Sunset over Okaloosa Island, Fall 2009 Photo by Valeria Lento
I lived in Miami Beach for more than half of my life and – with the exception of my college years spent in Gainesville (oh, go Gators!) and a three-month stint in New York City – I haven’t had much experience living elsewhere in the good ol’ U.S. of A. This is probably why I was so shocked (make that, very pleasantly surprised) at what I found upon my arrival to Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast three months ago. You see, it seems the farther I’ve traveled North, the farther South I’ve come…and blessedly so!
I find that people along THE Beach smile more often (then again, why would you frown when the beach serves as the backdrop to your daily life?) and display a gracious Southern charm that has been truly refreshing for a jaded Big City Gal like me. While there’s certainly much to be said for Miami’s beaches and for all of their allure, there’s an incomparable appeal to the white sand and blue-green water strewn from Perdido Key to Carrabelle. I frankly never thought this little piece of paradise could exist hundreds of miles north from what I once believed to be the best beach in the world. The charismatic Southern drawls, unspoiled countryside, gentler pace and old-fashioned hospitality make Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast quite a hidden gem.
With Frommer’s recent ranking of this region as one of the top 12 destinations for 2010, it seems the secret is quickly getting out! Additionally, with Southwest Airlines beginning service to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in May 2010, people from all over the country will get to experience what life is like here at THE Beach. I have a feeling they’re going to fall in love with it!
I’m enjoying getting to know this region better and feel so blessed to be able to call it my new home. On my downtime, I like to explore different beach towns (all with their own unique yet equally stunning splendor!), take a walk along the oh-so-many nature trails and snap pictures with my phone during almost every single sunset. Whenever I get a chance, I serve myself a tall glass of Sweet Tea and dig into the fresh catch of the day. In those moments I am reminded why this beach is THE Beach and why it has been said that this way of life will forever change yours. It has certainly changed mine.
How long have you lived here? For how many years have you been visiting? What makes this beach THE Beach? I look forward to hearing from y’all.