For those of us living in the northern tier, the winter months seem to be getting longer and longer.  There seems to be more snow and shorter days.  These situations make a winter getaway all the more attractive, and many of us seem to be leaving the cold climes behind and heading south.

On the drive back we stopped in Old Fort Lauderdale.  It is a renovated area near downtown with many little specialty shops and restaurants.  It has old-fashioned streetlights modeled after gaslights.  There are no buildings more than four stories high in

this three to four square block location.  It was midday and there were plenty of people there.  We stopped for an ice cream treat and enjoyed the warm weather sitting on street side benches.

We have always enjoyed these types of excursions when we travel.  We experience the local flavor by driving and walking around business districts, shopping and entertainment areas.  We don’t spend a lot of money taking guided tours; instead I will do a little internet research to find areas of interest to visit.  In effect, we will put together our own tours.  It is fun, it’s inexpensive and is usually very rewarding.

After two very enjoyable days on the East side we headed back west to Naples, where long time friends live.  We had been invited to stay with them the final three nights we would be in Florida.

This final leg of our vacation gave us an opportunity to renew old friendships and just enjoy each other’s company and the weather, which was always in the low to mid 80’s.  We drove around and saw the sights in Naples, Marco Island and Bonita Springs.  We went out to lunch every day and cooked dinner at home.  We drove to Wilton Manors, Fl. and enjoyed fresh oysters and seafood salads at The Old Florida Seafood House one day for lunch.  We were in old Naples and stopped for lunch at Tommy Bahamas Café’ for lunch and people watching on Friday.

This was a very relaxing and inexpensive way to conclude a Winter Getaway.  Admittedly, it makes huge difference financially if you have friends and relatives who can offer accommodations.  But you can also spend a little time on the internet to find small local hotels, many of which offer free breakfasts.  Even the mid range chains can be very attractive rate wise.  It is always best to try and plan well in advance and make reservations early to winter vacation destinations.  The closer you get to the winter months, the higher the rates will go.