Die Stadt Brüggen am Niederrhein, nicht nur an einem sonnigen Wochenende Ziel vieler Besucher, bietet mit dem Restaurant Torschänke, das von Timo Vootz und seinem Team äußerst gastfreundlich geführt wird, die perfekte Location z.B. für einen ausgedehnten Zwischenstop am Mittag.

Speisen- und Getränkekarten bieten eine ausgezeichnete Auswahl.

Bei schönem Wetter sitzt man draußen und kann beim Anblick der vorbeifließenden Schwalm entspannen, während die Libellen über das Wasser huschen.

Die Brüggener Torschänke: das Restaurant, das ich uneingeschränkt empfehlen kann.

>>> Flyer <<<

(Foto: A. Schulz)

03. August 2011:

Von links: Christiane Gandner (BUGA-Pressesprecherin), Stefanie Probstfeld (Corporate Communication Manager der awk AUSSENWERBUNG GmbH), Gewinner Tim und Nicole Effinger, Christine Renner (Leiterin der Abteilung Controlling und Finanzen der BUGA Koblenz 2011 GmbH). – Foto: awk AUSSENWERBUNG GmbH/Berenz

Nicole Effinger aus Butzbach ist Gesamtsiegerin des Fotowettbewerbs „Bring Deinen Garten aufs Plakat!“

KOBLENZ (pm). Der eigene Schnappschuss als Plakatwand in der Heimatstadt – bis zum Einsendeschluss am 15. April 2011 bewarben sich insgesamt über 2500 Teilnehmer mit ihren schönsten Motiven um diesen außergewöhnlichen Gewinn. Der Fotowettbewerb „Bring Deinen Garten aufs Plakat“ der Bundesgartenschau Koblenz 2011 GmbH und der awk AUSSENWERBUNG GmbH war ein voller Erfolg. Alle sechs Gewinner des Fotowettbewerbs freuten sich sehr über die Plakatwand mit ihrem eingereichten Schnappschuss. Eine Internet-Abstimmung hat nun der Gesamtsieger ermittelt, der heute auf der BUGA Koblenz 2011 begrüßt werden konnte.

Bei Nicole Effinger aus Butzbach ist die Freude groß: Sie ist die Gesamtsiegerin des Fotowettbewerbs „Bring Deinen Garten aufs Plakat“ der Bundesgartenschau Koblenz 2011 GmbH und der awk AUSSENWERBUNG GmbH. Mit ihrem Bild, das den 4-jährigen Tim zeigt, der in einem Waschtopf im Garten sitzt, konnte sie sich gegen die starke Konkurrenz durchsetzen und heute auf der BUGA Koblenz 2011 ihren Gewinn voll auskosten: Ein rundum perfekter Tag im schönsten Garten Deutschlands. „Eigentlich war es mein Sohn Tim, der unbedingt auf das Plakat wollte. Dass wir jetzt sogar Gesamtsieger geworden sind, ist fantastisch – damit gerechnet haben wir allerdings nicht“, sagte die glückliche Gewinnerin.

Stefanie Probstfeld, Corporate Communication Manager der awk AUSSENWERBUNG GmbH zeigte sich erfreut über die durchweg positive und vor allem große Resonanz auf den Fotowettbewerb: „Die großartige Resonanz auf den Wettbewerb hat uns schlicht und ergreifend überwältigt. Die zahlreichen Bilder von Hobby- und Profifotografen zeigen uns, dass wir mit dieser Aktion den Nerv der Gartenliebhaber getroffen haben.”

Der Gesamtgewinner wurde dann von der Internetgemeinde bestimmt. Vom 20. Mai bis zum 30. Mai 2011 konnte auf einer eigens eingerichteten Votingseite für den Gesamtsieger gestimmt werden. Hier hatte das Kind im Waschtopf, Nicole Effingers Motiv, die Nase vorn.  „Wir freuen uns, den finalen Gewinner in Deutschlands derzeit schönstem Garten persönlich beglückwünschen zu dürfen – auf der BUGA Koblenz 2011“, sagte Stefanie Probstfeld.

Ein tolles Team: BUGA Koblenz 2011 und awk AUSSENWERBUNG

Über ein ganzes Jahr verteilt haben über 45.000 Großflächenplakate bundesweit auf den Wettbewerb hingewiesen. Dabei ist dieser Fotowettbewerb nur ein Aspekt einer noch umfangreicher angelegten Medienpartnerschaft. Das Koblenzer Unternehmen awk AUSSENWERBUNG GmbH, eines der größten Out-of-Home-Unternehmen in Deutschland, ist schon seit Oktober 2009 Medienpartner der Bundesgartenschau Koblenz 2011. Die awk AUSSENWERBUNG unterstützt den Event auf nationaler Ebene mit 18/1 Plakaten, City-Light-Postern und 36/1 MegaStars. Bereits zum Ende der Bundesgartenschau Schwerin im Oktober 2009 und zum Start des Dauerkartenvorverkaufs der Bundesgartenschau Koblenz 2011 im April 2010 stellte die awk AUSSENWERBUNG Werbeflächen für den grünen Großevent an Rhein und Mosel zur Verfügung.

Christiane Gandner, Pressesprecherin der BUGA Koblenz 2011 GmbH, lobte die gelungene Kooperation von BUGA Koblenz 2011 GmbH und der awk AUSSENWERBUNG. „Die partnerschaftliche Zusammenarbeit ermöglichte es an prominenter Stelle, für die BUGA Koblenz 2011 zu werben“, sagte Gandner. In 60 Jahren sei eine Bundesgartenschau noch nie in dieser Werbeform überregional so präsent gewesen, so Gandner: „Der große Erfolg der BUGA Koblenz 2011 ist nicht zuletzt auch auf die Plakatierungswellen der awk AUSSENWERBUNG zurückzuführen“, betonte auch Christine Renner, Leiterin der Abteilung Controlling und Finanzen und Prokuristin bei der BUGA Koblenz 2011 GmbH.

Die Bundesgartenschau Koblenz 2011 begeistert noch bis zum 16. Oktober 2011 mit blühender Gartenpracht, einem bunten Kulturprogramm sowie vielen Informationen und Aktionen.

www.buga2011.de | www.awk.de

(Quelle Foto und Text: Presseabteilung BUGA 2011)

As of June 2011

The Visitors & Convention Bureau states:

*The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel* includes 9 distinct areas on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands
Fort Myers Beach
Fort Myers
North Fort Myers
Bonita Springs & Estero
Cape Coral
Pine Island
Boca Grande & Outer Islands
Lehigh Acres

Each area has its own personality and special attractions. Separately, they give you a unique opportunity to enjoy a vacation that matches your interests … together they offer a faraway tropical paradise that´s easy to reach.

On The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, you´ll escape to a world where white-sand beaches stretch as far as you can see, and the shore is lined with exotic seashells. It´s a world of tropical wildlife, spectacular sunsets over sparkling crystal blue waters and hundreds of islands to explore.

Experience Florida the way it used to be … with unspoiled natural beauty, and a quieter, unhurried pace; all in a warm, inviting tropical ambiance. While you may choose to spend your time just relaxing on our beaches, we offer so many other activities and adventures, and there is always something fun to do for every member of your family.

Website: www.fortmyers-sanibel.com

And this is just so true.

Although we had 9 days to spend in Southwest Florida these 9 days went by in just a blink of the eye. Of course you rather need a lifetime to experience all the beauty, the diversity and the spectacular nature of Southwest Florida.

Therefore our schedule was quite tight.

We visited Naples, Marco Island and The Everglades.

• Please read my report on The Paradise Coast.

One day we drove past Bonita Beach, on to Dog Island, across to beautiful Lover´s Key State Park and further on towards Fort Myers Beach. Beaches and cities – as colorful and diverse as you can imagine. From the quiet villages to the In-Locations, where bars and pubs are filled with people. Beachtime. Pastime. Do as you please. Anything is possible.

In case you want to spend time exploring some of the history, this is what you should put on your schedule:

“Without a doubt, the most famous homes in the Fort Myers/Sanibel area are those of winter residents Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, located on 17 acres at the gateway to downtown Fort Myers on McGregor Boulevard. For years, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates have been among the area´s most popular man-made attractions, with guided tours of the homes and gardens of the icons who lived there.

Built in 1886, both the main home and guesthouse on Edison´s 14-acre estate are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Even the road fronting the estates is historically significant. For 15 miles, the boulevard is lined with towering royal palm trees, the first 200 of which were imported from Cuba and planted by Edison himself.f

Visitors tour the inventor´s two-story home, office, laboratory and expermintal gardens, all of which have been meticulously preserved and maintained as when Edison was alive. While the estate´s museum features rare antique automobiles, photographs and exhibits of some of his nearly 1,100 patents, the gardens remain lush with rare, tropical vegetation, including a banyan tree that measures 400 feet around. It´s reputed to be the largest of its kind in the U.S. His friend, industrialist Harvey Firestone, gave the banyan tree to Edison.

Automobile magnate Henry Ford purchased the three-acre estate next door to Edison´s in 1916. Named *Mangoes*, the home has undergone extensive renovation to restore it to the days when Ford and his wife Clara lived there. In addition to tours of the home, visitors also may view a 1914 Model T, a 1917 Ford truck and a 1929 Model A.” (by Lee County, Visitor & Convention Bureau, FL)

We did not have the chance to visit Edison´s and Ford´s sites but upon departure from Fr. Myers we were lucky to see an exhibition at the airport:

Another day went by in Cape Coral. Beautiful homes, waterways. (I learned that Cape Coral has more canals then Venice, Italy). Cape Harbor. Cruising around the Rose Garden area. So beautiful.

And a wonderful and extremely tasty lunch at The Joint. Delicious food, perfect service, awesome location: Highly recommended!

There are many shopping opportunities as well: Miromar Outlets (recommendable) and Tanger Outlets, just to name two of the multitude of shopping malls.

Most of our time we spend exploring Sanibel and Captiva. Once you cross the bridge to Sanibel Island you find a Visitor Center to your right. Stop by and take some brochures and maps to get acquainted with the location, as there is so much to see and do on these two islands.

First of all they are very famous for their extraordinary shells.

*When Anne Morrow Lindbergh visited Captiva Island and penned her famous book, “Gift From the Sea,” in 1955, she wrote: “The beach was covered with beautiful shells and I could not let one go by unnoticed. I couldn’t even walk head up looking out to sea, for fear of missing something precious at my feet.” (by Lee County, Visitor & Convention Bureau, FL)

Shell seekers come from all over the world to assume the famous *Sanibel Stoop* or *Captiva Crouch* position to find those precious gifts from the sea. And *YES*, we did, too.

*She Sells Sea Shells* is a famous shop on Sanibel to purchase some of the wonderful shells. If you want to have a closer look at the largest collection of shells in North America stop by at The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum ( www.shellmuseum.org ).

For more information on shelling please check on
www.fortmyers-sanibel.com/cms/d/captiva_island_shelling.php

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Sanibel:

“This 6.400-acre wildlife refuge, named for Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist and pioneer environmentalist Jay Norwood Darling, features wonderful bird watching spots, delightful footpaths, winding canoe trails and three trails that can be accessed from Wildlife Drive. The four mile, round-trip Indigo Trail leaves from the Education Center parking lot and ends at the cross-dike, which extends from the Drive. Along the trail, visitors often spot wildlife such as alligators, night heron, or white ibis. The Wulfert Keys Trail off the Drive is a ¼ mile trail leading to a view of Pine Island Sound. The Shell Mound Trail is a ¼ mile, universally accessible, interpretive boardwalk where visitors learn about the ancient Calusa Indian tribe and the native vegetation while reading interpretive panels along the boardwalk.” (by Lee County, Visitor & Convention Bureau, FL)

Some of J.N. *Ding* Darling´s cartoons you can admire at ´Tween Waters Inn.

We took the drive one late afternoon and it was wonderful. Not the least crowded. We could take our time to stay at one of the lakes and watch the magnificent wildlife. YES: Highly recommended.

Unfortunately there were no Olive Garden Restaurants on either Sanibel or Captiva. Well, therefore we had to check out the local eateries as well. Which we did.

Lazy Flamingo,  Sanibel: A nice location with good seafood.

We visited the second location as well (on the right hand side before you leave Sanibel and get to Captiva), but did not even order there and left again as we did not feel comfortable there.

The Island Cow: Our favorite restaurant. We lunched and dined there several times. Good quality, good prices, and –most of the time- good service! Highly recommended. (Please visit: www.sanibelislandcow.com )

Finally our vacation came to an end. Unfortunately. We had a great time, especially on Sanibel / Captiva.

This is definitely a destination I want to return to and which I can highly recommend in case you are looking for quietness, relaxation, beach, nature and wildlife.

Of course there are still so many things we haven’t seen or done: One of the reasons we WILL return

As of June 2011

Right off Tamiami Trail, which is the old road connecting Tampa and Miami, you are able to explore the wonderful Paradise Coast and this is what the Tourism Office invites you to on their website:

Discover Florida’s Paradise Coast of Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades

Welcome to the one destination that offers the idyllic Florida experience, along with excitement and adventure found nowhere else on Earth. Swaying coconut palms and sweeping white-sand beaches only begin to tell the story.

Here you’ll discover a gentle pace and a tropical ambiance amid excitement, exploration and discovery. Thrill to the outdoor adventure of the Everglades. Discover one-of-a-kind culinary delights infused with local traditions. Immerse yourself within a whirl of shopping excitement. Plunge into a water-filled world that offers Florida’s best fishing. Or find inspiration in its breathtaking array of art and culture.

Naples

If a sophisticated enclave bursting with fine art, symphonic concerts and high-end shopping is your cup of tea, book a room at an inn or a resort in Naples. A charming city on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, Naples exudes stylishness. Stroll beautiful pedestrian walks with shops, art galleries and restaurants. See row after row of palatial homes surrounded by tropical landscaping. The area is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, golf courses, fishing, boating, water sports and spectacular sunsets.

Marco Island

Families love Marco Island, the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands. A beachfront paradise located north of the Gulf Coast entrance to Everglades National Park, the island is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and pristine wilderness on the other. You’ll find some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, shopping and dining here. Water lovers will relish immediate access to both the Gulf and mangrove-lined estuaries for shelling, fishing, boating, bird and wildlife watching, kayaking and canoeing.

The Everglades

Surrounded by Everglades National Park, the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve, Collier-Seminole State Park and the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, Everglades City is content to remain a small village on the edge of the Florida wilderness. It and Chokoloskee Island provide a glimpse into Southwest Florida’s past with several notable museums and quaint small-town charm.

You can download the Official Visitors Guide here: http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/milesmedia/paradisecoast_ovg2011/#/0

Of course we did want to explore this beautiful region as well and spent time in Naples, on Marco Island and The Everglades.

Naples: We loved this city, especially the Old Town with its magnificent homes and buildings. Mediterranean feeling. Stylish and very sophisticated. Quiet. Wonderful shops along 5^th Avenue. Beautiful and lined with ancient trees: 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd Avenue. Art galleries, stylish venues to have a sumptuous lunch or dinner.  From here you can also set out on a day trip into the Everglades, rent a yacht or enjoy the wonderful beaches, but I am sure you would also like to spend a day just walking and enjoying those quiet and beautiful streets.

Marco Island: Just south of Naples we crossed the bridge to get to the northernmost point of the Ten Thousand Islands. Of course Marco Island offers Nightlife, Clubs, Bars and Restaurants, Shopping, Excursions etc. Everything which vacationers are looking for. But we experienced Marco Island also to be an island which is quiet, without the hustle and bustle of a big city. Island life. Island time. Beautiful. Clean. With wonderful beaches, homes and residences. A place not only to spend a vacation but maybe move to as well.

• Please check on my report: Marco Ocean Beach Resort

Before heading to the Everglades National Park we first needed to visit the Smallest Post Office of the USA. Unfortunately we did not keep in mind, that they are closed on weekdays for lunch time …

After that we took our time to experience not only a Swamp Buggy Tour but also an airboat ride at Wooten´s Everglades Airboat Tour Experience.

• Please check on my report: Wooten´s Everglades Airboat Tour Experience

The Everglades: As we had experienced an already great day in the Eastern part of the Everglades National Park we wondered what we would see on the West side of the huge National Park that stretches from coast to coast. Off East Tamiami Trail you take Country Road 29 and reach Everglades City in no time where you find the pretty *Ivey House*.

• Please check on my report: The Ivey House

Only another short drive takes you to Everglades National Park. If you assume getting to kind of a gate this is not it. THIS already just IS Everglades National Park and the perfect point to either charter a yacht or take one of the day tours on a boat to explore and enjoy the scenery of the Ten Thousand Islands. Of course you can also drive further south which gets you to the remote Chockoloskee Island. Very quiet, kind of reclusive, but nevertheless beautiful.

The Paradise Coast is just wonderful. Unfortunately we did not the least have time enough to explore this amazing region. We could just take glimpses of what was put right in front of us. I am sure it will take you a lifetime to explore all the beauty of this Paradise Coast.

I can highly recommend the Paradise Coast and hope to return to this magical place again.

Please visit: www.paradisecoast.com

As of June 2011

After some six hours from Key Largo we arrived on Captiva Island, Southwest Florida. As we were not familiar with the location and the property we parked our car on-site and walked towards the reception, when an employee rushed towards us and wanted to know why we parked our car there. He was quite a bit on the harsh and unfriendly side, but nevertheless showed us inside, when we kind of verified that we were guests and going to be checking in.

Check-in went easy and smooth. Thank you to the friendly ladies at the front desk! Finally another employee took a golf cart and asked us to follow him to the Palmetto Building as he would show us to our room. We parked our car between the stilts and underneath our building and used the elevator to take our luggage upstairs to room 232 (second closest room to the stairs), which –as we found out later- was called a motel room. Our first impression: small and quite dark BUT with a balcony featuring a table and two chairs! Due to all the mosquitoes and other insects the entire balcony was screened-in. But we still could watch the sunrise from our bed, which was breathtakingly beautiful.

Parking was free but limited, especially on the weekends when everybody came back in the evening from their tours and excursions. Only a few spaces were assigned to VIP-guests. Some other guests were parking their cars, sometimes including their trailers, *criss-cross* on the property so it was sometimes hard to find a free space.

Some *downsides*: In case we left our balcony door open during the night we could hear the noise from the A/Cs all around us and there was not a minute without noise as one A/C switched off and another jumped into work mode again. Besides that our A/C was too noisy as well to keep it running through the night. Without that disturbing noise it would have been perfectly quiet and one could have enjoyed the sounds of the night.

The room had furniture and a carpet which revealed their age, but everything, including the tiny bathroom (bathtub/shower, toilet and sink) seemed to be clean at first sight. The two beds were quite comfortable and we had a fridge, a coffeemaker, tea and coffee.

During our stay we recognized that housekeeping was not really working so well, as we sometimes found our towels already a bit dirty before we used them, we found black hair in the bathroom and on the linen. One of the linen even was too small for the bed. Mildew was found in the bath tub. And the water-tap wasn’t fixed. There was a hole in the wardrobe door. Some holes in the main door were not repaired sufficiently. Some of the cloth hangers were a bit rusty. The cover of the A/C was broken.

During the site inspection we found out that our room as well as others on the same floor were about to be completely renovated in the near future. We were able to see rooms which were already done and they did look nice.

The safe offered plenty of space for laptop and camera equipment. Unfortunately it was installed wrongly as the door could not be opened without hitting the wardrobe door.

Free internet access was available in the room, but the connection failed almost every time I tried. When I asked for the reason the ladies and gentlemen at the front desk said, that this is how it is sometimes on the island and that they would invite me to come over and work at the reception instead. I wonder how they can do business with internet access like this.

We walked around the property on our first day to get familiar with the location: The pool area is quite nice, with a nice pool, chairs and loungers. But soon we would find out, that already early in the morning guests would put their bath towels on the loungers to reserve them accordingly before heading for breakfast. During the weekend pool and bar were really crowded with families and kids. Instead you can go to the wonderful beach right across the street.

Here you have the choice to rent two chairs for USD 15 or a Cabana (two loungers with a shade) for 20 USD a day (upon arrival you get a coupon book, which reduces those rates a bit). Later on we would find out that we were about to use the smallest pool towels we had ever seen (they were about the size of regular towels).

The Spa area is located right above some noisy construction room. Maybe it is a central control unit or else. So I wondered whether a spa treatment would be as relaxing as the client wishes it to be. I did not want to try it out. The public toilet and shower were of modern design and make and looked much better than our own bathroom appliances and style. The fitness area seemed to be state-of-the-art.

In the evening we were attracted by the *Friday Fish and Chips Night* at Crow´s Nest Lounge and ordered said fish and chips.

The restaurant was designed like an old diner with some flair. The lady took us to a corner booth, but after sitting down and realizing that the seat was worn and uncomfortable I asked to be moved to a table with chairs, which she did with a nod. After we ordered, a group entered the restaurant. Finally all staff gathered to serve that group of about more or less 15 people. It seems as nobody really paid attention to the other guests anymore, who also looked a bit curious. We were never asked anymore for a refill or a dessert etc. When we asked to pay the bill and mentioned this, they just said, that everybody had to take care of the group. Well, I found this attitude a bit disturbing.

We usually had breakfast at the Old Captiva House, which looked very nice from the outside. When you step inside you find yourself at the Osprey Gift Shop, full of *knick-knacks, what-nots and memories*.

Once the employees decide to look at you they ask for your room number and take you to your table. I wondered why they so seldom smile to give you the feeling that you are welcome in this place. In case you continuously try to look them in the eyes and smile at them, try to get in contact and talk to them they all of the sudden will recognize you as a guest not a number and smile back to you. Where the entire service was concerned I was under the impression that most of the staff did not really like their job at this place as they just wandered around, did their duty and that was it. For example there was a young man sitting at a table next to ours and eating his breakfast. All of the sudden one of the staff approached his table, took a chair away without saying anything and left. The young man obviously was quite irritated by this, got up and left his table without finishing his breakfast.

Another guest ordered some hot breakfast. After a while one staff member put the plate in front of him, mumbled *Enjoy*, turned around and left without asking if there was anything else that the guest might want. So he could not see or hear that his guest did want to order something else.

The setting of the breakfast area was very nice. I liked the tables and the chairs. I liked the tableware and also the paintings on the wall, which told all those stories of days long gone by. I liked the breakfast items, the fresh fruit selection and the juices. It would have been great if staff would dry the plates before putting them out on the buffet, as quite often they were still wet. Hot breakfast was not included in the buffet price. Temperature in the restaurant was fine.

Then I was quite surprised about the amount of Take-Aways. The guests were taking everything with them in little boxes: fruit, bread, cereals etc. I have not seen this before, but I did appreciate this when we had the chance to do this as well because one morning we lacked the time for breakfast.

During the Site Inspection I had the chance to see different room categories as well as to check on some of the cabanas. Some of the rooms I had a look at were already renovated: They featured modern appliances and furniture and looked quite stylish and inviting. In the following years all the A/Cs will be replaced. Right now they are mostly installed underneath the window and connect to the balcony, which causes the disturbing noise. When they are replaced by modern types I think they will look nicer and be a lot more convenient. Still there is a lot of work going on right now at the `Tween Waters Inn: Tiles are replaced on the walk ways and on the steps and paintjobs are being carried out. But this work doesn’t really affect the guests.

The cottages I have seen still feature the wonderful *old charm*:

The Tarpon cottage (No. 115) with three bedrooms and two baths is the biggest and the former *Owner´s Cottage*.

The Orchid Cottage (No. 111) is smaller and has a small porch and also a smaller kitchen than the Owner´s Cottage. Very sweet. I learned that this one is supposed to be listed soon in the *National Historic Register*.

Anyway, my feelings for the ´Tween Waters Inn changed a bit during our stay. Before booking our trip I had a look at the photos on the website and was under the impression to find a resort type of accommodation, modern, luxurious and really beautiful. When we arrived and got to our room I instantly wanted to turn around and leave again, much more after that first dinner. (By the way, we did not have dinner at the Inn anymore). But the more I learned about the ´Tween Waters Inn the more I was able to understand. This is kind of a historical accommodation. Old fashioned and … after a while … somehow pleasant. This is a family place. Kids will love it. If you approach the ´Tween Waters Inn by boat the marina has a total of 41 slips available for dockage. Manatees are visiting quite often. And the wonderful beach is across the street. I think if the attitude of some of the staff changes and once the renovation is completed it will be a fantastic property. We were looking for a peaceful and quiet place, luxurious and a wonderful finish to our long trip. Captiva Island and Sanibel Island were the destination to really end our tour in a wonderful way. But my feelings are a bit ambivalent whether or not ´Tween Waters Inn was the perfect location.

Now that I am writing this, I am somehow missing ´Tween Waters Inn and some of the people. If I had known before exactly where I would get to it would have been perfect. But I had different imaginations.

Maybe I should try once more.

Please visit: www.tween-waters.com

As of June 2011

Before heading to Southwest Florida we chose to stay on Key Largo for another couple of nights. Key Largo is quiet. It seemed to me as if Key Largo is more a home to the locals than to tourists. Key Largo is laid back. Easy. Just a long stretch of an island. No big shopping malls. Hectic? No way.

Key Largo is perfect to explore the Everglades and to do a trip to Key Biscayne or a bit further north to Miami. We did it all.

Miami / South Beach:

• Island Lady (Cruise): Compared to the Carrie B Cruise this one was not so pretty. People at the ticket counter were unfriendly and just took care of the money. The boat was crowded, all the comments of the captain seemed to come from a tape recorder. Especially at the end of the cruise when he –after each sentence- repeated that a tip should be paid. Well, the scenery was stunning, anything else: If you can just take the Carrie B and explore the sights of Fort Lauderdale instead.
• Dining at Bubba Gump was just okay. Nothing really special. But the service was perfect!
• Art Deco District: If you visit Miami and South Beach you really should have a look at the Art Deco District.

The Everglades: You head towards Homestead and follow the signs to The Everglades National Park. At the Visitor Center you pick up maps, another soft drink or a souvenir before you enter the park. We paid 10 USD for the car and this fee is valid for 7 consecutive days. So keep your receipt as you might want to return. I recommend arriving early to have enough time to stop at the different spots and admire all the animals. Don’t forget your binoculars and your camera! We took our time. A few hours. And spotted so many different birds, alligators and other animals. It was just magnificent.

Key Biscayne: Before getting to Miami you just detour to Key Biscayne, pay your fee and cross the Rickenbacker Causeway which connects island and mainland (you only pay the fee to get to Key Biscayne – not return). Key Biscayne is a quiet island with absolutely stunning mansions to the West and your more or less regular kind of homes to the East. Small but nice shopping opportunities along the main road.

Driving back from Key Biscayne towards Homestead and on to Key Largo I recommend taking S. Miami Avenue towards S. Bayshore Drive and on to Main Highway, then take S. Douglas Road until you get to Edgewater Drive. At the roundabout take the Old Cutler Road. This is a very beautiful scenic drive and takes you along beautiful landscape and houses.

Key Biscayne National Park: Dante Fascell Visitor Center

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo): Some information I gathered from the flyer: “The first undersea park in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and the adjacent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, cover approximately 178 nautical square miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove swamps. The park extends 3 miles into the Atlantic Ocean and is approximately 25 miles in length. These areas were established to protect and preserve a portion of the only living coral reef in the continental United States.

The park is named for the late John D. Pennekamp, a Miami newspaper editor, whose efforts contributed to the establishment of Everglades National Park and the preservation of what would become John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

The park contains a wide variety of tropical vegetation, shore birds and marine life. While the mangrove swamps and tropical hammocks offer visitors a unique and interesting experience, it is the coral formations and associated marine life that most park visitors come to enjoy. The coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park are among the most beautiful and diverse of all living communities.”

www.pennekamppark.com

Whale Harbor, Islamorada:
I had dinner at Whale Harbor on Islamorada (about 20 miles south of Key Largo / MM 83.5). *All you can eat* seafood buffet. Well, what should I say? Due to it being a Saturday night it was VERY crowded, noisy and hectic. But the food was really good. Tasty. Fresh. And highly recommendable. No refill on salads though … I rather took a refill on the crab legs instead …
www.whaleharborrestaurant.com

Marine Mammal Conservancy Center: http://marinemammalconservancy.org

As of June 2011

Although some of the travelers head to Key West to party, there are some beautiful sights which should not be missed.

Travelling down to Key West itself is just awesome. Keep your camera ready and make sure you look out for those scenic spots along the way. You will take Highway 1 all the way down and past the beautiful islands of Key Largo, Islamorada or Marathon – just to name a few.

Different hotels cater for any need.

• My report: Fairfield Inn & Suites
• My report: Hyatt Regency Key West
• Simonton Court Key West:
  Stumbled upon Simonton Court while walking through the historic scenery of Key West. I did not do a site inspection here, but was just impressed by the nice cottages and the beautiful and quiet gardens. So I cannot say anything about the interior or the services at all: Please have a look at the photos I took instead …
  www.simontoncourt.com

Restaurants I tried:

• Alonzo´s Oyster Bar:
  I tried Alonzo´s Oyster Bar (thanks for your suggestions). Conch Fritters started off the dinner: nice but fried a bit on the dark side. Horseradish cocktail sauce: nice and spicy. Main Course: Fish and Chips: Nice fish, nice fries – but not spectacular for 18.50$. Service could not the least touch Hard Rock Cafe service. – No recommendation.
  www.alonzosoysterbar.com

• Conch Republic Seafood Company:
  I have been dining out at the Conch Republic Seafood Company and enjoyed the Catch of the Day Sandwich. Well done! Great and very laid-back atmosphere, good food, nice and friendly people. Check out their website for more details: www.conchrepublicseafood.com – unfortunately I could not get a refill on the tasty salad …

• Outback Steakhouse:
  On Friday Night dining out at the Outback Steakhouse in Key West was on my list (thanks to your suggestions) … people were easy and very friendly and the food was really good … although I did not try the steaks but salad and chicken. Very tasty and nice … and I didn´t ask for a salad refill because it was just enough. Good job!
  www.outback.com

• Hard Rock Cafe:
  And YES – I can highly recommend eating out at the HRC. This was and still is one of my favourite places. Service was good, food was good, location was good. Oh well, no, I am lying … everything was quite excellent!
  Highly recommended!
  HRC, Key West: http://bit.ly/qEowI9

Sights you could visit:

• Hemmingway House
• Southernmost Point
• Truman´s Little White House
• Mallory Square

Surely you need to walk down Duval Street to browse and shop or just to have an outside seat in one of the restaurants, cafés and bars and enjoy the scenery.

An absolutely *Must See* is the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. In the evening lots and lots of people meet there to celebrate the beautiful Key West sunset and many vendors and artists present their pieces.

If you want to go for a swim, Smather´s Beach could be your destination.

Whatever you are in to when you travel to Key West: Take your time and enjoy!

As of June 2011

We took the chance to experience the service and the adventure of Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Tour – who are the experts in this business since 1953.

It was very easy to find this venture as we just had to follow Tamiami Trail and look out for the ultra large American Flag on the side of the road.

This is how Wooten´s advertise their business on the website, which sounded quite fair:

The Only Total Everglades Adventure! — Swamp Buggy Rides | Airboat Tours —

Wooten’s Everglades Airboat Tour is who you want to see for the best tours of the Everglades and swamps of south Florida. We offer airboat tours of the glades and swamp buggy rides through the marshes that allow you the opportunity to see the exotic plant and wildlife in its natural habitat. Our company is the only one around who can tour both the Everglades and the Cypress Swamp, and we also give the biggest Everglades tour in the area!

Everglade Tours—Since 1953
Our tours through the Everglades are something you and your family will remember forever. The airboat Everglades tour travels through the mangroves and marshlands, approximately 40-45 minutes, and is for 6–18 people at a time.

Swamp Buggy Rides
We also offer awesome swamp tours on our swamp buggy. These tours can carry up to 25 people and show exotic foliage and different plant life and run for approximately 40-45 minutes.

Animal Sanctuary
One of the most memorable parts of our Everglades and swamp tours are the exotic animals you see in their natural habitat. These animals include: Bobcats, Snakes, Turtles, Deer, North American Crocodiles, Alligators, Panthers

Firstly we walked around the so called Animal Sanctuary and hoped we would find the animals in a better condition than at Sawgrass Recreational Park. Well, at first sight it really seemed like that. Cages were a bit larger and a bit cleaner, but still … when I saw the big tigers and panthers and all the other large animals … they just seemed to eke out a miserable existence. Although to many visitors it might be absolutely great to come close with a tiger or a panther or such, but these are still creatures like us and need to be taken care of correctly. I would rather never in my life see a tiger or a panther again than see him under those conditions … Anyway, I did not like this at all.

After this we took the chance to join the Swamp Buggy Ride, which was a lot of fun, although the mosquitoes seemed to just love me … The tour guide was of high knowledge and pointed out every sight, every tree and anything else which was of interest to his guests. Perfect! I did enjoy the tour.

The airboat ride was awesome. Although most of the time this guy really took care of speed and fun, he still found moments to stop the boat here and there, talk about the Everglades and point out some of their natural inhabitants. It was an exhilarating tour. Thank you!

As of June 2011

Upon recommendation I did a Site Inspection at The Ivey House, Everglades City and received the following information on this nice Bed & Breakfast Inn:

The Ivey House Inn, completed in May of 2001, adjoins the original Bed & Breakfast through the Great Room and Adventure Center. All eighteen rooms are very spacious, have two queen size beds, AC, heat a private bathroom with tub/shower, a small refrigerator, TV, and phone. One room is handicapped compliant. Rooms in the Inn surround a screened-in, beautifully landscaped courtyard with tropical waterfall and heated swimming pool. (By The Ivey House)

The Ivey House Lodge is a remodeled boarding house built ca. 1928, which was originally operated by Mr. & Mrs Ivea to house the workers constructing the Tamiami Trail. It consists of eleven air-conditioned rooms off a long hallway and common, but separate men and women´s bathrooms. Each room either has one twin size bed and one full size bed or one queen size bed. There are no heaters, TVs, phones or bathrooms in these rooms. A few heaters are located in the hallway. Guests often gather in the common living room to visit with others, read, play games or watch TV. The lodge is a very short walk to the tropical courtyard to enjoy the pool. (By The Ivey House)

The Ivey House Cottage is a small quaint two bedroom house, decorated in tropical charm with central air and heating in the living room. One bedroom has a queen sized bed, and one bedroom has a full sized bed. It also has a bathroom with shower, a screened front porch, full kitchen (refrigerator, stove, microwave, and coffeemaker), and a living room with stereo and TV. There is no phone in the cottage. (By The Ivey House)

I would have missed this cute property as it is located a bit off the main road. But once you enter the Inn and talk to the people at the reception you feel welcome and cared for. From October to mid of April they offer guided adventure tours into the Everglades. Guests can also rent kayaks, canoes or camping equipment. It seems to be a nice home base to explore the wonderful nature of the Everglades.

And *YES*, I do recommend The Ivey House.

Please visit: www.iveyhouse.com

As of June 2011

“From the moment you are greeted beneath the porte cochere and enter the beautiful Mediterranean-styled lobby and then venture out to the sugar-sand beach and azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico, you know your visit here will be nothing less than extraordinary.

A boutique 98-all suite resort, Marco Beach Ocean Resort offers an intimate environment found in its 83 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom suites. All feature a balcony with views of the shimmering Gulf of Mexico or a terrace with views of tropical gardens.

Marco Beach Ocean Resort brings excellent service, lodging and a variety of dining options to Marco Island, including Sale e Pepe authentic Italian Cuisine with an extensive wine list recognized by Wine Spectator. You can also rejuvenate your mind, body and soul at our Spa and Fitness facilities.

Every suite offers marble showers and vanity tops, kitchen with granite countertop, Gilchrist & Soames amenities, quality linens, multiple telephone lines and cordless phone, iPod docking station, flat screen TVs, keyless entry and wireless internet access.

Designed to exceed the expectations of our guests, our amenities set the standard by which others are judged. The meticulously trained staff, including a Chef Concierge have a single goal – to anticipate and attend to your every need and desire.

Shaped by the tides and shifting sands of countless millennia, Marco Island in sunswept Southwest Florida is surrounded by the tourmaline waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you are on vacation or attending an executive retreat or wedding, the resort will surely prove unforgettable.

The “Gateway to the Everglades” and the largest of Southwest Florida´s legendary Ten Thousand Islands, Marco island is just minutes from the arts, dining, golf, entertainment, and shopping of downtown Naples – Florida´s most sophisticated small city.” (by Marco Ocean Beach Resort)

Reading this before approaching the Marco Beach Ocean Resort for a Site Inspection I set my expectations high. Would this resort be able to meet those?

First of all I drove past. I missed the driveway to the hotel. There was no big fancy sign. Nothing spectacular that drew my attention. This magnificent hotel building just seemed to be another *home*.

I turned around and tried a second time. Eventually I arrived.

And wondered where the doorman was or any other employee as nobody waited outside to greet arriving guests.

I entered the amazing and breathtaking lobby and then ventured on a Site Inspection which was as unusual as the hotel I was visiting now.

The hotel was built in 2002 and entirely renovated by beginning of 2010. The description which I quoted above exactly reveals the interior and exterior of the hotel. It is elegant, sophisticated but not snobby. You walk through the corridors, outside and through the beautiful landscape and towards the ocean. You enter the bars and restaurants. This is not a usual five star hotel. This is something else. Something intriguing. A place that gets under your skin. Take a look into the faces of the employees and you will recognize that they all like to work here, that they all like to cater to the needs of their guests. Have a look at the grand rooms. Feel the atmosphere. Touch the magic light that illuminates them from inside out. Let this magic light carry you away into pleasure, quietness and style.

“Each suite features a spacious living room, bedroom, and custom-designed furnishings. State-of-the-art sleep systems with feather beds and comforters are showcased, as are marble-clad bathrooms with separate enclosed showers. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors lead to water-view balconies and garden-terrace patios.” (by Marco Ocean Beach Resort)

Step out on this balcony and enjoy the magnificent view of the beach and the ocean. Take a deep breath. Relax. Unwind. You finally have arrived.

“The main attraction at Marco Beach Ocean Resort is a five-mile stretch of white-sand beach fronting the Gulf of Mexico. Beach attendants are at guests´ beck and call with food and beverage service. Watersport vendors offer opportunities for sailing, parasailing, jet skiing, nature cruises, and shelling expeditions to nearby islands. A rooftop, heated swimming pool and whirlpool spa offer additional downtime retreats. An on-site spa offers treatments, steam rooms, and saunas, while a fitness facility features state-of-the-art equipment. Guests have privileges at nearby golf and tennis centers. Posh shops and galleries are located on Marco Island and in nearby Naples.” (by Marco Ocean Beach Resort)

During the site inspection I not only had a look at the suites or the Grand Ballroom but also checked on the restaurants on site. And I was deeply impressed with the setting of the Toulouse Lounge and Sale e Pepe.

[…] You could be entering a Tuscan villa rather than a modern building. A stone staircase leads you into a sumptuous, dramatically lit bar area which, with its long gleaming bar, backed by a huge Toulouse Lautrec style mural, could fit well in a New York gentleman´s club. The main restaurant, with its intricately carved, buttery stone walls, mosaic marble floors and tables dressed with starched white tablecloths, sparkling stemwear and adorned with single red roses, can only be described as simply elegant. It is incredibly beautiful. Divided into several separate dining areas, each room offers stunning views of Marco´s picture-perfect white sand beach. They can only be surpassed by the vista from the expansive terrace, where you can enjoy cooling sea breezes while watching the sun sink into the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. An impossibly romantic scene […].” (by *Reprinted from January 2010 edition of The Marco Review*)

Sale e Pepe – Authentically, passionately Italian: Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Sale e Pepe offers authentic Italian cuisine in surroundings of aged stone, marble floors and hand-painted frescoes. Enjoy this dining experience in a choice of settings, from candlelit formal in The Dining room to resort casual in The Saletta or alfresco on The Terrace. (by Marco Ocean Beach Resort)

Marco Ocean Beach Resort: An impossibly wonderful hotel, which I can highly recommend.

Please visit: www.marcoresort.com