Maybe it's because they're predicting another foot of snow will fall tonight or maybe it's because I just got back from lunch with the folks at Visit Florida, the state's visitor and tourism bureau, but I'm ready for a little Florida sunshine.
Unfortunately, I'm probably not going to get there until May (by then the sun might actually be shining here), but I thought I would pass along some of the news they brought to our drab and dreary city:
Busch Gardens in Tampa is expanding. Expect to hear more about this as the May opening nears, but it sounds like a great addition -- I can't wait to see how you play tug of war with a tiger. Busch Gardens is one of my kids' favorite places. And I'm not even talking about the rides. We spent more than hour standing, transfixed, in front of the hippo exhibit watching the hippo mom and hippo dad play with their hippo baby. It's been four years (does that mean the hippo baby is a grumpy teenager now? Or don't hippos age in dog years?) and my son still talks about it.
This month marks the 50th anniversary of the Daytona 500 race. Doesn't exite me, but I know there are NASCAR fans who can't get enough of it. You may not want to head to Daytona Beach and battle the crowds for the big race, but do stop by the racetrack the next time you're in the neighborhood for a tour and to try your hand at some of the interactive rides. And don't miss a chance to paddle a canoe or kayak on the nearby Spruce Creek. If you're lucky, you may get a personal guide from a manatee or two, as I did when I visited this spring. This time of the year it's also possible to watch the whales playing off the coast. Or so the PR woman says.
There's great deals to be had right now in the Panhandle--but that's because the winter weather in this northwest corner of the state isn't nearly as reliable as the more southern locations. But if you just want to get away and you don't mind temperatures in the 60s, the Beaches of South Walton are beautiful. You can rent a cottage right on the beach (my recommendation) or stay in one of the huge properties such as Sandestin, which is quite lovely.
For more information on all Florida destinations, go to the Visit Florida Web site.
If you're into snow, however, there's some good deals to be had in Winter Park, Colo. right now. Moguls anyone? There's a three day camp for $489 that just makes me want to yell "Ouch." But then I'm more likely to sign up for the one-day Mary Jane Bump Jamboree for $95, which claims to be for skiers of all abilities. Yeah right. Anyway, if you're the skiing kind, check out the deals at Winter Park's Web site.