Text from my friend who just got back

[DD]

Well said, AA.

 

[bluecat]

Gives me butterfly belly just like it was a first date.

 

[Teresa]

NWFNative - just a reminder to express your view with courtesy and respect for your fellow SoWal members- see Forum rules. DD's friend's story is special - love reading about new visitors who come to town and discover their own paradise.

Nope, this is not Destin and never could be for many reasons. Destin is its own unique place. South Walton offers a whole different feel even with all the growth and changes. There was a time I resented change to my little home town, but hey - we have actual grocery stores! Plus, some of the most incredible people have chosen to make their homes here and they make the place even more special. It's always growing and changing - in ways that make me feel proud to live here. We also have so many repeat visitors who make SoWal their own - they make and keep strong connections to the community.

The 331 bridge = excitement!!! I have experienced that feeling so many times over my life. It never goes away. Butterflies for sure.

 

[DD]

Toots.

 

[Allifunn]

Desin is great for some families. I used to vcation in Destin when my kids were young. I loved it. I do not think my family was a 30A family. Destin is perfect for some families, but it takes a certian mentality to vacation in SoWal...different strokes. I live in SoWal and could not imagine living in Destin or PBC. (because of the crowds and the development)
DD, I love you're friend's assement of SoWal!! It is a truly magical place

 

[DD]

Allifunn!

Totally agree. I know some fams that would be totally bored in SoWal (no offense;-)). That's why I asked my friend prior to her family's visit what they liked to do, what was the goal of the trip, etc. For them, SoWal fit the bill perfectly!!!

 

[Teresa]

Allifunn!

Totally agree. I know some fams that would be totally bored in SoWal (no offense;-)). That's why I asked my friend prior to her family's visit what they liked to do, what was the goal of the trip, etc. For them, SoWal fit the bill perfectly!!!

You are a good friend and advisor! And an expert on the area as you have stayed all over the coast!

 

[DD]

Aw...certainly no expert, but I can tell ya ALL the routes from and to Texas, Crab Island info, the best barstool at AJ's, FWB inside & out, and why I love SoWal soooo very much.

 

[seal]

TDC's need to STOP recruiting more and more people to come here i.e, STOP spending huge amounts of money advertising across the Southeast and Midwest. In Destin, this past summer has been the worst as far as traffic, frequent emergency vehicle runs, helicopters flying overhead and up and down the beach.

Idea: with the millions of dollars coming from BP, how about TDC scout and acquire desirable beachfront properties, now that the prices are relatively low. Take the properties and make them permanent beach access and parks so that (1) we can enjoy them for decades to come, (2) give people driving on 30A more opportunities to actually SEE the beach/water.

 

[Teresa]

What the... Ok. Yes traffic in 30A is always tough in certain places during a few months in peak season. But still, I was reminded by my hubby that the traffic is nothing compared to real cities across the country - and I should stop my whining. Actually, I avoid it when possible.. It is all perspective. If anything, the number of bike riders and golf carts all over the place are more cause for safety concern.

Still, it is great to see folks out biking, walking, running, kayaking, surfing, paddle boarding and taking full advantage of the beautiful outdoors in SoWal. This fall is the perfect time to do all that and more. Fall is our perfect season.