In the spirit of the upcoming ice hockey games tonight in the 2010 Winter Olympics, I felt now would be a good time to bring a little local attention to the Pensacola Ice Flyers.  As a team in the Southern Professional Hockey League, the Ice Flyers are a young, highly competitive and upcoming squad. 

It may seem a little akward that a ice hockey team is located so close to Pensacola Beach, but the following has been fantastic and the games are really exciting.  The players themselves come from around the continent, with many from Canada.  (They haven’t been too happy after Team USA’s recent victory over Canada.)

The Ice Flyers are entering the final quarter of their season.  Playoff spots are on the line which makes this the most competitive part of the season.  Now is a perfect time to gather your friends and family to catch a game.   

Locals and visitors each have a wonderful time watching the speed, skill and collisions that occur in these intense games.  The next time you’re down in your Pensacola Beach vacation rental with Southern Resorts, take some time to check out the Pensacola Ice Flyers for a little break from the sun and sand.

Through the years many of our areas visitors love to come stay in their Destin Vacation Rentals and keep the same routine of the beach, shopping and restaurants.  This year, try something new with Ride On Surfing School. 

Whether you’re a kid or grown up, Ride On will teach you how to ride the emerald waves of the Gulf.  With Billabong sponsored Surf Camps at different times of the year, Ride On has strong sponsorship due to their seasoned instructors that have seen some of the world’s best waves.  One instructor, Austin Magee, is also a Billabong Team Rider that has been in competitions in Costa Rica, California and more.

For a little bit more action on the ground, Ride On also offers Meyer Skimboard Lessons.  If surfing and skimboarding seems a little intense, you can also take Stand Up Paddle Board lessons.  Private lessons, group lessons and surf parties are also available with Ride On Surf School.  If you already know the ropes and don’t need lessons, rental boards are also available. 

The truth is that we all love these beautiful waves along the Beaches of Northwest Florida and I speak from experience that it can be a little difficult to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.  But surfing is something that can be enjoyed by all and Destin provides some of the best beaches for a new student of the sport. 

Check out Ride On Surfing School and open your eyes to a more exciting view of the beach.

Ride On Surf School offers a Southern Perk to guests of Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals.  Checkout their exclusive special and all of the exlusive specials Southern Resorts has lined up for your next visit to the beach.

As spring approaches and the flowers begin to bloom, love fills the salty air breezing in from the ocean.  This time of year is fabulous for weddings, especially if you’re planning any festivities on the beach.  The crisp cool air is a refreshing sensation as the sun begins to shape into summer form.  As you prepare for your upcoming wedding, take some time to visit Port St. Joe for a bridal fair. 

You’re  invited to the 4th Annual St. Joseph Bay Bridal Fair in Port St. Joe. Some of the region’s leading wedding and event professionals will host a showcase, exhibition and reception. They will also be on hand to answer questions, discuss plans, and share samples of their craft.

Save the date for February 27th, 2010 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm at the Centennial Building in Port St. Joe. This is one evening you won’t want to miss, especially if you have a wedding on the way.

Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals provides wonderful locations for Gulf Coast Weddings.  We encourage you to visit at this beautiful time of year and make your plans with us for the most special day of your life.

To learn more about upcoming events, exclusive specials, businesses, accommodations and more become our fan at www.thefacebook.com/SouthernResorts.

When you take a trip to one of Southern Resorts Pensacola Beach Vacation Rentals, be sure to explore some of the great fishing options in the area.  Whether you’re going to deep sea fish or if you’d like to find a nice pier, Pensacola Beach is a great place for fishing. 

The “Three Mile Bridge” has connected Downtown Pensacola and Gulf Breeze over Pensacola Bay since 1960.  It’s predecessor was a narrow two lane bridge that became two 1.5 mile fishing piers once it was replaced.  In 2004, Hurricane Ivan damaged much of the old piers and by 2007 even more storms had demolished them. 

But, today is a new day and following much hard work, the Pensacola Bay Fishing Bridge re-opened recently.  To celebrate the grand opening, the county is waiving all fees for locals and vacationers through the month of February.  Whether you’re more  comfortable walking or driving to your spot on the pier, it is open 24 hours per day for fantastic saltwater fishing. 
Redfish may still be available along with sheepshead and trout.  If  you like to work with cast nets, try to catch some mullet. The weather is nice and cool this time of year with temperatures in the mid 60’s.  You probably won’t even break a sweat as you enjoy the breeze sweeping off of the gorgeous water.  For more information contact (850) 475-5220.

To hear about more events, exclusive specials, businesses, accommodations and more, become our fan at www.TheFaceBook.com/SouthernResorts.

Before my family made the decision to move to Florida about 21 years ago, we took a vacation to the Emerald Coast.  We tried many of the things that are still popular today.  Big Kahuna’s Water Park, The Track Family Recreation Center and of course, the beach.  But the one thing that my brother, sister and myself could not stop talking about was the Dolphin Cruise.  We desperately wanted to see dolphins and once we did, it was Flipper Fever in our house. 

All along the Beaches of Northwest Florida, enjoying a dolphin cruise has become an annual vacation event.  The Sea Screamer in Panama City Beach has definitely had a large part in that.  This large speed boat offers an exhilarating ride with the ability to slow down and enjoy the playful dolphins.  If you haven’t experienced wild dolphins, it is definitely something special.  They’re pure and fun loving animals that love to jump, splash and even speed through the water as they chase the boat.  It’s really a magnificent sight.   

So when you are planning your next vacation to Panama City Beach, remember that Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals offers you (1) Free Pass for a Dolphin Cruise aboard the Sea Screamer through our “Southern Perks” program.

To find out more information about exclusive specials, events, businesses and accommodations, become our fan at www.thefacebook.com/SouthernResorts.

The next time you are staying with Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals in the Forgotten Coast, be sure to stop by Sunset Coastal Grill in Port St. Joe.  Their premier bayside location offers fantastic views of the beautiful sunsets every evening.  

The dinner menu focuses on fresh seafood caught in the local waters, delicious appetizers, steaks, rich pastas, salads and long standing recipes round.  The lunch menu includes burgers, paninis and other sandwiches that will fill your stomach perfectly.

I savored every bite when I had the opportunity to eat at Sunset Coastal Grill.  I ordered a bowl of broccoli and cheese soup along with my cheeseburger and it was delicious.  I know a cheeseburger and soup may not be the most unique order, but Sunset Coastal made it perfectly. 

On top of normal meals, Sunset Coastal Grill is also available for holiday parties, bridal luncheons, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and more.  Exceptional service always accompanies any of their functions. 

Sunset Coastal Grill is also a Southern Perks partner with Southern Resorts.  What this means is that our guests can stop by the Southern Resorts office to obtain a voucher for a free draft beer or glass of house wine.  Southern Perks offers far more to our guests and we encourage you to click on the link and check out even more of our specials. 

To obtain more information on events, local business, exclusive specials and accommodations become our fan at www.TheFaceBook.com/SouthernResorts.

Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals is pleased to announce Olin Marler Dolphin Cruises as one of our new “Southern Perks“ Partners along the Beaches of Northwest Florida.

Family owned and operated, Olin Marler provides fantastic 2 hour dolphin cruises for you to enjopy playful dolphins in their natural environment.  Each of their 2 dolphin cruise boats, The Hannah Marie and Miss Florida comfortably provide enough room for over 100 passengers each.  Each of these boats feature a glass bottom viewing area, restrooms, snack bar, and air conditioned/heated cabin.

The two hour narrated cruise takes you through the Destin Harbor into the East Pass, Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay.  Whether you’d like to go in the morning, afternoon or sunset you are sure to have a wonderful time with Olin Marler.  Remember, it’s important to make your reservations ahead of time and to arrive early for your trip.     

As a Southern Perks Partner, Olin Marler now offers one free adult pass for a dolphin cruise during your stay with Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals.  So, what are you waiting for?  Find your favorite place at the beach and make plans to visit the Beaches of Northwest Florida with Southern Resorts. 

To find out more information on local events, businesses, exclusive specials and accommodations become our fan at www.thefacebook.com/SouthernResorts.

Le Grand Cirque, will be performing along Northwest Florida Wednesday, February 17th, is a visual masterpiece that redefines the essence of Cirque with awesome artistry along with world class acrobatics and stunts enjoyed by millions of people around the world.  The performance features a interantional line-up of some of the world’s most talented gymnasts, jugglers and acrobats in an unforgettable spectacle of jaw dropping entertainment. 

Rooted in the ever lasting  traditions of China, Eastern Europe and Russia, these performers have been hand picked from around the planet due to their precision skill and seemingly death defying capabilities. 

On February 17th, 2010 at 7:30pm these talented performers will take stage at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. 

Perfect for families and kids of all ages, you will be filled with excitement beyond belief as you enjoy the stunning visuals.  The high energy performances and fun filled atmosphere will result in an amazing experience you are sure to treasure.

During your visit to the Beaches of Northwest Florida with Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals, be sure to explore more than just the beach during your stay.  Checkout this awe inspiring event at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center and take some time to enjoy our various Southern Perks partners with Dolphin Cruises, restaurants and more.   

For more information and times visit the Mattie Kelly Arts Center.  To find out more about events, exclusive specials and accommodations along Northwest Florida’s Beaches become our fan at www.TheFaceBook.com/SouthernResorts.

Throughout the winter, Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals welcomes snowbirds down from the colder climates of the North.  To show appreciation for our guests, we organize various Snowbird Socials with doughnuts, coffee, games, prizes and more in our offices along the Beaches of Northwest Florida. 

Yesterday, February 12th, our Destin Snowbird Social included our traditional food and refreshments along with an indoor putt putt golf course to save us all from the chilly weather outside.  The course design was well thought out and many of our visitors enjoyed the chance to relaxe and have a little fun with others in the area.  Some of the crowd decided to be spectators as they enjoyed their tasty treats while others engaged in the tough competition.  Along with the food and games, chances to win various prizes make each social even more fun.

Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals has also created a webpage catering to Snowbirds, www.SouthernResorts.com/Snowbirds.  This page lists featured properties and the upcoming social times for each of our offices.  When you visit this page, be sure to checkout the Snowbird referral plan and the list of local snowbird clubs. 

Take a look at the video shown below of the Destin Snowbird Social from yesterday, February 10, 2010.

For information on local events, accommodations and exclusive specials become our fan at www.thefacebook.com/SouthernResorts.

In case you’re not up to date on your sporting events, the New Orleans Saints won the Superbowl last weekend.  So, it’s safe to say that Mardi Gras has been kick started a little pre-emptively this year.  In fact, all along the Beaches of Northwest Florida, there have been countless fans (fairweather and die hard) showing there support for their team and love for Fat Tuesday! 

The traditional Mardi Gras is obviously in the Big Easy or as they are now referring to it, The Big Comeback (in reference to the reconstruction following Hurricane Katrina.) 

But, in recent years, Pensacola has become one of the best Mardi Gras celebrations of the southeast.  With a weekend full of activities, there is never a dull moment.  Get the weekend going with the Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Parade.  This annual event includes many floats, ships and marching units.  On Saturday, The 2010 Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade will be held in Downtown Pensacola.  If you still have energy in the tank come Sunday, come enjoy the Krewe of Wrecks Parade.  This Sunday celebration is perhaps the largest event of them all as the crowd will rival that of the Blue Angels Air Show every July. 

Make your big plans this weekend to visit Pensacola Beach and stay with Southern Resorts Vacation Rentals.  To find information on more events, accommodations and exclusive specials become our fan at www.thefacebook.com/SouthernResorts.