Explore More Florida: Week of March 18, 2024

We hope you are loving the Spring-like weather coming our way! This week, we’re heading to St. Augustine for a perfect weekend getaway. Then, a guest author shares her view of Palm Beach. After some travel tips and Florida culinary events to put on your calendar, we share inspiration for a Mississippi Coastal road trip. And a few other surprises.

Welcome to Florida this week, we’re so glad you’re here…Let’s get started!

What’s New?

St. Augustine, Florida

Weekend Getaway to St. Augustine

During your weekend getaway to St. Augustine, the city will captivate you the moment you step onto brick-paved Aviles Street, the oldest street in the United States. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine predates Jamestown by 42 years and the landing at Plymouth Rock by 55 years.

In this article, I’ll share my recommendation for where to eat and what to do in St. Augustine. But first, let’s take a look at some of the iconic places you will see during your weekend getaway to St. Augustine.

Island in the Sun: The Other Palm Beach

From the frosty peaks of Shangri-La, a short stroll leads to the sunlit world of the Four Arts Botanical Gardens. Amongst trickling fountains, exotic birds, spiny bromeliads, and tropical plants, a mosaic tile bench invites a shady pause. Brick walkways meander through gardens of Chinese, British and Spanish influence. A Baroque wrought iron gate opens to a garden where a live blond supermodel poses for photojournalists. Cool and serene, a sculpture of Kuan Yin, the Chinese Goddess of Mercy silently contemplates the photo shoot while the living goddess wilts under the Florida sun.

Florida Events Highlight

Winemaker Dinner in Siesta Key

Experience an unforgettable Winemaker Dinner with Porter Family Vineyards at Café Gabbiano. This four-course culinary journey is paired with exquisite wines, guided by a Porter Family winemaker. From succulent Shrimp & Caviar to tantalizing Allen Brother Tartare, each course harmonizes with the flavors of Porter wines. Space is limited, so secure your spot now for a taste of Napa Valley in Sarasota. Dietary substitutions available upon request. Don’t miss out on this epicurean delight! Check it out…

Cocktail Competition in Sarasota

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cocktail culture of Sarasota and Manatee Counties at Set The Bar, a showcase of the region’s top mixologists from Anna Maria Island to Venice Beach. On April 14, 2024, from 4 to 7 PM at Ed Smith Stadium, sample and judge “The Best” libations crafted by local bartenders, while enjoying live entertainment and light bites from Sarasota-Manatee Originals’ Member Restaurants. Proceeds benefit Children First. Tickets available now. Ages 21+ only. Learn more here

Featured Article

Crystal Rivers Florida: How to Enjoy Your Manatee Encounter

A wild manatee encounter delivers an immersive slice of Old Florida few people ever get to see. Whether it's a winter escape to their warm-water gatherings or a summertime paddle through their feeding trails, the adventure can shift your perspective and create lasting memories.

When you do go, there are a few things you should know. That's what we will talk about in this article…

Florida Events

Road Trip! US Travel

Gulf to Plate: Uncover the Best Coastal Mississippi Dining Stars

Tuscany is an incredible blend of vineyards, olive trees, and sunflower fields Seafood lovers will find paradise in the Coastal Mississippi Dining Scene. What else would you expect from 62 miles of coastline? The warm Gulf of Mexico waters hold a bounty of shrimp, oysters, crab, and finfish. Every day, the area’s fishing fleet hauls in fresh seafood that restaurants along the Mississippi coast prepare and serve.

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Have a great week!

Dawn Damico, Editor