The Perfect Weekend Getaway

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For as long as I can remember, I’ve had the travel bug. Even when I was a little one, I would devour books about different countries and cultures. My own international travel didn’t start until very recently when we honeymooned in Italy and Sweden in 2018. Since then, I’ve been able to visit three other new countries and had plans for even more this year. Sadly, those trips have been rescheduled, but I have no idea when.

The good news is, I’ve been able to use this time to explore the place I call home. Florida is a huge state and one of the most diverse out there. From the quiet beaches of the panhandle to lively Miami, the opportunities in the Sunshine State are endless. Throughout the summer, I have dreamed up a handful of long weekends and I’m so excited to bring you along for the ride.

I kicked off the unofficial start to summer with some luxury and style at the Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande. Although it’s only 90 miles away, I felt instantly transported to a Caribbean island with impeccable turquoise waters. This place is an absolute gem! I felt pampered with every aspect of the trip, the service is truly that great! You’ll also fall in love with the village of Boca Grande itself. Pristine streets, adorable boutiques, and not a traffic light for miles!

Normally, when I travel like to keep my itinerary booked and experience as much as I can. Vacation usually leaves me exhausted, but in the best possibly way. Every once in a while, I allow myself to truly turn off and pick a spot where I make zero plans and have all day to do it. That was true in Bermuda and it was true in Boca Grande. We woke up each morning with one objective, to relax! What that meant flowed like the waves on the Gulf of the Mexico. Everything was done at a leisurely pace. Getting our coffee and strolling through the adorable beach cottages was probably the most strenuous activity of the day.

After such a ‘workout’, we would plant ourselves at the Gasparilla Inn Beach Club. I almost fell into a trance watching and listening to the surf. Sometimes my eyes would wander at some fabulous people watching, but they would always make their way back to the water. We dozed, we chatted, and se sipped on delicious tropical inspired cocktails. I think I had a different drink each time, but David couldn’t get enough of their frozen old-fashioned. When we got hot, we jumped into the Gulf. Even there, I would close my eyes and float with the waves. I think I officially found my pure bliss.

Whether you’re from near or far, the perfect weekend getaway is waiting for you at the Gasparilla Inn. I love that it’s practically a stone’s throw away, but it’s worth the trip no matter the distance. When I need to unwind and take a mental break, I no exactly where I’m heading!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Florida as it was Meant to Be

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As a Floridian, something I’m incredibly passionate about is sharing the best that my home state has to offer. It’s hard to go through a day without at least one crazy story about ‘Florida man’ going viral on social media. I promise you, even though it’s often highlighted, it’s far from the norm. The Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande has the motto Florida as it was meant to be. I thought it would be important to share a little into what that means and why the Sunshine State deserves a little more credit.

Year Round Sunshine

There’s a reason that we have our nickname. Sunny days is what brings visitors from around the world. While the summertime in Florida almost guarantees a daily afternoon shower, a sunshine is never too far away. It serves as the perfect backdrop for anything your heart desires. I’m partial to dining and drinking al fresco. Being outside is where I really feel like my best self.

Endless Outdoor Pursuits

If you want to try a new activity, chances are it can be found in Florida. Obviously, anything snow and ice related is exempt. Some of the popular choices are what I call ‘country-club’ sports. Tennis, golf, and swimming can be found in even the quietest corners of the state and are loved by all. The full list, though, is endless. Biking, windsurfing, hiking, camping, birdwatching, and on and on. Honestly, it’s hard to pick just one to fill your time.

Slightly Slower Pace

Especially compared to New York City, the pace in Florida is much more relaxed. That gets more true the closer you get to the coast. When you come to visit, you just need to kind of go with it. Take a second to chat with your neighbors or take the scenic route. All are great choices to truly understand the state.

Respect for Mother Nature

I’ve been more mindful of communities that have a relationship with the world around it. In Florida, there are so many examples of places where you can enjoy both a great town and nature. In St. Pete, you can go from the bustling downtown to a county or state park in just minutes. We also have a love for our green spaces. Floridians have become more aware of our impact on nature and I couldn’t be more proud of it!

All of these things and more can be found around the state. While there are different versions of Florida, and to each their own, my favorite is a healthy combination of luxury and the great outdoors. With the Gasparilla Inn the motto ‘Florida as it was meant to be’ has rang true for over 110 years. Cheers to at least 110 more.

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.