Good Morning Dear Reader:
Gulf Shores, 9 a.m. today, my footprints, no oil or tar
When I read stories about the rich and famous who vacation at private islands or secluded resorts, I always wish I could do the same. Of course with my budget, I would be able to spend only 4.5 hours there. That is barely enough time to unpack my beach gear and slather up with sun screen. So I don’t think you could say that would be much of a vacation.
Since our arrival here in Gulf Shores, I have discovered that this place is as close as you can get to your own private, secluded beach resort, just without Brad, Angelina and the paparazzi. Oh yes, and without the sky-high prices.
Like everyone else, I have been following so many sad stories about how devastated the Gulf Coast is, which gives the impression that oil is everywhere and the place is ruined. That is not the case. What I see here is that obviously business is down. Occupancy at hotels, condos, and private home rentals are down and owners are suffering. Restaurants are nowhere near full, but they are serving fantastic seafood, which I am sure is coming from other locales.
The beach is lovely, not crowded, and there are lots of available rentals, 40% off
Rentals are a bargain, with prices reduced at least 40% at most agencies and some prices for condos and homes at VRBO.com (Vacation Rental By Owner) even lower. Sadly for those who make their living in the tourist industry, there are no crowds anywhere.
Yes, you probably do not want to swim in the Gulf, or eat the fish you catch right now, but sport fishing is still available. The beach is as beautiful as ever. Last night while walking on the beach, we had to search hard to find a tar ball for my sister to take to her school class back home. This morning we could not find even one. Yes there are booms out there and they are keeping the oil off the beaches. The water is not discolored and is as blue-green as ever.
I remember when my daughter graduated from high school, she and I went to Puerto Vallarta for a girl’s trip. Not only were the beaches not sugar white sand, but the ocean was so polluted, no one would want to swim in it. We swam in the hotel pool, ate great food, took a “pirate cruise” and enjoyed local sights. It was a fantastic trip. You can do all those things right here, right now and not only does everyone speak English, you can drink the water. Did I mention there is a fantastic Tanger Outlet Mall in nearby Foley?
Yes, there are booms and clean up goes on off the coast
I am including the photos I took yesterday and today so you can see for yourself how beautiful, clean and ready for your vacation Gulf Shores is.
When I finally waddle home…
One fine restaurant!
And waddle I will. I have had so many fantastic meals–mostly seafood. Yesterday it was at Felix’s Fish Camp on Battleship Parkway on the road to Gulf Shores. Do stop. They are part of the Ruth Chris Steak House family. That says it all. Amazing shrimp and grits, jalapeno hushpuppies. and fried cheesecake with a sparkler. Life doesn’t get any better than that!
Felix's fried cheesecake. Love the sparkler!
Have a sparkling day yourself!
Diane
Good Morning! Love your site! I have spent a good hour just learning about your travels or should I say adventures. I know I will return often… Great information and Super presentation! Enjoyed meeting you and Victor yesterday but now I AM really looking forward to your next visit! Cheers!