OUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME

BY CORBY KENTER

Istarted in sales with a company in the corrections industry in 2000. Traveling for work had not been something I had done previously and from what I discovered, was not always as glorious as it seemed. Sleeping in different hotels in towns across the country may sound fun on the surface, but can often be uncomfortable and exhausting. The first time I visited the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, I did not know what to expect … but wow, what a great surprise!

In the early part of 2002, our company was growing, and I was given the opportunity to start working with different Sheriff’s Offices in Louisiana. I was in my mid-20s at the time, and my only real experience with Louisiana was having met some great people and loving the food. As luck would have it, turns out the Sheriffs in Louisiana know how to host a great annual conference. They have partnered with Hilton Sandestin Beach for years. When I attended that first conference I was blown away. When I arrived, I called my wife and told her all about the hotel, the staff, the pools, the food and the beautiful views! Needless to say, she would be coming with me the following year — and every year since.

We have come back to stay at the Hilton Sandestin Beach every year since 2002, it is our go-to vacation spot. We have three kids, Kylar, Colten and Kalyn, and they love it as much as we do. When we arrive and walk into the lobby, we all know it is time to unwind, reconnect and enjoy. We have experienced the most amazing Fourth of July fireworks shows, relaxed in the spa, had some great workouts in the gym, played games in the pools and we always overload on the good food each year.

The white-sand beaches are beautiful and perfect for sandcastles, sunrise and sunset walks and crab hunts at night, most looked forward to by our kids. The ocean waves are perfect for riding with boogie boards and the most beautiful background for our annual family photos. It has been the perfect relaxation spot and getaway from real life that our family has grown to cherish. We have celebrated birthdays and, this past year, our 21st wedding anniversary at this hotel.

It has truly become our home away from home.

We’ll be back soon and look forward to creating more great memories. Thanks to all the staff at the Hilton Sandestin Beach that make these visits so special.