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Taste of Hobe Sound – Casual Dining at its Best

By
Florida Funmeister
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So we were traveling the Treasure Coast and looking for a place to have dinner. That’s when we found Taste in Hobe Sound while perusing TripAdvisor. They list themselves as casual dining, but they are so much more.

It took us a while to find the place at the intersection of Bridge Road and A1A in the Historic District of Hobe Sound. But when we got there, it was worth the effort.

Bigger than it Looks

At first blush, it looks like a sports bar. There are flags and posters for the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles. And a number of large screen TVs are anchored to sports channels.

At first blush, Taste looks like a sports bar.

We parked ourselves at the bar. But after an initial order, we did a little investigating. There is an adjoining inside dining room and an outdoor dining area as well.

The indoor dining area is bigger than it appears from the outside.

There’s dining and conversation on the inside. But the outside dining area also is the home to great entertainment. They have hosted musical performances from David Morin as Elvis, a Neil Diamond tribute with Neil Zirconia, Mickey B. Music as well as a number of special parties and themed events.

And the outdoor dining area is well laid out and well equipped to handle all kinds of occasions.

Arrangements for an evening of entertainment were underway when we stoppped by.

The Food

But as nice as the ambiance is, the food is the star of the show. Our visit was simple. I ordered a Mediterranean Chicken Wrap while Mrs. Funmeister had a pick two with a Turkey Club and French Onion soup. We were surprised and delighted by both the portions and the taste.

Our sandwiches were delicious and generous.

I was delighted as a special was Jicama slaw. I’d not had that since we dined at the Perch 360 when we were in Punta Gorda.

But that’s an indication of the 5-page menu that has something for everybody. Salads range from classic Caesar to Caprese, to their signature Savannah Gorgonzola House Specialty. Seafood delights highlight the starters. How about Escargot, Bruschetta, crab cakes or even Mrs. Peters’ Smoked Fish Dip.

Of course there’s a full line of sandwiches, wraps, tacos and a wonderful Maine Lobster Roll. The entrees are just as special. There’s Fillet Mignon, Chicken Gizmonda, Mussles Fra Diavalo or Shepherd’s Pie. You can find descriptions of these and more at Taste’s online menu.

For drinks, there’s beers, wines, spirits and a full bar.

A Great Place for Foodies

Yes, Taste is casual dining, a great place to meet friends for dinner, drinks, fun and perhaps even to view a game. But it’s a great place for foodies. Our first time was a surprise, but the next time will be intentional. We can suggest this as a great little place on Florida’s Treasure Coast.

Delray Beach Green Market – One of Florida’s Best

By
Florida Funmeister
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0

Recently our travels took us to Delray Beach. There, we discovered their weekly “Green Market.” We have been to a few farmer’s markets. As far as we are concerned this is one of the best.

Dogs and kids are part of the crowd in Delray Beach,

The Vendors

As we understand it, the Delray Beach Green Market got its start more than 20 years ago. Originally. it was a project of the local Community Redevelopment Agency. Since then, it has grown to nearly 70 vendors in the Old School Square Park.

Of course there are the traditional produce vendors. But there’s so much more. In browsing the various booths we found baked goods, handcrafted items, handmade soaps, kitchenware, public service groups and informational displays.

Farmer’s Market Honey was doing a brisk business

We were delighted to find so many specialty vendors. Farmer’s Market Honey had a wide variety of specialty and infused honey (we got some). Also, Gratitude Gardens Farms out of Loxahatchee had a wonderful display. They specialize in sprouts, micro greens, mushrooms, turmeric, ginger and fruits.

Gratitude Garden Farm doing it the natural way.

Mrs. Funmeister stocked up on some fresh baked bread from The French Bakery. In the meantime, I decided to take a look at some of the many different kinds of artisan granola from Laurie’s Pantry.

Just another example of items you cannot find just anywhere.

The Entertainment

Like many of the farmer’s markets we have attended, there was some nice entertainment. Music was provided by a duo who played and sang popular tunes. He played a big acoustic guitar while she provided rhythm on the conga drums.

One thing we hadn’t seen at other farmer’s markets was a “Holiday Carousel.” The giant merry-go-round dominated the center of the square and was a hit for young and old alike.

The Delray Beach Carousel is a fixture, behind it is a 100-foot Christmas tree erected just for the holiday season.

In addition to the regular entertainment there was people watching. There were children, some colorful individuals and dogs. We saw lots and lots of dogs. In fact, Delray Beach might have set the record for the pooch parade.

In Conclusion

If you’re down in Delray Beach, make certain to stop by this weekly gathering. It has a ways to go to match the Sarasota Farmer’s Market – which still tops our list. Nevertheless, the Delray Beach Green Market is a wonderful compendium of booths and displays, there’s music and you might even catch a ride on the carousel.

You might also want to visit the Historic Cason Cottage Museum – which also is nearby. We hope to tour and tell you about later.

Holiday Travel Record Predicted This Year

By
Florida Funmeister
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Officials of the AAA tell us that this year, Christmas and Thanksgiving will combined for a holiday travel record. In fact, more than 6.1 million Floridians will be on the road for last holidays of the year. That’s 300,000 more than last year.

Here in the Sunshine State, most of them will be going by car. We’re told 5.5 million will travel by auto. Additionally, there will be 332,500 by air. That’s up by 15,000 over last year. And the trains, busses and cruise ship category will log in 230,600 passengers. That’ll be up an estimated 9,300 over last year’s holiday season.

Lots of folks will be traveling for Christmas.

“Holiday cheer is at an all-time high this year, with unemployment at historically low levels, and noted improvements in both disposable income and household net worth,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group.

Busiest Travel Days On the road

The 6.1 million Floridians and visitors traveling by automobile should find only marginal delays throughout the holiday week. Nationally, drivers could experience double the travel times on Thursday and Friday afternoon.

At the airport

The AAA’s flight booking data revealed that most travelers depart two to four days prior to the Christmas holiday, Dec. 21-23, with the 22nd being the single busiest air travel day of the holiday week. Christmas Eve is the best day to travel, with the lowest average price per ticket ($527) and the fewest crowds of the holiday week.

Gas Prices Should Drop Before the Holidays

Gas prices have been somewhat erratic this month. Since jumping 11 cents last week, the state average has steadily declined. It has averaged about a penny per day. At last report Florida gas prices averaged around $2.50 per gallon. The year-over-year increase was largely due to higher crude oil prices – which are $7 per barrel more than this time last year.

During last year’s holiday period, Florida gas prices averaged $2.20 per gallon. In that time, the state average declined from $2.25 on December 21, to $2.16 on January 1.

“The state average may not return to last year’s levels in time for the holidays, but lower gas prices are coming,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group.

Click here to view daily state and local gas prices

Prepare Your Car

Those who follow us know we advocate pre-trip checks and carry a traveling tool box in case of minor repairs. However, more than 853,000 motorists will call AAA for assistance at the roadside this holiday season. Dead batteries, flat tires and lockouts will be the leading reasons AAA members will experience car trouble.

The AAA recommends motorists take their vehicles to a trusted repair facility to perform any needed maintenance before heading out on a road trip. And remember to slow down and move over for stopped emergency vehicles at the roadside. It’s the law in all 50 states. Click here for AAA tips on preparing your vehicle for the road

Minimize Stress; Prevent Road Rage

The holidays can be a stressful time; AAA encourages drivers to maintain a cool head, and focus on reaching their destination safely. AAA offers these tips to help prevent road rage:

  • Do Not Offend: Never cause another driver to change their speed or direction. That means not forcing another driver to use their brakes, or turn the steering wheel in response to something you have done.
  • Be Tolerant and Forgiving: The other driver may just be having a really bad day. Assume that it is not personal.
  • Do Not Respond: Avoid eye contact, don’t make gestures, maintain space around your vehicle and contact 9-1-1 if needed.

Hotel Prices Fluctuate Slightly; Car Rental Rates Reach 10-year high

Travelers will need to budget more for car rentals this holiday season. According to AAA’s Leisure Travel Index, the daily average rental rate this Christmas and New Year’s will reach $84, 11% more than last year and the highest price in 10 years. AAA Three Diamond hotel prices have increased 1% to $153, while AAA Two Diamond hotels will average $119, 2% less than last year.

Here at Florida Fun Travel, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Safe Motoring!

It’s a Florida Flywheelers Christmas

By
Florida Funmeister
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0

Many people have not heard of the Florida Flywheelers. We are here to tell you it’s a great little trip. And the Christmas season might be the best time to see it.

We were invited out to their sprawling 370 acre site last year and had a wonderful time. They have a full slate of facilities including; a 70 building village, a tractor-pull site, a huge flea market area and a gazebo where they have a number of fun and wild competitions.

However, most of those activities come to a stop each December when they decorate for Christmas. Because this is an antique engine club, you might expect the experience to be a bit different – and you’d be right.

One of the giant steam engines alight at the Florida Flywheelers’ Park

A Tour of the Village

We were fortunate enough to get a pre-event tour of the village from Marly Warner – one of the caretakers of the facility. Each of the 70 buildings have individual owners. We could see that they had spent no small amount of time draping them with lights, putting out lighted figurines and otherwise decorating for the holiday season.

This was no small task. There literally are miles of wire and tens of thousands of bulbs. Those who follow us know we love nostalgia. There’s just something wonderful about old buildings, vintage cars, trucks and tractors that draws us. The Flywheelers is an epicenter of just that.

Izzy White was busy putting out stuffed animals at the Quilt Shop.

There are many different kinds of buildings in the village. You can find a feed store, an agriculture museum, several garages, a saloon, a tobacco & contraption shop and a feed store. We also saw a sheriff’s office, jail and a church.

Marly told us that most of the buildings are for display only. However, there are weekly services at the church. Later, volunteer Patty Kitchen showed us a loom that was part of the operation at the quilt shop where rugs were being made.

There are regular services at the Flywheelers’ church

The Tours

Flywheelers have told us their first weekend Dec. 13 & 14 was a big hit. The second and final will be Dec. 20-21. There will be trams that carry visitors up and down the streets to see the displays. Each of the vintage trams will be pulled by an antique tractor. And for those who have mobility problems, there will be a few handicapped-accessible golf carts as well.

Volunteer Dale Sult puts another string of lights on one of the vintage trams.

We learned that some of the trams had worked at theme parks in their former lives. There was one marked Boardwalk & Baseball and some others reportedly originally had been used at Walt Disney World.

It’s More Than a Ride

As fun as the ride around the Florida Flywheelers park will be, it’s more than that. Marly told us that a couple of stops are planned. One will be at Kracker Bob’s where visitors may pick up some hot apple cider. Another will be at the Ullrich Building, where there will be Hot chocolate and Santa Claus.

We loved that the Ullrich Building has a series of displays that reprise the department store windows of old. At Christmastime, they had moving figures and all the hot items for the holiday season.

This window is dedicated to the sweet treats of Christmas

The best part of the preview for us was when the sun began to set. The lights came on. That’s when we got a small glimpse of what 5,000 to 7,000 people will see over the next couple of weekends.

The Flyweeler’s Shell all lit up.

What You Need to Know

The Florida Flywheeler’s Christmas will run Friday and Saturday. It will be Dec. 20-21. The trams will run from 6-9pm. Admission is a canned good or non-perishable food item, an unwrapped toy or cash donation. The park is located at 7000 Old Avon Park Cutoff Road, Fort Meade. For additional information you may call 863-285-9121 or visit their website at www.floridaflywheelers.org

We give this place five stars. And if you cannot make it for Christmas, attend one of their other shows.

Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy – Fun at its Best

By
Florida Funmeister
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0

In our many visits to Sarasota we had driven by the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy. But we never had stopped in to see it. When we did, we found it was fun at its best. When you look up the word eclectic, this is the picture they would show you.

Pigs have wings – but do not fly at the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy.

The Outside

The Flying Pigs is just one of the myriad of outdoor exhibits we saw. The museum was founded by Marietta Lee. A nurse and EMT from Kentucky, she sought solace in art and nature. In fact, we learned that the museum was not actually named after her, but after her mother, grandmother and niece.

The signature Whimsical Flamingos, which is what you see driving by on N. Tamiami Trail.

We first mentioned this place in an earlier piece called A Saturday in Sarasota. Then, as now, it’s a mere five dollar donation. We found that to be an inexpensive charge to have full run of the place – both inside and out. It appears that the artists involved love animals. In addition to the flying pigs and flamingos, there were giraffes, a zebra, monkeys hanging from the trees and even a steampunk alligator.

Nuts, bolts, gears, springs, tools and ball bearings make up this model of the state reptile.

Visitors get an idea of what the place is all about when they reach the front door. There are a couple of fish and bird-themed sitting benches in case members of your entourage get caught up in the rooms full of interesting exhibits.

The museum foyer is almost as interesting as its interior.

The Inside

There are several rooms inside the museum. Each has a docent who can explain what you are looking at and a little about each of the artists. That is a great help, because frankly we thought some of the exhibits needed a bit of … clarification.

Some of the displays can be a bit puzzling.

The museum’s website lists literally hundreds of different artists who are involved. Their works range from standard paintings in oil, acrylics or watercolor, to pottery, statues and mixed media presentations. In any event, there are dozens of different offerings – many of which will draw the viewer in to look at the hours of work it took to make such a creation.

In one room you can go from elephants to Elvis.

We were delighted to learn that after a lengthy closing, the museum re-opened the day after Thanksgiving. But plan your trip! They are open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 1-4pm. They are closed for major holidays and really bad weather – like hurricanes, flooding and tornadoes.

In all seriousness – the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy is a great place for a date, a group of friends or to take your grandkids. We give them five stars!

Hauling Your Christmas Tree Safely

By
Florida Funmeister
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0

We know it’s that time of year, when millions of Americans will be hauling their Christmas trees home. Remember, there are better ways than tying it to your car like a prize buck. While picking the perfect tree is the fun part, the process of bringing it home can be dangerous if not done properly.

From Douglas Firs to Blue Spruce, there are a lot of choices for Christmas trees.

  “Drivers who do not safely secure their Christmas trees risk damaging their vehicle and littering the roadway with dangerous debris,” Mark Jenkins, Florida spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group told us.

Employees at tbe Big Box stores can make certain your tree is prepared for transport.

And that’s right! All we can think of is the Allstate commercial where the tree comes off the car and sends a second auto into a pole. But we have great news! The AAA has issued a list of do’s and don’ts on how best to transport your tree safely and not scratch the car!

Tree Transport Suggestions

  • Use the right vehicle. It’s best to transport a Christmas tree on top of a vehicle equipped with a roof rack. However, if you do not have a roof rack, use the bed of a pickup truck, or an SUV, van or minivan that can fit the tree inside with all doors closed.
  • Use quality tie downs. Bring strong rope or nylon ratchet straps to secure the tree to your vehicle’s roof rack. Avoid the lightweight twine offered by many tree lots.
  • Protect the tree. Have the tree wrapped in netting before loading it. If netting is unavailable, secure loose branches with rope or twine.
  • Protect your vehicle. Use an old blanket to prevent paint scratches and protect the vehicle finish.
  • Point the trunk towards the front. Always place the tree on a roof rack or in a pickup bed with the bottom of the trunk facing the front of the vehicle.
  • Tie it down. Secure the tree at its bottom, center and top. At the bottom, use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop around the trunk above a lower branch, to prevent any side-to-side or front-to-rear movement. The center and top tie downs should be installed in a similar manner.
  • Give it the tug test. Before you leave the lot, give the tree several strong tugs from various directions to make sure it is secured in place and will not blow away.
  • Drive slowly and easily. Take the back roads, if possible. Higher speeds create significant airflow that can damage your Christmas tree and challenge even the best tie-down methods.
  • Removing the tree. Be careful not to damage the vehicle when cutting or removing straps used to secure the tree. Make sure the area around the vehicle is clear to avoid injuring a person or pet. Also make sure to remove any sap from the paint or upholstery immediately.
Here’s a pictograph from our local big box store.

Don’t Be a Statistic

The AAA has advised that millions of Americans don’t secure their trees properly during transport. We agree – we’ve seen a lot of them on the roads.

This lady had plenty of room for her Douglas Fir.

So whatever kind of tree you pick, be careful to make certain it is strapped down and secured well. Once you get it home, remember to continue to follow safety precautions. Keep it well watered and mind your lights. Have a Merry Christmas and remember to follow us on floridafuntravel.com.

Alan Jay brings Classic 12 to Sebring International Raceway

By
Florida Funmeister
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We always look forward to December. It’s when the Alan Jay Classic 12 comes to the Sebring International Raceway. Those who follow us know we like airplanes and Sebring also is one of our favorite sports car race courses. And we’re not alone. The 12 Hours of Sebring recently topped the 10best list as the Number One Motorsports event in the world.

But the thing we like about the Alan Jay Classic 12 is that it’s a dual celebration. Historic Sports Car Racing brings dozens of vintage race cars to the track in a salute to America’s Oldest Sportscar Endurance Race the 12 Hours of Sebring. In addition, we get to see historic aircraft in honor of Hendricks Field. That former WWII training facility became what is now the Sebring Regional Airport.

It was from the runways and roads on the base that the course, which now is the Sebring International Raceway was carved.

Sweetie Face makes a return visit to Sebring.

That’s why they call it “Pistons & Props.”

The Aircraft

Last year, nearly a dozen planes made their way down the back stretch at Sebring. They then parked at the end of the paddock for all to see. One of our favorites – Jim Lyons’ P-51 Mustang known as “Sweetie Face” – led the way. But there were all manner of aircraft – including a bi-plane and a T-3 trainer.

The aircraft really draw a crowd,

The Cars

The airplanes will be parked in the paddock in a static display But members of Historic Sportscar Racing actually will be competing on the track. This is the last race of the season for the group. We expect some hot action – as there will be some championships on the line.

Those will include the season-ending rounds of the WeatherTech Sprint, Sasco Sports International/American Challenge and B.R.M. Enduro Challenge series. Dozens of cars from standards like Porsche, Corvette, BMW and Ferrari will be joined by exotics such as Elan, Lotus and even a Diasio on the track.

You never know what you’ll see at the Alan Jay Pistons & Props event.

New this year will be the triumphant return of the No. 7 Peugeot 908 HDi FAP of David Porter. It scored the overall 12 Hours of Sebring victory in 2011 in its prime.

This will be the first time back for the car, which is one of the last 908 HDi race cars built. The 2011 Sebring victory with Team Oreca Matmut was the third and final win for the Peugeot. We understand it will run in its original 2010 Peugeot factory livery. 

And for those who have seen the movie – yes, both Ford and Ferrari will be there.

This classic Ford GT 40 has blistered the track during past HSR competitions.

The Weekend

The Alan Jay Classic 12 is a great four day race weekend. It has something for everyone. There will be two dozen different races in a myriad of classes. An enduro that goes past sunset is planned. A night practice is on the schedule and wall to wall sessions for testing, qualifying and full completions are on the docket.

Plus fans will have their run of the place. We like to travel around – sit for a while on the viewing mounds, drive over to the paddock and see the cars, stand for a bit in the pit structure and watch the front straightaway – then maybe head over to Seven, The Sebring Raceway Hotel for a bite and to view the Hairpin.

This is a great event for sports car enthusiasts, aircraft aficionados or people just looking for some excitement and a really good time. Tickets and more are available at the Sebring International Raceway.

The Island Cow – A Sanibel Must-Stop

By
Florida Funmeister
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When we vacation we go to a lot of places that have funky and fun themes, but the food does not live up to the atmosphere. However, the Island Cow on Sanibel Island is an absolute exception.

Sanibel is one of the Gulf coast communities that is just chocked full of great places. On our first trip to Sanibel, we tried a few and reported back. This time we took a day trip to the island and got a whole new appreciation for the Island Cow.

Brightly colored on the outside, tasty on the inside.

The Cow Experience

One thing we noticed is that this place has something for just about everyone. We saw lots of different customers. There were seniors, families with kids, couples and groups of friends. It seemed like everyone knew about the fun activities available as well as the great food.

Even though we had a bit of a wait to get in, there was plenty to see and do. There were bean bag toss games for people to try, there was an iguana in a cage out back to watch, there was a plywood standup cow with a cut-out available for a photo op and plenty of chairs to sit in while you waited for them to call your name.

You can look at your phone, chat or peruse the voluminous Island Cow menu.

The Cow Fare

One of the things a wait will allow, is to study the Island Cow menu. This may have been the largest and most complete listing we have seen in all our travels. Items range from the Simple Breakfast for $6.99 to Queen Elke’s Surf ‘N Turf at $30.99.

And there’s plenty in between. We found our choices were virtually endless. There were Egg-celent Plates, Island Pancakes and Specialties in their Cow-a-Bunga Breakfast Menu. Over the rest of the day, there are Soups ‘N Stuff, Udderly Great Sandwiches & Wraps, BBQ with an Attitude, Pastabilities, Mama’s Cookin’ and many different Fishin’ Around dishes from the Gulf.

And did we mention they have a full bar and scrumptious desserts?

In addition to their main menu – which is the size of a small newspaper, The Island Cow has supplementary menus so that you do not miss a thing.

Cow Quality

But seriously, along with their “a-moo-sing decor” and the caviler way they name their dozens of menu items – The Island Cow does feature some of the tastiest and freshest food we have sampled.

At the Island Cow, they pay a lot of attention to the product they set on the table. From sandwiches to seafood, we have yet to find any complaints about the fare. Even the service has been quick, despite the fact that in both of our visits the place has been packed.

It does not hurt that the servers there carry on the Island Cow’s generally laid-back attitude. It’s where humor meets island time. They are attentive without being annoying. They let you know that as a customer – they are attending to your needs.

One of the Island Cow servers awaiting his next order…ours was a “Cow Whisperer.”

Cow Stuff

And if you are as happy with your experience as we were – you might want a souvenir. You’re in luck! The Island Cow has a special souvenir shop that houses all kinds of themed T-shirts, hats, visors and even a ring toss game.

Long sleeves, T’s caps and visors come in a myriad of color schemes.

In Conclusion

We have said that the Island Cow is a Sanibel must stop – and we cannot phrase that any other way. If you have kids or friends, it’s a great experience. There are things to see and do while you wait. The food is delicious and comes at a pretty good pricepoint. We have, and continue to. recognize this as one of the best we’ve found.

Next time we’re for sure getting breakfast.

How to Have Trouble Free Holiday Travel

By
Florida Funmeister
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0

No matter where you are traveling this holiday season, having car problems or an accident is a sure way to put a damper on things. One way to make certain you have trouble free holiday travel is to make sure your vehicle is prepared.

We have already blogged about the traveling tool box that we carry with our car. However, that is only part of the preparations we take. We want to make certain that the Funmobile will get us to where we’re going on time and in good shape.

It’s holiday travel time again.

Be Prepared

“The best way to avoid car trouble is to have your vehicle professionally inspected,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Mechanics can ensure the recent cold weather didn’t damage your car battery. They can also ensure your tires, brakes, belts and hoses are all in good shape for your trip.”

Of course, our car has plenty of warning lights and other means to let us know if there’s something wrong. In addition, we have developed an ongoing relationship with our mechanic. He lets us know if there’s something that is going to need attention so that we can take care of it before it becomes a problem.

Recommendations

  • Check your tire pressure and tread. Inspect all four tires and the spare (if you have one). Look for cuts, gouges or sidewall bulges. Check the tire tread by inserting a quarter upside down between the tread. If you can still see the top of George Washington’s head, you need new tires. Check tire pressure before driving. Inflate to the manufacturer’s specifications. 
  • Listen to and feel the brakes. If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, get them professionally inspected. 
  • Secure and test the battery. Have a service professional check your battery to determine the remaining capacity. Ensure the cable connections are clean and tight, and the hardware is secure.
  • Top off engine oil and other fluids. Ensure engine oil, coolant and brake transmission, and power steering fluids are all at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. 
  • Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner fluid. If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, it’s time for new blades.
  • Check belts and hoses. Replace belts that are cracked, glazed or frayed. As a general rule, drive belts should be replaced every 60,000 miles. Also radiator hoses should not leak or be worn, brittle, or excessively soft.
  • Replenish emergency kit supplies. Kits should include a cell phone charger, car battery booster cables, flashlight and extra batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, emergency flares or reflectors, rain poncho, basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.

Traveling

Remember, traveling can be more than half the fun. We think that being prepared means your trip won’t be spoiled. Our adage is, if you have it, chances are you won’t need it.

Let us take this opportunity to wish you a Blessed Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas, a wonderful New Year and Happy Motoring!

The Love Boat of Fort Myers – Taking an Ice Cream Cruise

By
Florida Funmeister
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In Fort Myers, The Love Boat is a quick way of taking a cruise back in time to an old fashioned ice cream shop. We had seen this place on TripAdvisor and had wanted to stop during several visits to the area. However, we just did not have the opportunity.

For a while, The Love Boat boasted both their original ice cream shop and their new and improved location. Recently, they shuttered the original shop and focused their attention on their new and improved supersized location.

There are lots of great ice cream shops along Florida’s Gulf coast. In fact, we have stopped at several of them. Recently we blogged about our trip to Joe’s Eats & Sweets on Anna Maria Island. But, the home made ice cream at the Love Boat is something special.

The Love Boat Ice Cream Ice Cream shop is a great experience.

Love Boat Experience

On our most recent trip to Fort Myers Beach, we decided to budget some time and have some tasty ice cream at the Love Boat. When we arrived, we realized why it is such a popular destination location.

The experience begins when you step out of the car and are hit by a mix of 1950s – 60s tunes. And when you are our age, sometimes you actually begin humming along or mouthing the words. Inside, you really get the feel of a mid-20th Century ice cream parlor.

You feel like you’re in the 50’s again….only better.

You can eat inside or outside. There are plenty of seating areas strategically placed around the building. Most have been landscaped so patrons can enjoy the great south Florida weather while having a tasty treat.

Love Boat Flavors

The Love Boat is like a soda shop on steroids. Not only is it much larger than the places we remember, there’s a lot more product. For instance, we counted more than 80 different flavors of ice cream before we lost track. Moreover, some of them were “seasonal flavors” such as “Apple Cider Sorbet,” “Egg Nog” and “Pumpkin Ginger.” Plus there are other choices including yogurt, sugar free and sorbet.

Yes, there are a lot of choices at Love Boat Ice Cream.

Plus you can have a sundae, a “super sundae,” a shake, malt, float or freeze. Would you like coffee? There’s both hot coffee and cold brew. Expresso and flavor shots are offered as well. One thing that is a throwback to our teenage days is the size of a cone. There’s nothing small about a small at all.

Yes, that’s the small.

After parking, we had a lady approach us in the lot and presented us with a BOGO coupon. That means we bought one of these treats and got the second one free. Did I mention that you can choose your cone? Let me tell you, there’s more than one choice.

How do you like your cone?

Between the 16 varieties of cones and nearly 90 different flavors, there literally are thousands of different combinations limited only by your imagination.

And if you cannot make it to the Love Boat in Fort Myers, there are two dozen places that you can find their premium home made ice cream. Locations include; Cape Coral, Sanibel Island, Captiva, Alva, LaBelle, Naples, Bonita, and close to Matlacha.

They even have a mobile ice cream truck that can bring this taste tempting delight to you. But we simply must recommend you visit the Fort Myers location. That’s where they make it – and the ambience is difficult to beat.

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58.1 °
55.1 °
82 %
3.2mph
0 %
Fri
70 °
Sat
75 °
Sun
81 °
Mon
73 °
Tue
62 °

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