FAIRY TALE HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS
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Magnifieient Beaches
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Unforgettable Sunsets
Summer 2022
FLORIDA
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“OFF-KEY”ASPECTS OF KEY WEST, FLORIDA Key West Those Sunsets Conch Architecture
CONTENTS
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FAIRY TALE HONEYMOONS A FORGOTTEN COAST REMEMBERS ROMANCE Romantic Destine Glamorous Panhandle
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FOUR PET-FRIENDLY PLACES - TO ADD TO YOUR MUST-DO LIST The Fountain of Youth Archeological Park Scenic Cruise Mission Nombre De Dios Castillo De San Marcos National Monument
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NAVARRE BEACH, FLORIDA AN ISLAND PARADISE Family Island 2
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BLUE ANGELS PRACTICES & AUTOGRAPHS Sunny Shows Blue Angels Facts
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TOP 10 BEACHES IN FLORIDA Delray Beach Clearwater Beach Naples Sanibel Beach Captiva Island South Beach Atlantic Beach Siesta Key Key West Palm Beach
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DISNEY WONDER OVERVIEW Disney Wonder Fellow Passenger Disney Wonder Dress Code Disney Wonder Gratuity
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“OFF-KEY”ASPECTS OF KEY WEST,
FLORIDA 4
Key West has come a long way from its days in the earlier 20th century when novelist Thelma Strabel wrote in 1940, “There is nothing for restless people to do. It is quiet and careless and charming.” I found the Spring Break hotspot to be one of the country’s most touristy places on the surface. But amidst all the sailboats, warm and breezy tropical conditions, outdoor cafes lining the city’s main drag called Duvall Street, where the words “I’ll have Key Lime Pie” is uttered over and over, I found a place where its quirky aspects make Key West memorable. For those things that reflect its culture, traditions, and unique flavors resonate more with me than the typical tourist quest to find “Margaritaville.” I soon found out while walking in Old Town that one doesn’t just share sidewalks with droves of locals and tourists wearing shorts (whether they look good in them or not), but many other two-footed creatures who have ditched their short shorts altogether: chickens. While these fowl have been around for almost two centuries, their numbers especially grew in the 1950s after Cubans brought them over for use in cock fighting, food, and eggs. Chicken numbers multiplied over time after cock fighting was outlawed and grocery stores provided easier access to eggs and poultry. The roosters don’t just crow with the sunrise either as I found out at 230 am in my hotel room. Nonetheless, there’s what seems to be an uneasy tolerance for the chickens’ presence because they do feast on pesky insects, even though they have irritated many locals because of where they choose to poop, trespass, etc. This has resulted in various plans and schemes to deal with them over the years in what’s been called the “Great Key West Chicken Controversy” or “Key West Chicken Wars.” I noticed that chickens will often scamper at the sight of a camera, but if you really want a good picture of them, they are more apt to stay put as you focus your camera at the post office on 400 Whitehead Street, which is just a couple of blocks west of Duvall Street.
THOSE SUNSETS A setting sun has this ability to captivate the eyes of its admirers. I’ve seen beautiful sunsets in Wyoming, but I must say that the two I saw in Key West really gripped me so unexpectedly, for I never imagined sunsets being that impacting. I first watched one from the brick walkway of Mallory Square, which overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, and the other while on a sunset cruise. As I got closer to Mallory Square to view my first Key West Sunset, the sounds of blues music and the humming of sunset watchers dominated as I arrived at an adjacent outdoor restarant. Many folks were snapping pictures as the setting sun tried to make it to the horizon before being overtaken by massive clouds, even while sailboats continuously darted across the gulf. At the square were other sights and scents I took note of, including the heavenly odor of buttered popcorn mixed with the saltiness of the sea, various musical and theatrical acts (which one per-
CONCH ARCHITECTURE I strongly advise travelers in Key West to get off the beaten path from the touristy Duvall Street, and walk through the surrounding residential neighborhoods of Old Town. It’s here where I found a respite from the hustle and bustle of traffic while getting a glimpse into a unique kind of architecture called Conch Architecture. This style compliments the various plantlife in the area like hibiscus, fiscus, gumbo limbo, and frangipani. Earlier settlers of Key West used lime made from burned Conch shells to help build their homes, which became known as “Conch Houses”, a name that would stick even as wood became the prime building material. These homes implement different styles, mixing New England, Gulf Coast, Bahamian, and African influences. To my eyes, they greatly reminded me of the old plantation homes still found in the “Deep South” such as seen in such movies like Gone with the Wind. I especially noticed the sloping roofs, which help reflect the sun better and send water down to the gutters more efficiently. One of the best-preserved neighborhoods I found is just a few blocks from Duvall Street. From the intersection of Duvall Street and Truman Ave. (US 1), walk east a few blocks until you get to Windsor Ave., then turn left and begin walking north (you’ll come to a fork which gives you the option of continuing on either Elizabeth, William, or Margaret Streets) until you get to the Key West Seaport. This walk alone will give you a good idea of what a residential tropical neighborhood is like. Many of these homes sell for a pretty penny, but admiring from the sidewalk is still free. As for Duvall Street itself, I noticed that even popular chains like Walgreen’s and Wendy’s had their structures conforming to the “Conch” aesthetics. My eyes captured the sight of two-story buildings with cheerful exteriors of yellow, white, orange, etc.
former employed his dog to take tips from the onlookers’ hands and deposit it in a bucket). One outspoken guy was selling Jesus to the onlookers as if Mallory Square were the tropical version of London’s Speakers’ Corner. The next night’s sunset was even more impressive for me, as the Sebago catamaran set sail around the shores of the island city. The sun was still in full glory, but gusty winds helped to keep me and the other passengers’ cooler. I observed the other cruisers. They all seemed to be from another planet, given that their faces had this “never been stressed out look” on them. Jimmy Buffet music blared from the loudspeakers as the champagne and other liquid inducements flowed. This place does seem to be the “land of the eternal summer,” for others who live in the Northern Hemisphere were retreating to the warmth of their domiciles while I was alone with my thoughts in the open waters. Once the sun set (again it was surrounded by clouds before disappearing), the skies entertained my eyes with a violet-orange haze before total darkness came except for the lights of distant ships, lighted like faraway Christmas trees.
I stayed at the Key Lime Inn which, despite being on the heavily-traveled US 1 (and a few blocks from Duvall Street), offered me a peaceful sanctuary via one of its 1930s built cottages nestled in a garden-like enclosure. I also had a built-in alarm clock via a crowing rooster. The bed I slept in was comfortable, and there’s free high speed internet. A free breakfast full of breads and cereals is provided each morning. The hotel is also made up of rooms inside one of the city’s oldest buildings dating back to the mid-19th century, the Maloney House. I enjoyed dining in the laid back atmosphere of the Hogfish Bar & Grill, which features fresh fish that’s 75 to 80 per cent speared, including the hogfish. Hogfish are really tender and have a similar taste to grouper. This fish goes good with one of the restaurant’s featured hot sauces like Hoboken Eddie’s, a hot pepper sauce that comes in a whiskey-like bottle. 5
FAIRY TALE HONEYMOONS
A FORGOTTEN COAST REMEMBERS ROMANCE
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Florida’s so-called “Forgotten Coast” stretches along a portion of the mostly two-lane U.S. Highway 98 from St. Marks to Mexico Beach. The highway hugs the coastline offering amazing views of the deep emerald green northern Gulf of Mexico. It is that deep emerald green colored water that gives the coast its “official” name of Emerald Coast. If you follow Highway 98 in the Panhandle — nearly 300 miles — it stretches from just east of St. Marks to the tip of the barrier islands just south of Pensacola, taking you through Panama City, the Spring Break Capital of Florida.
Located between Panama City and Pensacola just to the east of Fort Walton Beach is Destin with its white sandy beaches, luxury resorts and beautiful gardens. Although some stretches of the area are built up with wall-to-wall condominiums and the area has been ravaged by hurricanes, there are still a few wonderful places left that can only be described as “romance-inspired.” So, while it is true that many forsake the Panhandle in favor of more popular wedding and honeymoon venues, many more wouldn’t consider any other area. The coast in the Panhandle is particularly notable with Pensacola’s pristine beaches that are packed with sugar-white sand and Panama City’s party-hearty attitude to Destin and Seaside’s storybook romantic appeal that give brides many memory-making choices.
SCENIC CRUISE - has your pet ever been
on a boat? This is your chance and I know he, or she, will have a good time. You’ll view the sights from the harbor as your captain shares his knowledge of local history and the local flora and fauna. Your pet will enjoy sniffing all the wonderful smells in the wind as you cruise along. A treat for both of you!
anywhere in Saint Augustine and you will see the 200 foot cross rising above the banks Matanzas River. Beneath are the Mission grounds, the location of the first Catholic Mass held in the United States. As you wander along the pathways you’ll come upon an old stone chapel, Our Lady of La Leche Chapel and Shrine. You’ll also find a large field for romping and playing with your pet.
CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS NATIONAL MONUMENT - built in the 17th century to protect
Spain’s claim on the new world. It is the oldest masonry fort in North America. You can take your pet exploring around the grounds of the 20.5 acre site. Pets, however, are not permitted inside the actual fort. You’ll still have a wonderful time as you both enjoy a great walk in the Florida sunshine. St. Augustine, Florida, is the perfect place for pet lovers and their pets. Lots to do, wonderful things to see, restaurants to sample and the air is full of new scents to sniff. Pack your bags, bring the toys and the dog bed and have some fun!
TO ADD TO YOUR MUST-DO LIST
15 acre historic site that includes the Spring House, Planetarium, Discovery Globe, and Timucuan Indian exhibit. The park-like grounds are a tribute to the Native Americans and explorers who once walked where you will walk. You’ll find ancient cannons and anchors amid the native plants. Peafowl wander throughout the park so you’ll want to keep a tight hold on your pet’s leash. You may not regain your youth but you and your pet will have an enjoyable time at this beautiful St. Augustine treasure.
MISSION NOMBRE DE DIOS - look up from most
FOUR PET-FRIENDLY PLACES
THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH ARCHEOLOGICAL PARK - a beautiful
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NAVARRE BEACH, FLORIDA
AN ISLAND PARADISE
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If you enjoy wading through emerald green waters and strolling along sugar sand beaches, then Navarre Beach is the place for you. Navarre is located on Santa Rosa Island just off the panhandle of Florida, a little east of Pensacola.
Today, there are few high-rise condominiums and hundreds of beach houses all along the island. Navarre is still off the beaten path of the busier beach towns of Northwest Florida, but this makes it even more charming and family-friendly.
Thirty years ago, Navarre was known as the location where most of the movie Jaws 2 was filmed. As a little girl, I remember many family vacations to this beautiful island - chasing sandpipers down sandy shores and body surfing in foam-crested waves. Back then, the island’s main structures were a Holiday Inn hotel and a few scattered beach houses.
Some of the things you can find on the island are gift shops, pet stores, island clothing, day-spas, surfboard gear, bicycle rentals, custom gift-baskets, furniture, antiques, and more. There are also a growing variety of local retail stores, with virtually any goods and services. Also found nearby are waterfront and seafood dining, as well as your favorite nationally known fast food and eat-in establishments.
Santa Rosa Mall is nearby in Fort Walton. Some of the things you can find on the island are gift shops, pet stores, island clothing, day-spas, surfboard gear, bicycle rentals, custom gift-baskets, furniture, antiques, and more. There are also a growing variety of local retail stores, with virtually any goods and services. The beauty and splendor of Navarre Beach is just how I remember it from my summer vacations 30 years ago and I look forward to building the same memories with my children as well.
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BLUE ANGELS PRACTICES
& AUTOGRAPHS
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The world-famous Blue Angels are based at NAS Pensacola, and can be seen practicing over the Museum most Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from March to November. Practices typically begin at 11:30 a.m., and last about an hour. Admission to practice is FREE and open to the public.* The outside viewing area for the Blue Angels practice is located on the Museum Flight Line north of the Museum. Signs are posted to direct visitors to viewing and parking locations, including limited parking for handicapped visitors. Bleachers are available for seating 1,000 people. Feel free to bring your own lawn chairs.
We also suggest that visitors bring hats and sunscreen. Hearing protection is recommended for those people with sensitive hearing. The Blue Angels often defy physics with spectacular aerial feats but, when they are on the ground, they make time to meet and greet with fans of all ages. On most practice Wednesdays, the Blues make themselves available for autographs inside the Blue Angels Atrium at the National Naval Aviation Museum, and also sign autographs following most Saturday and Sunday air shows across the country.
BLUE ANGELS FACTS: • An estimated 15 million spectators view the squadron during air shows each year. • The highest maneuver performed in an air show is the vertical rolls performed by the Opposing Solo, up to 15,000 feet and the lowest maneuver performed in an air show is the Sneak Pass, performed by the Lead Solo at 50 feet. • The fastest speed flown during an air show is about 700 mph (just under Mach 1; Sneak Pass) and the slowest is about 120 mph (Section High Alpha). • The basic acquisition price of a single F/A-18 Hornet is approximately $21 million.
• The F/A-18 can reach speeds just under Mach 2, almost twice the speed of sound or about 1,400 mph. • An F/A-18 weights about 24,500 pounds empty of all ordnance and aircrew. The smoke is produced by pumping biodegradable, paraffin-based oil directly into the exhaust nozzles of the aircraft where the oil is instantly vaporized into smoke. It provides a traceable path for spectators to follow and enhances safety of flight by providing a means by which solo pilots can see each other during opposing maneuvers. It poses no hazard to the environment.
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DELRAY BEACH
CLEARWATER BEACH
Clearwater Beach’s well-deserved reputation as one of America’s finest beaches has lured countless families and couples to its broad, sandy shores and beachfront hotels. Spread along a narrow, 3-mile stretch of the Pinellas Peninsula on the Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach straddles the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the west, and tranquil Tampa Bay to the east. This location between the 2 waters, and Clearwater’s proximity to Tampa, offer visitors ample activities like sunbathing on white sandy beaches, diving into a game of beach volleyball, renting fishing boats, taking a dolphin-watching cruise, parasailing or heading to a mainland museum or aquarium.
IN FLORIDA
TOP 10 BEACHES
North of Boca Raton in Palm Beach County Delray Beach, at Ocean and Atlantic Avenues is a charming village by the sea. Each year, nearly 1 million visitors flock to this family-friendly 2-mile-long beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming and sandcastle-building. When the sun goes down, visitors take a stroll on festive Atlantic Avenue, enjoying the boutiques, seafood restaurants, cool architecture and the Pineapple Grove Arts District. And if you’re looking for a worthwhile splurge, check into the Seagate Hotel and Spa on Atlantic Avenue just a short trolley ride to the beach and the private Seagate Beach Club.
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SOUTH BEACH
South Beach is an international playground offering non-stop nightlife, sandy shores, unique architecture and plenty of eye candy. When imagining the South Beach scene, think “Baywatch” with an architectural twist ... even the lifeguard stands are art deco masterpieces. The long, man-made beach stretches up the Atlantic for miles and is perfect for early morning runs and topless sunbathing. And while it may not be the Caribbean, the water is as clean and clear as the Atlantic gets. The beach is also about the best spot to view the city lights at night before exploring the legendary club scene.
ATLANTIC BEACH
Relaxing is easy on Atlantic Beach: sand soft and white as sugar, brilliant sunshine and azure waters abound. And while Atlantic Beach has heaps of small-town charm, it’s also just a short drive from Jacksonville, making it convenient for day trippers and vacationers who want a short airportto-beach commute. History buffs can learn about the development of Atlantic Beach and neighboring Jacksonville beaches at the area’s Beaches Museum and History Center. After spending the afternoon strolling the shores, head to Beaches Town Center’s pedestrian-friendly cobblestone streets and check out the town’s restaurants, galleries, boutiques and frequent special events like live music and the monthly North Beaches Art Walk held on the third Thursday of every month.
NAPLES
The biggest dilemma when chilling on the pearly white sands in Naples is to decide which way to look. On one side are the rolling waves, and on the other the gleaming mansions that make up Millionaires’ Row. One of the most popular beaches at Naples Pier is in the city, on 12th Avenue South. Another great beach lies a few miles north of Old Naples, at the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. This is a great place to spread out the family’s beach blanket and camp out for the day as there are bathhouses and food stands on-site and rentals available for everything from umbrellas to kayaks to snorkeling gear.
SIESTA KEY
With so much to see and do, it’s almost impossible to lie idle on Siesta Key. Whether you curl your toes in it, run your fingers through it or bask on it, the allure of the island sand is contagious. Beach lovers flock to these silky shores to take advantage of the wide expanse of sand and the tranquil gulf waters. Siesta Key Beach is perfect for strolling, shell-collecting, or more active pursuits like renting a catamaran or kayak from one of the many beach concessionaires. This perfect family vacation venue, which boasts beachside picnic areas and playgrounds, is also home to candlelit restaurants and cozy rental cottages ideal for a romantic getaway.
SANIBEL BEACH
Sanibel is a unique barrier island with eastwest orientation that differs from the typical north-south layout. This east-west designation has helped Sanibel earn its reputation as one of the Shell Islands—prime spots along Florida’s coastline for gathering perfectly intact shells in every shape and size. Hit the beach with a bucket, shovel and small net ,and stroll the beach at low tide to peruse the ocean’s bounty of conch, cockles and scallop shells. Bowman’s Beach is the quietest and most remote stretch of sand in Sanibel, while a historic lighthouse beckons visitors to take a stroll on the rustic boardwalk at Lighthouse Beach.
KEY WEST
Paradise is located just off the coast of mainland Florida -- and it’s called Key West. As Jimmy Buffet crooned, Key West is the original changer of latitudes and attitudes, and one weekend here proves he knew exactly what he was talking about. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is one of Florida’s most beautiful spots, with wide stretches of sugary sand and tranquil waters. Visitors can rent snorkel gear or a 2-person glass-bottomed kayak from the concession area. Or stick to dry land and rent a bike to navigate the single bike path that winds beside the Key West shipping channel, around the fort, through a rocky secluded beach and countless picnic spots.
CAPTIVA ISLAND
Along with Sanibel, Captiva Island shares the distinction of being 1 of Florida’s Shell Islands. Captiva is generally the spot to find the larger of the intact shells. Turner Beach, though not good for swimming because of fast currents, is the perfect spot for a shell-hunting adventure. Just be sure to leave any live shells on the beach or risk breaking the state’s strict shelling laws. At sunset, head to Captiva Beach at the end of Captiva Drive to take in a spectacular sunset.
PALM BEACH
It may have more than 47 miles of pristine beaches, but the crown jewel of Palm Beach County, FL, is, without a doubt, exclusive Palm Beach -- a 14-mile-long, half-mile-wide island of wealth and extravagance. Winter home to the Vanderbilts, the Kennedys, the Rockefellers and a slew of newly minted millionaires, Palm Beach features some of Florida’s finest hotels, restaurants and shops, as well as some truly beautiful beaches. Perched next to the Gulf Stream, Palm Beach enjoys the benefit of warm blue water and gentle breezes. The John D. MacArthur State Park has a beautiful beach perfect for families as well as abundant marine life and rare plants to explore on a nature walk.
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By Christine Koubek, Cruise Critic Contributor; updated by Lissa Poirot, Cruise Critic Contributor
DISNEY WONDER OVERVIEW
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When Disney executives set out to enter the cruise business, they did so in typical Disney style: fashioning a ship that resembled the luxurious, and oft admired, ocean liners of the 1920’s with a slate of spaces and activities that would be worthy of the Disney name. Disney Wonder is one sleek vessel, with its elongated black hull, two matching red funnels and the yellow insignias encircling the ship. The inside features an elegant art nouveau decor with plenty of subtle nods to the mouse that started it all, from the etched-inpewter characters in the atrium railings to the hidden micro-mini Mickeys in Palo’s china pattern. Perhaps what this ship does best though is prove that “elegance” and “family friendly” don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
The family offerings are what set this ship apart from the pack. While many cruise lines offer excellent children’s programs, Disney offers all that plus plenty of options suitable for a family to enjoy together, from kite-making workshops to game shows and evening stage revues.
ney to Alaska for the first time. The ship cruises the Inside Passage from May to September, then heads down to Los Angeles for a season of Mexican Riviera voyages. In between seasons, Wonder sails a Hawaii cruise (spring) and a pair of Pacific Coastal voyages (spring, fall).
At least that’s what we thought the first time we sailed the Wonder, in 2005, with the family. In 2007, we sailed the ship again, with a pal, to explore the adults-only areas that I spent little time in before. While families are the primary focus of Disney Wonder, grownups have numerous places to call their own here, and since there are so many kids onboard (and adults watching them), the Quiet Cove Pool, Cove Cafe, Outlook Cafe, Vista Spa and Route 66 entertainment district are rarely crowded.
DISNEY WONDER FELLOW PASSENGERS
We’ve recently returned with the kids to explore Alaska onboard Wonder. The ship had traversed the Caribbean, but in 2011 it relocated to the West Coast, bringing Dis-
The vast majority of fellow passengers are families and multigenerational reunions due to the extensive children, teen and family programming. However, you’ll also find a sprinkling of honeymooners and folks without children who appreciate the oversized staterooms, underutilized adult-only areas and Disney details.
DISNEY WONDER DRESS CODE
Resort casual is the dress of the day in all areas of the ship. Cruise casual is the code for most nights (i.e., no shorts, jeans or tank tops). Recently, though, the cruise line tweaked its definition of resort casual
to include shorts, which means passengers may wear shorts in the main dining rooms in the evening. A formal night and semi-formal Captain’s Reception give passengers a chance to glam it up, but it’s not mandatory; we were surprised to see most passengers didn’t participate in formal night. One night of each cruise is designated “pirate night,” and you’ll see many people dressed in pirate attire, even if it’s just a hat. If you don’t happen to have pirate attire -- and would like to -- stop by Mickey’s mates for something to wear.
DISNEY WONDER GRATUITY
On Disney Wonder, the recommended gratuities are $4 per day for the dining room server, $3 per day for the assistant server, $1 per day for the head server, and $4 per day for the room steward. Passengers can pre-pay gratuities or do so onboard. All bar drinks and deck service areas have a 15 percent gratuity added to the bill.
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SEE YOU IN MIAMI BEACH 16