Achieve Peace In The Gulf Region

Escapes

by Ralph McGill Jr.

May 1, 2008

W hile the aftereffects of Hurricane Katrina are still being felt in some areas along the Gulf of Mexico, luckily, many resorts and seaside towns are back in business – and in
fact better than ever. Yes, many of our favorite Gulf resorts, restaurants and attractions are sporting new renovations and updates – thanks to the hurricane. Below is a brief rundown of many resorts and towns looking for pale Atlantans to make the trip down to the coast for sun, fun, seafood and relaxation.

Just a hop and a skip from the conveniences of Destin is the Henderson Park Inn. Henderson Park Inn is a longtime favorite of visitors and locals looking for a quiet and romantic vacation or quick getaway. Located adjacent to the Henderson Beach State Park and directly on a quiet stretch of beach, this New England-styled bed and breakfast features Victorian-inspired furnishings and a large veranda that offers impressive views of the Gulf of Mexico. Guest rooms are equipped with private baths and terraces overlooking the beach, and some include fireplaces and whirlpool tubs for a vacation that's not only romantic, but relaxing as well. For convenience, most rooms are equipped with a coffee maker, mini-refrigerator and microwave oven. And each day starts with a complimentary breakfast served in the dining room. This romantic, adults-only B&B suffered a lot of damage but has come back better than ever. Guests are greeted on arrival with wine and grapes and pampered throughout their stay. www.hendersonparkinn.com.

Also in the area is Rosemary Beach, a fantasy town of shuttered homes nestled amid the palms and located between Panama City and Destin. Inspired by other classic beach towns, this nontraditional town has more than 200 rental options available, ranging from studio apartments to large condos. The resort's first hotel, Hotel Saba, is scheduled to open this year. This luxury hotel will offer 55 rooms, including two unique spa suites, a signature fine-dining restaurant, conference facilities and event space. Panama City Beach almost defines fun in the sun. The city wants visitors, particularly families, to come back, so there are some deals. The Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort, for instance, is hosting its Family Friendly Beach Getaway. Throughout June, families enjoy oceanfront accommodations, children's daytime activities and an in-room bedtime visit from "Splash" the dolphin. Starting at just $189 per night, the package is valid for Sunday/Monday check-ins with a minimum of five nights. Call 800.633.0266 or go to www.hipcbeach.com.

An alternative is the landmark Edgewater Beach Resort, which is offering its Coastal Cuisine Dinner Package that features a $50 gift card to dining venues in Panama City Beach. Starting from $225 per night, the package includes three nights' deluxe accommodations in a one-bedroom, beachfront suite with fully equipped kitchen, oversized bath and a private balcony with ocean views. Spanning more than 110 acres of beachfront property, the Edgewater Beach Resort features 550 full-service one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. For more information on specials and amenities, call 800.874.8686 or visit www.edgewaterbeachresort.com.

Other resorts to consider at Panama City Beach are The Summerhouse and By the Sea Resorts, both of which have tempting packages for visitors. Gulf Shores, Ala., didn't take a direct hit from Hurricane Katrina, but it did in 2004 from Hurricane Ivan, a Category 3 storm. So, much of the area was also recently rebuilt and is attracting families as well as snowbirds. More than 14,000 rooms with a view are in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, so there's something for everyone. Gulf Shores features 32 miles of sugar-white beaches, rolling dunes and a number of family attractions. Another benefit is that it's not as commercialized as neighboring beaches. So pack the kids and head to the shore. Even with the high price of gas, you'll find great deals, so enjoy.