Need some advice

[Mbandy]

Whimsy... You sound like a good T/A and coming from me that says a lot!

Erik... You have a lot of great ideas here. Nice to have options. As a T/A I would query someone as to what exactly they are looking for. Short answer... Excitement & nightlife then South Florida. More relaxing, long strolls on beautiful beaches then Gulf Coast. A more eclectic experience with a little of both then the Keys.

I notice that nobody has mentioned Orlando. Nothing here but me, the "Big Mouse" and many, many attractions for you to leave your ca$h. Kind of like Vegas without the slot machines. Oops... I guess I just blew any chance of getting in to the Chamber of Commerce :-)

Please keep us posted on your plans.

[Geekette]

As a resident of the Gulf Coast I think our beaches are spectacular, I may be just a bit biased. In the Clearwater area there are great beaches and Honeymoon Island state park has a beautiful beach. There is also a highspeed ferry you can take from Ft Meyers to Key West, just another option for you.
Pat

[Funnel]

Plenty of good advice!

Whimsy, I see what you mean about spending more time in Florida instead of New Orleans. There are two reasons for spending some days in New Orleans; it's a big chance that next time I go to the US I will spend some time in Florida again (thus I have a chance to see another part of that state) and also the possibility to meet up with some of the C@'s in New Orleans before the cruise.
As you suggested we will rent a car in Florida and drive around a lot.

Michael, maybe we have to think a bit about what we would like to do. I know my friend will try to find a golf course and waste one day there. We're in for both some "energy" and relaxing time. Orlando is an optio too.

Pat, that's another good idea, to take the fast ferry to Key West. We have to consider that too!

It seems we will need half a year over there...
Wait, I think our company has an office in Orlando. Wonder what they are working with there? Maybe we can have some kind of "job rotation" and work there for a couple of weeks...

We have started to "roll the ball". Just waiting for our TA to come up with a first suggestion about flights. I have to admit I usually book everything myself, but this time I think a TA can be of good help.

Thank you all!

/Erik

[Hooked]

Well there was one mention about beaches in and around Sarasota. Funnel I am stating the they are the best! Siesta Beach was the #1 beach in the US last year. No bars or stuff like that but a beautiful wide white sand y beach(like baby powder) Lido is also great Anna Marie island is like being in the keys. If I didn't already have my place rented for Jan- March. you could rent that. If you're interested in the Sarasota area let me know maybe I can find you a place to rent in my park. Sarasota Rental Homes | Retirement Rentals and Rent-To-Own homes in Sarasota, Florida