Vacation plans on hold while you follow the oil flow?
We had hoped to return to Orange Beach this summer after the kids had such a great time there last year. However, with all that oil seeping out into the Gulf of Mexico I had kind of decided we would just head to Hilton Head this year – a safer bet. Or so I thought.
But now with fears of oil reaching currents that would bring it around the Florida Keys and up the East coast all of our vacation plans are on hold.
I know vacation plans seem trite when we’ve got a whole ocean and all the little animals in it to be worried about, however I’m sure people are trying to figure out where it’s safe to book for the summer. (Pacific Ocean anyone?) No one wants to lose money they’ve put down on a condo or beach house, especially in this economy.
I did search the City of Orange Beach site and as of the date I was searching no oil had come ashore and they were handling this PR emergency very well. They are posting current photos of the beach and the ocean so people can see how it looks. They are also posting what appear to be almost daily briefings of the ocean’s conditions and what is currently happening on their shore. In one brief that I read, it said the forecast was clear at least for 72 hours. So I guess folks could plan a last-minute vacation and see how things shake out. (Probably less crowded and good rates.)
The AJC ran an earlier article with some tips for planning your vacation with so much uncertainty.
So what is your vacation strategy with this heartbreaking oil spill threatening the beautiful beaches near Georgia? Will you go ahead and book ahead or wait to see where exactly the oil goes and how the clean-up progresses? Are you afraid to book on Gulf coast or the East Coast? What about a trip to the Caribbean? How about heading further up the East coast to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina or Wilmington Beach in North Carolina? How will you determine your best bet for a beach vacation this summer? How long will you wait to book?
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158 comments Add your comment
Jeff
May 18th, 2010
7:43 am
Disney with the 7 yo munchkin.
Kathy
May 18th, 2010
7:55 am
Just had our annual trip to St George and it was fabulous!
Photius
May 18th, 2010
8:10 am
Unemployment in Georgia at 10%…. People are scared about losing thier job…. Those who are working are saving like crazy…. Let’s have a blog about suburban WASP’s vacation plans, Caribbean anyone? ZZZZZZZ
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
May 18th, 2010
8:19 am
Photius — that’s why we were excited about going back to Orange Beach — the prices were great!!! so the less expensive vacation would seem riskier to plan for.
and P.S. I’m personally not Protestant. and my husband is Asian.
irisheyes
May 18th, 2010
8:32 am
Yeah, we’re just going to visit family. Furlough days and trying to support a family on a teacher’s salary don’t allow for too many beach vacations.
Becky
May 18th, 2010
8:34 am
We are going to Savannah and KY for long weekends and VA/DC for a week..That’s just me and the kids, we will go to the beach with the husband, just not sure when..
@Photius..All of us are very aware of what you are saying, but that shouldn’t stop people from having some relaxing time away if they can still afford it..We are going to KY, VA and Savannah because we can stay for free in these places..We’ve been to all of them already (except Savannah) and the kids love going there and can’t wait to go back..
JJ
May 18th, 2010
8:36 am
I don’t see why you can’t still go to the beach, just don’t get in the ocean. There’s a ton of things to do out of water.
Michelle
May 18th, 2010
8:44 am
JJ…that’s what I was thinking too…most places have pools these days even though they are beach front! Not everyone likes to get in the ocean!
We are talking about going up to VA Beach (my brother lives there). Some of my other family members are talking about traveling over that way as well, so it would be like a mini family reunion! :o)
T-you could use the vacation as a teaching tool as well!
CNB
May 18th, 2010
8:51 am
We have booked a week in Destin for late July, paid our deposit several months ago and are nervous now about paying the balance due. I say we go anyway and enjoy being away from the daily grind and enjoy the non-beach and sand activities. It’s a time for some R & R.
I appreciate that folks are struggling to afford vacations. Precisely why we are going as a large group and splitting the cost. Makes it a little more affordable.
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
9:10 am
Theresa…,my comment is gone. I had lunch with DB yesterday and she said hers are evaporating frequently. What is going on?
Grumpy
May 18th, 2010
9:14 am
We have a Destin trip planned for the first week in August. We aren’t canceling. Living in fear isn’t living at all.
Richard Alpert
May 18th, 2010
9:14 am
Still headed to St. Lucia for the honeymoon in July!
PTC DAWG
May 18th, 2010
9:15 am
Going to the East Coast of Florida as always..I like waves, big beaches for bike riding and NO crowds…imagine that. :)
Grumpy
May 18th, 2010
9:15 am
JJ, the only problem I can forsee about “just going to the beach” might be the possible smell of oil being too overbearing.
But like I said, I’m not canceling Destin in August. We’ll just see what happens and roll with the punches.
Becky
May 18th, 2010
9:16 am
Congratulations Richard..
JATL
May 18th, 2010
9:16 am
We were going to do Gulf Shores/Orange Beach this year, but even though it looks great now (and I’m REALLY hoping it stays that way), we opted for an old favorite -St. Augustine Beach. I personally love the beach there because you can ride your bike for miles on it -like Hilton Head -and my oldest will really enjoy that. We are also going to take a Disney day trip. There are tons of things to do if the weather is crappy or oil washes up, although we primarily go for the beach. My most recent research into the oil spill hitting the gulf stream and going up the Atlantic Seaboard says it will take months to reach the Atlantic beaches -particularly the north Florida ones. So, hopefully everyone can have a nice vacation no matter where they’ve reserved a spot. The whole thing makes me want to puke!
@Photius -if we all sat back and took a look at the state of things in this world and even around us, and decided that because some have it rough, we shouldn’t vacation or have fun -then no one would ever leave their homes! Also -the people who run tourist-driven businesses at the beach are still reeling from Katrina on the Gulf and all of them EVERYWHERE have to have good summers or they go under. Exactly how would me staying home or not discussing vacation plans on a blog help them?
PTC DAWG
May 18th, 2010
9:17 am
Oh yeah, Photius….you’re negativity is showing…how is that vote for Obama working out? LOL
JATL
May 18th, 2010
9:18 am
@ Richard -10 years ago I had a St. Lucia honeymoon in July and it was incredible! Have a fantastic time! Say -do you have perma-eyeliner by chance and never age? Just wondering…Here’s hoping your love story turns out MUCH better!
john
May 18th, 2010
9:19 am
Go for it…i was just in Destin…it was gorgeous…not hint of oil at all. (For the record, I do not work in Destin, nor have any ties there for you skeptics).
Jim
May 18th, 2010
9:21 am
Beach trip is still planned. As we say, a rainy day at the beach is better than a sunny day in Atlanta.
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
May 18th, 2010
9:21 am
MJG — I will look for it as soon as I can — trying to get baby off the potty.
Photius — i want to apologize for my snippiness this morning. read it before any caffeine. sorry
Alecia
May 18th, 2010
9:21 am
Supposedly tar balls washed ashore in the Keys this morning. Does anyone know how far south this will reach? We are all talking about a northward flow. I am considering a spur of the moment trip to Puerto Rico, but cannot find any info on the conditions. Why would anyone pay for a beach vacation and not enjoy the ocean?
Jimmy
May 18th, 2010
9:23 am
We own a beach condo in Gulf Shores. I’ve been watching the NOAA trajectory very day. So far the oil has come no closer than 60 miles and is now drifting south – even curving toward Mexico.
The news media has created the fear and hysteria.
dagnabit
May 18th, 2010
9:25 am
I’ll be going to N. Myrtle Beach in late sept. I don’t get in the ocean either, but I do walk on the beach. I plan on showing up. If the beach is messed up ,I’ll be bitter.
Becky
May 18th, 2010
9:26 am
@Alecia..We go to the beach a lot, but I don’t really get in the water..I just enjoy the “beachy” atmosphere (sp)..
CONDO OWNER
May 18th, 2010
9:30 am
I have seen absolutely no data to indicate the oil spill will ruin anyone’s beach vacation this summer – but running a lead story like this will certinly go a long way toward insuring that the resort/vacation industry along the gulf coast suffers greatly regardless. Let’s just go ahead and yell “fire” so everyone panics.
LaBell
May 18th, 2010
9:31 am
We were in Destin, FL all week last week and the sand was white and the water was clear and warm. Everyone needs to calm down and enjoy their vacations.
Panhandle bound
May 18th, 2010
9:31 am
The panhandle is sitll gorgeous – I’m going!
Hopeful
May 18th, 2010
9:32 am
Still planning to go to Destin in three weeks. Have already paid in full, but was told (in writing) that my money would be refunded if the oil came ashore, thankfully. I know many don’t have that option and I feel for them.
Regarding just going and not getting in the water… yeah, not so much. If the oil came to the shore, it wouldn’t just be a matter of oil in the water. The beaches would be full of people working on the clean up effort, and would be closed to visitors. In places that rely mainly on tourism, many stores would close if the tourists weren’t there. And the smell would be so bad, you’d have to stay indoors the whole time or risk getting sick from it.
So yeah, there’s no such thing as “go, just don’t get in the water.”
Theresa Walsh Giarrusso
May 18th, 2010
9:38 am
An AP story about how much the oil is spreading — i will search for more but I have to go to preschool
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/17/oil-spill-florida-keys-sc_n_578318.html
Destin Days
May 18th, 2010
9:40 am
I live and work in Destin in the vacation biz. We are currently feeling no effects of the oil spill. The weather and the water are great! Plan a trip. Take advantage of the spill to get good discounts! Just make sure you can get a refund if the oil begins to affect our area.
JATL
May 18th, 2010
9:40 am
@ CONDO OWNER -I agree. I’ve been following NOAA reports and other scientific reports and while there’s a chance that ALL of the horror predicted can and will happen -they’ve blown it WAY out of proportion (not the spill, but the possible ruination of beaches). I literally heard on the news last night, “You can now add worry about Atlantic beaches to your worry of the gulf coast beaches. Oil is about to enter the gulf stream and be carried up the Atlantic seaboard -so, will this ruin your vacation?” Talk about sensational (and hurtful) “journalism”! Seriously folks -whether you want to do Gulf or Atlantic -check NOAA and other DEPENDABLE, scientific sites! The local news media is sensationalistic and careless.
Mountain Man
May 18th, 2010
9:41 am
Hey Gang – Why not head to the North Georgia mountains instead? Blue Ridge, GA has some incredible cabins to stay in and there are tons of things to do there including water activities on the lake and rivers.
Destin Days
May 18th, 2010
9:45 am
Hopeful. You need to change your name. Not sounding very hopeful. You don’t know what you are saying!. Here in Destin, we are using the fishing fleet of over 600 boats as spotters. When oil is spotted offshore, the Coastguard will be dispatched immediately to clean up, set booms, etc. The amount of oil that will reach our beaches, if any, will be minimal. IF it does come ashore, the sand ill be replaced immediately with clean sand. It will not be cleaned onsite. Quit trying to scare everyone out of a vacation.
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
9:46 am
My husband and I are heading to Penascola, Florida on Friday. Were camping out at Fort Pickens camp site. I am really excited about going because I have never been camping! Penascola is our favorite place, and I am not going to let the drama of this oil spill my vacation. I already have put down the money to reserve it. Besides, if the oil was in Florida it would be all over the news!
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
9:46 am
*ruin*
Vacation Bound
May 18th, 2010
9:48 am
We just returned from Perdido Key and the beach area was beautiful. There was no sign of oil and none is expected. We drove over into Orange Beach and Gulf Shores and the beaches there were also flawless!
dawgma
May 18th, 2010
9:49 am
No oil at all in Destin area – fishing was awesome as usual. 1 55 LB COBIA, 3 GROUPER, AND LOTS OF DINGO SNAPPER.
EVEN BETTER THE BEACHES ARE A LITTLE LESS CROWDED AND THE MERCHANTS ARE GIVING GREAT SERVICE!
Patrick
May 18th, 2010
9:50 am
Still plan on hitting PCB next month no matter what. I won’t have to invest in any Hawaiian Tropic, the oil will already be in the water!!
PTC DAWG- My vote for Obama worked out great!!! Much better than a vote for McCain/Palin would have.
Scott
May 18th, 2010
9:51 am
My wife and I decided to go to Panama City for a long weekend last weekend. We decided to carry forth on the plans we had made before the spill. There were no problems and everything seemed as normal as always.
Linda Abernathy
May 18th, 2010
9:58 am
Just came back Sunday from a week in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach. No oil at all, no oily traces, no oily smells or odors. The beaches were clean and beautiful (and if I could submit a photo, I would). We had a great time with no crowds, no waiting in line for the zoo or at restaurants or anywhere.
Pepper
May 18th, 2010
9:59 am
Santa Rosa beach for July 4, cannot wait.
Chuck
May 18th, 2010
10:00 am
The beaches of St. Simons and Jekyll Islands are the nation’s best-kept secret. These beaches are beautiful and wide, and even during the hottest tourist season from Memorial Day to Labor Day, they are virtually empty compared to destinations like Myrtle, Daytona, and Destin. And besides being hurricane-proof, they are also oil spill proof, as the currents take both straight up the coast from Florida to South Carolina, dodging the tucked-in beaches of Georgia (the westernmost point on the entire east coast).
Yup, I said it
May 18th, 2010
10:00 am
Planning a trip to Panama City, FL mid August, when the rates are a little lower and the kids are back in school…not going to let a little oil scare me. It might even help me get a deeper tan…LOL!
Hey, speaking of which, does anyone have any insight on condo rentals in that area-near Pier Park? We currently have a hotel booked, but I’m trying to stretch a buck and hear that a condo is much nicer than a hotel room.
Go for it guys-enjoy a beach vacation if you can. And I cannot think of a better place to do it than the Fl Panhandle.
CL
May 18th, 2010
10:00 am
Im glad to read these comments. I am a gulf oyster and shrimp lover and was getting depressed that the oil spill might shut down everything I love about the Gulf this summer. I got a little more encouraged when they were able to extract some of the leaking oil on to the ships.
If there is any silver lining in this, I think we will all begin to value all environment a little more than we have (and step up the search for cleaner and more cost effective energy sources), and begin to reappreciate being able to enjoy clean shorelines on all of our coasts
Sun Fun
May 18th, 2010
10:03 am
My family and I have reservations for the Keys in July. Nonrefundable airfare. Can cancel villa res., but am waiting it out. If it gets nasty, guess I’ll have to cut my losses and head Yellowstone.
Becky
May 18th, 2010
10:06 am
@Moutain Man..We have been to the mountains many. many times..Every summer, we go to Helen, Cleveland and Blue Ridge 3-4 times..I would much rather be in the mtns, than at the beach…
DB
May 18th, 2010
10:14 am
We’re not big beach people, so our vacation plans seldom include a beach – we’re more “mountains and lake” folks. We’re out to San Francisco and up to Oregon and Crater Lake later in the summer. We’ve been trying to include as many National Parks as we can over the last 15 years — this country is absolutely amazing in its variety and scenic diversity.
td
May 18th, 2010
10:16 am
Yup, I said it, I have a condo about 3 miles from Pier Park. August is a great time to go. Check out our VRBO page and let me know if you are interested.
http://www.vrbo.com/237204
Turker Slayer
May 18th, 2010
10:21 am
I will try to refrain from blaming the Obama Administration for dropping the ball on this one. I go to the West coast of Florida every year for beach, pool and deep sea fishing. I fear that the beach will be black, sticky and smelly. I won’t be eating any Gulf seafood for some time. BTW I ordered shrimp weeks ago.
LydiasDad
May 18th, 2010
10:21 am
Theresa, why would anyone reference the likes of the Huffington Post for credible info? Don’t do that to us.
I’m heading to Sandestin in 2 weeks. Everyone stay away so I can have the beach to myself.
Steve
May 18th, 2010
10:23 am
Have a week long hotel reservation at Fr. Walton for mid-June. Paid an extra $10 per night to have a rate that allows us to cancel up to 2 days prior to the stay. At this point it looks like the oil will not be a big impact, and a few tarballs is no worse then jellyfish, kelp or other “trash” in the water.
YUKI
May 18th, 2010
10:24 am
Heading to Rosemary Beach next month. Booked the condo about a week before the spill. Regardless of what is going on in the water at that time, still looking forward to the area, relaxation and just being away from the every day grind. If we can’t go in the beach, there are still the pools, bikeriding and just plain old relaxing. Nothing beats the gulf coast beaches and I would not cancel my vacation.
momagain
May 18th, 2010
10:29 am
We have been saving for years for another trip to PCB for the 4th of July week. Booked the condo two months ago. We will go anyway if for no other reason than to see friends, eat good food and have some family time in the car..out of town. We usually end up more at the pool anyway…one jellyfish episode ruined the ocean for us!
Beach Lover
May 18th, 2010
10:34 am
I was in PCB last weekend and it was beautiful. I will be going back the week of Memorial Day. I know about a beach webcam site that I check daily and the beach and water are both still gorgeous.
Yup, I said it: check out VRBO.com for condo listings and look at Gulf Resort Beach. Most listings are less than 2 miles from Pier Park. I have used this site a couple of times with great results.
downsouth
May 18th, 2010
10:36 am
@ Condo Owner – Well Said. Running a front page article like this does nothing but add to people’s fears about something that might not happen. good grief!!!!!!! yes, there’s a chance that something could happen, but then again, IT MIGHT NOT.
Theresa saying that even the Atlantic Beaches of FLA could have a problem is completely uncalled for. That’s merely speculation, and there’s no need to encompass all of FLA’s beaches that way. Please think before you meet your deadline by putting out this olislick of an “article” / blog / bs.
Thank you,
Emerald Coast Lover
Walter
May 18th, 2010
10:38 am
We will be going to St. Simons for the 4th of July and Callaway Gardens with the kids in late July. If you don’t want to go to the beach for fear of the oil spill then i recommend Callaway Gardens. My kid’s love the golf, tennis, fishing, swimming, etc. Check it out if you haven’t already.
Texas
May 18th, 2010
10:40 am
Cancelled a trip to Florida and going to Texas instead. We are flying into Houston and spending a couple days at the beach then driving to Dallas through San Antonio (apparently the Texas version of Orlando ) and Austin. We’ve never been before, so it should be a blast!
Marie
JJ
May 18th, 2010
10:41 am
@Yup. The Calypso Condos, right next to Pier Park.
We stay down on Thomas Drive at Moonspinner Condos. We have stayed there numerous times and the place is beautiful. I’ve also stayed at The Commodore, which is nice, but Moonspinner is much nicer!! They are right next door to each other.
Dar
May 18th, 2010
10:42 am
Amelia Island Plantation next weekend. I generally don’t go in the ocean anymore, but my son loves it and we are scheduled for horseback riding on the beach so I hope there are no issues. Heading up to the Falls and Toronto for a mid-summer trip so no risk there. I was planning a trip to the Bahamas for Thanksgiving and wonder if the oil will make it there and still be around in November.
JDCmom
May 18th, 2010
10:43 am
We were going to Destin next week but are now headed to Disney. At the time they weren’t making any progress in stopping the spill. I know there is a lot to do outside of the beach but for my 3 and 5 year old it’s all about the beach. That trip is usually an annual event for our family, but not this year ;-(.
Judy
May 18th, 2010
10:47 am
the beach trip for us this year won’t be Tampa/St. Pete… we’ll be heading to St. Augustine. Prefer the west coast, but this year, we’ll be doing the east coast.
Beach Lover
May 18th, 2010
10:48 am
Was in Cape San Blas this past weekend- the beaches are clean and as beautiful as ever! Don’t let the media hype scare you away!!!
Becky
May 18th, 2010
10:49 am
@Texas..Sounds like fun..I’ve never been to TX., but am planing a trip in the next couple of years..I have a niece that lives in Houston, one in San Antonio and a really good friend in Dallas..So hope you enjoy your vacation..
Redneck Riveria
May 18th, 2010
10:56 am
Just got back from Panama City Beach. It is still in good shape. Went to Shell Island on Pontoon boat didn’t see anything oil related. Got a chance to see the dolphins. Hopefully it won’t make it there.
Myrtle Beach
May 18th, 2010
10:57 am
Had a condo reserved in Miramar Beach for June. When I inquired about holding off 2 weeks on sending final payment to see if the leak could be contained and how well cleanup efforts were going, I was yelled at by the agent and threatened with a lawsuit. Oil or no oil, changed plans to go to Myrtle Beach instead. I’ll go to that area next year but will NEVER use that agent again.
MJ
May 18th, 2010
10:59 am
Going to our condo in Hilton Head next week.
Ghostrider
May 18th, 2010
11:02 am
Leave it to the Media to start yet another panic. Can’t they find something else to talk about.
Vick=Dog killing thug
May 18th, 2010
11:03 am
I own a houseboat on lake Lanier. It will be a stay-cation for me this year. Enjoy the boat and relax with friends. What’s not to like?
Tyler Pike
May 18th, 2010
11:05 am
Daddy and I are still planning on taking our annual Panama City Beach trip. We’re even planning on getting matching BBQ samwich tats on our lower backs too. Might be the best year yet.
Yup, I said it
May 18th, 2010
11:06 am
@ td, Beach Lover & JJ-thanks folks for the information :) – very much appreciated!
JB
May 18th, 2010
11:09 am
We’ve been going to Destin for like 20 yrs. Sadly, I just canceled our reservations, in SanDestin, and switched tem over to HH. Ours were for mid July and while I hope more than anything that the oil doesn’t hit down there, I couldn’t risk it.
Julia
May 18th, 2010
11:10 am
We are going to Orlando june 15. I have friends that live in Tampa… Wonders what its going to do in Tampa…. No we are not going to the Parks… We are going for the SBC….
Jake
May 18th, 2010
11:11 am
Between the government teachers reality check and the oil spill you would think the end of the world is coming. This is crazy!!! Why would this change your plans? If the only reason you go to the beach is to get in the ocean, you need to re-evaluate going to the beach, PERIOD. Come on people, the sky is not falling.
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
11:12 am
Two words….lake tahoe.
JB
May 18th, 2010
11:13 am
No but my kids live in the water and I’d just as soon they not comeout with oil, all over them.
But hey, that’s just me.
Bob H
May 18th, 2010
11:13 am
We were planning to go to Destin, FL. but have not booked anything yet. We were thinking, like you, East Coast, Hilton Head or Kiawa Island, but now I’m just not sure, have to wait and see I guess. Going Mid-July. (Somewhere…lol)
Julia
May 18th, 2010
11:17 am
HI TIGER!!
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
11:17 am
@Jake…..there’s another reason to go to the ocean…to enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean. Six million gallons of oil being released in the vicinity I would think can pose a realistic threat to sitting on a deck and watching the waves from pristine water roll in. I’ve never been to the Gulf Coast, but I know that if the view of my usual haunts in Maui were replaced with that pretty rainbow technicolor that comes with oil sitting on top of the water, it would definitely ruin the experience, regardless of whether I enjoyed surfing in it or not.
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
11:18 am
Hey there Julia…long time.
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
11:18 am
Not sure if this will post as my others have vanished today…T…how long is your baby on the potty…LOL
@ Myrtle Beach…there is no excuse for rudeness but I am certain the agents are stressed as everyone is probably calling ( all day long and not to book but cancel)…maybe more after this blog.
@ Texas…the beaches near Houston are AWFUL ( to me) . We went to Galveston once and there were giant roaches running all over the sand. South Padre is beautiful, maybe that is where you are going? I was there right before the Hurricane, a few years ago.
PCB and Disney are not for me…too crowded and too much noise. I love a quiet beach and do not want to be wedged in so tight that I can see what brand of potato chips my neighbors are eating, including the calorie count…
We use vrbo and have had good luck. I just booked a house in Oregon, so we will see what the ocean looks like there. We have used them in Florida and Hawaii. We do not need much:
clean, quiet and preferably internet connection…not mandatory.
ShortBravesFan
May 18th, 2010
11:23 am
M I A! :)
TinyDancer
May 18th, 2010
11:24 am
Not telling which beach I go to. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and I don’t want to share ;)
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
11:25 am
@ Tiger…let me clue you in…lots of folks in the metro Atlanta area have never been west of St. Louis. Some ( on the east coast) have told me that Michigan is WEST…I could not stop laughing.
Living here, we can typically drive to the beach in 5-8 hours. Lots of folks who go, know someone who has a house and/or a friend of a friend who does. We do not but we rent a fun little condo in St. Augustine…nothing fancy and as I said in my vanished post…we ARE going. We also like Marco Island FL (have gone for over 12 years) but that may not be on the radar this year as we have too many other things on the calendar.
If I wave at you ( Tiger) while I am in Montana next month…will you see me….HAHAHA!
Hi Julia…WHERE have you been?
Yesterday
May 18th, 2010
11:31 am
I was driving yesterday in god awful Gwinnett and saw two cars, one blue minivan and one black suv that still had “Drill here, Drill Now, Pay less” stickers on them. You would think that these folks would be embarassed.
I heard this morning the President is assigning a commission to look into the cause of this. The news reporter said the commission will try to determine if this could have been prevented. In all my days, that was the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard anyone say. Of course it could have been prevented. We didn’t have to have an oil well in the middle of the gulf, period.
I hope the beaches are fine for the people, but I hope the oceans are healthy for the animals more.
K. Barnes
May 18th, 2010
11:33 am
Panama City Beach and The Beaches of South Walton are CLEAN and amazing! The oil is NOT projected to hit this area. Currents and winds are keeping the oil far west of this part of the Gulf. Plan a trip to these beaches this summer. Most rental agencies and hotels are offering an Oil Spill Guarantee which refunds all fees if the area is affected, which is very unlikely. Panama City Beaches and South Walton Beaches have never looked better and are open for business! If anyone wants more info on vacation rentals in the PCB check out http://www.staybeachside.com or call 888-236-0750.
peachtype
May 18th, 2010
11:34 am
Going to Anna Maria Island this year. Never been there, but hear it is beautiful! I cannot wait to go in late June. I am not worried about the oil spill ruining my vacation. I hardly ever go into the ocean more than knee-high. Plenty of pools to swim in, shopping, just relaxing in a different atmosphere will be very relaxing. I am not SKEERED! I just want to get away, and since I have already paid for my room, I will enjoy it no matter what! Stop scaring people to death. We all need some R&R at times. Those who cannot afford to go on vacation, do something local as they say “stay-cation”. I have done that for years myself.
Julia
May 18th, 2010
11:34 am
(((MJG))) here and there.. :)… trying to get the boy out of school for they year :) how are you :)
Atlanta Guy
May 18th, 2010
11:36 am
Heading to Rosemary Beach this week. If people want to sit in Atlanta and worry about something that may not happen, go ahead. We’re not letting life pass us by.
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
11:41 am
@MJG….well I have to admit that I’m glad that is the prevailing thought! Growing up I lived on the east coast and the west coast and the southwest. I graduated high school in Virginia, got the freedom to go where I wanted and headed west three days later. If everyone on the east coast knew how great it was out here in Big Sky Country, we’d have a population problem!
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
11:45 am
@ Julia…I am good. I had lunch with Kathy and Michelle last week and DB yesterday. Today, I am wrestling up clients….to pay for things…LOL.
Today, is my daughter’s last day of HS. She managed to be an honor graduate and exempted finals.
She gets herself up at 6:00 and drives to school. Neither of mine are breakfast eaters nor morning people, so I do not get up with them after they can drive to school. She is independent and already has the getting up on her own skill under her belt before college.
She tells me last night, “since you were there on my first day of school, you should be there on my last day…I want you to get up tomorrow and watch me go!’ I laughed and then got up with her to sing the last day of school song, I wrote and use with the kids. She rolled her eyes, gave me a hug and left. That is the last chapter of that book for me…kind of sad but wonderful too!
WP
May 18th, 2010
11:48 am
Going to reunion end of July in Destin. Will have a great time no matter what.
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
11:57 am
@ Tiger….love Colorado and would move there in a minute but it is not on our radar.
I have not been to Tahoe. We had plans for our 25th anniversary but our dog got very sick and we had to stay home to put him down. Rest in peace Old Yellar…he was a 14 year old lab.
Yesterday
May 18th, 2010
12:02 pm
I spoke with a man casually about the oil spill. He said, “Its awful. I mean, all the oil wasted and here we are paying close to $3 a gallon for gas”
People are upset about their vacations. Others are upset about the fishing industry. Or the tourism industry. The economy.
But the biggest issue is none of these. Its what effect this will have on marine life. Not because you get to eat them either. This can damage the entire food chain.
Hey, as long as it doesn’t effect the price of gas or your beach plans, right?
Yesterday
May 18th, 2010
12:03 pm
http://www.amsa.gov.au/marine_environment_protection/educational_resources_and_information/teachers/the_effects_of_oil_on_wildlife.asp
Julia
May 18th, 2010
12:06 pm
MJG, that about made me cry….. Mine starts highschool next year…. ugh.. they grow up way too fast….. He is taller than I am now… I cant believe it
G.R.I.T.S.
May 18th, 2010
12:34 pm
im not going anywhere due to financial difficulties lol…but if i were i would still go..id say the gulf coast beaches wont be very crowded and you dont have to get in the ocean to enjoy the beach…
Teacher, Too
May 18th, 2010
12:43 pm
Going to West Palm Beach the beginning of June. Not the prettiest beaches in Florida, but at least my toes will find some sand (and my head might return to sanity for a few days anyway, after all this INSANITY with the schools).
In July, heading to St. Thomas for a week! Nothing but sand, sun, fun, and cold bevs.
Next year– I might not be able to afford a vacation, so I am going to enjoy the one I have planned for this summer.
FCM
May 18th, 2010
12:54 pm
My friend moved her honeymoon from FL to Atlantic City. The oil was one factor of why.
Photius–lots of times I agree with you. This time your comments are just off base. IF a person CAN afford a vacation then they should take one. IF a person CAN afford some spending they should do it. Until Consumers start, well CONSUMING (ie spending, vacations, etc) then we are stuck here. Yes, jobs & housing are a large part of it but unless consumers spend those won’t come back.
As for me I cannot recall the last time I had a vacation. Took time off work sure, but not a vacation. This year I used the vacation $$$ plus some to purchase a house. No regrets there. So right now I am trying to decide which above ground easy pool will meet our needs. Relaxing in my own backyard will be fine vacation.
LydiasDad
May 18th, 2010
1:06 pm
Yesterday, (to the tune of the Beatles’ Yesterday)
I don’t like the left wing things you say,
I’m sure the ocean will soon be okay,
So, don’t worry ’bout the fish and ray…
Why the oil leaked, I don’t know,
BP won’t say.
They did something wrong, but I long
for you to go away-ay.
Yesterday,
There is nothing more for you to say,
So, please let us focus on the bay,
so I can hit the beach someday.
That’s all that matters anyway…
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
1:16 pm
FCM…you bought a house…good for you!
Have you ever been to Atlantic City? I stayed at the Miss America ( used to be) Sheraton for a meeting. It was fun.
The folks were super nice but you can HAVE Atlantic City Beach. We are spoiled, here in Atlanta, as there are varied beaches to drive to in just a hours.
beachtrekker
May 18th, 2010
1:19 pm
We are a vacation rental company on the beautiful Beaches of South Walton. What we have done is to offer our clients a safe bet – book your vacation rental with no money down and do not pay a dime until up to 24 hours before your arrival at which point your full payment will be due. If our beaches are closed, you, the visitor, loses nothing. We are betting on clean and open beaches, but we want our guests to feel reassured when booking from now thru summer. Our policy can be found by visiting beautifulbeach.com.
Goin' Gulfin'
May 18th, 2010
1:21 pm
It’s a shame that oil spills do irreperable damage to the ecosystem. Here a suggestion for a vacation to a place without all that nasty oil:
http://www.princewilliamsound.com/
Goin' Gulfin'
May 18th, 2010
1:22 pm
That’s ‘does’ and ‘here’s’
HB
May 18th, 2010
1:40 pm
I love coastal vacations, but love other things too, so if I were living in Atlanta and wanted something within driving distance, I’d probably go ahead and plan a mountain trip this year rather than track the oil flow. If going further than a car trip, I’d go north since I’m not much of a beach person. I love water views, salt air, boat rides, etc, but don’t care much about lying around on big stretches of sand for days, so New England’s smaller beaches, cliff walks, rocky shores, and cool evenings appeal to me more than hot, sticky Florida in July/August. That said, I’ll be down on SSI at some point, oil or not, to see family — the beach is just a great benefit, not the reason for going.
Michelle
May 18th, 2010
1:41 pm
MJG…congrats to your daughter! You must be so proud! I think it’s kind of neat that she wanted you to be part of her last day of school too! **sniff, sniff**
Tiger, my husband would LOVE to move out your way…I’m a little leary about being so far away from family though. Perhaps moving to GA was a first step to moving farther away? Who knows! :o) He traveled all over the world in the military…I lived in IN all my life until moving to GA 6 years ago! LOL! I’m not very big on change!
I would LOVE to come out to Lake Tahoe though! I have heard it is breathtaking!
Tiffany
May 18th, 2010
2:02 pm
MJG-congratulations on your daughter’s graduation. That was very sweet what she said…Sometimes it is the little things that kids remember and hold dear. It sounds like you have raised a wonderful young lady. My son will graduate next year…it is hard for me to think about now and it’s a whole year away!
As far as the beach goes- we are planning on going to the east coast…I do love the gulf, but it is a little uncertain with the oil and all. Right now I’m shopping for a good deal somewhere…
PW
May 18th, 2010
2:18 pm
TO PTC DAWG – You cannot possibly be serious with your comment about voting for President Obama! The more than cozy relationship between the Bush’s and the oil companies has been going on for decades. The economy was already shattering during GWB’s term so that mean our current President inherited this mess. Listen, you can hide your heads in the sand all you want but the reality is that people spent money that they didn’t have and they bought homes and stuff that they couldn’t afford – Just like President George W. Bush did. None of our current economic situation is the result of any policies that President Obama has enacted. Wise up people.
JJ
May 18th, 2010
2:33 pm
Actually, PW, it was the Clinton administration who brought on the mortgage crises. It was during his term, that congress decided to tell the mortgage industry to lower their standards, and let just about anyone get a loan. You know, the american dream. These idiots (mostly democrats) allowed people to get mortgages they knew they could not afford.
Some of us are smarter than that, and lived within our means and didn’t go out and buy a $350,000 home, when all you could afford was $250,000. Can’t blame Bush for that one…..but good try.
AND Every president inherits a mess from the previous administration.
YUKI
May 18th, 2010
2:43 pm
Well said JJ!!!
Davisprop.com Sales Team
May 18th, 2010
2:48 pm
We are located in Seagrove Beach Florida on Scenic Hwy 30A (between WaterColor and Rosemary Beach). The beaches are clean, clear & just as gorgeous as ever. We’ve been posting current beach photo on our Facebook page so you can check there for our area of NW Florida. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Seagrove-Beach-FL/Davis-Properties-of-Northwest-Florida-Inc/343268068727
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
2:54 pm
@Tiffany… thanks and hang on…this year ( for you and your son) will FLY by! I knew it would and it still caught me by surprise….
shaggy
May 18th, 2010
2:57 pm
The Beach????? HaHHHH!
Me, on June 19th, I’m headed to The Grand Tetons and some alpine climbing. It is my 5th adventure trip there to the GT/Yellowstone National Parks and beyond.
The Beach?????? You gotta be kidding. That is just boring. Go to a place and do something exciting, where you can actually be eaten by a bear, and I guarantee you will feel more alive than you have ever felt before.
The Beach???? Yeah right.
YUKI
May 18th, 2010
3:04 pm
good point Shaggy. After months of continuous working without a break, I would much rather take my toddler son somewhere that we could be eaten by a bear instead of a relaxing time at a beautiful beach. Nailed it!!!
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
3:07 pm
@ shaggy….I am doing something all year, from coast to coast and I want to do NOTHING at the beach but sit in a chair, read a book and take a nap. Different vacation styles for different folks.
That is actually a good thing or we would all be going to the same place and some of us need a vacation from each other…haha! We have met neighbors…while on vacation and that is a hoot!
Lisa
May 18th, 2010
3:16 pm
Why not see this as an opportunity to vacation in your own state — our lakes were hit hard by the drought during the past few years. They are now back to normal levels. Lakes Hartwell and Lanier have many vacation homes for rent on them. Keep some of that tourism money in Georgia and enjoy the natural resources this great state has to offer!
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
3:18 pm
@shaggy…I took a picture of a bear in my back yard last summer….and my kids elementary school was on lock down because of a mountain lion sighting within a mile of the playground (6 year olds put up less of a fight than deer)…..a beach sounds nice and relaxing to me.
It’s Obama’s fault…it’s Bush’s fault…it’s Clinton’s fault…….newsflash….if their job description is “politician”, regardless of party affiliation….guess what, they’re to blame. I may be cynical, but if you believe any of those guys would actually do anything to risk their re-election for the average American, then you’re just naive. I’ll take my cynicism…naive is for suckers.
Lisa
May 18th, 2010
3:22 pm
When you lived here in GA most of all your life, its time for a short break! Georgia is so dull and boring.
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
3:23 pm
Sorry, I meant to put my name in the post…sorry Lisa.
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
3:24 pm
Penscola, Florida bound in 3 days…..can’t wait!!!
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
3:25 pm
@Michelle…..I guess that’s where we differ…too cold and snowy here for my family to follow…luckily. I tell my family if it ever isn’t too cold for them here, just let me know where is and I’ll move there!
Becky
May 18th, 2010
3:34 pm
Uhhh Lisa..(last Lisa)..I have lived in GA. all of my life and I can still find lots of interesting things to do for vacation here..Maybe I’m just easily amused..
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
3:40 pm
Becky, different things for different people. I just enjoy getting away from here, and not following the same routine.
PCB bound...
May 18th, 2010
3:41 pm
Hey yup I said it…we are heading to PCB on Sunday already paid in full. I found a great condo for 5 nights at a great deal within walking distance of Pier Park. Try VRBO (vaction rentals by owner).
Dar
May 18th, 2010
3:41 pm
@Shaggy Glad to hear that you are planning a nice trip for yourself. See how that works? I can be happy for you because you are doing something you want to do. I don’t have to attack you because you are doing something that I don’t particularly want to do myself. I don’t say negative things about your choice of vacation. Why even waste the time to come here and do that? Unclench.
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
3:41 pm
PCB bound enjoy your vacation!!! :)
shaggy
May 18th, 2010
3:43 pm
YUKI:
I take my young son. he climbs like it’s nobody’s business, better than dad. I taught him about bears, but yes, the being mauled/eaten possibility is there. We are both happy about that possibility, because that helps keep the boring beach type people away and attracts the adventurous explorers. Life is fleeting and should be lived head on, with no regrets. The beach can be exciting too, just not the way 99.9% experience it, by parking themselves there to roast or stick their kneecap in the water, so they can say they swam in the ocean. Then there are the mega-feeding frenzies of fried seafood, followed by sleep in the “turned up all the way” air conditioned, souless hotel room.
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
3:46 pm
Shaggy,
Why are people who like beach so boring, as you call it? I get tired of this cold weather, and when it’s warm I enjoy going to the beach. And, I am not even staying in a hotel this weekend….were camping which I am excited because it’s my first time camping!
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
3:46 pm
@ Lisa,or GTFan ( was that you who posted on Lisa’s name) if you think Georgia is boring…try watching the wheat and corn grow in Kansas. While I typically vacation out of state, there is lots to do here!
@ tiger…you may want to try Texas, if my memory serves me right, Shaggy will not be there!
JJ
May 18th, 2010
3:48 pm
TAKE ME WITH YOU!!!!!
Actually, if you watch Georgia Traveler on Friday nights on PBS, you will find many hidden “treasures” right here in Georgia. I’ve lived here 32+ years, and I still haven’t seen everything this state has to offer.
They just recently did a show “Historical Inns in Georgia”, and I got some great ideas to go stay at some Bed & Breakfasts’….I want to start taking my mom on short little trips around Georgia and stay at the B&B’s.
FCM
May 18th, 2010
3:49 pm
MJG–technically I close next week, but yeah, I am going to be a first time homeowner. Talk about coming a LONG way baby! I am going to keep my moniker but it will no longer be accurate (FCM = Fulton County Mom) as we will no longer be in Fulton!
It has been a bittersweet week saying goodbye to a school we have attended, and been attached too, for the last 5 years. We will see some of the folks, and I am hoping we can get there for Fall Festival etc.
On the other hand we have great many things to look forward too in our new area. The schools are (were? until the recent cuts) awesome in the area. The Daycare/Camp is a better fit in that it goes beyond age 12. It is closer to family. I have a vehicle so we can see the folks we are friends with now.
It is fun and exciting and sad and so many things. There is actually a pool about .25 – .5 mile up from our new house so I am looking into membership there. I would rather it in my backyard but HEY! we can work it out.
Now I just want the economy to come back. Not by Obama, or any other politicians. Good ol’everyday middle Americans are who have historically kept the people going, I am hoping that is going to work now.
Anyway, I did my part of spending for the economy. ;)
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
3:51 pm
It was me, I was responding to her comment and put her name in the wrong spot. Sorry about that! Like I stated above different people enjoy different things!
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
3:52 pm
@ shaggy…I consider myself adventurous. In that, in June, I will have visited all 50 states.
Yet, I love to sit out and relax on the beach or float out on the water and YES take a hot shower and sleep in an air conditioned room with electricity. I have spent too many days camping and it is not for me.
I do not like fried seafood…I like broiled.
To each his/her own.
Sometimes, I feel adventurous when I am navigating my way on the subway ( with my daughter) in Boston or DC.
There are different types of adventure.
GTFan
May 18th, 2010
3:53 pm
@ motherjanegoose….50 states? Wow, that’s awesome!!!
shaggy
May 18th, 2010
3:53 pm
Tiger: I hear mountain lions will stalk women, children, and older people, because they sense weakness. Now, that is scary…being weak, I mean.
shaggy
May 18th, 2010
3:57 pm
MJG:
Do you also wear a cape with an “S” on it? From your writings here, you would think so.
You write like a person, who in conversation, ALWAYS has done something better, more, or richer than ANYONE else?
Most people hate that kind of person.
Dar
May 18th, 2010
3:59 pm
Now I KNOW that Shaggy likes to live dangerously….attacking MJG like that. LOL
shaggy
May 18th, 2010
4:00 pm
MJG again:
I have visited 51 states. I used my time machine and visited an alternative future, where Atlantis is a state. Top that! NaYahhhh! Pththththth!
Michelle
May 18th, 2010
4:10 pm
Well I can tell you, I have met MJG in person and she did not try to one-up me in any of our conversation and it was quite lengthy! I do like the idea of the alternate universe…maybe in the future! :o)
I think it’s amazing to have had a job that allows the possibility of visiting all 50 states! I’m not that adventurous though (and I’m pretty sure my little guy would NOT appreciate the travel time)!
Tiger-I don’t have the proximity problem! Even when I lived an hour from my parents/siblings I rarely got visits! Moving away just GIVES them a reason to visit! :o)
Shaggy-lighten up! Everyone has their own “idea” of what constitutes vacation. Not everyone is a thrill seeker! There’s nothing wrong with them! Me, personally, I enjoy just relaxing in the peace and quite! It doesn’t matter if it is in a cabin, at the beach, or on the deck.
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
4:21 pm
@shaggy….I’d submit to you that a mountain lion could take out any person…old, young, weak, or strong…there’s actually documented cases out here and in CA of them attacking anyone regardless of size or gender, just really depends on how hungry they are or if you come across a mom and her cubs.
I guess I just figured that since you’ve been to the wild frontier of the Rockies FIVE whole times, that you’d know that. As for me, I’m on the lookout every morning during my 5:30 runs with the dog for one of those guys looking for a meal. But hey, when you live in “a place where you can actually be eaten by a bear” like I do, I guess you’ll “feel as alive” as I do every day.
I agree with Dar, no need to make slam on others just to make yourself feel better.
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
4:30 pm
Shaggy 3:57 posting…..”You write like a person, who in conversation, ALWAYS has done something better, more, or richer than ANYONE else?Most people hate that kind of person.’
The punchline, one may ask???
Shaggy 2:57 posting….. “The Beach????? HaHHHH! Me, on June 19th, I’m headed to The Grand Tetons and some alpine climbing. It is my 5th adventure trip there to the GT/Yellowstone National Parks and beyond.The Beach?????? You gotta be kidding. That is just boring.”
my bologna has a first name………spelled H-Y-P-O-C-R-I-T-E
YUKI
May 18th, 2010
4:31 pm
Shaggy, whatever floats your boat. Or not your boat since you think the beach is boring. But I can pretty much guarantee you that my TWO year old son will have a much better time playing in the sand and water (or pool depending on the situation when we arrive) and riding on he back of our bikes around town than he would attempting to climb and trying to stay away from man eating animals. That’s all I’m saying. If you find the beach boring and beneath you like you implied, than we are more than happy not to have you there. We will roast and eat our fried seafood platters on our own thank you very much!!!!
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
4:42 pm
@MJG……you can have Texas thanks….aside from some of that immediate family I’m trying staying away from, just never really took to TX. Austin isn’t bad, but it’s still hotter than two rats having sex in a sock there in the summer….I’ll stick with Boulder. Just in case it isn’t painfully apparent, I think the west is best and Colorado is the best state among them all. I might be biased though.
Dar
May 18th, 2010
4:58 pm
“it’s still hotter than two rats having sex in a sock there in the summer”
I love you, Tiger, I really, really do. Bunches and tons. HUGS.
Tiger Ochocinco Mellencamp
May 18th, 2010
5:20 pm
Ditto Dar! If you happen to find yourself using that saying in the future, I recommend replacing “having sex” with with the verb version of the f-bomb…..adds greatly to the impact of the statement!
motherjanegoose
May 18th, 2010
5:33 pm
@ tiger…too funny! Yes, Texas is HOT. Try Beaumont in August, where the temperature is over 100 and perhaps the humidity too. I was to speak at Lamar University. We got there at 7;30 a.m. The grounds crew did not show up to unlock the doors. I thought I was going to melt. My client made me sit in her running car with the air on, as she thought I would have heat stroke before the meeting.
When we moved here from Texas, it was 103 degrees. I laugh at folks who say HOTLANTA. No comparison ( to me).
I do love the folks in Texas…they have big hearts and have always been kind to me.
Thanks Michelle….I enjoyed lunch with you too…we’ll do it again!
Shaggy….I will NEVER be able to one up anyone on the better, more or richer story..that is not my intent. I have just seen a lot of things and met a lot of folks too, so my perspective is different. Still learning lessons every day, in my adventures around the USA….LOL.
beach lover
May 18th, 2010
6:00 pm
came down on Sat May 15th to vacation at Madeira Beach. Everything was fine until this early am on Tues May 18th. There was a very strong odour, like that of burning crayons coming off the ocean. I could not sit on the balcony or walk along the beach because it was so strong. .Fortunately the air quality was better towards late afternoon.
fk
May 18th, 2010
7:23 pm
mjg: congrats to you and your daughter. i took pics of my son on the first day of school each year, and the last day. i took a picture of him the day he left for college, but i think that was the last. he’s not as accomodating anymore, when it comes to pictures :(
JATL
May 18th, 2010
11:15 pm
@Shaggy -you can be eaten by a shark in the ocean, and some of us find it quite enjoyable to swim, surf and boogie board in it, but we’re not telling everyone the only reason we’re going to the beach is because we might be eaten by a shark. I find it that I feel quite alive when I’m not contemplating being consumed or the possibility that I may have to kill a bear, which I would hate to do (but if it’s the bear or me, well that’s why I only hike in certain places with fire power…) You know some of us like it all! I simply MUST go to the beach every year -I love to sit in a beach chair with a great book and a cooler full of beer, but I also greatly enjoy the Rocky mountains, hiking in Yellowstone and (Tiger) -I LOVE Tahoe! Unfortunately I’ve only experienced Tahoe in the winter -not that it’s bad then -quite a beautiful place to snow shoe and cross country -but I would love to make it in the summer sometime.
Anyway -Shaggy -just because you want us all to know that you’re some kind of super-cool outdoorsy granola munching thrill junkie doesn’t mean you need to act like hitting the beach is the worst thing on the planet. Like I said, well-rounded people enjoy many types of things.
DB
May 18th, 2010
11:32 pm
@Shaggy: Now, just hush and quit raggin’ on MJG. She and I enjoyed a fun lunch on Monday and not once did she try to one-up me! Enjoy the Tetons (nice catch, btw, Tiger!)
Honestly, I think the beach is one of the most boring places in the world to visit. Sitting on the sand all day long getting hot, sticky and sandy or cooling off in water that leaves a salty crust on you when it dries is NOT my idea of a good time. I don’t tan well, and there’s not enough sunscreen in the world to keep me from turning red. The beach is way too much work to be a vacation! I don’t mind visiting it for a day, and I love an ocean view — but tell me that I have to spend a week there, and I would go stark raving mad.
DB
May 18th, 2010
11:36 pm
@MJG, how sweet of your daughter to want to share such a landmark day with you!
@Tiger, I went to HS in Virginia, too — what part of Virginia?
RC
May 19th, 2010
1:10 am
Live in Gulf Shores / Orange Beach, on the Lagoon, a couple of minutes from the beach. Had thousands of folks down for the 1st Annual Hangout Music Fest. this past weekend. Spent most of the day today, on the beach just relaxing. No oil, no smell – most of it is many miles south and continuing to move that way. Book your trip conditional on your option of a last minute change of plans. There are MANY opportunities -being in Real Estate, I know – this too will pass.
shaggy
May 19th, 2010
6:47 am
Tiger:
I said that I have been climbing in The Tetons 5 times. I go back, because of a kind of magnetic attraction that place has for me. There, I meet many others that feel the same way, and some have been coming back 40 or 50 years. I have been in an around The Rockies MANY more times. Another place that attracts my soul is the area around Mt. Saint Helens. The contrast between the cataclysm of 30 years ago and the surrounding, spared areas, will demonstrate the awesome power of the earth, unleashed. If I could, I would be going to Iceland this year to see volcanism in action. Get close and yes, feel alive in the danger zone…I know calculated risk is not for everyone, but I just can’t resist, and the things you see…
I know full well that a mountain lion will stalk and kill anything it can take down if it is hungry enough. I have even done a little stalking myself, one lucky trip to the Arkansas River, south of Lead. We were prospecting the river on that trip and had jeep trailed pretty far backcountry to some abandonded mines. We saw the bighorn first, moving pretty quick above us. Then, my buddy caught sight of the cat, slinking over the ridge, not paying any attention to us, focused on the sheep. I don’t know the end of that story. They moved on away.
I do love your home state. Colorado is a great place. I could live there, and Boulder is one of the best kept secrets in America.
MJG: Sorry, I was a little ‘ornery with you yesterday. You write well, and I just got full of myself.
Also, I apologize to the beach people. I don’t get the allure of the characteristic beach vacation. However, one of my finest trips was spending 2 weeks on Cumberland Island in January. A truly magic place that must be spared of any further development, forever. THAT is what a beach is supposed to be. Miles of unspoiled view and the undisturbed solitude that you get, even when you are not there alone.
Have fun this summer, whatever your passion may be. Life is short.
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May 19th, 2010
9:46 am
@ shaggy…thanks. I just figured out why I am not into adventurous vacations, when you mentioned the danger zone. Being on the interstate ( 6 lanes on each side) , in Atlanta, many days each week….fills my danger zone quotient to the top! I do not need danger….I need to RELAX.
Vacation plans on hold while you follow the oil flow? – Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) | Best family vacation
May 19th, 2010
10:22 am
[...] Vacation plans on hold while you follow the oil flow?Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog)How will you determine your best bet for a beach vacation this summer? How long will you wait to book? Just had our annual trip to St George and it was … and more » Posted In: Best family This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 19th, 2010 at 2:22 pm and is filed under Best family. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed. [...]
Larry
May 19th, 2010
3:09 pm
I really think the worries about the oil affecting the beaches is overblown, but there are economical options for vacation on the Pacific. Mazatlan has great prices and beautiful beaches! :)