Colleen & Catie’s Picks
Colleen
Accommodations –
The Westin Tampa Bay – Located on the waterfront, the Westin Tampa Bay offers a sandy beach, indoor pool, and is great for families!
Restaurant/Food –
Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City – Oldest restaurant in Florida, this atmospheric gem offers Cuban food and entertainment!
Activity –
Swimming with Sharks at the Florida Aquarium – Dive with the sharks or swim with the fishes at The Florida Aquarium – A unique opportunity for certified SCUBA divers, age 15 and older, to come face-to-face with live sharks!
Catie
Accommodations –
Le Meridien Hotel – Historic Federal Courthouse juxtaposed into an award winning, Four Diamond, chic hotel. Ideally located near downtown Tampa, Ybor City and Channelside.
Restaurant/Food –
Bizou Brasserie Restaurant at Le Meridien – Formal on the outside, casual and fun on the inside, their menu is a mix of French-Creole inspiration with the comfort of American favorites
Adventurous Activity –
C Ponies – Ride these big, beautiful rescued horses as they wade through the ocean at St. Petersburg Beach!
“What’s” with the “Trip Sisters”
What’s in Your Suitcase?
Purequosa – “Shower replacement” – Spray yourself with this after swimming at the beach to help you stay fresh. $5.95
What’s on your phone?
FLIO – Your one stop source for all your airport needs. More than 300 airports with deep content, more than 3,000 airports covered.
What’s the tip?
Beach Tips
Carry a sand-free beach bag – Try a mesh tote. Give it a few shakes at the end of the day, and the sand will fall out.
Pack some bug spray – Bugs can ruin a beach trip pretty quickly! It’s best to stay prepared.
Add a flotation device (or cork) to your keys – This is a great way to ensure your keys don’t sink to the bottom of the ocean’s floor if you accidentally drop them.
Bring plenty of bags – Although they’re not good for the environment, carrying plastic bags to the beach will ensure you have somewhere to collect your trash before you put it in the garbage. It’s always important not to litter.
Bring a yoga mat instead of a beach towel – More comfortable and waterproof!