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!
Showing posts with label ResortQuest. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ResortQuest. Show all posts
Friday, February 18, 2011
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Mardi Gras on the Emerald Coast
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).
Friday, February 4, 2011
Sandestin Gumbo Festival
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!
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!
Friday, January 21, 2011
ResortQuest Welcomes Vision Airlines to the Emerald Coast
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.”
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
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.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Treasure Chest Found Along Northwest Florida Gulf Coast
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).
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
ResortQuest Goes Fishing with Bill Ando of Southern Boating Magazine
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!
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!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Emerald Coast Winter Activities, Part II – Pensacola & Perdido Key Area
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!
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!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Destin 50 Beach Ultra Marathon
Scheduled for February 19th
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.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Emerald Coast Winter Activities, Part I - Destin Area
By Kristin Destin,
ResortQuest Northwest Florida
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.
Monday, November 8, 2010
TOPS'L Tennis off to a QuickStart After USTA Florida 10-and-under Grant
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/.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Hurst Named Volunteer of the Year
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.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
What's New at ResortQuest Northwest Florida?
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
Check out our newest vacation rental, Seawatch “A”, recently added to our
Seawatch "A" is the perfect place for your next family gathering. Situated in Gulf Trace Community, Grayton Beach 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
Friday, October 22, 2010
Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournament
October 22-24, 2010
By Kristin Destin, ResortQuest Northwest Florida
ResortQuest loves to support great causes, and this weekend
our focus is on the Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournament. The event takes place at the Baytowne
and Raven golf courses within Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. ResortQuest employees volunteer their
time to coordinate the event, help with volunteers, and gather items for the
silent auction. The outpouring of support
from local companies and military is amazing, and itÃs wonderful to see
everyone come together for such a great cause.
The mission of the Destin St. Jude Celebrity Golf Tournament
is to raise awareness and funds to support the life saving efforts of St. Jude
Children's Research Hospital, the world's premiere research and treatment
center 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 Angeles
Angels 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 one
course and half on the other.
Tonight is the silent auction at the Hilton Sandestin which will include
a presentation by St. Judes.
Tomorrow the teams will switch courses and the awards will be announced
later in the afternoon.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Thunder on the Gulf, Orange Beach, Alabama
October 13-17, 2010
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!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
2010 Emerald Coast Fall Volleyball Classic
Okaloosa Island, October 6-10
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!
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!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Kid-Friendly Activities for the Younger Set, Part III - Panama City Beach, Florida
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!
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!
• 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!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Kid-Friendly Activities for the Younger Set, Part II - Destin/Fort Walton Beach, Florida
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!
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.
Stay tuned for Part III for the final installment of Gulf Coast activities the whole family can enjoy!
Friday, July 2, 2010
ResortQuest Gives Away $64,000 in Vacation Stays, with Nearly $30,000 in Beach Trips Still to Be Won
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.
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.
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.
Friday, May 14, 2010
ResortQuest Acts to Allay Guests' Fears in Wake of Gulf Oil Spill
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.
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."
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.
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