travel

---

By Susan C. Nieman

VACATION. Everyone's definition is different. Some folks even need a vacation after returning from vacation. During the summer, I prefer relaxing in my own backyard. But when cool weather sets in and I can't get in the pool, I need a break.

Like most former New Yorkers who have cousins in Miami, we usually load up the car and head to Southeast Florida - with a stop in Orlando if the kids are tagging along.

This year we decided to save gas and driving time and find out why many Mid-Southerners spend their free time closer to home. We were in for a treat!

DESTIN, FLORIDA

A Romantic Getaway at Henderson Park Inn

It only took about nine hours from Memphis to reach Henderson Park Inn in Destin, Fla., where the white sand beaches were just footsteps from our magnificent suite. From the minute we stepped onto our large veranda, I knew I'd be back - again and again. It was the perfect destination for our 10-year anniversary. No kids allowed - you have to be at least 25.

Henderson Park Inn is not your typical bed and breakfast. Nor will you find anything like it in Destin or along the Emerald Coast. A romantic getaway adjacent to Henderson Beach State Park, the inn boasts one mile of unobstructed beach view.

"Even during the busy July Fourth weekend when the roads are clogged with cars and the beaches packed with tourists, the private beach in front of the inn is never crowded," said Innkeeper Ryan Olin.

A complimentary wine and fruit tray awaited us upon arrival, and although we were tempted to pop the cork to toast our happy occasion, we decided to save it for a romantic evening on the terrace. There was still time to join other guests at the tiki hut for happy hour and watch the sunset with a glass of wine or beer.

"Over the years, we have learned that the happy hour is a special event that gives guests a chance to get acquainted," said Ryan. "Some couples develop friendships as their vacation progresses, spending time together on the beach and going out to dinner in the evenings. Many schedule return visits at the same time each year."

For our anniversary dinner we dined at Chef Tim Creehan's Beach Walk located on the property. Other nights we could hop on a bike (provided by the inn) or take a short drive to many local and chain restaurants.

Each morning we awoke relaxed and refreshed after a glorious night's sleep in our to-die-for bed. For breakfast, we strolled over to the main house where chefs prepared our made-to-order omelets, and we indulged on bagels, cheese grits, biscuits and other Southern treats. When we got there at the right time, we could even eat on the terrace.

Then it was off to the beach where chairs, umbrellas and towels were provided by the inn. For lunch, we'd run back up to the inn to grab from an assortment of gourmet tuna, chicken and Caesar salads. We could eat on the terrace or take it back to our beach chairs.

Henderson Park Inn is truly Destin's best-kept secret. Ryan and his staff made relaxing a breeze and leaving regrettable. He says that the best time to return is in October when you can still get in the water. The staff rates room 309 in the East building as their favorite, but I have to admit the Presidential Suite has me spoiled.

"With all the amenities included in the stay, and the privacy, there is no need to leave our location," said Ryan.

Henderson Park Inn • 2700 Scenic Highway 98 • Destin, FL 32541
www.hendersonparkinn.com • 866.398.4432 • Rates: $298-$1,200

Family Friendly Fun

Spending a week at the beach with family or friends? Planning a family reunion? Then renting a condo or luxury home on the beach may be the perfect solution.

Sterling Resorts offers numerous options for a memorable vacation with all of the benefits of home. And with locations in Biloxi, Miss., Gulf Shores, Ala.; Destin, the beaches of South Walton and Panama City, Fla.; you're sure to find the one that meets all of your dreams.

With more than 20 resorts, some featuring beachside swimming, heated pools, exercise rooms and movie theaters, Sterling has just added a new option for beach vacations - luxury homes. Nineteen homes currently under Sterling management range from the three-level Destiny Lighthouse with three masters and two full kitchens to the Crystal Palace, a 4,500-square-foot, Gulf-front sprawler with room for 22. Sterling Resorts' Elite Residences are located in private neighborhoods in the Destin and Grayton Beach areas each with its own appeal to fit the needs of vacationing families.

Destin Commons

Need a little beach break? Award-winning Destin Commons, at Highway 98 and Mid Bay Bridge Road and a few blocks from Henderson Park Inn is an open-air lifestyle center offering tourists and residents upscale shopping, dining and entertainment never seen before in Northwest Florida. The 56-acre architecturally unique center has garnered a regional reputation for its well-known retail tenants and on-going community events. Concerts, community performances and charity groups are regular features throughout the center and in their pedestrian friendly Center Plaza.