ResortQuest of Northwest Florida and Alabama

ResortQuest Offers Competitors of Helen Drake Invitational Tennis Tournament 10 Percent Off Luxury Accommodations

2011-04-07T08:14:00.002-05:00

The largest U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) event in Florida returns for its 28th season to TOPS'L Beach & Racquet Resort in Destin, Fla.

TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort, a professionally managed luxury property by ResortQuest^® by Wyndham Vacation Rentals, will welcome the Helen Drake Invitational Tennis Tournament this month for its 28th season on the breathtaking beaches and emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As one of the largest USTA events in Florida each year, this sanctioned tournament is expected to attract participation by hundreds of competitors from across the southeastern United States from its kickoff date on Wednesday, April 13 through Sunday, April 17, 2011.

As the proud host of the annual Invitational, ResortQuest is offering 10 percent off a three-night stay for registered tournament players at resort condominiums in TOPS'L Beach Manor, TOPS'L Tides, TOPS'L Summit, TOPS'L Tennis Village and TOPS'L Captiva. This special rate is available from the beginning of the tournament through its close on April 17.

Situated on 52 acres in Destin, Fla. and bordered by both the Gulf of Mexico and a tranquil nature preserve, TOPS'L Beach & Racquet Resort is renowned as a top tennis destination year round. Tennis Magazine has named TOPS'L among the "Top 50 Tennis Resorts in the U.S." every year since 1987. Tennis Resorts Online, rated it a "Gold Medal Resort" for 2010, designating it as one of the 10 best tennis resorts in the world.

Tournament Director for the Helen Drake Invitational, Joe D'Aleo, has run the tournament for more than a decade and also serves as the District 1 President of the USPTA. D'Aleo leads the team of professionally certified tennis instructors on staff at TOPS'L. The Tennis Desk at the TOPS'L Club offers player-matching services, round robins, tennis clinics, and private and group lessons. Resort guests enjoy complimentary use of 12 newly resurfaced rubico clay courts, including 10 that are lighted for night play.

To take advantage of ResortQuest's Helen Drake lodging discount, guests should call 1-800-380-4808 and mention Promo Code A3030. Availability is limited, and reservation must be booked by phone. More details, including terms and conditions, are available online at www.ResortQuestDestinVacations.com/helen-drake-tennis-tournament.htm.

Destin Cobia Tournament

2011-03-07T14:24:00.000-06:00

With a name like “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”, Destin is a town that takes their fishing very seriously. That’s why the 15th Annual Harborwalk Marina Destin Cobia Tournament is one of the highest anticipated events of the year. Weigh-ins will take place at the Harborwalk Marina (66 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541). Anglers come from all across Northwest Florida (along with some visitors, too) to compete for cash and prizes. The tournament begins in March and ends on May 6th with an Awards Ceremony at Harry T's (46 Harbor Blvd., Destin, FL 32541).

There are many categories to the tournament, including 30 foot and under, ladies, senior, junior, pee wee, and more! Anglers look forward to the excellent payout, in which last year over $35,000 in cash and prizes were awarded. All proceeds benefit the Miss Destin Scholarship Fund, helping local girls further their educational goals.

Even though the tournament has already begun, as of today, no one has caught the first Cobia! Join us this spring in one of many Destin and Ft. Walton Beach vacation rentals, and maybe you can take home the prize!

The Orange Beach Festival of Art

2011-02-18T12:22:00.001-06:00

If you’re visiting the Gulf Coast in March, be sure to check out the Orange Beach Festival of Art, the first fine art and fine craft show of the season. The festival will be at the Orange Beach Art Center (26389 Canal Rd., Orange Beach, AL, 36561) on March 12th and 13th. It is held each year during the second weekend in March, and has been a highly anticipated event for almost twenty years. There will be over 65 artists, two stages, and two specialty tents to choose from at this FREE event.

The Literary Arts Tent will showcase local and celebrity authors for book readings and signings. See dance perfomances and theater troops in the Performing Arts Stage. Kids will be able to dabble in six hands-on exciting art experiences in the Kid’s Art Alley. Catch a glass blowing demonstration at The Hot Shop, or enjoy amazing regional talent at the Songwriters and Musicians stage as they share their wonderful music. There will also be artwork on display from artists from all over the nation.

Throw some fine art into your family vacation, as this festival has something to please everyone! There’s still a lot of availability for spring along the Alabama Gulf Coast and in Perdido Key. Don’t miss out on this great event!

Mardi Gras on the Emerald Coast

2011-02-15T11:56:00.000-06:00

Laissez les bon temps roulez! Mardi Gras is coming up, and although Fat Tuesday isn’t happening until March 8th, there are plenty of upcoming celebrations happening all along the Gulf Coast. Bring out your masks, boas and beads and join us for these unforgettable festivities!

Panama City will play host to the St. Andrew’s Mardi Gras Festival on February 25th & 26th. There will be a Kids Parade on the 25th down Beck Avenue, and the 26th will feature the Annual Grand Parade along the same route. In addition to the parades, there will be a two-day festival in the Oaks by the Bay Park (1000 Beck Ave., Panama City, FL, 32401) with entertainment for the entire family.

HarborWalk Village on the Destin Harbor (10 Harbor Blvd., Destin, FL, 32541) is bringing us two celebrations: Enjoy the parade on February 26th with beads, live music, and traditional New Orleans revelry, or join them March 8th for the Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Bash featuring free red beans and rice, performers and live music that’s sure to be a good time!

The islanders of Pensacola Beach definitely know how to have a good time, as they are also featuring two parades. February 26th will host the Kids & Kritters Parade ($5 fee for your furry friend to participate) from the Beach Fire Station (901 Via de Luna Dr., Pensacola Beach, 32561) to the Pensacola Beach Community Church. Check out the costumed kids and pets in this fun and furry parade. March 6th will feature the big celebration, the Krewe of Wrecks, down Via de Luna Drive at 12pm.

The Gulf Shores area is the closest to Mobile (the true birthplace of Mardi Gras), and they are having five separate parades! March 4th is the Mystical Order of Mirams Mardi Gras Parade in Orange Beach at 6:30pm from Wintzell’s Oyster House (24131 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL, 36561) ending at Rite Aid. The Mystics of Pleasure Mardi Gras Parade is March 5th in Orange Beach at 6:30pm from Live Bait (24281 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL, 36561) ending at the Perdido Beach Resort. March 8th is Fat Tuesday, so there are three parades to choose from: the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade at 10am along Highway 59, the Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade at 1:30pm beginning at Wintzell’s, and LuLu’s 7th Anniversary Celebration and Boat Parade, an all-day event at LuLu’s at Homeport (200 E 25th Ave., Gulf Shores, AL, 36542)

The Emerald Coast is proof that you don’t need to be in New Orleans or Mobile to celebrate Mardi Gras in style. Come join us in one of many properties all along the sandy white beaches, and be ready for lots of beads (and maybe a Moon Pie, too).

Sandestin Gumbo Festival

2011-02-04T13:51:00.001-06:00

When I think of good southern food, gumbo is always one of the first things that comes to mind. It has a flavor that only comes from true southern home-cooking. Get your own taste of southern hospitality at the 22nd Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival on February 18th and 19th. This year, the festival has moved to The Village of Baytowne Wharf and is now stretched over two days during the President’s Day weekend.

Friday will offer the first-ever “Taste of the Village” from 6-9pm, where guests can enjoy samplings of the region’s finest cuisines from assorted Village merchants. The main event will take place on Saturday from 12-4pm. Guests can sample gumbo and Bloody Mary’s and cast their vote for People’s Choice. Celebrity judges will have a blind judging to determine the award for Area’s Best Gumbo. Our own Hank Taylor, Executive Chef at TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort, is the current two-year reigning champ! There will also be an award for the business or restaurant with the most innovative booth. Enjoy live entertainment in the Events Plaza courtesy of Dikki Du & the Zydeco Krewe, and Cajun dancers.

Tickets can be purchased at Graffiti & Funky Blues Shack in The Village of Baytown Wharf, or online. Weekend passes are $15 in advance and $25 the day of the event. If you need to purchase a ticket the day of the event, bring in five or more non-perishable food items and receive a $5 discount off the ticket price. Proceeds will benefit The United Way of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Take advantage of this President’s Day weekend and book your stay today with ResortQuest!

Alabama Lifestyles Expo

2011-01-31T14:20:00.001-06:00

Looking for places to see and things to do while vacationing in Alabama? Look no further: The 18th Annual Alabama Lifestyles Expo is coming to Caribe Resort (28103 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL 36561) on February 10th from 9am to 2pm. The event is presented by the Alabama Advantage for Relocation, the Caribe Resort, and the Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce, promoting healthy living and quality of life for people age 50+ and their families.

This FREE event will feature informative sponsors and vendors for activities such as tours, day trips, parks and recreation, golfing, concerts, and various other entertainment. Check out area restaurants and places to shop, as well as gather some information about healthy living. There will be FREE health screenings, eye exams, and wide arrange of other medical, dental, and personal services. There will also be a plethora of information on financial planning, asset protection, real estate, and much, much more.

If you are not already one of our beloved winter guests, we still have plenty of availability for this event. Check out our units in Alabama or Perdido Key online, or call (888) 909-6807 to book your reservation. You don’t want to miss this spectacular event!

ResortQuest Welcomes Vision Airlines to the Emerald Coast

2011-01-21T13:41:00.003-06:00

ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is proud to welcome Vision Airlines to the Emerald Coast. Vision Airlines recently announced the expansion of its service to 17 new destinations from Northwest Florida Regional Airport. Vision Airlines will provide service from the Destin/Ft. Walton Beach airport to cities such as Baton Rouge, Knoxville, Little Rock and Atlanta. Low fare, non-stop service will provide the opportunity for customers to visit Florida’s Emerald Coast in a more timely fashion and allow for a longer stay.

Lino Maldonado, Vice President of Operations for ResortQuest, said, “We are very excited about the potential Vision Airlines brings to the table. This area has been in need of a low-cost air carrier for a very long time. Additionally, it is my understanding that 5,800 seats per week will be delivered into our area as a result of Vision’s presence. This is not only an addition to the industry but a wonderful boost to the community.”

Vision Airlines is based in Suwannee, Georgia and is providing service from smaller cities to popular tourist destinations such as those along the Emerald Coast. Currently, rates as low as $49 each way are available through the carrier. Cities served by Vision Airlines include Asheville, NC, Atlanta, GA, Baton Rouge, LA, Birmingham, AL, Chattanooga, TN Columbia, SC, Destin, FL, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Ft. Myers, FL, Greenville, SC, Gulfport, MS, Houston, TX, Huntsville, AL, Knoxville, TN, Little Rock, AR, Louisville, KY, Macon, GA, Miami, FL, Niagara Falls, NY, Orlando, FL, Savannah, GA, Shreveport, LA, St. Petersburg, FL

“ResortQuest and Vision Airlines make for the perfect guest experience. The non-stop service to the area will give vacationers an opportunity to get away to ResortQuest properties for an extended stay or even a weekend getaway. It’s a wonderful way to stretch the tourism dollars and the Northwest Florida experience,” Maldonado added.

ResortQuest offers vacation rental properties in the Northwest Florida area from Panama City Beach to the Gulf Shores, Alabama area. ResortQuest joined the Wyndham Exchange & Rentals program in 2010, to form the largest full-service vacation rental business in the world with a diverse portfolio of more than 85,000 vacation properties in over 100 countries.

Pensacola Double Bridge Run February 5th

2011-01-21T08:50:00.007-06:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Get ready for a fun run with some of the most amazing views in Northwest Florida. Pensacola’s Double Bridge Run will take place on February 5th. There are two events for the run: a 15K beginning at 7:00am and a 5K at 8:00am. Join over 3,000 participants as you cross over the Pensacola Bay and Santa Rosa Sound.

The 15K will start downtown in front of Plaza de Luna (900 S. Palafox St., Pensacola, FL), deep in the historic district of Pensacola, at 7:00am. The race route takes you north on Palafox Street, east on Garden Street, south on Alcaniz Street through downtown, then east on Bayfront Parkway, across Pensacola Bay Bridge to Gulf Breeze, and a final turn to Bob Sikes Bridge taking you into Pensacola Beach. The 9.3 mile USATF certified course does have a minimum pace requirement; you are required to keep within a 14-minute mile, which keeps a fierce competition. A fresh addition to the 2011 run is that the 15K will have a corral start. There is a cap of 2,500 runners for this category. The 5K run/walk begins in Gulf Breeze at the Gulf Breeze Schools (649 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., Gulf Breeze, FL) onto Bob Sikes Bridge, entering Pensacola Beach. There is a max of 1,200 runners and 300 walkers in this event.

In the 15K division, there are awards for the first three overall finishers for men and women: $1,250 for 1st place, $500 for 2nd place, and $250 for 3rd place. There will also be awards for the top three masters, grand masters, and senior grand masters. Prizes for the 5K go five deep to men and women in 0-39 or 40+ age divisions.

You can register for the Double Bridge Run online at www.active.com until February 1st with a registration fee of $35. If you miss this deadline, they are holding a Race Expo at the Pensacola Beach Hilton on February 3rd and 4th. There will be no race-day registration, so be sure to register now! If you are looking for accommodations for the event, check out our beautiful properties in Perdido Key and Pensacola Beach.

Treasure Chest Found Along Northwest Florida Gulf Coast

2011-01-20T14:22:00.009-06:00

Sapphires, emeralds, rubies, diamonds, and gold have been found on Northwest Florida and Alabama’s gulf coast shore. Northwest Florida and Southeastern Alabama boast sapphire and emerald green waters, ruby red sunsets, sand as sparkling white as tiny diamonds, and golden opportunities for spectacular vacation accommodations. ResortQuest Vacation Rentals offers beach-front condominiums, villas, townhomes, patio homes and even private homes along the treasure-laden shore.

TOPS’L is one of the ResortQuest jewels. Whether you’re on a quest for a top-rated tennis facility…or a top-shelf beach resort …or top-of-the-line views from spacious balconies ….there’s only one answer. TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort. TOPS’L, managed by ResortQuest, offers a resort within a resort. Courtside villas, private townhomes and patio homes, and hi-rise condominiums that overlook the beach are nestled among 52-acres of beauty that has made Destin famous.

Also nearby are top-flight golf courses, incredible fishing, watersports, hiking and biking trails, dolphin watching, nature preserves, historic forts, museums, wave pools, amusement parks, all levels of dining, upscale and bargain shopping, and so much more.

For more information about ResortQuest on Florida and Alabama’s beautiful gulf shores, please visit www.resortquestnwfl.com or call 800-336-GULF (4853).

Bayou, Bay & Back 5K/10K Walk/Run Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011

2011-01-17T10:51:00.004-06:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Gear up for the first Bayou, Bay & Back 5K/10K Walk/Run, taking place in the heart of Destin. ResortQuest is proud to be the official Accommodations Sponsor!

Presented by the Destin Area Sports Commission, the race begins at Clement Taylor Park on Calhoun Avenue on January 29th at 8am, rain or shine. The park sits on Choctawhatchee Bay, and the race route will take you along Choctawhatchee Bay along Calhoun Avenue, down to Beach Drive following Joe’s Bayou, through side streets to Benning Drive, and back to Calhoun Avenue for the 10K route. For the 5K route, the turnaround point is Joe’s Bayou at Beach Drive.

There are categories for runners and walkers, male and female. Awards will be given to both male and female First Place Overall and First Place Master, and First, Second, and Third in each age division.

To register for the run/walk, you can complete the registration form prior to January 27th on http://www.active.com/running/destin-fl/destins-bayou-bay-and-back-5k10k-runwalk-sponsored-by-shoreline-2011?int=29-6, or by contacting the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce at (850) 837-6241. Prior to January 28th, the race registration fee is $25, and the fee changes to $30 if you register the day of the race from 6:30-7:30am. Complimentary race T-shirts will be guaranteed to the first 400 participants.

So come on out and join us for the first Destin Bayou, Bay & Back 5K/10K Walk/Run! Check out our website for great deals over the race weekend. See you there!

ResortQuest Goes Fishing with Bill Ando of Southern Boating Magazine

2010-12-29T09:11:00.006-06:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Recently, ResortQuest had the pleasure of hosting Bill Ando, Senior Editor of Southern Boating Magazine, at the beautiful Silver Shells Beach Resort in Destin. One of the many activities that he wanted to partake in while visiting the area was to go deep sea fishing, and what better place to do that than in Destin, the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village!”

We hosted Bill on a charter with Captain Tommy Browning, a local fishing legend, aboard the Finest Kind which is docked at the Harborwalk Marina. No experience needed, as the Finest Kind’s capable crew will teach you all you need to know. Waking up early for our 6-hour trip was hard, but the experience was well worth it!

We were lucky enough to go out on the last day of Red Snapper season, and brought in an abundance of Red Snapper, catching our limit! We played tug-of-war with the dolphins for some of our catch, which added to the excitement. We also caught quite a few Triggerfish, my personal favorite.

Even though Red Snapper season is closed until next summer, don’t fret, because no matter what time of year you go fishing in Florida, there’s always something in season that not only tastes great, but is exciting to catch! Some of the fish without a regulated season are Amberjack, Black and White Snapper, Trigger, Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna, and Wahoo.

Whether you’re fishing for sport or for dinner, you’ll never be disappointed with your catch from the alluring Gulf of Mexico. Book a charter on one of the many vessels in the Destin area, or just grab a pole and head down to a fishing pier. Cook up your fresh catch in your ResortQuest vacation rental, and you’ll dine like a king!

Emerald Coast Winter Activities, Part II – Pensacola & Perdido Key Area

2010-12-23T10:53:00.006-06:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

In my last installment of cold weather activities along the Emerald Coast, I talked about the Destin area. This week we’ll be traveling west to Pensacola, which is within easy reach of both our Perdido Key and Pensacola Beach vacation rentals.

A night out at the movies is always good fun, but this year, bring your family to a different kind of theater. Pensacola has two wonderful live theatres to choose from:

· Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32502, (850) 595-3880 – The Saenger is offering some amazing performances during this winter season, including two concerts by the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, a musical based on The Color Purple, and an operatic adaptation of Little Women.

· Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502, (850) 432-2042 – This “Little” theater is featuring two plays, The Lamentable and True Tragedie of M. Arden, and Clarence Darrow. The musical review, Side by Side by Sondheim, will be presented in late January and early February.

Pensacola was the site of one of the first European-inhabited settlements in what would later become the United States of America, so naturally the area is rich in history. As a result, there are many intriguing museums providing fascinating experiences:

· Naval Aviation Museum, 1750 Radford Boulevard, Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL 32508, (850) 452-3604 – This museum is located within the Naval Air Station Pensacola and has a multitude of aircraft on display, many military exhibits, and an IMAX theater with various movies available. Admission to the museum is FREE.

· T.T. Wentworth, Jr. Florida State Museum, 330 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502, (850) 595-5990 – The museum is part of Historic Pensacola Village which brings to life the historic homes and buildings within downtown Pensacola, featuring guided tours and a hands-on children’s exhibit.

· Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502, (850) 432-6247 – Enjoy fine art as you browse the museum’s collections and exhibits including artists such as Alex Katz, Andy Warhol, Alexander Calder, Pablo Picasso, and many, many more.

In addition to live theatre and museums, there are many other activities in Perdido Key and Pensacola to keep one entertained during the winter months. Come visit and experience the “cool” side of Northwest Florida!

Destin 50 Beach Ultra Marathon Scheduled for February 19th

2010-12-01T13:46:00.008-06:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

For all of you runners out there, I have just learned about one of the most exciting races in Northwest Florida – a 50 mile race that takes place on our beautiful white sand beaches. That’s right, a race in the SAND. The Destin 50 Beach Ultra was scheduled on February 19th, 2011 over President’s Day weekend. Because the race takes places in the soft sand, this is the perfect opportunity for barefoot runners!

In addition to the 50 mile individual race, there is a 50 mile relay for teams of 2-4 people. The race will start at TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort, run east along the water to Seagrove Beach, turn around and head back through TOPS’L, run west to Destin Pass, and a final turn back to the finish line at TOPS’L. Start time for individuals is 5 am, relay teams start at 7 am, and the cut off time is 7 pm. Following the race, the Funky Blues Shack in Baytowne Wharf will host a celebratory after party featuring live entertainment, drink specials and hors d’oeuvres.

The Destin 50 Beach Ultra is donating ALL of the proceeds from this event to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. The Foundation is a charity that pays for the full college expense of children of Special Operations members in all branches of military service who have lost their lives in combat. The charity also provides immediate financial assistance to special operations personnel severely wounded in the global war on terror. Once notified of a Special Operations soldier, airman, sailor or Marine hospitalized with a severe injury, the Special Operations Warrior Foundation immediately provides funds for family and loved ones to travel to his or her bedside. To date, the Foundation has provided over $1,000,000 to wounded Special Operations personnel. With such large military presence in the surrounding area, including Special Operations forces, I am very proud that the race is featuring such a heartwarming charity that hits so close to home.

TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort is offering special rates starting as low as $85 per night – call 800-380-4808 and mention Group Code #A1083. If you want to stay somewhere other than TOPS’L, no worries, because we have great rates at all of our Northwest Florida locations. Come run for a great cause, while enjoying a long weekend on the most beautiful beaches of Florida’s Emerald Coast.

Emerald Coast Winter Activities, Part I - Destin Area

2010-11-09T09:32:00.006-06:00

By Kristin Destin,ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Now that we’ve entered the winter months, splashing around in Gulf waters probably doesn’t sound too appealing – unless you need a quick pick-me-up! Traveling to the Emerald Coast still has many advantages – the air is refreshing, prices are lower, beaches are uncrowded and perfect for a long relaxing walk, and there are plenty of activities that will keep you entertained during the cold weather. This week in Part I of a 3-part series, you’ll discover some great things to do within the Destin area.

The Emerald Coast is a wonderful place to do your holiday shopping. Just in Destin alone there are THREE great malls to choose from:

· Destin Commons, 4300 Legendary Drive, (850) 337-8700 – Featuring a huge Bass Pro Shop, a children’s playground, and many restaurants, there’s something for everyone at this shopping center. Some of the stores to choose from are Abercrombie & Fitch, Gymboree, Belk, Build-A-Bear, and many, many more!

·   Silver Sands Factory Stores, 10562 Emerald Coast Parkway, (850) 654-9771 – You’ll find amazing discounts at this outlet center, including name brands such as Gap, Tommy Hilfiger, Aeropostale, Coach and Carter’s.

·   Grand Boulevard, 215 Grand Boulevard, (850) 654-5929 – This shopping center offers a varied selection of upscale shops and fine dining, featuring stores such as J. Crew-at-the-Beach, Brooks Brothers Country Club, and Billabong, and eateries such as P. F. Chang’s, Mitchell’s Fish Market and Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar.

With great new releases coming up, such as Megamind, Gulliver’s Travels, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, grab the whole family and head over to a movie theater and enjoy a new flick (and lots of popcorn):

·   Rave Motion Pictures - 4000 Legendary Drive, (850) 337-8777
·   Lively Cinema 10 - 759 Harbor Boulevard, (850) 654-2992

The BEST part of the winter season is being able to go ice-skating! The Village of Baytowne Wharf (9300 Emerald Coast Parkway, (850) 267-8000) has opened Baytowne on Ice, an ice skating rink open Monday through Thursday 4-9pm, 4-10pm on Friday, Saturday 11am-10pm, and Sunday 12-6pm. The skating rink is open from now until February 14th, so there’s plenty of time for your family to plan a visit to Destin and enjoy the attraction. For only $10, you can skate for an hour and a half. Skate rentals are $2. Also, the first hour of each day is dedicated to “youth skate,” so the little ones can have the opportunity for an open skate.

So don’t let the winter weather stop you from enjoying a beach vacation! ResortQuest not only offers prices that are half off summertime rates, but also free night promotions if you stay a little longer. Call us at 866-478-3307 or click here for more information.

TOPS'L Tennis off to a QuickStart After USTA Florida 10-and-under Grant

2010-11-08T08:49:00.004-06:00

MIRAMAR BEACH, Fla. -- Nov. 5, 2010 -- The TOPS'L Beach & Racquet Resort in Miramar Beach on the Florida Panhandle is the latest recipient of a "Share the Love" grant from USTA Florida for $1,000 of QuickStart Tennis equipment to teach the fun, engaging format to 10-and-under beginning players. The grant is through USTA Florida's "Share the Love" campaign, a $500,000 initiative on top of the organization's regular annual giving to promote 10-and-under tennis as well as a wide range of other community initiatives.

Director of Tennis Joe D'Aleo heads up the tennis program at the TOPS'L Beach & Racquet Resort, which annually receives recognition by the tennis industry as one of the top destinations in the U.S.

"We are a Top 50 Tennis Resort in the U.S. and also a local club, which gives us the great opportunity to grow the game not only locally but also with our tennis guests that visit us on vacation," D'Aleo said. "The QuickStart program has great potential in our area of the Panhandle to see growth in junior tennis that we have never seen before because most kids are not introduced to the game the proper way, and get discouraged that tennis is too hard."

QuickStart Tennis is designed for children age 10-and-under, older beginning players and senior tennis players, featuring smaller court sizes, racquet sizes, foam and decompressed balls, a simple scoring system, and net heights adjusted to ease kids into the sport. Similar mini-tennis formats have long been popular in Europe, where current stars such as Roger Federer, Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters first learned the game with age-adjusted racquets, balls and court sizes. To see a video of QuickStart Tennis in action go to: http://10andundertennis.usta.com <http://10andundertennis.usta.com/> .

D'Aleo is the District 1 President of the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA), and became a believer in the program for 10-and-under beginners when he attended a QuickStart Tennis Workshop for teaching pros at the USPTA Florida Convention earlier this year.

"I saw the QuickStart program first hand it does not take long to make someone a believer in how it works," D'Aleo said. "I immediately started using the QuickStart balls in private lessons and in some of our junior clinics and the kids have a blast, they immediately saw improvement and the best part is that they had fun, which is what tennis should be all about, especially at the young age groups. The best part is that the parents got to witness how much better there child played with the correct ball, and how they hit more balls in their strike zone and in the court."

While he now employs various attributes of QuickStart Tennis, D'Aleo says the Share the Love grant will kick-off a full-scale QuickStart program at the TOPS'L Beach & Racquet Club in 2011, where 10-and-under children can then develop onto USTA Jr. Team Tennis league players.

"TOPS'L will be starting the QuickStart program full speed with all the proper nets, balls and equipment," D'Aleo said. "Being the USPTA District 1 president for the Panhandle, I have been campaigning to get other tennis professionals to start the program so we can form a QuickStart/Jr. Team Tennis league in our area and make it a lot of fun for the kids. I want to thank [USTA Florida Executive Director] Doug Booth in helping me achieve this by being my guest speaker at a recent USPTA district meeting. He really shed some light on the QuickStart program and how it can work and will grow the game, sharing statistics on the state of the game that was truly an eye-opener for all the tennis professionals at the meeting. I truly believe that if all certified teaching professionals have an open mind on how the QuickStart program can create new income for themselves and their facilities, we could see the biggest growth in the game that has ever happened before."

USTA Florida annually directs 90% of member dollars back into the community to support tennis programs and projects throughout Florida. USTA Florida's 'Share the Love' grant program helps fund tennis programs and projects throughout Florida communities during challenging economic times. Funding priorities include QuickStart Tennis and Jr. Team Tennis (coordinator training, start-up, etc.), public facility funding (schools, parks, conversion to QuickStart courts, etc.), community tennis awareness (innovative pro-active start-ups, program expansion), school programs and senior tennis programs/projects.

"Together we can reach our mission, 'To promote and develop the game of tennis in Florida,'" said USTA Florida Associate Executive Director, Play Tennis Division, Andy McFarland. "It's with USTA membership dollars that we are able to offer program grants to communities like these."

Share the Love grant applications are still being accepted by USTA Florida at www.USTASharetheLove.com <http://www.ustasharethelove.com/> , or questions can be e-mailed to grants@florida.usta.com. For more information on QuickStart Tennis in Florida, go to www.ustaflorida.com <http://www.ustaflorida.com/.

Hurst Named Volunteer of the Year

2010-11-04T14:01:00.002-05:00

ResortQuest employees volunteer their time every year to help coordinate the Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournament. We are pleased to announce, Andy Hurst was named the 2010 Destin St. Jude Golf Tournament Volunteer of the Year. This award was voted on by the tournament committee and was based on his dedication and commitment to the kids of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournament’s mission is to raise awareness and funds to support the life saving efforts being done at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the world's premiere research and treatment center for children with catastrophic illnesses.For more information on the Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournament, please click here.

What's New at ResortQuest Northwest Florida?

2010-10-27T15:16:00.005-05:00

By Michelle Tommey, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Check out our newest vacation rental, Seawatch “A”, recently added to our Gulf Coast rental inventory on Northwest Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast.

Seawatch "A" is the perfect place for your next family gathering. Situated in Gulf Trace Community, Grayton Beach, Seawatch "A" is a two-story duplex home that sleeps 16. "A" is the west side of the home. Each floor has its own living space so this gives you plenty of space to relax and create family memories. Enjoy the fabulous views of the Gulf of Mexico from the second floor wrap around deck. The first floor gives you access to the spacious patio and pool area , and public beach access is located just a short walk away.

Gulf Trace Community sits on the edge of the coast, surrounded by the natural world with the Gulf of Mexico to the south and Grayton Dunes State Park to the east, north, and west. Secluded amidst sand dunes, scrub oaks, and sea oats, Gulf Trace is the perfect vacation spot to relax and enjoy the quiet surroundings and beauty. To book this home for your next vacation, please contact ResortQuest at 888-909-6807 or visit us online.

Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf TournamentOctober 22-24, 2010

2010-10-22T14:43:00.002-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

ResortQuest loves to support great causes, and this weekendour focus is on the Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournament. The event takes place at the Baytowneand Raven golf courses within Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. ResortQuest employees volunteer theirtime to coordinate the event, help with volunteers, and gather items for thesilent auction. The outpouring of supportfrom local companies and military is amazing, and itís wonderful to seeeveryone come together for such a great cause.

The mission of the Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournamentis to raise awareness and funds to support the life saving efforts of St. JudeChildren's Research Hospital, the world's premiere research and treatmentcenter for children with catastrophic illnesses.

Celebrities participating this year include Phil Niekro,Hall of Famer and winningest knuckleball pitcher of all time; Roger McDowell,pitching coach for the Atlanta Braves; Jeff Mathis, catcher for the Los AngelesAngels of Anaheim; Ed ìToo Tallî Jones, former player for the Dallas Cowboys;Mark ìThe Lemmerî Lemke, and many, many more.

Play begins today at 10am with half the teams playing onecourse and half on the other. Tonight is the silent auction at the Hilton Sandestin which will includea presentation by St. Judes. Tomorrow the teams will switch courses and the awards will be announcedlater in the afternoon.

Wyndham Exchange & Rentals Welcomes ResortQuest, Celebrates Formation of World's Largest Vacation Rentals Business

2010-10-20T16:22:00.004-05:00

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (October 20, 2010) — Wyndham Exchange & Rentals, part of Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE:WYN), welcomed ResortQuest to its family of brands following the previously announced acquisition, which was completed on September 30, 2010.

ResortQuest, a leading provider of full-service vacation rentals in the U.S. with a diverse collection of nearly 6,000 high-quality U.S. vacation rental properties, joins Wyndham Exchange & Rentals to form the largest full-service vacation rentals business in the world with a diverse portfolio of more than 85,000 vacation properties in over 100 countries.

“We couldn’t be more excited to combine the talents, leadership and outstanding vacation rental services of both teams to deliver a superior product to our customers,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Wyndham Exchange & Rentals, who visited ResortQuest’s Destin, Fla., headquarters October 19-20th to celebrate with employees. “Together with ResortQuest, we now offer the greatest and best selection of vacation rentals as well as the opportunity for second homeowners to rent their properties through a trusted, well-known brand.”

Added Park Brady, CEO, ResortQuest: “This marks the beginning of a mutually rewarding relationship between two great businesses that will benefit consumers, homeowners and employees alike. Building off of ResortQuest’s presence in North America and Wyndham’s strong market leadership position in Europe, we’re excited to work together as one team to deliver a customer service experience that is unmatched by any other global organization in the vacation rental industry.”

Photograph caption: Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Wyndham Exchange & Rentals, visits the ResortQuest headquarters in Destin, Fla., to celebrate with employees.

About Wyndham Exchange & Rentals

Wyndham Exchange & Rentals, part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN), is the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and the European leader in vacation rentals, with access for specified periods to more than 80,000 vacation properties in approximately 100 countries. The vacation exchange business includes RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and provider of travel services to businesses and consumers, and The Registry Collection ® program, the world’s largest luxury exchange program. The vacation rentals business includes Hoseasons, cottages4you, Novasol®, Cuendet®, Landal GreenParks®, Endless Vacation Rentals®, and other renowned vacation rental brands through which vacationers can rent a variety of property types, from city apartments to villas. Wyndham Worldwide Corporation is one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with leading brands in lodging franchising, vacation ownership, vacation rentals and vacation exchange. For additional information visit our media center.

About ResortQuest

Headquartered in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., ResortQuest is a leading provider of full-service vacation condominiums and home rentals in the U.S., with a portfolio of approximately 6,000 U.S. vacation rental properties.

Media Contacts:

Wyndham Exchange & Rentals
Leah Latour
(973) 753-6560
leah.latour@rci.com

ResortQuest

Emily Pulis

(305) 942-1663

http://www.blogger.com/

2010 Florida State HOG RallyOctober 20-23, 2010 - Destin/Ft. Walton Beach

2010-10-18T19:25:00.004-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Hop on your Harley and get ready for the 2010 Florida State HOG Rally! The rally begins Wednesday, October 20th and runs through Saturday, October 23rd at the Emerald Grande in Destin. This is the host resort and location for all registration and on-site activities. If you did not pre-register, the registration fee is $35 and must be completed at the Emerald Grande. ResortQuest is proud to be a sponsor of this revved-up event!

Bikers will enjoy eight self-guided rides and two guided rides during the rally. Also, there will be not one, not two, but THREE Poker Runs! The first two Poker Runs will be on Wednesday and Thursday, and will begin at Heritage Cycles Harley Davidson in Fort Walton Beach. Ten members will each win $250, for a total payout of $2500! The five stops are at McGuire’s Irish Pub, AJ’s, Hard Rock Café, Hog’s Breath, and the final stop at Helen Back Café. On Friday there will be a walking Poker Run at the Destin Commons, also featuring a payout of $250 to ten winners. The stops include Dave’s Dogs, Sunset Shoes, Bark Avenue, Bass Pro Shop and Belk.

Other events include the FREE pizza night at Helen Back Café on Thursday from 7-10 p.m. There will be bike games on Friday, and Saturday will feature a bike show, more bike games, and the Parade of Flags. Also down at the Emerald Grande, enjoy live music from Confederate Railroad on Friday night and The Guess Who on Saturday night, followed by a fireworks display at Harbor Walk Village to close the event.

ResortQuest would like to welcome you to the beautiful Emerald Coast with a special H.O.G. Rally offer on stays of 2 nights or more between October 18 – October 25, 2010 at some of our most popular resorts near the main event site at Harborwalk Village. Visit http://www.resortquestnwfl.com/hog-rally/ for more details.

Thunder on the Gulf, Orange Beach, AlabamaOctober 13-17, 2010

2010-10-12T19:08:00.002-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Orange Beach is getting ready for the races! Thunder on the Gulf will take place this year October 13-17 at the Gulf State Park Pavilion on the beach. Spectators can check out the massive race boats, racers, festivities and official race merchandise, while enjoying spectacular views of our beautiful coast.

The Dry Pits will be open to the public from Wednesday through Sunday, 8am to 10pm. They will also be splashing race boats at the Wet Pits at the Caribe Resort, which you can view from Cobalt Restaurant. There will be racing in the Gulf of Mexico on Friday and Sunday so come and see these powerboats in motion!

The kick-off party at Florabama starts the fun the night of October 13th. On the 14th, Happy Harbor will feature a race party. And if you still haven’t gotten your fill of partying, come on down to Live Bait II on the 16th for another race party, following the Pleasure Island Poker Run which will be open to the public.

Also in town during the event will be Bon Jovi on Friday night and Brad Paisley on Sunday evening! These concerts are free but are ticketed events and ResortQuest has just a few tickets left. Please visit our website for information on how you can get these tickets when you book one of our gorgeous condominiums!

Panama City Beach Seafood, Wine & Music Festival, October 8-10, 2010

2010-10-01T19:18:00.002-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

The Seafood, Wine, and Music Festival is once again returning to Panama City Beach October 8-10 at Frank Brown Park. This year’s festival will feature FREE wine tastings, celebrity chef exhibitions from local chefs, amazing food from local restaurants, and over 75 retail, antique and art vendors. Don’t miss a sneak peek at the Emerald Coast Cruizin’ car show!

New this year, all of the kids activities are going green! Diesel powered midway rides have been replace with all environmentally friendly amusements. Children will love meeting Spongebob Squarepants, who will be available during lunch on Saturday and Sunday.

The music line-up this year is phenomenal: Lorrie Morgan and the Bellamy Brothers on Friday, REO Speedwagon on Saturday, and Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Little River Band on Sunday. Ticket prices vary by day. Children are free all days until 4pm, afterwards they will require a $7 kids ticket. General admission for Friday is $20 and $15 on Saturday. Sunday has two ticket options - $15 from 12-5pm and $25 for all-day general admission. One-day VIP passes are available each day for $150, and a one-day VIP pass with a guaranteed meet-and-greet with the band is $250 each day.

Come on down and enjoy everything this exciting festival has to offer! ResortQuest offers spacious condos and vacation homes in Panama City Beach to suit anyone’s needs.

2010-10-01T18:57:00.003-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wyndham Worldwide to Acquire ResortQuest

Leader in European Vacation Rentals Enters U.S. Market

Parsippany, NJ (September 22, 2010) – Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE:WYN) today announced that its Exchange & Rentals business unit, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and European leader in vacation rentals, has agreed to acquire ResortQuest, a leading provider in full-service vacation rentals in the U.S.

The acquisition price is approximately $56 million (USD), subject to adjustments. The all-cash transaction is anticipated to close by the end of the third quarter, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

With this acquisition, Wyndham Worldwide becomes the world’s largest full-service vacation rental business, providing access to more than 85,000 vacation properties in approximately 100 countries. ResortQuest will provide a strong platform for the Company’s expansion into the U.S. serviced vacation rentals market.

“Since 2000, we have successfully acquired at least 30 European rental brands, creating what today represents the leading serviced rentals business in Europe, with 2009 revenues of $460 million. Building upon this success, the acquisition of ResortQuest gives us a unique opportunity to build a sizable growth platform in the U.S. rentals market, a $10 billion industry that currently lacks a significant player,” said Stephen P. Holmes, chairman and CEO, Wyndham Worldwide. “On a broader level, this acquisition is another step forward in our strategy to deploy a portion of our free cash flow to supplement organic growth with opportunistic acquisitions of fee-for-service businesses, achieving higher growth and greater free cash flow.”

“We are delighted to welcome ResortQuest into our distinct vacation rentals business. Together we will expand our efforts to provide superior rental distribution services to consumers, as well as provide second homeowners the opportunity to rent their properties through a trusted source and well-known brand,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Wyndham Exchange & Rentals. “ResortQuest is a highly successful, established and well-known U.S. vacation rental brand in major ski, beach and golf destination markets. From the ski slopes of Park City, Breckenridge and Steamboat, to the beaches of the Carolinas and the Florida Gulf Coast – Resort Quest will enhance Wyndham’s existing rental brands in terms of upscale product offering and excellent customer service. ResortQuest’s growing presence across NorthAmerica combined with our market leadership in Europe enables Wyndham to provide vacationers with the broadest choice of hand-selected, inspected and serviced vacation rental experiences – all backed by the quality, standards and customer service of Wyndham Worldwide, one of the most trusted names in hospitality today.”

"We are very excited about the competitive advantage that joining the Wyndham family will bring in providing additional distribution and marketing services to our homeowners, increased benefits to our employees, and superior marketing in the United States,” said Park Brady, CEO, ResortQuest. "ResortQuest’s goal has always been to provide vacation rental customers with the best choices wherever they want to travel and we are glad to continue our mission to build on the quality vacation rentals we offer customers as part of one of the largest and most global companies in the serviced vacation rental market.”

Wyndham Worldwide retained Kirkland & Ellis for corporate legal services related to this transaction.

About Wyndham Exchange & RentalsWyndham Exchange & Rentals, part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN), is the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and the European leader in vacation rentals, with access for specified periods to more than 80,000 vacation properties in approximately 100 countries. The vacation exchange business includes RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and provider of travel services to businesses and consumers and The Registry Collection® program, the world’s largest luxury exchange program. The vacation rentals business includes Hoseasons, cottages4you, Novasol®, Cuendet®, Landal GreenParks®, Endless Vacation Rentals®, and other renowned vacation rental brands through which vacationers can rent a variety of property types, from city apartments to villas. Wyndham Worldwide Corporation is one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with leading brands in lodging franchising, vacation ownership, vacation rentals and vacation exchange. For additional information visit our media center.

About ResortQuestHeadquartered in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., ResortQuest is a leading provider of full-service vacation condominiums and home rentals in the U.S., with a portfolio of approximately 6,000 U.S. vacation rental properties.

About Wyndham WorldwideAs one of the world's largest hospitality companies, Wyndham Worldwide offers individual consumers and business-to-business customers a broad suite of hospitality products and services across various accommodation alternatives and price ranges through its premier portfolio of world-renowned brands. Wyndham Hotel Group encompasses approximately 7,160 franchised hotels and approximately 606,800 hotel rooms worldwide. Wyndham Exchange & Rentals offers leisure travelers, including its 3.8 million members, access to over 80,000 vacation properties located in approximately 100 countries. Wyndham Vacation Ownership develops, markets and sellsvacation ownership interests and provides consumer financing to owners through its network of over 155 vacation ownership resorts serving over 820,000 owners throughout North America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. Wyndham Worldwide, headquartered in Parsippany, N.J., employs approximately 25,000 employees globally.For more information about Wyndham Worldwide, please visit the Company's website at www.wyndhamworldwide.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Wyndham Exchange & Rentals
Julie Tenney
(973) 753-6212
Julie.tenney@rci.com

Investor Contact:
Margo C. Happer
Senior Vice President, Investor Relations
Wyndham Worldwide Corporation
(973) 753-6472
Margo.Happer@wyndhamworldwide.com

2010 Emerald Coast Fall Volleyball ClassicOkaloosa Island, October 6-10

2010-09-15T19:05:00.005-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

The always exciting 2010 Emerald Coast Fall Volleyball Classic will be held October 6-10 at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. ResortQuest is proud to be the Founding Sponsor for this annual beach volleyball tournament. There will be four different tournaments this year: Fudpucker 4 Player, Bring Your Own Partner, Best of the Beach, and Doubles Draw. Divisions are shaping up, and more teams are welcome so register now!

This year, the raffle drawing will benefit Ranse Jones. Jones is a well-known volleyball player from Florida who suffered a brain aneurysm at a tournament in Panama City this spring. The grand prize for the raffle will be a 4-day vacation package from ResortQuest!

There are five different parties for players to enjoy:
10/6 – Welcome Party at Howl at the Moon
10/7 – Welcome Party at Fudpucker’s in Fort Walton Beach
10/8 – Player’s Reception at Fudpucker’s in Destin
10/9 – Player’s Party at The Swamp
10/10 – Pool Party at Waterscape, managed by ResortQuest

Players can register for the Fudpucker 4 Player division now for $70 per player if their registration is postmarked before October 1st. Afterwards it will be $75, including the day of the tournament. Download a PDF registration form here. Bring Your Own Partner, Best of the Beach and Doubles Draw can only be registered on-site the day of the tournament and is $20 per person. For more information, call (850) 243-2555 or visit the website at www.emeraldcoastvolleyball.com.

If you are visiting the area during the tournament, save 20% off already low fall rates for stays of 3 nights or more with ResortQuest. For full details about accommodations specials for the Emerald Coast Fall Classic, visit our website today!

Kid-Friendly Activities for the Younger Set, Part III - Panama City Beach, Florida

2010-09-08T19:41:00.002-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

In previous weeks, I’ve written about various kid-friendly activities that I have found in the Gulf Shores and Destin areas. This week will be my final installment, and I will be taking you east to Panama City Beach. Although with any of our beautiful destinations, the beach is one of the best places to entertain your kids, here are a few final land-locked activities the small ones will enjoy!

• Gulf World Marine Park, 15412 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL – This is a great place for the kids to see a wide variety of marine life. It has tons of live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, reptiles and tropical birds. There are also exhibits with penguins, flamingos, sharks, alligators, sea turtles, iguana and much more. The best part is that children 4 and under are FREE! For more information call (850) 234-5271 or visit www.gulfworldmarinepark.com.

• Zoo World, 9008 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL – What child doesn’t love the zoo? Zoo World has lots of shows that include “Parrots in Paradise,” “Going Wild” (featuring reptiles and small mammals), an alligator show, and a wolf show. Also, children 3 and under are FREE! For more information call (850) 230-1243 or visit www.zooworldpcb.net.

• Shipwreck Island Waterpark, 12201 Middle Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL – If sand isn’t your thing, this water park is perfect for you! Small children will love the special kids’ area called the Tadpole Hole featuring slides like the Silly Sub, Pelican, and Frog. There’s also much, much more for the bigger kids – and also for kids at heart. Children under 35” tall are FREE! For more information call (850) 234-3333 or visit www.shipwreckisland.com.

Now that you’ve learned about all the amazing things there are to do all along the Gulf Coast from Gulf Shores, Alabama to Panama City Beach, Florida, I really do hope that you come on down to spend your family vacation with ResortQuest. Just give us a call – we’ll be expecting you!

32nd Annual Destin Seafood FestivalSeptember 17-19, 2010

2010-08-30T16:50:00.004-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Fall has always been my favorite time of the year. The weather gets much cooler, not as much humidity, plus fall means that it’s time for the 32nd Annual Destin Seafood Festival and the Fishing Rodeo! This year will mark some big changes to the Destin Seafood Festival; for 31 years the festival has been held in October, coinciding with the month-long Fishing Rodeo. To give the Rodeo an advance kick-off party for 2010, the Seafood Festival will now be held September 17-19. There’s also a change of scenery, as the Festival will take place at the Fishing Fleet Marina, City of Destin Royal Melvin Heritage Park and Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s still right at the docks, just a little more to the east.

The Destin Seafood Festival is a blast! If you’re from the area, you can’t help but run into everyone you know. And if you’re visiting the Emerald Coast, you’re sure to make new friends. There’s live music, arts and crafts, and of course, delicious seafood from area restaurants. The three-day festival kicks off on Friday with a performance by local rock favorite Black-Eyed Blonde. Headliners for Friday will be Starship starring Mickey Thomas, performing such hits as “We Built This City” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.” Saturday’s entertainment features Donnie Sundal, Jackie & Dave, and one of my personal local favorites, the Forrest Williams Band (you can catch them at Hog’s Breath most weekends). The big hit for Saturday night is none other than Loverboy, who you may recognize from their songs “Working For the Weekend” and “Turn Me Loose.” Sunday follows with artists The Sal Salaz Project and Jones and Company.

You can purchase a three-day pass for just $15. Day passes can be purchased for Friday (4-10pm) for $5, Saturday (10am-10pm) for $10, and Sunday (11am-4pm) for $5. The Festival is one of the best family-friendly events in the area, and all children 12 and under get in absolutely FREE! Parking is limited, so make sure you arrive early. ResortQuest Vacation Rentals is the official Accommodations Sponsor of the 32nd Annual Destin Seafood Festival. Just call (800) 380-4808, mention the Destin Seafood Festival, and you’ll receive a discounted rate.

The weekend prior to the festival, the 2nd Annual Seafood Festival Golf Classic takes place at the Indian Bayou Golf Course on September 10-11. The tournament draws competitive players from all over our region. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Destin Fisherman’s Fund. The top three teams in each flight will receive gift certificates and will be recognized on Saturday, September 18 during the Seafood Festival. Registration deadline is August 31. For more information on the Golf Classic, contact the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce at (850) 837-6241.

Come on out to these exciting events, have a blast, and help the residents of Destin celebrate life in "The Luckiest Fishing Village In The World!”

Kid-Friendly Activities for the Younger Set, Part II - Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Florida

2010-08-19T18:30:00.004-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

In Part I, I told you about several hot spots in Gulf Shores that are welcoming to families with small children. Gulf Shores is only one of many places along the Emerald Coast that are kid-friendly. This week we’re going to head east to Destin and Fort Walton Beach to see what we can find there!

• AJ’s Sea Blaster, 66 Harbor Blvd., Destin, FL – This is the Gulf’s largest speedboat, but don’t let that scare you away. The 73’ boat offers an array of different dolphin cruises and adventures that you can enjoy at any speed. Life jackets are provided upon request, and the best part – children 4 and under are FREE! Kids of all ages will love this boating experience! For more information call (850) 654-6888 or visit www.seablasterdestin.com.

• Big Kahuna’s, 1007 Highway 98 E, Destin, FL – This amazing water park in downtown Destin features a kids-only play area featuring great slides such as the Pirahna, Blue Mamba, Tahiti Twister, and Hydro Max. There are some areas where kids under 48” tall are required wear life jackets (you can grab these at the locker station). Swim diapers are required for the younger kids. Kids 2 and under are FREE! For more information call (850) 837-4061 or visit www.bigkahunas.com.

• The Gulfarium, 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway, Ft. Walton Beach, FL – Just over the bridge from Destin, on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach, the Gulfarium offers a great experience with local sea life! The kids will love the sea lion, dolphin, and other multi-species shows, and will be enthralled by the penguin and otter feedings. All of the shows have covered seating, so you’ll have a great time, rain or shine! Kids 2 and under are also FREE! For more information call (850) 243-9046 or visit www.gulfarium.com.

Stay tuned for Part III for the final installment of Gulf Coast activities the whole family can enjoy!

Perdido Key Open 2010 Beach Volleyball Tournament, September 17-19

2010-08-12T17:54:00.004-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

Avid volleyball players rejoice – come to Florida and compete on the beautiful beaches of Perdido Key! The largest outdoor beach event on the Gulf Coast is just a month away. The Perdido Key Open 2010 Beach Volleyball Tournament will take place September 17th-19th on the beaches in front of the world-famous Flora-Bama Lounge.

Activities begin at 7 p.m. on Friday with a Player’s Party. Divisional Pool Play will take place on Saturday, and Sunday will showcase Eliminations and Divisional Championships. Come down and compete, or just to enjoy the excitement and celebrate with the winners!

There are four different divisions that you can register for: Doubles ($40 per team), 4 Person Team ($80), Co-Ed Doubles ($40), and 6 Person Team ($100). Register today for your chance to compete for up to $500 in cash prizes.

ResortQuest is proud to be the Official Accommodations Sponsor for the tournament. Visit our website at ResortQuestPerdidoKeyVacations.com to view our vacation rentals in Perdido Key. Book a condo and save, we offer up to 3 bedrooms sleeping up to 10 guests, with full kitchens, very economical! For more information on the tournament, or to sign up your team, visit PerdidoKeyOpen.com or call (800) 328-0107 or (850) 492-4660.

Set…Spike!

Kid-Friendly Activities for the Younger Set, Part I - Gulf Shores, Alabama

2010-08-04T19:51:00.001-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

You’re all ready and packed for the beach, and there’s only one problem – how to find activities to entertain the smallest members of your family? As the mother of a toddler, I have great news for you: there are wonderful attractions in our areas that are perfect for the little ones! Here are some notable kid-friendly attractions in the Gulf Shores, Alabama area:

• Waterville USA, 906 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL – This is a fun water park just a mile off the beach. It has an entire kids’ area called WaWa World for children under 48” tall. It features the Frog, Pelican and Duck slides, and also has an abundance of other colorful attractions. Life jackets are free upon request; and the best part is that kids 2 and under are FREE. For information call (251) 948-2106 or visit www.watervilleusa.com.

• Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, 1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL – Who doesn’t love the zoo? The kids will love to interact with more than 300 animals including lions, bears, and monkeys. Take advantage of the petting zoo, reptile house, and daily animal shows. Children 2 and under are also FREE at the Zoo! For more information call (251) 968-5732 or visit www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com.

• The Track Family Recreation Center, 3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL – The Track is fun for the entire family featuring lots of go-kart tracks and various other rides. The Kids Country is geared towards children under 8, and offers rides such as the Rio Grande Train, the carousel, Spin Tops, swings, a ferris wheel and two different go-kart tracks: Kiddie Karts (height requirement 3’6”) and Rookie Karts (minimum 4’2” height). Ticket prices begin at $2.48 per ticket, and they offer great value pack prices. For more information call (251) 968-8111 or visit www.gulfshorestrack.com.

Now that you have plenty of options for everyone in your family, we invite you to come on down to Gulf Shores, Alabama and experience the vacation of a lifetime!

Rock the Beach Free Concerts on Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach - See Lynyrd Skynyrd on August 15!

2010-07-26T18:11:00.007-05:00

By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida

As everyone knows, tourism along the entire Gulf Coast has been hit really hard as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The outpouring of support has been amazing and much appreciated. One of the best known supporters was Jimmy Buffett who gave a free concert on July 11 in Gulf Shores. As a lover of music, I attended this great concert on the beach and it was one of the best experiences of my life. The concert brought attention to the areas hit by the crisis, and attendees were happy to contribute something positive. It was lots of fun to join 35,000 people singing along to all the songs. Jimmy Buffett was not the only philanthropist willing to lend a hand; Kenny Loggins and the Doobie Brothers also rocked the beach on Okaloosa Island earlier this month. There’s nothing like a concert right on the Gulf of Mexico, sitting on a gorgeous beach with good tunes!

Come join us for the next Rock the Beach concert, August 15 on Okaloosa Island, headlined by none other than southern rock legend Lynyrd Skynyrd. The Florida natives, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, are most famous for their songs “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.” Drift back to the 70s and enjoy classic southern rock, blending rock, country and blues all into one fantastic sound! The opening act is country newcomer Josh Thompson, who you may know by his hit song “Way Out Here.”

What better way to support the Gulf Coast than rockin’ out to the tunes of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Josh Thompson, and maybe even the Charlie Daniels Band? Come on down to Okaloosa Island and enjoy this terrific Gulf Coast benefit concert. I’ll be saving a spot for you!

ResortQuest goes Kayaking in Alabama

2010-07-14T11:32:00.000-05:00

by Vickie Warner, ResortQuest Director of Marketing

As a lover of all water activities, I was excited to locate a company in Gulf Shores that rented kayaks. BeachnRiver Kayak Rentals is located on a clear, white sandy bottom canal just a few feet off the spring fed Bon Secour River. A couple of friends joined me and we set off on a delightful adventure in our rented Old Town Cricket Kayaks. We immediately found ourselves surrounded by overhanging trees and floating on crystal clear 67 degree water, feeling like we were a million miles from civilization. Around one bend, we discovered a great rope swing that enticed us to test our coordination levels.

The river offered peaceful and diverse scenery from very natural uninhabited areas to manicured southern homes. As we ventured onward we encountered wildlife that entertained us from multi-colored ducks to turtles of many sizes, and to our pleasure we watched the prettiest little canary like birds that nestled in the tree branches directly over our heads as we paddled toward the spring.

Halfway through our trip we stopped at a cheerful restaurant called Captain’s Galley. Here we feasted on local cuisine that was a treat to our taste buds and pockets. Draft beer was only $1.75, which was delicious with the dozen golden fried shrimp for less than $10.00. My only disappointment was not saving room for the bread pudding that was described on the menu as “French baked bread in a sweet cinnamon vanilla raisin custard topped with a whiskey sauce” for only $4.50.

This was a great trip, and the best part of all was meeting Jerry and Shelly Shelton, owners of BeachnRiver Kayak Rentals, who gave us free-range eggs from their own chicken which we enjoyed the next morning. This is a trip the whole family will enjoy.

ResortQuest Gives Away $64,000 in Vacation Stays, with Nearly $30,000 in Beach Trips Still to Be Won

2010-07-02T15:23:00.000-05:00

The Vacation Treasure Hunt contest gives participants the opportunity to win a 5-night stay in one of ResortQuest's luxurious beach vacation rental properties. The company has awarded $64,000 worth of vacation rental stays so far in 2010 and plans to give away another $30,000 in vacation stays throughout the rest of the summer.

Fort Walton Beach, FL, July 2, 2010 — School is out, Memorial Day barbecues have come and gone, and the summer travel season is shifting into high gear. Spurred on by sunny weather and warm temperatures, savvy vacationers are out hunting for the best travel deals, and many have set their sights on ResortQuest's Vacation Treasure Hunt contest.

Offered by leading vacation rental management company, ResortQuest, the Vacation Treasure Hunt is a weekly online contest that gives participants the opportunity to win a five-night stay in one of ResortQuest's luxurious beach vacation rental properties—a condo, villa or vacation home in Hilton Head, Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island or Myrtle Beach, S.C.; Bethany Beach, Del.; Ocean City, Md.; Orange Beach, Gulf Shores or Fort Morgan, Ala.; or along the Florida Panhandle—for just $1 per day. A new contest starts each Tuesday at 2 p.m. EDT, with the promotion continuing weekly through September 28.

Between its earlier ski-oriented version and the current beach-themed contest, the company already has awarded $64,000 worth of vacation rental stays so far in 2010. With the average weekly value of its beach prizes nearing $2,000 each, ResortQuest aims to give away another $30,000 in vacation stays throughout the rest of the summer.

The largest Vacation Treasure Hunt prize to date was a stay at a private beachfront home in Hilton Head valued at $4,300, won by Laurie A. of New Albany, Ind. When asked about her experience with the contest, Laurie says, "I can't tell you how absolutely thrilled—elated—I am." In fact, she was so stunned by her win that she often goes back to check the Web page that lists her name as a winner "to look and see if it's real." Laurie plans to spend her vacation in the professionally decorated, six-bedroom home with her husband, celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary.

James S. of Gilroy, Calif., won one of the most recent weekly contests, in which the prize was a five-night stay in a luxury villa overlooking the George Fazio golf course at the prestigious Palmetto Dunes Resort on Hilton Head Island. This week, Dan L. of Rockville, Md. won a vacation stay in a million-dollar oceanfront condo at Ocean Blue Resort in Myrtle Beach, S.C.—a prize worth more than $2,500.

Kenneth M. of Southborough, Mass., won a vacation valued at $2,800—a five-night stay at a platinum-rated villa with full ocean views at Mariner's Watch on Kiawah Island, S.C. When Kenneth realized he was close to winning the contest, the technology consultant excused himself from a business call. "I had to ask if I could call them back," he says. Now, he's looking forward to getting away from the computers to relax with his wife and four-year-old son on the beach.

A winner from Madison, Ala., Jennifer H., will travel up the east coast to Delaware for her prize vacation. Valued at $2,500, Jennifer's prize is a stay in a platinum-rated condo overlooking a half-mile of private guarded beach at Sea Colony Resort, hailed as "The Premier Family Beach and Tennis Resort Community."

"Part of what has made the Vacation Treasure Hunt such a successful promotion is the quality and high value of the vacation rental prizes we're awarding," says Cheryl Spezia, vice president of marketing for ResortQuest. "Combine that with the fun and challenging puzzles we release each week, and it's no wonder the contest is a hit."

To participate in the contest, treasure hunters navigate through ResortQuest's beach-destination Web sites, solving clues and searching for a hidden treasure map icon. The treasure map reveals a toll-free number and promotion code needed to call and claim the prize.

To learn more about the contest rules and how to participate in ResortQuest's Vacation Treasure Hunt, visit VacationTreasureHunt.com.

For more information about ResortQuest, contact Cheryl Spezia at 850-362-4008 or toll-free at 800-862-4853.

Headquartered in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., ResortQuest is the largest marketer and management company of vacation condominiums and home rentals in the nation, with a portfolio of nearly 10,000 U.S. vacation rental properties. With partner affiliates in North America and Europe, ResortQuest offers more than 100,000 vacation rental options in over 140 destinations worldwide.

PERDIDO KEY WINE & ART FESTIVAL

2010-06-08T14:29:00.003-05:00

If you love sampling delectable wines, viewing unique art, listening to fun music and receiving fantastic savings on a fabulous gulf-front beach vacation rental, then the Perdido Key Wine & Art Festival should be on your must do list the weekend of June 12, 2010.

The festival site is located across the street from ResortQuest’s Palacio Condominiums in Perdido Key. As the title sponsor of this event, ResortQuest is pleased to offer attendees the opportunity to Save 33% on our vacation rentals at Palacio. This same discount is also available at most of our other Perdido Key vacation rentals. It’s your vacation, your choice and ResortQuest provides you with more choices.

Reserve your Perdido Key Wine Festival beach vacation rental for a stay of 2 nights or more to take advantage of this special offer. Book today for best selection!

866-478-3307 | 24-Hour Vacation Hotline
Ask for Promo Code $WINE

About the Perdido Key Wine & Art Festival

The Perdido Key Chamber and ResortQuest are proud to sponsor this inaugural Wine & Art Festival which will be held on June 12, 2010 in Perdido Key.

Festival activities begin at 12:00 pm with the opening of the Art Show. Wine Tasting begins at 3:00 pm and continues until 6:00 pm. Entertainment also begins at 3:00 pm and continues until 7:00 pm when the Art Show closes.

Tickets are $15 per person. Wristbands will be issued and are valid all day so you can come and go as you please. Tickets can be purchased on the Perdido Key Chamber website or at the gate on the day of the event.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Terms & Conditions: 33% accommodations discount is valid on stays of 2 nights or more in eligible Perdido Key units for stays during the festival weekend. Excludes existing reservations, third party reservations, group reservations and cannot be combined with any other discount. Other restrictions may apply. Please call for additional information and availability.

ResortQuest Acts to Allay Guests' Fears in Wake of Gulf Oil Spill

2010-05-14T13:01:00.014-05:00

ResortQuest employs daily beach photos and weekly guest interviews to provide an accurate picture of current conditions on Northwest Florida's beaches. Temporary adjustments to the company's cancellation policy help alleviate visitors' concerns and encourage continued tourism along the Gulf Coast.

Fort Walton Beach, FL
May 12, 2010 — Standing on the shoreline of Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast, a vacationer named Deborah beams, "It's the epitome of the best beach! It's solid white sand." Next to her, her husband Mike admits, "We had thought of canceling and decided it's best to come. I'm so glad we did."

That's a spirit Northwest Florida hopes to see from more travelers. Without a drop of oil on the beaches or a hint of a slick on the water, Gulf Coast businesses--from restaurants to retailers to charter fishermen--are struggling needlessly. More than any actual disaster, it's false perceptions and fear of the unknown keeping visitors away from Gulf Coast beaches. But, at least one major company is taking positive steps to stem the flow of tourism out of the state.

ResortQuest, the largest vacation rental management company on the Gulf Coast, has undertaken a mission to educate potential guests about the actual condition of Northwest Florida's beaches. "We want to get the truth out there. Guests need to know that our Gulf Coast beaches are as pristine as ever," says Cheryl Spezia, vice president of marketing for ResortQuest. "The beaches are still white. The waves are still their trademark emerald green. It's beautiful here."

As part of that mission, ResortQuest sends out teams daily to capture beach photos, ensuring that guests have an accurate picture--literally--of how the beaches really look along the stretch from Gulf Shores, AL to Panama City Beach, FL. The numerous pictures are then updated each day on ResortQuest's Current Beach Photos Web page. Several times a week, ResortQuest's teams also videotape interviews with real vacationers on the beach, like Deborah and Mike.

Going beyond the security that such photographic evidence can provide, the company has extended additional peace of mind to customers by making temporary adjustments to their cancellation policy. Dubbed "Worry-Free Reservations," the temporary policy amendment states that if beaches are closed to the public due to the oil spill during the dates of a guest's stay, ResortQuest will refund their money, less a nominal reservation fee. ResortQuest has always allowed their guests to change their vacation dates or switch to another ResortQuest location.

"We wanted to ease guest concerns and offer a solution," states Lino Maldonado, ResortQuest vice president of operations. "Our temporary policy change is a step in the right direction. We can't take away all their concerns, but we sure want to do our best."

To view ResortQuest's up-to-date beach photos and video interviews, visit http://www.ResortQuestNWFL.com/beach-photos.htm.

For more information about ResortQuest, visit http://www.resortquest.com/. Or, contact Cheryl Spezia at 850-362-4008 or toll-free at 800-862-4853.

Headquartered in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., ResortQuest is the largest marketer and management company of vacation condominiums and home rentals in the nation, with a portfolio of nearly 7,000 U.S. vacation rental properties. With partner affiliates in North America and Europe, ResortQuest offers more than 100,000 vacation rental options in over 140 destinations worldwide.

TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort hosted One of the Largest Tennis Tournaments in the Nation

2010-04-23T15:23:00.002-05:00

TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort wrapped up one of the nations largest sanctioned USTA (United States Tennis Association) tournaments on April 18, 2010. Nearly 300 Players were competing in their age division for points toward state and national rankings. Known as The Helen Drake Tournament, the five-day event has been voted ‘Florida’s Tournament of the Year’ three times. “This tournament has grown exponentially since inception in 1987. In fact, participation has doubled in the past 15 years. Players come from all over the south. A few of our participants started playing the tournament when they were in their 40’s and are now playing in the 70’s division. It is a great testament to the tournament experience,” said Tennis Director Joe D’Aleo.

The tournament consists of singles and doubles events for both men and women. Tournament matches are paired by age - starting from 30’s up to 80’s. Additionally, players can choose the ‘Open Division’ as an option for those who want to compete with the best, at any age. Plans for the 2011 Helen Drake Tournament are already underway. “We expect the tournament to keep growing. Our plan has always been to make tennis at TOPS’L a world-class experience,” remarked D’Aleo, “And with the quality of players attending The Helen Drake year after year, we are on our way to the top.”

Evidence TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort is making strides in the tennis sector, USPTA (United States Professional Tennis Association) has chosen TOPS’L as the destination for their annual regional conference; making this the first Southern Division Conference in the history of the USPTA to be held in Northwest Florida. The conference is a four-day event and is expected over one hundred of the South’s finest Tennis Professionals.

Managed by ResortQuest, TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort is a renowned destination for tennis lovers. In 2009, consumers voted TOPS’L as the 9^th best tennis resort in the world by tennis resorts online. For over a decade TOPS’L has been recognized as being one of the U.S. Top 50 Tennis Resort destinations by Tennis Magazine.

ResortQuest is offering music lovers a rockin’ deal on accommodations within a flip-flop walk of the first ever large-scale music festival on the beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

2010-04-01T11:19:00.003-05:00

The Hangout Music Arts Festival will be held May 14-16 and will feature 60+ artists opening each day from noon to 11 p.m.

CONFIRMED ARTISTS: Trey Anastasio and TAB, Zac Brown Band, John Legend, Ben Harper and Relentless7, The Black Crowes, Alison Krauss and Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas, Gov't Mule, The Flaming Lips, Ray LaMontagne, Michael Franti and Spearhead, Rodrigo Y Gabriela, Funky Meters, Blind Boys of Alabama, Matisyahu, Girl Talk, Guster, Brett Dennen, Keller Williams, Jerry Jeff Walker, North Mississippi All-stars, ALO, The Whigs, Ozomatli, OK GO, Orianthi, Davy Knowles & Back Door Slam, Pnuma Trio, Black Joe Lewis and the Honey Bears, Toubab Krewe, Mat Hires, A.A. Bondy, Rachel Goodrich, Moon Taxi, El Cantador, Kristy Lee, Roman Street, Jacob Dylan and Three Legs Feat, Neko Case and Kelly Hogan, Jeff Austin, and Friends feat, Larry Keel, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, NEEDTOBREATHE, Wild Sweet Orange, Rustlanders and Kirsten Price

Book online now and save 33%* off your accommodations in an eligible ResortQuest Gulf Shores vacation rental. This online rate reduction applies to stays through 5/26/2010. This is a limited time offer, so book online Today.

FOR EVENT TICKETS CALL 888.512.SHOW (7469)

2010-03-30T08:37:00.004-05:00

One of the most successful family shows of all time adds to destination allure!

Visitors of Northwest Florida will soon be able to enjoy an international entertainment attraction unlike any other offered in the region. “Le Grand Cirque,” a highly popular live entertainment attraction is premiering in South Walton County and will play throughout the summer and possibly beyond.

The spectacular production features contortionists, tumblers and incredible aerial acts as well as the breathtaking Wheel of Death – one of the most dangerous acts ever attempted in a live show.

Starting in late May, “Le Grand Cirque” will perform in Grand Boulevard for the entire summer in the Grand Arena, one of three, cream-colored Italian-style, air-conditioned fabric structures which comprise the venue.

ResortQuest is honored to be a sponsor helping bring this spectacular show to the Emerald Coast. As a ResortQuest preferred guest, you qualify for discounted tickets to see Le Grand Cirque! You must use promotion code RT419921 to receive your discount.

Opening Memorial Weekend, “Le Grand Cirque” provides a magnificent experience to enhance the perfect vacation and is the new must-see attraction for visitors and locals alike in Northwest Florida.

Don’t forget to get your special discount from ResortQuest by referring to promotion code: RT419921. To get your tickets now, you can visit the ticket booth on location, call 866.973.9610 or visit www.cirquedestin.com.

South West Airlines annouces first flight in/out of Panama City Beach

2009-12-16T12:00:00.005-06:00

NEWS FLASH!!!

South West Airlines first flight in/out of Panama City is scheduled for May 23rd 2010.

As of “TODAY” you can book fares as low as $49.00. The four non-stop destinations to and from Panama City are:

Baltimore

Orlando

Nashville

Houston

Southwest is offering these new flights with fares as low as $49 each way to Orlando and $69 each way to Baltimore/Washington, Houston, and Nashville with a 14-day advance purchase

* Panama City Beach (ECP) to/from Houston Hobby (HOU) – two daily flights

* Panama City Beach (ECP) to/from Baltimore/Washington (BWI) – two daily flights

* Panama City Beach (ECP) to/from Orlando (MCO) – two daily flights

For more details please go to http://www.southwest.com

National Shrimp Festival

2009-10-02T13:17:00.011-05:00

The 38th Annual National Shrimp Festival is October 8th thru the 11th.

More than 300,000 visitors and locals are expected to participate in this year’s National Shrimp Festival which will be held Oct 8th – 11th on the beautiful beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Admission to the festival is FREE. In addition to enjoying the sun and relaxing on Alabama’s famous Gulf Coast beaches, attendees have the opportunity to taste delectable seafood, enjoy live entertainment and view crafts and fine arts from over 200 artists. The festival doesnt forget the kids, it includes a Children’s Activity Village where the little ones can create their own “art” and participate in other fun-filled activities.

For additional information regarding the National Shrimp Festival, contact our Gulf Shores office at 251-968-2121.

ResortQuest of Northwest Florida is proud to offer up to 20% on select accommodations in neighboring Perdido Key for festival attendees. To book this special please call 800-336-4808 and ask for code F1005.

Destin Seafood Festival

2009-09-22T14:17:00.004-05:00

The 31st Annual Destin Seafood Festival will return to its water-front location at HarborWalk Village, Oct. 2-4. The event features headliners Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and Survivor!

This 3-day Destin event boasts fresh local seafood from some of the area’s best restaurants. The Destin Seafood Festival also features live entertainment, including nationally known headliners and local favorites; arts & crafts; children’s activities; and more. For current information, visit http://www.destinseafoodfestival.org/.

ResortQuest Destin is proud to be the official accommodation sponsor of the 31st Annual Destin Seafood Festival. In support of this event, we are pleased to offer festival attendees the opportunity to Save up to 20%* on eligible Destin Condos. This special festival rate is available for stays between 9/29/09 – 10/7/09. Find more details about special lodging rates at http://www.resortquestdestinvacations.com/destin-seafood-festival.htm.

ResortQuest also offers great accommodations at nearby Waterscape Fort Walton. Waterscape is located on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Offering a variety of Gulf views, unmatched amenities and well-designed 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans, Waterscape is also just a short drive from the activities and attractions of nearby Destin..

48 Hour Sale - Memorial Day

2009-05-18T14:49:00.002-05:00

Memorial Holiday Beach Vacation Deals
Memorial Day FREE or 25% OFF!*

In honor of those that protect our freedom, for the next 48 hours we are offering two great ways to save on a Memorial Day Beach Vacation of 3 nights or more at eligible units!

Memorial Day (5/25/09) FREE!
Can't stay for Memorial Day? Save 25% on stays between 5/21-5/24

Plus your stay includes our complimentary Passport-to-Fun program which provides you with complimentary tickets/passes to local attractions for even more fun and savings…a value of up to $225 per day!

Call today and speak to one of vacation specialists to learn more about these offers and other great Memorial Day and Summer beach vacation deals we have available.

Call 866-488-6804 | 24-Hour Vacation Hotline
Ask for Promo Code $EFMD

* Offer valid for stays of 3 nights or more booked by 5/21/09 and completed by 5/28/09 while eligible units are available. Free night is for the night of 5/25/09 only. Excludes existing reservations, groups, third party bookings and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Other restrictions may apply. Passport-to-Fun value varies based on location.

ResortQuestNWFL.com | ResortQuestAL.com

TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort

2009-05-15T12:38:00.004-05:00

TennisResortsOnline.com released their new rankings for tennis resorts on May 1, 2009. TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resorts was ranked 9th “Tennis Resorts in the world,” and 5th in “Best Value For Dollar.” TOPS’L is the only Destin, Florida resort to receive this rating.

Tennis Resorts Online base these rankings on critiques submitted by vacationers who evaluate the resorts based on more than 20 different categories. These range from the quality of the tennis staff, programs, instruction, and game matching to such amenities as accommodations, cuisine, overall recreation, spa and fitness facilities, children's programs, and more.

TOPS’L has something for every tennis enthusiast with its’ 12 newly renovated Rubico Clay Courts and 12 different tennis packages. Lead by a team of USPTA Certified Tennis Professionals, TOPS’L offers tennis packages for individual players, groups, families and tennis teams of every skill level. Tennis packages can include private lessons, tennis clinics, ball machine rentals, player matching and more. TOPS’L also offers weekly round robins and special tennis events.

In addition to top-rated tennis, TOPS’L is also a beach lovers dream. Located in Destin, Florida, this 52 acre resort is surrounded by the soft sugar-white sandy beaches and sparkling emerald green water of the Gulf of Mexico and the tranquility of Topsail Hill State Preserve. Guests can choose to stay in a beachfront condo, a hilltop high-rise, a courtside tennis villa or even a private home. Guests also have access to multiple pools, hot tubs, fitness center with sauna, massage services, a pool side grill and Tiki bar, a convenience store, putting green, beach rentals, seasonal children’s programs, Tram service through out the resort and much more!

Along with the TOP 9 ranking in the World from Tennis Resorts Online in May 2009 and highest ranked Florida resort since 2006, TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort, is in the TOP 50 U.S. Tennis Resort by Tennis Magazine since 1987 and TOP 5 U.S. Doubles Resort by Tennis Magazine.

TOPS’L is managed by ResortQuest and can be viewed online at www.TOPS’L.com

ResortQuest Announces New Pricing on Waterscape Condos in Fort Walton Beach, FL

2009-05-11T09:21:00.001-05:00

Waterscape Condominiums, managed and professionally marketed by ResortQuest, is one of the hottest properties on Northwest Florida's Gulf Coast. New, compelling prices make this gulf-front resort with elegant residences and unique waterpark features an outstanding value.
http://www.prweb.com/releases/Waterscape/Condos/prweb2401124.htm

ResortQuest Offers New Homeschool Educational/Vacation Package

2009-02-26T11:32:00.002-06:00

ResortQuest's new Northwest Florida Homeschool package offers education, fun and savings. Students have the opportunity to increase their knowledge with hands-on experiences in a new environment and the whole family will enjoy the fun and savings.

read more digg story

Top Ten Things You Think You Have to Bring...

2009-02-16T12:47:00.005-06:00

The top ten things you think you have to bring - but don't when vacationing with ResortQuest of Northwest Florida.

1. Linen's and Towels
2. A Large Dining Out Budget
3. Kitchen Items
4. Vacation Rental Key
5. An Area Guide Book
6. Movies for the Kids (Or Yourself)
7. Blankets and Pillows
8. Cleaning Supplies
9. A Stress Ball
10. A Box of "Bored" Games

ResortQuest Northwest Florida Now Offering Pet Friendly Rentals

2009-02-09T16:56:00.002-06:00

What's a family vacation without every member of the family? You don't have to leave the dog at home, or arrange for a resort kennel.

Bring Rover with you!

ResortQuest Northwest Florida offers a number of pet friendly vacation accommodations.

An additional pet fee will be added to applicable bookings, and cannot be processed online. To reserve a pet friendly booking call 888-909-6807

More about our pet policies....

ResortQuest Home School Vacation Program

2009-02-09T12:21:00.005-06:00

SunDestin Beach Resort Beach Resort and Hotel, Destin, FL and families participating in this program will receive a 25%* savings on accommodations at this resort. The cost of the four-day course is only $119.99** per person.

The Spring home school vacation program makes learning fun for the entire family. Curriculum includes both classroom and field trip educational programs including encounters with marine life and wildlife and history, science and art participatory lessons. Plus, networking opportunities with other home schooled students and their families.

To reserve your families place in this program call today!
888-874-9836

Home school Vacation Program is available only at ResortQuest SunDestin Beach Resort and Hotel and limited to ResortQuest guests only. *Accommodations 25% Offer is available on 3+ night stays on one and two bedroom units. **Curriculum is available only to those enrolled in the program at the $119.99 per person. Both parents and child must be enrolled to participate. Limited to children of 5 – 18 years of age.

FREE Nights At TOPS'L Beach and Raquet Resort

2009-02-09T12:17:00.004-06:00

Free Nights at TOPS’L Resort

Stay 2 nights and get the 3rd Night Free
OR
Stay 5 nights and get the 6th and 7th Nights Free

Stay, Play and Save at one of Destin’s most popular full-service resorts! Reserve your vacation at TOPS’L Beach and Racquet Resort for a stay between 3/1/09 and 5/15/09 by 4/1/09 to take advantage of this offer.

Spacious accommodations, a vast array of amenities, beautiful beaches and award winning tennis are just a few of the things you will enjoy when you vacation at TOPS’L. Plus as a ResortQuest guest, your stay includes daily complimentary admission/fares to local attractions such as dolphin cruises, deep sea fishing and more.

To Claim this Deal: Call 866-478-3307 and ask for Promo Code $TOPW

* Offer valid at select units at TOPS’L Beach and Racquet Resort for stays between 3/1/09 and 5/15/09 when booked by 4/1/09. Not valid on existing reservations, third party reservations, group reservations, holidays and cannot be combined with any other discount or offer. Discount does not apply to taxes and other applicable fees. Other restrictions may apply.

More For Your Money March

2009-01-29T15:40:00.005-06:00

We think you should get more out of a vacation. Like more space, more privacy and more amenities. More value for your vacation dollar. In short, more vacation in your vacation.
That’s why we’re offering One Free Night for every Two Paid Nights at most of our ResortQuest locations during the month of March!*

That’s right, pay for 2 nights get 1 night free!
Pay for 4 nights and receive 2 additional nights free!
Pay for 6 nights and receive 3 additional nights free!

As a ResortQuest guest, you’ll also receive our Passport-To-Fun program that includes complimentary admission/fares to local attractions such as deep-sea fishing, dolphin cruises and more.

To Claim This Deal: Call 866-478-3307 and ask for promotion code $MYM

Offer valid at select properties during March 2009. Not valid on existing reservations, third party or group reservations and cannot be combined with any other discount or offer. Discount does not apply to taxes and other applicable fees. Other restrictions may apply.

2009-01-29T15:34:00.001-06:00

SunDestin March Special 3/01/09 – 3/31/09

Gulf-front unit - $89 per night (45% off)

Stay directly on the Gulf of Mexico in the heart of Destin during the month of March for only $89 a night! This resort has every convenience and amenity under the sun. You’ll love the indoor and outdoor pools, hot tub, steam room/ sauna, fitness room, game room and more! As a ResortQuest guest, you’ll also receive our Passport-To-Fun program that includes complimentary admission/fares to local attractions such as deep-sea fishing, dolphin cruises and more.

Reserve your March stay at SunDestin Beach Resort today for 3 nights or more to take advantage of this special rate on our one bedroom units.

To Claim This Deal: Call 1-866-478-3307 and mention $SUN9

* $89 rate applies to stays of 3 nights or more in a 1 bedroom Gulf-front SunDestin unit during the month of March. Limited one time offer with a 3-night minimum stay. Excludes existing reservations, monthly reservations, group reservations and holidays. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Price does not include taxes and fees. Other restrictions may apply.

Mardi Gras

2009-01-13T17:12:00.010-06:00

So many parades - such little time!
Fort Walton Beach / Destin
The Fort Walton Beach/Okaloosa Island Mardi Gras parade will be held on February 7, 2009. The festival includes a fun-filled celebration at the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk and an Island Parade featuring over 70 floats. The parade starts at 11 am on Santa Rosa Blvd. Festival at the boardwalk with run from noon-5 pm Visit Mardi Gras by the Sea or call 850-244-8191 for more information.

Panama City Beach / Beaches of South Walton
The Krewe of St. Andrews Mardi Gras Festival will be held February 20th and 21st. The main parade is on Saturday, February 21st beginning at 3:00 pm in downtown St. Andrews. There will also be a two day Festival at the Oak’s By the Bay Park with food/drink vendors, kid rides, live music and great bands performing on both days. For more info: visit Saint Andrews Mardi Gras or call 850-814-7407.

Navarre Beach
Navarre Beach Mardi Gras Parade will take place on Saturday, February 21st at 1 P.M. This year’s theme, “Rockin’ Through the Decades,” will feature antique automobiles, marching bands, floats, and of course, Mardi Gras beads. The parade route will start on the east end of White Sands Boulevard on the beach and end at Arkansas Street with a post parade party and award ceremony in the parking lot behind Cocodries Restaurant. Visit Navarre Krewe of Jesters or call 850-259-1727.

Perdido Key / Alabama Gulf Coast
The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Mardi parades will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2009. The parade in Gulf Shores begins at 10:00 am and will travel from the bottom of Intercostal Canal Bridge to Main Beach Gulf Shores. The parade in Orange Beach begins at 1:00 pm and will travel from Ruby Tuesdays on Perdido Beach Blvd to Hwy 161. Call 251-981-6979 for Orange Beach parade information or contact the Gulf Shores CVB at 1-800-745-7263.

Looking for something to do in Panama City Beach for New Years?

2008-12-17T12:11:00.005-06:00

Save 25% on a 2 night Stay OR Stay 2 nights and get the Third Night FREE!

Enjoy Panama City Beaches’ first annual Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park while saving money on your stay in one of ResortQuest’s spacious condos located directly on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico in Panama City Beach. Many of our Panama City Beach vacation rentals are located within walking distance to Pier Park.

The New Year’s Eve festivities begin at Pier Park at 6:30 pm with family-friendly activities until 9:00 pm. The New Year’s countdown celebrations begin after 9:00 and at midnight, an 8 foot illuminated “Beach Ball” will be dropped 12 stories … followed by Fireworks.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of this “inauguration event” and stay in a luxury beach vacation rental at fantastic savings.

To Claim this Deal: Call 866-478-3307 and ask for promotion code $NYE.

Terms & Conditions:
Offer based on availability at select properties/units for stays completed by 1/3/09. Excludes existing reservations, group reservations, third party reservations and cannot be combined with any other discount or offer. Discount does not apply to taxes and other applicable fees. Other restrictions may apply.

Holiday on the Harbor

2008-12-09T11:57:00.004-06:00

22nd Annual Destin Boat Parade

Sunday December 14th
5-6pm - Harborwalk Village hosts the Northwest Florida Symphony Brass Quartet, Children's Arts & Crafts, Hot Chocolate and Santa Claus! Entertainment on Village Stage.
6:00pm - Boat Parade in the Destin Harbor
7:30pm - After Party at Harry T's in Destin Harborwalk Village with Awards at 8:00pm.
This event is free to the public and parade can be seen from the docks and restaurants west of the Destin bridge.

ResortQuest Partners with RSN Resort TV

2008-12-08T16:48:00.001-06:00

ResortQuest International Inc., North America's leading vacation rental company, has announced a cooperative partnership with RSN Resort TV, a national television network that specializes in creating and distributing outdoor content to America's premier resorts, including more than 125 mountain and beach destinations across the country. To view the full story: ResortQuest Partners with RSN Resort TV

TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort Recognized As A Top Tennis Resort

2008-12-01T10:30:00.002-06:00

TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort Continues To Be Recognized As A Top Tennis Resort

During 2008, TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort, located in Destin, Florida, continued their tradition of being recognized as a Top Tennis Resorts in America. Tennis Magazine recently presented TOPS'L with a plaque commemorating their status as a TOP 50 Tennis Resort. During Tennis Magazine's semi-annual review, tennis resorts throughout the United States were reviewed for their courts, their quality of instruction, their clinics and game matching as well as their all-around experience.

"TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort has been ranked a Top 50 Tennis Resort by Tennis Magazine for the past 12 consecutive years," stated Director of Tennis, Joe D'Aleo. "In May of 2008, TOPS'L was also voted a Top 10 Tennis Resort in the United States by tennis enthusiasts on TennisResortsOnline.com for the eighth consecutive year," continued Mr. D'Aleo. "We are very proud of our tennis programs at TOPS'L and we always go the extra mile to make sure our guests get all the tennis they want during their stay."

ResortQuest of Northwest Florida and Alabama Give Back

2008-12-01T10:07:00.004-06:00

ResortQuest Participates in the Spirit of Giving
With hurricane season in the rearview mirror and storms Ike and Gustav long since passed, ResortQuest still hasn't closed its doors to storm evacuees. On Monday, just a few days before Thanksgiving, ResortQuest of Northwest Florida presented the Red Cross with a check for $10,000 for hurricane relief efforts in areas where the storms hit.

This past fall, during tropical storms Gustav and Ike, many residents of Northwest Florida's neighboring states including Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama found themselves evacuating their homes. With such a large radius where the storms could hit, folks from Alabama all the way to Texas were trying to find places to stay. As one could guess, the availability of lodging in hotels and motels filled up quickly. That's when ResortQuest opened its doors to storm evacuees with a region wide campaign dispersed through e-mail, Convention & Visitors Bureaus and Chambers of Commerce of neighboring states. Evacuees were provided a special arrangement which offered discounted rates and allowed pets to stay in every vacation rental. ResortQuest housed thousands of guests during the storms and received gratuitous feedback from many evacuees, one claimed, "I felt so safe knowing I had a friendly, comfortable place to go to during such a stressful time."

"Our goal is to service our guests to the fullest while giving back to the community - and not just the Northwest Florida community," said Lino Maldonado, ResortQuest Vice President. "Providing evacuees with a place to stay was the first step and this donation is a follow-up to make sure our guests are doing well at home."

ResortQuest has earned itself a reputation as a company that is committed to the community. This year alone, ResortQuest has raised $7,500 for the American Cancer Society, $10,000 for the American Heart Association and $25,000 for the United Way. This week, when finding something to be thankful for, you can add this 'spirit of giving' to your list.

RESORTQUEST NWFL EMPLOYEE TENNIS TOURNAMENT

2008-11-24T11:43:00.004-06:00

RESORTQUEST NWFL EMPLOYEE TENNIS TOURNAMENT
HOSTED BY TOPS’L BEACH & RACQUET RESORT
DECEMBER 3RD, 2008

Come join us at TOPS’L for a fun afternoon of competitive tennis with fellow employees and show off your skills. If you need a racquet or too embarrassed to bring out the wooden racquet we will have plenty for you to choose from. The tournament will have different levels for beginner, intermediate, and advanced.

Time: 1:00-3:00
Format: All doubles round robin within your flight
Divisions: Flight I – 4.0 & up (You play a lot of tennis this will be the Highest level).
Flight II – 3.0 & 3.5 (You have some tennis background At the intermediate level).
Flight III – 2.5 (You are at the beginner level but have Some match experience).
Prizes: Awarded to top winners within your flight.

Just another great example of team building and employee's having fun here at ResortQuest Nortwest Florida!

Mardi Gras 2009

2008-11-19T16:32:00.003-06:00

Mark Your Calendar for Mardi Gras 2009! February 7!

Planning for Mardi Gras 2009 - "Mardi Gras by the Sea" - is now underway!

Watch for details on these and other activities:

Mardi Gras on the Island
Festival
Music - Food - Costumes - Children’s activities

Parade
on Santa Rosa Blvd. with over 70 Mardi Gras theme floats
Beads, Beads and More Beads

Holiday Special

2008-11-12T15:21:00.003-06:00

Free Vacation Nights, Shopping & More–Offer Good: 11/12/08 – 12/30/08

Stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night FREE …plus …
Receive a $50 Silver Sands Factory Stores Gift Card!*

Stay 5 nights and get the 6th and 7th night FREE … plus…
Receive a $100 Silver Sands Factory Stores Gift Card!*

ResortQuest Northwest Florida invites you to save money on a beach vacation and your holiday shopping this season! Simply book a holiday beach vacation in one of ResortQuest’s spacious condos and complete your stay by 12/30/08 to take advantage of this offer. ResortQuest guests booking under this offer will also receive a Silver Sands Factory Stores Platinum Rewards Book that provides over $800 in savings at participating Silvers Sands Factory Stores merchants.

To Claim This Deal: Call 866-478-3307 and ask for promotion code $HOLS

* Offer valid at select properties on stays of three nights or more completed by December 30, 2008. Excludes existing reservations, third party and group reservations and cannot be combined with any other discount or offer. Discount does not apply to taxes and other applicable fees. Voucher will be provided at check-in for Silver Sands Factory Store Gift Card and Silver Sands Factory Stores Platinum Rewards book. Voucher must be redeemed at the Silver Sands Shopper Services which is open Monday thru Saturday 10 A.M. – 9 P.M. and Sunday 10 A.M. - 6 P.M. Other restrictions may apply.

Northwest Florida Ballet Presents 27th Annual Production of The Nutcracker

2008-11-07T09:27:00.001-06:00

Northwest Florida Ballet Presents 27th Annual Production of The Nutcracker

The Northwest Florida Ballet will return to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville, Florida with the 27th annual production of The Nutcracker on Saturday, November 22nd at 7:30 PM and on Sunday, November 23rd at 2:00 PM. "This classic holiday fairy tale comes to life with the brilliant choreography of Todd Eric Allen, Northwest Florida Ballet Artistic Director."

Northwest Florida Ballet Presents The Nutcracker

ResortQuest of Northwest Florida is pleased to provide complimentary accommodations for four special guest artists who will play some of the main roles in The Nutcracker ballet - including the Sugarplum Fairy and her Prince. Out of town visitors needing accommodations during this event can take advantage of ResortQuest's 25% discount or third night free special at a variety of Destin Condos.

TOPS'L - Top 50 Resort by Tennis Magazine

2008-11-05T14:58:00.003-06:00

TOPS'L Beach and Racquet Resort, managed by ResortQuest, has claimed the ranking once again as a Top 50 Resort in America by Tennis Magazine. For this bi-annual designation, all tennis resorts in the United States are reviewed for their courts, their quality of instruction, their clinics and game matching as well as their all-around experience. But what gives TOPS'L that certain je ne c'est quoi that started earning the resort a Top 50 ranking since 1987 with consecutive titles since 1996?

When Joe D'Aleo, Director of Tennis, started at TOPS'L in 1995 the staff's goal was to get the resort back in the Top 50 rankings after a missed nomination in 1994. Since then they have more than met this goal. TOPS'L boasts everything one should expect from a well respected Racquet Club - A 12 rubico court complex, a clubhouse with players' lounge, locker rooms and pro shop, a patio with awnings for each pair of courts and a variety of clinics, round robins and events to choose from - All situated on a well manicured property overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

But what makes it so special, you might ask? It's the enthusiasm and personal attention given to guests and members that keeps them coming back for more. Overnight guests are welcomed as Racquet Club members and are included in the camaraderie of the sport by the TOPS'L staff. "TOPS'L is all about tennis and making sure that all of our tennis guests feel like they are members," D'Aleo says of his approach. "We always go the extra mile to make sure all of our guests get all the tennis they need during their stay."

Frank Brown International Songwriters' Festival

2008-10-30T15:23:00.004-05:00

The 24th annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival will be held at a variety of venues in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama and Perdido Key, Florida. Guests flock to this ten day event to hear several showcase performances and concerts featuring Grammy Award winning songwriters. As an accommodations sponsor for the event, ResortQuest is pleased to offer “Stay 2 nights Get the 3rd night free” or “Stay 5 Nights Get the 6th and 7th nights free” to festival guests when they book ResortQuest accommodations in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama or Perdido Key, Florida. The first 24 bookings will receive a Concert Gift Packet upon arrival including concert tickets, t-shirts and more. That’s not all … a free poolside concert on 11/16/08 (3:00pm-5:00pm) is open to all ResortQuest guests.

To book a festival reservation: Call 866-503-4902 and ask mention promo code $SONG.

*Offer valid at select properties in Perdido Key, Orange Beach and Gulf Shores for stays between November 13, 2008 and November 23, 2008. Excludes existing reservations, holidays, groups, third party bookings and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Concert Gift Packet is available for the first 24 bookings only and includes 2 concert tickets to ONE of three concerts, first come first serve; 1 poster; and 2 t-shirts. Concert Gift Packet will be provided upon arrival. Discount does not apply to taxes and other applicable fees. Other restrictions may apply.

ResortQuest Panama City Beach Top Ten...

2008-10-27T12:53:00.005-05:00

ResortQuest Panama City Beach has their top ten restaurants. See all of the good eats Panama City Beach has to offer!

Pompano's Lakeside Restaurant & Sushi Bar
30 degree Blue
Angelo's Steak Pit
Hammerhead Fred's
The Treasure Ship
Margaritaville
Sharky's Seafood Restaurant
Dirty Dicks Crab House
Saltwater Grill
Casa De Fogo

Ocean Reef Condos

2008-10-24T10:30:00.007-05:00

Ocean Reef Condominiums

ResortQuest Real Estate Offers Post Auction Limited Time Reductions

The highly anticipated Ocean Reef Absolute Auction in Panama City Beach proved that now is the time to buy. The luxury two bedroom condominiums originally priced at $449,000 sold for only $225,000 - That's half price for 1,149 sq foot vacation condo!
Though 35 condos sold at the auction, there are still more that need to go. For a limited time ResortQuest Real Estate is offering the following units below market prices.

2 Bedroom 2 Bath $259,900
4 Bedroom 4 Bath $359,900
Call 1-800-267-4853 for more information.

Top 10 Places To Eat

2008-10-08T12:33:00.003-05:00

See ResortQuest - Beaches of South Walton's top ten places to dine!

Ruth's Chris Steak House
Picolo's Red Bar
Criolla's
Cafe Thirty-A
Bayou Bills
The Doughnut Hole II
Bud & Alleys
Shades
Mitchell's Fish Market
Another Broken Egg

Fishing Day "Brings Out the Good in People"

2008-10-07T12:13:00.002-05:00

ResortQuest is the proud accommodations sponsor for the Larry Hatchett Fishing Foundation for 2009. The foundation takes 25 children who are needy, neglected or abused to THE Beach for a day of fishing in the Destin Fishing Rodeo.

read more | digg story

ResortQuest Northwest Florida Reaching Out To Our Local Community

2008-10-01T12:41:00.005-05:00

As the summer season bids farewell, the Emerald Coast welcomes comfortable breezes, fewer crowds, and a myriad of outdoor festivals and non-profit charitable campaigns. This time of year is a favorite for the locals of the community and for ResortQuest as we participate in many of the fall's finest festivals and activities.
This fall ResortQuest is sponsoring three prominent events in the area. In October, we will have a booth at the Destin Seafood Festival on the Destin Harbor. This festival is the kickoff to the month long Destin Fishing Rodeo, and we received great response from our participation last year. We'll also have a booth (for the first time) at the National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores, AL, a large festival boasting over 300 vendors and great shrimp! At both festivals, we will encourage the community and visitors to get "Hooked on ResortQuest."

In November, we are sponsoring the inaugural Taste of THE Beach wine and dine festival, a four day charity wine event held at several locations along the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast. With the slogan, "Wine. Dine. Donate," this event will benefit multiple charities across the area and is a great way to take advantage of the Coast's picturesque outdoors and tranquil surroundings.

Nevertheless, the tranquility of the fall season does little to slow down ResortQuest's charitable energy. ResortQuest is already campaigning to raise $10,000 for the American Heart Association, and we have many employees signed up to help with the United Way Day of Caring.
We're also planning our next United Way campaign, where we raised $32,000 last year. Finally, plans are underway for the St. Jude Golf Tournament to benefit the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital on November 13-15th. ResortQuest is also a sponsor of this event, which raised over $200,000 last year for cancer research.

With great opportunities for giving and wonderful festivals, fall is the perfect time to reach out to the community and make a difference, and that's what ResortQuest is planning to do this year!

STAY 2 NIGHTS and GET THE 3rd NIGHT FREE.

2008-09-26T13:05:00.001-05:00

For Florida and Alabama RESIDENCE, book a staycation of 3 nights or more before December 30, 2008 at select Alabama and Northwest Florida vacation rentals for stays now through May 20, 2009 and take advantage of ResortQuest 3rd night FREE offer.

ITS SO EASY, call one of our vacation specialists today 866-503-4809 and mention promotion code $STAC. For more information visit us at www.ResortQuestNWFL.com

At ResortQuest we believe you, our neighbors, desires special treatment and our goal is to provide you with a great fun vacation. In addition to providing you with the best selection and an exclusive offer, you also receive ResortQuest’s “Passport to Fun” complimentary amenities program, which includes admission to some of the area’s most popular seasonal attractions, including deep-sea fishing trips.

*Offer good at select locations on ResortQuest Alabama and Northwest Florida locations for stays booked by 10/30/08 and completed by May 20, 2009. 3rd NIGHT FREE applied to stays of 3+ consecutive nights. Not valid on existing reservations, third party or group reservations. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply

ResortQuest of Fort Walton Beach Top Ten Restaurants

2008-09-25T09:22:00.006-05:00

Located just 5 minutes from Destin, Fort Walton Beach offers some great dinning options. Options ranging from steak, seafood to Italian, there is a great variety to choose from. ResortQuest of Northwest Florida lists the top restaurants in Fort Walton Beach.

Ruth's Chris Steak House
Old Bay Steamer
Pandoras
Cafe Italia
Magnolia Grill
Fudpuckers
The Crab Trap
Pranzo
Big City Bistro
The Black Pearl

ResortQuest Gives Two Nights Free -

2008-09-22T10:32:00.003-05:00

What an amazing vacation deal ResortQuest is offering. Their "Free Now and Free Later" program is making travel more affordable.

read more | digg story

The National Shrimp Festival Celebrates its 37th Anniversary

2008-09-22T10:25:00.005-05:00

The National Shrimp Festival is one of the nation's premier outdoor festivals and attracts over 300,000 visitors each year". ResortQuest is proud to be a sponsor of this event and invites visitors who need accommodations during the festival to explore their Gulf Shores/Orange Beach vacation rental website.

read more | digg story

Fun for everyone! The festival offers not only great seafood but an assortment of other activities and admission is FREE!

Top 10 Restaurants located in the Beaches of South Walton

2008-09-17T13:47:00.007-05:00

The Beaches of South Walton offers an eclectic variety of restaurants, there is sure to be something for everybody. Here is a list of some of the top restaurants in Beaches of South Walton.

Ruth's Chris Steak House
Picolo's - The Red Bar
Criolla's
Cafe Thirty-A
Bayou Bills
The Donut Hole II
Bud & Alleys
Shades
Mitchell's Fish Market
Another Broken Egg

Condos For Kids: An Opportunity For Sharing Paradise

2008-09-17T08:41:00.004-05:00

ResortQuest Northwest Florida has partnered with Condos for Kids to offer vacation home owners the chance to make a big difference for a child struggling with a life threatening illness.

Learn more about Condos for Kids and ResortQuest Homeowner participation. | digg story

This is a great story. The ResortQuest homeowners here in Northwest Florida have been very generous with their vacation rentals. ResortQuest of Northwest Florida offers vacation rentals along the Alabama Gulf Coast, Perdido Key, Navarre Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Beaches of South Walton and Panama City Beach.

ResortQuest Panama City Beach

2008-09-15T15:10:00.005-05:00

ResortQuest, the best that Panama City Beach has to offer. So much to do along with playing on THE Beach, it is a definite family vacation. Our "Passport to Fun" is the perfect compliment to your vacation experience.

ResortQuest Destin "Top Ten" Restaurants

2008-09-11T16:21:00.007-05:00

Looking for the top Destin restaurants? We have done the leg work for you with something for everyone. From family friendly to a romantic dinner for two. Here are our special picks:

Ruth's Chris Steakhouse
Marina Cafe
Beachwalk Cafe
Fudpuckers
Criolla's
The Crab Trap
The Donut Hole
Mitchell's Fish Market
P.F. Chang's
Zampierie's

Franklin County Making Splash Along THE Beach

2008-09-11T13:22:00.004-05:00

A new marketing organization intent on selling coastal Northwest Florida as a single tourist attraction with unique communities, all tied together by the world's best beaches, has added Franklin County to the list of communities it represents. ResortQuest of Northwest Florida is proud to be a part of THE Beach with properties in Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton and Bay counties.

read more | digg story

ResortQuest Northwest Florida Real Estate

2008-09-09T15:01:00.005-05:00

Sep 8, 2008 ResortQuest has sales offices all along the gulf coast from Alabama Gulf Coast to Panama City Beach. Watch the video to learn more about our full service sales. If your looking to buy or sell a home, need a long term rental or looking for a vacation get-a-way, give ResortQuest a call.

read more | digg story

We are here to help.

2008-09-04T13:21:00.006-05:00

All of us at ResortQuest would like to express our deepest concerns for those who have evacuated due to Hurricane Gustav. Like you, we have experienced the fear of uncertainty and loss. Please let us know how we may assist you during this difficult time.

With your needs in mind, we have created a special rate designed to alleviate some of your stress. These rates are for stays booked directly by evacuees unable to return home. This week, September 1 - 7, 2008, we are offering all evacuees our winter rate for 30+ day stays or 25% discount for stays less than 30 days.

Please call 866-493-6809 and ask for offer GUSTAV (GUSTA).

We wish you a speedy and happy return home.

Destin Seafood Festival

2008-09-03T12:26:00.007-05:00

The Destin Seafood Festival, named a Top 20 Event in the Southeast, delights visitors and locals alike with fresh seafood, live entertainment, arts and crafts booths, children’s activities and more. In celebration of its’ 30^th year, the festival returns to its original spot on the Destin Harbor in new HarborWalk Village. As the kickoff to the month-long Destin Fishing Rodeo, the Destin Seafood festival is an event the community looks forward to every year. Many visitors come to the area to experience the 'Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village' first hand.

ResortQuest is the official accommodations sponsor of the 30^th Annual Destin Seafood Festival. October 3^rd-5^th the festival returns to Destin Harbor to delight visitors and locals alike.

Stay and play October 3^rd-5^th for the Destin Seafood Festival and receive 20% off your stay at SunDestin Beach Resort with no nightly minimum.

Please call 800-380-4808 and ask for promotion code “F3004”

As a ResortQuest guest, you will also receive our complimentary “Passport to Fun” amenity program, which will allow you to enjoy complimentary FUN at some of the area's most popular attractions including deep-sea fishing, dolphin cruises and more!

Uncork an Experiance

2008-08-13T14:45:00.007-05:00

An Autumn Tides Featured Event
The Southern Breeze Wine + Culinary Festival joins Autumn Tides September 12-14, 2008 at the ResortQuest's Gulf Place Amphitheater in the beautiful Beaches of South Walton. This festival is an Autumn Tides featured event. Autumn Tides is a season of unforgettable fall events celebrating the art, nature, culture and cuisine of Beaches of South Walton.

The Gulf Place Amphitheater is part of ResortQuest's Gulf Place Town Center, an upscale shopping and dining center with a small town, downtown feel. Stroll down the tree-lined streets, sidewalks and footpaths surrounding the luscious 2-acre amphitheater that is the ideal location for the Southern Breeze Wine + Culinary Festival. From the luxurious mansions along the shore to the quaint bed and breakfasts and animated beach cottages, this area becomes a home away from home for anyone who steps onto its shores. Come help us celebrate TheSouthern Breeze Wine + Culinary Festival's fifth anniversary in sophistication and style along the Beaches of South Walton.

ResortQuest of Northwest Florida is a proud sponsor of this event.

4th Night FREE – that’s a 25% savings!

2008-07-17T11:24:00.005-05:00

Book your July or August beach vacation of 4 nights or more by August 6, 2008 at either of these popular Destin resorts and receive the 4th night FREE*! Plus receive complimentary dolphin cruises, deep sea fishing, waterpark admission and more!
SunDestin Beach Resort & TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort
Please call 866-269-8975 and ask for promo code $FRE4. Offer not available online. To receive this special offer, call 866-269-8975 (toll free 24 hour reservations) and ask for code $FRE4

** Terms & Conditions: 4th night FREE valid on stays of 4 nights or more in select units at SunDestin Beach Resort & TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort when booked by August 6, 2008 and stay completed by August 31, 2008. Not valid on existing reservations, third party reservations, group reservations and cannot be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply.

Come to the Beach and Stay on the Beach for $199 a night

2008-07-14T11:10:00.003-05:00

Destin Gulf-front July Vacations...plus…Receive Complimentary Fun & Exclusive Savings
It’s not too late to take that well deserved summer vacation and receive fantastic savings! Book now and enjoy a July vacation in a gulf-front condo in Destin starting at only $199/night*. That’s a savings of $200 on a three night stay! But there’s more…
As a ResortQuest guest, you will also receive our complimentary “Passport to Fun” amenity program which provides you with daily complimentary admission/fares to some of the area’s most popular attractions, including Big Kahuna’s waterpark, deep-sea fishing excursions, dolphin cruises, and more! These complimentary tickets/services are valued at up to $200/day (if purchased separately).
Plus you will receive a $50 Ruth’s Chris Steak House Gift Card* and our exclusive Beach Coupon Book with hundreds of dollars worth of savings at area restaurants, attractions, shopping and more!
Take advantage of all these value added savings and it’s like getting a FREE beach vacation! But hurry…before summer and this great offer slip away…
Call Today 866-488-6804 24 Hour Reservation HotlineMention Promo Code $S199
To take advantage of this offer, please contact one of our vacation specialists at the toll free number above.
MORE SAVINGS - Offer also valid at select properties in Fort Walton Beach, Beaches of South Walton, Panama City Beach, Navarre Beach and Perdido Key. Passport to fun amenities may vary in some of these locations, but have similar dollar value. Ruth’s Chris Steak House Gift Card is only valid at the Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Destin, Fl.
** Terms & Conditions: Offer valid at select condo properties for stays of 3 nights or more. Starting at price is based on a three night stay in 1 bedroom gulf-front condo in Destin and does not included applicable taxes and fees. Stays must be completed by August 2, 2008. EXCLUDES EXISTING RESERVATIONS, third party reservations, group reservations and cannot be combined with any other ResortQuest discount or offer. Ruth’s Chris Steak House Gift Card is valid only at the Ruth’s Chris Steak House located at 15000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL with a minimum purchase of $100 (one gift card per table) and cannot be combined with any other Ruth’s Chris offer or discount. Other restrictions may apply.

Gas Up & Go –Summer Offer

2008-07-11T15:24:00.003-05:00

At ResortQuest we don’t want you to miss out on your Vacation because of high gas prices. Therefore, for a limited time, ResortQuest is pleased to offer our guests gift cards to help you fill up your tank. SUPER SUMMER GAS SAVINGS! Book a summer vacation with us of 3 or more nights and receive a $50 gift card. For stays of 7 nights or more, guests will receive a $100 gift card. Stays must be completed by Sept 1, 2008. Don’t wait as this is a limited time offer and is only available while supply lasts!

To Claim This Deal: Call 866-478-3307 and ask for promotion code $GVOU.

This limited time offer is valid for stays at most of our vacation condo rentals based on terms stated above. Guests receive a voucher for gas card upon check-in. One offer per reservation. Cannot be combined with any other discount or offer. Not valid on existing reservations, third party reservations or group reservations. Some restrictions may apply.

TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort

2008-07-09T14:27:00.005-05:00

TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort in Destin, Florida Receives EcoGreen Award™ : TerraCurve.com - Green travel news, places, people and events.
ResortQuest’s Northwest Florida Vacation Rental division began planning its green initiative at TOPS’L Beach & Racquet Resort in February 2008. After assessing different ways to help the environment and save money in the process, the first logical step was replacing regular lighting with environmentally friendly light bulbs and fixtures. To accomplish this goal, ResortQuest & TOPS’L committed to the EcoGreen Award™ Certification program, pioneered by Tropical Lights, Inc., in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

ResortQuest Partnering with Interhome

2008-07-09T13:57:00.003-05:00

ResortQuest Expands its Global Reach by Partnering with Interhome

Effective July 31, 2008, ResortQuest and Interhome will enter into a partnership to create the largest vacation rental management network in the world. ResortQuest and Interhome will continue to operate independently under their respective brand names, providing the ultimate in vacation rental product, service, quality and selection to customers and homeowners alike.

2008-06-30T13:56:00.004-05:00

Stay, Play, Dine & Save!
Receive a $50 Ruth’s Chris Steak House Gift Card!

You can now book your Destin, Fort Walton Beach or Beaches of South Walton vacation of 3 nights or more for stays through October 31, 2008 and receive a $50 Gift Card* valid at the Destin Ruth’s Chris Steak House towards your dinner purchase of $100 or more. Enjoy family friendly fine dinning and a $50 savings!

Plus as a ResortQuest guest, you will also receive our “Passport to Fun” program that allows you to experience seasonal complimentary FUN at some the area’s most popular attractions, including deep-sea fishing excursions, dolphin cruises, family adventures and more!

Book Today – while supply lasts!
* Gift card available for stays of 3 nights or more completed by 10/31/08 and can not be combined with any other ResortQuest discount or offer. Excludes existing reservations, third party reservations and group reservations. Ruth’s Chris Gift Card is only redeemable at the Destin Ruth’s Chris Steak House located on 15000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL with a minimum purchase of $100 or more and is limited to one per table, per visit and can not be combined with any other Ruth’s Chris offer or discount. Other restrictions may apply.

To Claim This Deal: Call 866-478-3307 and ask for promotion code RUTH

2008-06-27T10:45:00.007-05:00

Curious where to watch the fireworks this year? Here is a list of firework displays that will be covering the coast!

Fourth Of July Events:
Gulf Shores/Orange Beach:The Annual Perdido Beach Resort Fireworks Display, Tues., July 3 at 9 p.m. Best viewing areas will be Alabama Point, Cotton Bayou, and Romar Beach public access points.
Pensacola Beach: 4th of July Fireworks at dusk over Santa Rosa Sound by the T-pier.
Navarre: Firework Show-July 3, 2008. Come enjoy the Fireworks Show over the Navarre Sound in Navarre, FL. Fireworks will be shot from the Navarre Sound, just east of the Navarre Bridge and will begin at dusk. You will be able to see the show from the beach or mainland.
Fort Walton Beach: July 4, 2008-Fort Walton Beach Landing, Brooks Street from 4-10pm. Free to the public. Enjoy food and vendor booths, children's activities and live entertainment. Fireworks begin at 9pm. FWB also has a Fireworks display at Uptown Station at 8:25 pm on Tuesday July 1st.
Destin: City of Destin Fireworks - July 4th 9:00 PM July 4th Fireworks by the city of Destin, over the East Pass Bridge. Destin Commons also has a "Fireworks Extravaganza" on July 4th beginning at 8:30pm.
Baytowne Celebration at Sandestin:
The Village of Baytowne Wharf-Sandestin. The Event is open to the public. Fireworks over the lagoon after evening full of fun for all ages.
Beaches of South Walton
4th of July Parade at Grayton Beach/Seaside 4th of July Parade, Fireworks (start at 7:30pm) & Concert.
Panama City Beach
Fourth of July Fireworks at the Dan Russell Pier Panama City Beach. Event starts at 4:30 with plenty to do. Fireworks start at 9PM.

2008-06-19T13:31:00.002-05:00

Reduce, Reuse & Recycle

2008-06-19T11:18:00.007-05:00

The ResortQuest Call Center is taking the initiative to become an eco-friendly business. Our goal is to Reduce, Reuse & Recycle all possible office materials as well as make eco-friendly choices when purchasing and disposing of supplies. ResortQuest has teamed up with Hurlburt Field, 16th Services Division, in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, to collect all recyclable paper, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, toner cartridges, cardboard, wood pallets, and out of date marketing materials on a weekly basis. Other materials such as used cell phones, rechargeable batteries, ink stamps, plastic bags and florescent lights are being recycled by various sources. A majority of the paper supplies purchased are made of at least 30% recycled materials and we’re in the process of switching to eco-friendly cleaning products and CFL lighting in our office.

ResortQuest employees are involved in the Reduce, Reuse & Recycle campaign too. We’ve asked employees to bring in reusable mugs for coffee to reduce the use of paper cups. Employees are making a conscience effort to place items in the recycle bins provided and reduce the amount of materials being used.