Beach Retreats FMB Local Blogger

Are you getting ready to plan your summer vacation?  If so here are some great tips to make your summer holiday a lot more fun, and a little less stressful.

• Book your ticket ASAP. If you must book last minute, remember, you have options. The key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates--ask your ASTA travel agent to check into special fares or consider flying into an alternate airport and renting a car. If your vacation includes international travel, make sure you have a valid passport. Your travel agent can advise you on the new rules and how to apply.
• Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time. Need some incentive? Keep in mind that those who arrive earliest for an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard.
• Keep a close eye on all your belongings. Just as flights are becoming extremely crowded, airports can also be fraught with thieves. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a close watch over tickets, wallets, purses, and other belongings at all times.
• Avoid getting bumped. 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don't be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the "standby" seat assignment list.
• Remember 3-1-1. New regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.
• Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Some airlines now charge for a second piece of checked luggage.

CONTINUE READING 

__________________________________________________________________________________

FEATURED BEACH RETREATS

SEA COTTAGE 

 
On the upper level of the house is a master bedroom with King bed, guest bedroom with two full size beds, and a full size sleeper sofa in the living area. There's a fully equipped kitchen and large dining area. Living room furniture is new and includes a full size sofa and love seat sofa bed. Plenty of lighting plus a large flat screen TV with Dish TV system. There's another flat screen TV in the master bedroom. Internet and WiFi included. On the back of the house is a large porch with screening all around. On the lower level is a laundry room and second bathroom with shower. This location is at the North end of the Island and very close to Times Square. Walk to restaurants, pubs, shoppes, fishing pier, entertainment, etc. Lots of water sports available nearby.
Rates and Availability

COCONUT COTTAGE

 

Beautifully decorated and furnished 2 bedroom apartment. Fully furnished huge kitchen with gorgeous granite counter-top. Propane stove for cooking. Awesome fireplace with historical value in the living room. All linens and towels included. Bright and colorful to make you feel like you're in a tropical paradise. So close to the beach....just cross over Estero Blvd. & you're there. Beach chairs, umbrella, cooler provided to take with you! Use of the yard for BBQ and outdoor seating. Close to the Library and Bay Oaks Center & Community Pool. Walk to TOPPS Supermarket also. Washer/dryer on site. Internet & WiFi included. Off street parking.Pet friendly retreat.  Restrictions apply. Prices vary by season.
Rates and Availability

Beach Retreats on Fort Myers Beach Local Blogger

Summer is just around the corner.  While planning your fun vacations, check out these great travel tips. Whether traveling with family, friends or your significant other, these tips are sure to help.

• Always pack a towel. It’s the key to successful galactic hitchhiking and plain common sense. You never know when you will need it, whether it’s at the beach, on a picnic, or just to dry off. 

• Buy a small backpack/suitcase. It will force you to pack light and avoid carrying too much stuff.

• Take an extra bank card and credit card with you. Disasters happen. It’s always good to have a backup in case you get robbed or lose a card. You don’t want to be stuck somewhere new without access to your funds.

• Make sure to use no-fee bank cards. Don’t give banks your hard-earned money. Keep that for yourself and spend it on your travels.

• Don’t be afraid to use a map. Looking like a tourist isn’t as bad as getting really lost and ending up in the wrong neighborhood.

• Always visit the local tourism office. They know about everything going on in town. They can point you to free activities, special events happening during your stay, and everything in between. Use this resource.

• On international flights, book window seats so you can rest your head on the bulkhead. Also, book seats close to the front so you can beat everyone to the passport control line.

• When you go out, take only what you need. Limit the amount of cash and bank cards you carry with you, so if something does happen, you can easily recover.

• Make extra copies of your passport and important documents. Don’t forget to e-mail a copy to yourself so you’ll almost always have access to them, one way or another.

• Ask hostel staff for information — even when you aren’t staying there. They deal with budget travelers all day, every day. They know exactly where to go for cheap meals and attractions.

• Learn basic phrases in the native language of your destination. The locals will appreciate it and it will make your interactions easier.

• Read a history book! You can’t understand a place’s present if you don’t know anything about its past. Read up on the destinations you are visiting.

• Shop around. When booking flights, sometimes it is cheaper to fly into airports close to your final destination, and then take a train or bus to where you need to go.

• Always get behind business travelers when in security lines. They move fast. Try to keep up.

GET ALL TIPS HERE


FEATURED BEACH RETREATS
Come join Beach Retreats FMB this summer for the most affordable and beautiful retreats on Fort Myers Beach, Florida.  

GARDENS AT BEACHWALK

 
Newly updated 2BR 2 Bath unit, approximately 1100 sq ft on the 3rd floor.  Furnished and includes washer/dryer in the unit.  Very cute with all the rental necessities. Plenty of off-street parking in gated community. Resort style living with a heated community pool, hot tub and bar area. Fitness center and Billiards room. Close to beaches, shoppes & restaurants. Fully furnished. Monthly rental. Sleeps 6. Prices vary by season.
Rates and Availability 

REEL PARADISE 

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home perfect for 8 guests with King bed, Queen bed, two twin beds and sofa bed. All freshly painted the bright cheery interior is perfect for a sunny Florida vacation. The updated kitchen has stainless appliances, granite counters and beautiful custom wood cabinets. The vaulted ceilings add to the open area of the kitchen, dining room and living room. The large front deck is the perfect spot for sitting and sipping morning coffee or evening cocktails! Great location within walking distance to hop on the trolley and head to Times Square or the beach. Lots of water activities and sports in the area and entertainment too!

Rates and Availability
Click here for a 360 Virtual Tour