Making The Most Of A Trip To The Beach

(NAPSI)-For surefire fun on a visit to the beach, an increasing number of families are getting their feet wet in South Carolina. What's more, new attractions and old favorites are just waiting to break up--and perk up--the trip.

For instance, there's Carowinds (www.carowinds.com) at the North Carolina state line on Interstate 77. There, a new NASCAR-themed roller coaster pays tribute to the Intimidator, legendary driver Dale Earnhardt, while providing some fast thrills for even the most experienced coaster fanatic.

On a more sedate note, nearby is Historic Brattonsville, one of the largest restoration and living history sites in the Southeast. The 775-acre Revolutionary War battlefield site features 29 historic structures and programs chronicling Carolina Piedmont development from the 1750s through the 1840s (www.chmuseums.org).

Natural history, meanwhile, unfolds off Interstate 95 at Woods Bay State Natural Area. The park preserves one of the largest remaining pristine Carolina bays, with carnivorous plants, alligators, plentiful songbirds and a cypress-tupelo swamp (www.SouthCarolinaParks.com).

In bustling, pedestrian-friendly Greenville, there's Heritage Green, a campus of museums and theatres, including a brand-new children's museum.

Columbia, the state capital at the intersection of interstates 77, 20 and 26, features Riverbanks Zoo and Garden (www.riverbanks.org), the South Carolina State Museum (www.scmuseum.org), the Columbia Museum of Art (www.columbiamuseum.org) and the largest children's museum in the South (www.EdVenture.org).

Also on your way to the beach are produce stands on nearly any major side road. Pick-your-own and working farms open to visitors also abound. You can check out the "Farms" link at www.sc-heritagecorridor.org for locations.

Learn More

More information on destinations in South Carolina is at www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com and the South Carolina Association of Tourism Regions site, www.scatr.com.

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A Wave of Entertaining Celebrations Comes to Myrtle Beach in May

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina is introducing four inaugural events to its quintessential summer entertainment lineup along with the official introduction of its first-ever oceanfront boardwalk. The month of festivities coined as Myrtle Beach MayFest will be marked by celebrity appearances, music, food and entertainment for all ages, along with a variety of special hotel deals throughout the month.

“May is a beautiful time to enjoy a getaway in Myrtle Beach before the height of summer”

Long-known for its plethora of affordable attractions and activities that appeal to a wide range of travelers, the Myrtle Beach area is energized to preempt summer with its MayFest celebrations.

“May is a beautiful time to enjoy a getaway in Myrtle Beach before the height of summer,” said Brad Dean, Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB, “We’re thrilled to host such an array of exciting and family-friendly events to enhance the Myrtle Beach experience for our visitors.”

Kicking off MayFest is the Arts & Film Celebration on May 1st with a lineup that includes free celebrity meet-and-greets with Alex Meraz of “Twilight: New Moon” and Catherine Bell of Lifetime Movie Network’s “Army Wives.” Visitors will enjoy outdoor movies, R&B and jazz bands, food, arts and craft vendors, fireworks and more. The event will be held in conjunction with Arts & Film Celebration Week, April 24-May 2, with the F.A.M.E. (Film, Arts, Music, Entertainment) Festival starting the week.

On May 15, 2010, Myrtle Beach will officially unveil its brand new, mile-long, oceanfront boardwalk with a ribbon cutting ceremony and Beach Music Festival. To welcome this exciting new addition to the beach-front community, Buddy Valastro of TLC’s “The Cake Boss” will be on-site building a celebratory beach-themed flip-flop cake. The weekend will include free performances by eight beach music acts like Ben E. King, the Coasters and the Embers among others, followed by a fireworks spectacular to conclude the weekend.

The month-long party continues with the Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival on May 22, 2010. The ticketed event will feature a host of musical acts including TobyMac and The Afters, Kutless, speaker David Nasser and a variety of food, arts and crafts exhibitors – ending the evening with a fireworks display.

To conclude the May festivities, Memorial Day weekend will feature a free concert with headliner Jordin Sparks - winner of American Idol’s sixth season - along with other Disney & Nickelodeon performers Mitchell Musso, Drake Bell, Jasmine Richards and Savannah Outen. Families will also be treated to very special free celebrity meet-and-greets with such notable Disney & Nickelodeon favorites as: Nathan Kress of “iCarly,” Savannah Outen of “Hannah Montana,” Jasmine Richards of “Camp Rock,” Drake Bell of “Drake and Josh,” Tiffany Thornton of “Sonny with a Chance” and Debby Ryan of “Suite Life on Deck.” Visitors can also enjoy a massive Memorial Day parade with celebrity veteran and NASA astronaut, Buzz Aldrin who is currently competing on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” and will serve as the parade’s Grand Marshal.

For specific dates/times and more information on Myrtle Beach MayFest and special hotel offers that include oceanfront accommodations, please visit www.MyrtleBeachMayfest.com.

The Myrtle Beach area, popularly known as the Grand Strand, stretches from Little River to Pawleys Island, comprising 12 distinct cities along the South Carolina coast. Home to world-class golf, 60 miles of sandy beaches, an assortment of entertainment and family attractions and Southern hospitality, the Myrtle Beach area presents the quintessential vacation experience.

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Mini golf offers family fun for all ages

(ARA) - There is nothing easy about trying to plan a family vacation. Besides the challenge of figuring out where to go, there is the ever-present concern of finding age-appropriate activities for the entire family.

A classic activity that has stood the test of time around the country – and sometimes can be forgotten during the vacation planning process – is miniature golf. While for some it may not be the sole reason for choosing a destination, it is an activity that never fails to please once travelers arrive at their vacation spot.

Many of the country’s top miniature golf courses were originally built in tourist destination areas such as Myrtle Beach, S.C., which is considered the unofficial "Miniature Golf Capitol of the World."

There are as many as 50 courses on Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand, which is located on the southeast coastline of sunny South Carolina, and with more than 14 million tourists visiting each year, the facilities are always busy.

”Mini golf is great no matter your age, athletic ability or golf skills,” says Bob Detwiler of the popular Hawaiian Village course in Myrtle Beach, “It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening, and may even spark some friendly competition during your family vacation.”

A versatile and diverting activity for any age, miniature golf is perfect for multi-generational travel groups, family gatherings, and even couples. Its affordability adds value to the vacation and is great entertainment for everyone.

Nearly all of the Myrtle Beach area’s mini golf courses are meticulously landscaped and adorned with tropical plants and flowers throughout warm-weather months. But it’s each course’s unique theme that sets them apart from mini golf courses found anywhere else. From man-eating dinosaurs and 40-foot tall lava-spewing volcanoes, to high seas adventures aboard pirate ships, the area’s mini golf courses offer a variety of options in ultra-thematic environments.

Some vacationers have even come to enjoy mini golf so much that they’ve taken up the activity as a competitive sport. Each year Myrtle Beach’s Hawaiian Village plays host to the Masters National ProMiniGolf Championship in October when a slew of top mini golfers compete for the green jacket of ProMiniGolf.

“People are very intrigued by mini golf; there is a clear connection between the sport and happy memories associated with it,” notes Detwiler. “More than 80 people participate in the Masters every year not only because it is competitive, but also because it’s simply enjoyable and amusing for all who play.”

For more information on the mini golf possibilities or to request a visitor's guide in Myrtle Beach, go to www.visitmyrtlebeach.com or call (888) Myrtle-1.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Old 96 District Hosts Annual South Carolina Campground Cookoff

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Old 96 District Tourism Commission will again host the 2009 South Carolina Campground Cookoff on September 18-20, 2009 at Calhoun Falls State Recreation Area on Lake Richard B. Russell in Calhoun Falls, South Carolina. This event is a partnership between the Old 96 District Tourism Commission and the Parks Division of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. The Old 96 District Tourism Commission is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting tourism and travel opportunities in the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens and McCormick, South Carolina.

Simply Kitchen, a specialty kitchen retailer headquartered in Augusta, Georgia and WACH Fox 57, a FOX television affiliate serving the Midlands area of South Carolina, are the presenting sponsors of the event.

Campers who love to cook are encouraged to enter and compete to become “King of the Campground Cooks!” Participants must be 16 years of age, submit a $40 entry fee and stay two nights at Calhoun Falls State Recreation Area. Contestants may enter one of two categories: main dish or dessert. Food must be prepared from scratch and cooked over a fire of either wood or charcoal.

No gas grills are allowed. Cash prizes of $500, $300 and $200 will be awarded in each category. Applications must be received by August 1, 2009.

Three nationally-known celebrity judges -- Shannon Kohn, Recipe Developer and Food Writer; Annette Thompson, Associate Travel Editor for Southern Living and Charles Mattocks aka “The Poor Chef,” who has recently appeared on The TODAY Show, will crown the winners.

Charles Wood, an award winning banjo player and 1998 Merlefest Banjo Champion and winner of the 1999 Walnut Valley National Banjo Championship, will perform during the Iron Skillet Hoedown on Friday night. Exhibitors will be on hand to demonstrate their products.

For more information about the Old 96 District, visit www.sctravelold96.com. To enter the 2009 South Carolina Campground Cookoff and view the general rules, visit www.sccampgroundcookoff.com or call toll free 866.354.0003. For sponsorship opportunities call 864.232.7655, ext. 207.

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Myrtle Beach Resort Offers '2 for 1' Vacation Deal

/PRNewswire/ -- Sands Resorts of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has announced a unique Two-for-One vacation package they are offering to Spring and Summer guests of their seven Myrtle Beach resorts. Sands CEO, Lee Rawcliffe described the offer as a response to our current economy and a chance to introduce new and returning guests to the many renovations and new amenities he has added since purchasing the iconic hotel group in early 2008.

The promotion is unique in that it offers a free two-night Spring or Fall vacation and an additional free night in the summer to those booking a three-night or longer summer stay. The free two-night Spring or Fall vacation can be used as a two-night trip or as two individual night stays. These two nights can also be gifted or as their ad states, sold on "eBay." This may allow some creative families to secure a Myrtle Beach vacation for very little expense. Rawcliffe believes the program rewards intelligent shoppers and entrepreneurs, who he believes, are growing in number as the recession continues.

"Sure the economy is having an impact on leisure travel," says Rawcliffe, "I think anyone in our business would tell you that." Rawcliffe goes on to say, "Our main focus has always been the 'Experience,' and since our purchase we have invested heavily in remodeling, upgrades, and improved services. During my twenty years in the business, I have never experienced a day when we were not building or remodeling something. I like our guests to see that and many return the next year curious to witness the finished product."

Does Rawcliffe believe this "2 for 1" idea will catch on with the industry? "I don't know," he responds thoughtfully, "we are somewhat a seasonal resort, our hotel rooms, condos, and beach houses always have vacancies in the Spring and Fall. This rewards our guests with a chance to profit from that opportunity."

Rawcliffe plans to market the program on the company's web site: www.SandsResorts.com and through his reservation center: 800-726-3783. He also plans direct mail and media campaigns to promote the idea. "Recessions are interesting times," Rawcliffe says, "They cause businesses to reinvent themselves for the better and often reward consumers with better values." Sands Resorts has a thirty-six year history as a major lodging provider in the Myrtle Beach market. They have been pioneers in packaged golf and family entertainment.

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28th Annual New Year's Renaissance Weekend Convenes in Charleston

/PRNewswire/ -- Renaissance Weekend, the non-partisan retreat founded in 1981 to build bridges among innovative leaders from diverse fields, began December 28, 2008, and will bring 1,200 participants to Charleston, South Carolina, for 450 lectures, seminars, discussions, and performances concluding with their singing of "Auld Lang Syne" and "God Bless America" at the stroke of the new year.

The tradition was founded and is hosted by the former US Ambassador to the Court of St. James's, Philip Lader, who is chairman of WPP plc, the world's largest advertising/media services company, and his wife, Linda Lader, a Fellow at the Yale Center for Faith & Culture and a director of various education and religious organizations.

"For 28 years," Ambassador Lader said, "Renaissance Weekend has continued to be a cross-generational conversation among accomplished individuals with widely divergent perspectives. Civility prevails; partisanship is frowned upon; and commercialism is banned."

"Though strikingly different views of religion, politics, and every other field are represented, there is more light than heat," Lader added.

The meetings are likened to the reunion of "an extended family" of prominent leaders in business and finance, education, religion, law and medicine, government, the media, science and technology, sports, non-profits and the arts. This year's gathering includes CEOs, venture capitalists and entrepreneurs, Nobel laureates and Pulitzer Prize-winning authors, artists and scientists, astronauts, athletes and university presidents, judges, journalists and diplomats, as well as government, non-profit, and religious leaders.

Among the New Year's participants are:

-- Director of US National Intelligence Michael McConnell,
-- Nobel laureates Robert Richardson, Bill Phillips, and Robert Curl,
-- Space Shuttle Discover Commander Mark Kelly,
-- former Under Secretary of State and Ogilvy & Mather chair Charlotte
Beers,
-- Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Daniel Howe,
-- former CIA officer Valerie Plame,
-- American Conservative Union chairman David Keene,
-- Columbia University Medical Center dean Lee Goldman,
-- National Cathedral dean Sam Lloyd,
-- former Chief of Staff to Barbara Bush Susan Porter Rose,
-- former Federal Reserve Board vice chairman Alan Blinder,
-- evangelists Leighton Ford and Tony Campolo,
-- JFK adviser Ted Sorensen,
-- conservative direct mail guru Richard Viguerie,
-- Rabbi Harold Kushner,
-- financial writer Andrew Tobias,
-- former Nuclear Regulatory Commission chair Shirley Jackson,
-- CIA counter-terrorism authority Hank Crumpton,
-- software designer Peter Norton,
-- MacArthur Prize-winning education professor Howard Gardner,
-- CBS News correspondent Rita Braver,
-- media venture capitalist Kay Koplovitz,
-- Society of Neuroscientists president Mickey Goldberg,
-- Yale and Princeton theologians Lamin Sanneh and Elaine Pagels,
-- SAS Institute co-founder John Sall,
-- Newsweek contributing editor Eleanor Clift,
-- Ohio State University president Gordon Gee,
-- NPR anchor Scott Simon,
-- former United Nations Assistant Secretary-General Gillian Sorensen,
-- former US ambassador Joe Wilson,
-- award-winning nature photographer Frans Lanting,
-- linguistics author Deborah Tannen,
-- former US Senator and ambassador to China Jim Sasser,
-- Kanye West Entertainment president Miki Woodard,
-- open-source software pioneer Michael Tiemann,
-- former CNN Business anchor Myron Kandel, and
-- Washington lawyers Bob Barnett and Thurgood Marshall.


Programs cover a broad spectrum of public policy and personal issues, such as:

-- Is It Still "A Wonderful Life"?,
-- The Making of 44 -- How the Presidential Race Was Won,
-- "Oh, Oh" - The Spacecraft's on Fire & the Urinal's Backed Up,
-- What Christians Don't Understand about Islam,
-- Prescriptions for Healthcare Reform,
-- Could I Have Been Taken In by Bernie Madoff?,
-- The History of Freedom,
-- Why the New Gold Rush Is Green,
-- Net Prophets & the Web They Weave,
-- How Young People's Brains Differ from Past Generations',
-- Is the American Way of Life Indestructible?,
-- What Governor Palin's Appeal Tells Us about America,
-- The Screening of America,
-- Books that Change Lives,
-- How Seriously Stretched Is America's Military?,
-- What deTocqueville & Dante Would Tell Barack about Governing,
-- Consequences of Mumbai
-- How President Obama Can Reverse America's Estrangement from the World,
-- Spirituality Amidst Turbulence,
-- Why More Education Spending Brings Only Mixed Results,
-- Miracles of Microfinance,
-- Can We Fix Government's Capacity to Avoid & Respond to Crises?,
-- What Will the Next Century Treasure from Contemporary Culture?
-- What Bush Got Right,
-- Will Shrinking Newspapers Still Be Strong Enough to Combat
Corruption?,
-- Where Should Your Money Be Now?,
-- What's the GOP's Road Back?,
-- Even Saints Have Dark Nights, and
-- Redwhiteandbluenecks - Will the Capulets & Montagues Now Lay Down
Their Swords to Get Us Through the Nation's Perilous Times.

The New Year's gathering, designed to be the largest, is traditionally held in the Laders' hometown. Additional Renaissance Weekends in 2009 are scheduled in Tucson on President's Day, Jackson Hole on July 4th, and Monterey Bay on Labor Day.

"Each Renaissance Weekend, with equally distinguished participants, seeks to build bridges across traditional divides of religion and politics, geography and generations, religions and philosophies," Mrs. Lader explained.

Renaissance Weekend celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2005 with past participants Gerald R. Ford and Bill Clinton as co-chairmen. More than a dozen past candidates for US president have attended Renaissance Weekends, and six nominees for President-elect Obama's Cabinet are Renaissance veterans.

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The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Planning an Affordable Autumn Getaway

T2F Note: Here are some great deals for the fall.

Myrtle Beach Autumn Packages:

Hotel Blue Fabulous Fall Super Saver

Fabulous Fall Super Saver includes oceanfront accommodations and discounted prices for bowling at Hotel Blue’s sister resort. (Bowling and entertainment center located one block away.) $38-53 per night. Sunday to Thursday. Excludes Nov. 26-29, 2008. For more information, visit www.hotelBluemb.com or call (800) 843-3466.

Springmaid Resort

Buy three nights of the Bed & Breakfast package at Springmaid Beach Resort and get the fourth night and breakfast free. Enjoy this great deal, plus Springmaid’s all ocean view rooms, six pools (two heated) , two lazy rivers, fitness center, onsite restaurants, full sized in-room refrigerators and microwaves, plus the famous Springmaid Pier.

Bed & Breakfast package includes:
- Nightly lodging (Sunday through Thursday)
- Daily hot buffet breakfast
- Free admission to Springmaid Pier
- Resort miniature golf course discounts

Rates from:
$44/person 8/31-10/2/08
$39/person 10/5-10/24/08
$34/person 10/26-11/26/08

Rates based on standard resort room, double occupancy. Limited availability. Restrictions apply. Friday/Saturday and holiday rates available -- additional charges apply. For more information call (866) 764-8501 or visit http://www.springmaidbeach.com/specials.html.

Marina Inn Fall Family Fun

Five Nights of Fall Family Fun for $999. Includes accommodations in a Grande Guest room for five nights, 1/2-day boat rental on a 22-foot FunDeck Boat, four general admission tickets to Hard Rock Park or four “Ticket to Play” passes that include top rated attractions at Broadway at the Beach and full breakfast each morning in Waterscapes, the Marina Inn’s signature restaurant. No blackout dates! Valid through December 31, 2008. For more information call (877) 913-1333 or visit www.marinainnatgrandedunes.com/familyfun.


(ARA) - America’s wavering economy along with swelling gas prices have tampered with vacationers’ travel plans throughout the summer, leaving many travelers in the lurch. As wallets continue to tighten and stress levels rise, Americans are realizing just how much they need and deserve a vacation getaway that for now seems to be tossed on the backburner.

But despite fuel costs and financial worries, there is good news on the horizon for determined vacationers! As the seasons transition, Americans don’t have to throw in the towel on travel for the rest of the year. Simply learn to travel smarter by taking extended weekend getaways during the autumn shoulder season.

There are many ways to cut costs and allow for a fabulous fall trip. Here are some insider tips that will help you de-stress and recharge, while getting the most for your travel dollar:

Structure a Budget

First and foremost, figure out what you can realistically afford for your next trip, and stick to your guns. Create budget estimates for each vacation day, from meals to attractions, and even highway tolls. By understanding how much you have available before leaving home, you’ll save yourself the headache of ATM overdraws and never-ending credit card bills once you return from your trip.

Make a Smart Destination Choice and Create a Realistic Timeframe

Choose a destination that is close enough to reach quickly and cost-efficiently, but is a world away in ambiance. Do your homework and peruse through guidebooks, travel blogs, Web sites and newspaper and magazine reviews for destinations that provide climate-friendly options in which to spend a relaxing long weekend.

Choose the Right Accommodations

Select a hotel with an in-room kitchen efficiency so you don’t have to eat every meal in restaurants (that gets expensive!), and find a nearby grocery store so you can stock up with a few provisions. You’ll be amazed at how much money eating cereal for breakfast and packing cold cuts for lunch can save you each day. If you’re traveling with a larger group or family, check out beach homes, condos, timeshares and villa rentals, which can turn out to be a much less expensive option, per person.

Now is the time to also look for deals and offerings such as free nights, complimentary parking, or special incentives (like gas cards). With fewer people traveling these days, many hotels are offering attractive deals to get visitors in the door.

Research Affordable Activities

Seek out a destination with lots of activities that are free or highly affordable. When researching things to do or see in a destination, find attractions that will stretch your dollar the farthest. Savvy travelers will also plan in advance to save money through online coupons and deals. As a bonus, you’ll reduce stress while on vacation because your itinerary is already set.

By following the above tips, you’ll surely find and enjoy a long weekend break that fits within your budget. One terrific place you might wish to consider when putting these tips to the test is the Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina. Known best as an affordable, budget-friendly vacation destination with a vast variety of accommodations, meals and attractions to suit every visitor, this is a great option for the smart traveler. Here’s why:

Location and Weather
Boasting a mild climate and perpetually temperate weather, Myrtle Beach is a great destination choice year round, especially in the autumn. Its pristine coastline, affectionately called the Grand Strand, is the star attraction here. Stretching for 60 miles, travelers have access to all kinds of public beaches and oceanfront access, from state parks to picturesque waterways -- the perfect oasis away from the stress of everyday life.

Quality Accommodations with Perks
With a variety of accommodations from which to choose, including many updated and spacious beachfront condos with kitchens and additional seasonal promotions, Myrtle Beach offers great deals for saving money on food and lodging costs.

A Variety of Affordable Activities
Whether it’s hitting Myrtle Beach State Park to enjoy the pristine beach for pennies or even popping a quick game of miniature golf -- Myrtle Beach is the Miniature Golf Capital of the World -- there are plenty of options to have fun on a budget in Myrtle Beach.

For further incentives, vacationers can get a great bang for their buck at Myrtle Beach’s acclaimed attractions. At Brookgreen Gardens, a beautiful nature oasis on the site of four former rice plantations, your entry ticket is good for an entire week. And if you visit Hard Rock Park -- the world’s first 140-acre, music-themed amusement park -- on the day of a big-name concert, you’ll be admitted free to that evening’s concert.

The moral of the story? If you’re itching to use some of those precious vacation days for an extended weekend this fall, choose a destination that has it all within reach. With the right combination of budget-friendly activities, great weather, and a mix of fun and relaxation, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable and much-deserved getaway.

For more information visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com or call (888) Myrtle1 (888-697-8531).

Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Gators and Snakes, and Oh My!

It's been a few years since we had stopped to tour the Edisto Island Serpentarium on Edisto Island, South Carolina. So, on this trip, we came back for an encore visit. What a treat this place is. That is, if you are interested in learning about snakes and reptiles!

While I am not a personal fan of these slithery creatures or the prehistoric looking reptiles, I can appreciate their beauty and niche in the world.

The Edisto Island Serpentarium is a family owned operation and worth a stop. The owners truly care about the animals and teaching others about conservation in the ACE basin. If I remember correctly, their collection of alligators all have local roots. These guys are not afraid to go and catch them, or to teach others. Feeding time is interesting as the alligators see the owner with the bucket of treats and literally all line up for feeding. It's truly amazing to see how fast these guys can move when there is food involved. I do have to admit the close proximity of these guys to my family did make my tummy get a little queasy.

In addition to the alligators, there are plenty of snakes to view. Some are in some really big pits just kind of lying around. That is, I hope they are! It was surprising to realize that their snakes can also get dirty and have to have their open pits cleaned. One of the pits was closed on this particular visit until they could finish cleaning it out. No matter as there are plenty of others to see.

There is also the snake show which teaches the visitors about these creatures. Once again, I have to sit on the back row, but I always see it. As much as I am not a fan of the snakes, I do understand the need to be able to distinguish between the good and the bad boys.

The guys at the Serpentarium not only care for the animals, they also collect the venom so anti-venom can be made. Good job, mates!


There are also plenty of iguanas on display. These overgrown lizards don't hurt anyone (that I know of) and are rather prehistoric looking in their own right.

When you are in the area, take a break from the beach and spend a few hours at the Serpentarium. You'll come out knowing a little more about these animals. Perhaps, you'll even appreciate their watchful beady, oh I mean beautiful, eyes.

I'm proud to say that we came out with all of our fingers and toes intact!

Until next time,
Sandy Toes
While on Edisto

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Sandy Toes and Edisto's Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Having just arrived at our destination, we were quick to grab our swimsuits and fall out the door onto the sand of Edisto Beach, South Carolina. Slather on some sunscreen and let the vacation begin. While our expectations were high for the week, we stumbled across other finds that show us high hopes for the future.

Surrounding our beach house on the water side were two areas of orange tape. Looking closely, we could see indentations in the sand and the signs placed by the volunteers who watch the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. We sat smack down in between two turtle nests. One had been there for about 40 days and the other one about 10 days according to beach patrol Gary. Gary, who patrols the beach and is a volunteer loggerhead watcher, was eager to teach us landlubbers about the turtles.

The gracious ladies who come ashore to lay their eggs between May and August are coming home to the island of their birth. These gentle creatures can be up to three feet in size and weigh several hundred pounds. They come ashore at night to lay the ping pong ball sized eggs. Their flippers serve as a shovel and it can take an hour or more for the female to complete her nest. A typical nest will contain approximately 60-180 eggs.

The turtles are easily distracted from the work at hand. Should there be lights on the beach, or animals in the vicinity, the turtle may just crawl up and crawl back, thus exhibiting a "false crawl," whose track shape resembles a horseshoe. Gary told us she would then just abort the eggs into the ocean. A "true crawl" is one where the volunteers who walk the beach at night can locate the nest, and it has two distinct tracks.

Our second morning on the beach was thrilling. Here were new turtle tracks. Our trusty guide Gary showed us how to read the turtle tracks. In front of the nest was a huge "x" as in "x marks the spot." Gary explained the turtle patrol who had watched the turtle during the night placed the "x" to alert him of a new nest. He then placed an orange flag in the center of the nest.

Over the incubation period of the next 50-60 days, Gary and the other turtle watchers will keep a close eye on the nest. As time nears for the eggs to hatch, the sand will start to settle. A shell is then placed on top of the nest to show how much it is sinking. Experienced eyes can read those shells and determine about when the hatchlings will make their appearance. The hatchlings will boil out of the nest and head towards the ocean. The watchers are there in hopes that all of the young will make it there. Imprinting happens as soon as those hatchlings emerge. They follow the light of the moon to the ocean. If there are any lights on at the houses, the little tykes become confused and head towards the road.

Once the turtles go into the water, the males will never again touch land. Only the females will return in about 20 years or so.

Gary explained the process where the turtle watchers verify a nest. The nest will be about 18 to 24 inches down in the sand. A stick is used to verify the eggs' location. From the explanation, a gentle hand is used during this process.

Sometimes the eggs are too close to the high tide mark and have to be moved. Should the nest be moved, each egg must be individually moved without rotating the angle at which it was found. If the eggs are turned, the turtles will not hatch, or they will be deformed. While we were there, the oldest nest in front of our house had to be moved. There was an extremely high tide one night and the front part of the nest would not have been above the water line for more than a few days at most. The patrol moved the eggs about 30 feet. While this nest only had a few weeks left to go in its incubation phase, it was the only way any of the eggs will have a chance to hatch.

According to Gary, the female turtles will come ashore three or four times during the season to lay their eggs. The survival rate of the little tykes from the laying to adulthood is only about 1 in a thousand.

These animals can survive for close to 200 years. Full of grace and beauty, they are on the endangered list. Survival from predators who are natural and non-natural have severely depleted this turtle population. Over development on beaches and the loss of sandy beach for their nests have also taken their toll.

Protect the sea turtle. Give them hope. Give us hope.

Until next time,
Sandy Toes on Edisto

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Visit Edisto Island SC with Sandy Toes

Edisto Island, South Carolina, is about 40 miles from Charleston and remains unspoiled. The small beachfront community is ideal for families who want to find their place in the sand. To date, there has been no excess development on the island and everyone finds "Edislow Time." Join "Sandy Toes" and see some of the natural beauty of the island.

Click here to see another one of Sandy Toes' adventures on Edisto.


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“Dr. Beach” Names Caladesi Island America’s Best

BUSINESS WIRE--Caladesi Island State Park takes the number one spot in the 18^th Annual Top 10 Beaches ranking produced by coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman, Director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research.

Caladesi is a pristine getaway beach in the Clearwater/St. Petersburg area, only 20 miles west of bustling downtown Tampa. Traveling to this island is an experience itself, as it is reached by pedestrian ferry, complete with old salts telling interesting tales, or by private boat. The bayshore is a mangrove forest interlaced with kayak trails and is a bird lover’s paradise. The only mode of transportation on this lovely island, dominated by palm trees, is by foot over the super fine white sand. There is a great snack bar and other creature comforts to enhance your island experience, and both the grounds and landscape are well maintained. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer beach season, but the waves are generally only measured in inches so don’t bring your surfboard.

Caladesi is a well-kept secret. Surrounded by the beauty of a lush state park, few people in Tampa seem to know its whereabouts, while everyone is familiar with the popular Pier 60 at nearby Clearwater Beach. Caladesi’s real attraction is its powder white sand, warm, crystal clear water and beautiful nature, all making it the number one beach to enjoy and decompress.

As “Dr. Beach,” Leatherman has selected the annual Top 10 Beaches since 1991. Fifty criteria are used to evaluate the beaches, including water and sand quality, as well as facilities and environmental management, as part of the National Healthy Beaches Campaign.

What makes Dr. Leatherman’s selections unique is his knowledge as a Ph.D. coastal scientist with over 30 years of experience studying storm impacts, beach erosion and ways to improve beach health and safety.

The National Healthy Beaches Campaign was established to acknowledge the many beautiful and “healthy” beaches around the country, from seaside to lakeside destinations, for any taste. The Storm & Tides Project is a component of the NHBC.

Watch for a forthcoming debut TV Special on “America’s Best Beaches” during Independence Day weekend; check your local listings.

TOP 10 BEACHES 2008
1.	Caladesi Island State Park
	Clearwater/Dunedin, Florida
2.	Hanalei Beach
	Kauai, Hawaii
3.	Siesta Beach
	Sarasota, Florida
4.	Coopers Beach
	Southampton, New York
5.	Coronado Beach
	San Diego, California
6.	Main Beach
	East Hampton, New York
7.	Hamoa Beach
	Maui, Hawaii
8.	Cape Hatteras
	Outer Banks of North Carolina
9.	Cape Florida State Park
	Key Biscayne, Florida
10.	Beachwalker Park
	Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Spoleto Festival 2008

T2F Note: Head on over to Charleston for any or all of the performances. This is one of our favorite destinations. Spoleto runs May 23rd- June 8th.

For more information: http://www.spoletousa.org/

Looking for the Perfect Summer Travel Destination?

ARA – Summer is quickly approaching and now is the time to begin planning summer vacations. With budgets tight, many Americans are staying closer to home this year. In fact, it’s predicted the hottest trend in travel this summer will be “staycations” – short getaways within driving distance or a quick flight from home.

While this trend may be bad news for harder-to-reach destinations such as Europe and Asia, it’s expected to be a boon for the hotels and attractions in tourist-friendly U.S. destinations like Myrtle Beach, S.C.

“While Americans may be tightening the reigns on their vacation plans this year, there’s no need to sacrifice visiting a great resort destination with plenty of options for the whole family,” says Brad Dean, CEO of the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce. “Myrtle Beach offers a wide variety of activities, attractions, hotel accommodations, restaurants, shopping, golf courses and miles of beach. Plus, we’re an easy commute from many U.S. markets.”

Whether visiting Myrtle Beach or another destination, here are some travel tips that “stay-cationers” should keep in mind:

1. Determine Your Timeframe
Most of us only get two weeks of vacation. Smart staycationers stretch that time by taking one or two days before or after a work holiday – like Memorial Day, July 4th or Labor Day. If you have five days or less for your staycation, look for a destination that’s a few hours drive from home, or one that can be reached via a convenient, nonstop flight.

2. Select a Convenient Destination Jam-packed with Exciting Activities
The key to planning a fun and memorable vacation is to make sure there will be activities everyone will enjoy. Before booking your hotel, ask what amenities are offered. If you have kids, it’s good to ask if there’s a pool and game room they can enjoy. You should also ask about the recreational activities available in the area, such as golf courses and tennis courts, and what attractions are nearby.

Also, be sure to do your research and take advantage of special summer packages and deals to save money and get the most out of your staycation experience.

3. Organize Transportation Details
If you’ll be driving to your staycation location, have your vehicle checked out before hitting the road. Pay close attention to tires and brakes, and ensure all fluids – especially windshield wiper fluid – are at peak levels. If you want to boost your trip’s “green” quotient and save on fuel, consider renting a hybrid or other gas-sipping model.

If you’re flying, plan to depart from a smaller airport with less air traffic to avoid delays and general airport congestion.

“As our society becomes increasingly pressed for time, the staycation will really become the getaway of choice for many people looking for the most enjoyment, best value for their dollar and most convenient travel options,” says Dean.

To learn more about a Myrtle Beach staycation, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Garden Roots Run Deep, Spread Wide

NAPSI-Since the first days of the Carolina Colony, fine gardening has been a tradition in this mecca of horticulture.

In fact, the distinctive butterfly gardens at Middleton Place in South Carolina can boast of being the first formal gardens in the English Colonies, forged from marshy woodlands along the banks of the Ashley River around 1740. Next door is eclectic Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, owned by the same family for more than 325 years and a birthplace of ornamentally grown azaleas and camellias.

Nowadays, visitors can take in those historic sites along with leading-edge horticulture and everything in between with just a short drive around the Palmetto State.

Highlights include Riverbanks Zoo & Garden in Columbia, where formal and informal plantings join an impressive stand of old rose varieties and a cooling shade garden.

There’s also the 250-acre South Carolina Botanical Garden at Clemson University, itself a noted institution of horticultural and agricultural research. Notable public gardens also include Kalmia Gardens at Coker College, where a 60-foot drop in elevation provides for a surprising diversity in plants and wildlife. Hopelands Gardens in picturesque Aiken, meanwhile, is a 14-acre former estate where, behind a serpentine brick wall, there is a canopy of ancient oaks, deodara cedars and magnolias.

Two commercial operations also bear mention. Park Seed in Greenwood is one of the nation’s largest and oldest mail-order operations with a nine-acre trial garden. Orchid fans and plant lovers of all kinds also wouldn’t want to miss Carter and Holmes Orchids in Newberry, where 18 greenhouses offer one of the largest lineups of the prized plants in the nation.

Last but not least is 9,000-acre Brookgreen Gardens on the coast near Myrtle Beach. Visitors will find the largest collection of outdoor sculpture in the country amid a Lowcountry setting of lush plantings, live oaks and even a pontoon boat tour of long-abandoned ancient rice fields.

For more information on all this and more, go to www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com.

A winding path through Hopelands Gardens reveals a variety of beautiful plants, from daffodils and the explosion of azaleas to dogwoods and other flowering shrubs and trees.
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