander through the Osceola Square Mall, the only enclosed mall in Kissimmee (which might be a welcome adjustment in the Florida summer). The mall comprises more than 50 shops, a sizeable food court and a movie theater.
Dining in Kissimmee is as assorted as Florida, with conventional southern food, excellent fresh seafood, or the peppery flair of South Florida’s Latin cuisine. In attendance is an example of every imaginable type of restaurant within easy contact of Kissimmee. Kissimmee and the greater Orlando area have to offer whatever you and your family could possibly desire-from fine dining to casual bistros-and many restaurants offer the choice to sit outside during Florida’s 320 days of annual sunshine.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. These directories provide detailed information on Florida beach rentals and things to do.
categories: Accomodations,Hotels,Motels
Everything is Peachy in Stonewall, Texas
Stonewall, Texas offers a peachy, smooth weekend. Known as the Peach Capital of Texas, Stonewall, Texas is notorious for its excellent wines and mouth watering peach jams. Stonewall is also the birth place to President Lyndon B. Johnson. In Stonewall, Texas, its prominent streets, parks and landmarks are marked with history and copious agricultural goods.
For a pleasant vacation rental, The Homestead Bed and Breakfast at Becker Vinyards will deliver the Texas charm you are in the market for and delight your taste buds with their palatable wines and scrumptious foods. Richard and Bunny Becker have renovated the Peese log cabin and the d?cor is rustic and accented with antiques. In the living room, there is a charming wooden couch and a potbelly stove. There are two staircases, one inside and one outside the cabin, to the roof space, where a comfy queen size bed sits. As an added exceptional touch to this bed and breakfast, Richard and Bunny have planted a lavender field, where the aromas infuse the atmosphere and provide a stunning purple view.
Another wonderful bed and breakfast rental is The Villa on Grape Creek Vinyards. Newly renovated, this bed and breakfast provides a more contemporary feel with a wonderful view of Grape Creek. Take a saunter through the vineyard, visit their tasting room and the winery, and enjoy the tastes and aromas of the area. A few other suggested places to visit are the Rose Hill Manor, Inn on Grape Creek, Sleepy Cat Inn, and the LBJ Ranch Guest House or The Italian Place.
Newly picked peaches and peach jams are continually available at Burg?s Corner. Located at 15194 US Hwy 290 East in Stonewall, Texas, Burg?s Corner is a charming store full of newly picked chosen peaches, candles, jams, and other mouth watering items to take home to your bed and breakfast or as a magnificent gift. Gold Orchards, Inc. and Vogel Orchard are two additional distinguished places to visit to amble through the fields and acquire more impressive produce. During the summer month of June, the yearly Peach JAMboree and Rodeo is a local event that hosts a parade, crowning of the Peach Queen, a rodeo and other activities.
Guided tours of the Lyndon B. Johnson Park can start off with a short walk to The Boyhood Home, or a walk along trails to old log homes and old west antiques, and end perhaps with a 25 minute tour of the Texas White House. Most of the events and attractions at Stonewall, Texas are centered on the unbelievable life story of President Johnson as well as the exquisite winery it offers.
Stonewall, Texas is located on the Pedernales River, thirteen miles east of Fredericksburg in southeastern Gillespie County. Coming from the east, Stonewall is on U.S. 290 west of Austin. Next to numerous landmarks and parks, Stonewall is a lovely place to visit with plenty of great vacation rentals, dining establishments, site seeing and other great out door activities. It?s always peach season in Stonewall, so come hungry and leave satisfied.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com and FindBedandBreakfast.com. A directory specializing in Texas golf vacation rentals. The directory has a complete list of bed and breakfast deals.
Davenport Is Disney Worlds Oasis
Davenport, Florida is a quaint town of 2,000 people in rural central Florida. The town has an Old Florida feel, as relaxed as the breezes that sway the Spanish moss. A visitor would never know that just half an hour to the northeast, the sprawling metropolis of Orlando and the world class attractions of Walt Disney World Resort are waiting to be explored.
Davenport is located on US Highway 17/92 in Polk County, southwest of Orlando. Davenport is divided into the old city, which is very small, and the greater Davenport area which began to experience quick growth with the housing boom. The city itself has almost no commercial business, but the surrounding area supports several restaurants, a hotel, and some shops. Davenport gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like in central Florida before the growth explosion of the city of Orlando and other urban centers.
For the golfing enthusiast, Davenport features the Ridgewood Golf Club, voted among Floridas best 30 courses. The course was designed by Ted McAnlis and has a unprecedented reputation. The organization offers Champions Turf greens, new bunkers, leveled tee boxes and the sort of luxuriant landscaping that golfers in Florida have come to expect. Fairways are subterranean jade and framed by gleaming white sand bunkers. The strategically positioned hazards provide excitement to your round, while par 4 and par 5 holes have generous tee shot landing areas.
For something slightly different is the Highlands Reserve Golf Resort just north of Davenport. This course sits atop one of the highest spots in Florida and affords golfers with exceptional surroundings. The course was designed by Mike Dasher and provides open and spacious fairways similar to those within the Scottish highlands. Old Florida citrus trees enhance the edges of the course and scattered pines are harking back to courses in the Carolinas. The greens are considerable and quick, and make the course difficult for all ability ranges.
Davenport may be small, however it is a simple country drive to the outer edge of Orlando, the Walt Disney World Resort, Disney vacation rentals, and then the world is your oyster. World class shopping, dining, and leisure are all just minutes from Davenport.
If you and your family are considering a trip to Orlando, chances are, you’re thinking of Disney. What began in 1971 as the east coast version of Californias Disney Land and Magic Kingdom has become the largest and most visited holiday destination in the world. With four separate parks and their many environs, two water parks, and even a working film studio, Disney World has become something that every family should see.
Orlando also hosts Universal Studios theme park and its several associated areas, including Islands of Adventure and the dining and entertainment pavilion “CityWalk”, which is free to enter. The CityWalk includes many restaurants, shops, and even a 20 screen Cineplex with IMAX.
After a busy day in the Florida sun, a short drive has you and your family back to the quiet calm of Davenport, an oasis in the bustle of your Florida holiday.
Wesley Mathews is part of the travel team at FindVacationRentals.com. A directory specializing in Florida vacation homes. The directory can provide you with a complete comprehensive list of Davenport vacation rentals.