August 4, 2009

Family Summer Fun

The summer months are a popular time for families to visit Amelia Island, where there are plenty of activities to occupy even the most restless summertime soul. One family favorite is Amelia River Cruises, where passengers can watch dolphins frolic in the river, see wild horses run along Cumberland Island, and take in the island’s magnificent sunsets. For more horsing around, families love a leisurely horseback ride along Amelia’s pristine, white sand beaches. Then there are nature programs, fly fishing, kayaking, hiking trails at Ft. Clinch State park, exploring the wildlife on a Segway Safari, and, of course, frolicking along the gorgeous beaches! And depending on where you stay, you can enjoy a variety of kids programs offered at many of the island’s award-winning resorts. Summer is in full swing, and there is a world of opportunity on Amelia Island just waiting to be discovered.

Start planning your trip by visiting www.ameliaisland.com

Sea for Yourself

An island, by definition, is surrounded by water, and Amelia is no exception. And visitors soon find themselves hemmed in by an ocean of aquatic opportunities to make the most of Amelia’s liquid assets. For something a little fishy, head down to one of the island’s numerous charter fishing companies to spend the day reeling in Flounder, Bluefish, Reds, and other local favorites. Take your pick of deep sea fishing, backwater fishing, or fly fishing in Fernandina Beach. You can also spend the day on the water kayaking, sailing, with private boat rentals, or even narrated river cruises for a historic tour of Fernandina’s beautiful waterways. If you really want to get immersed though, grab your mask and fins for some scuba and snorkeling fun. Even if all you want to do is sit back and relax with a beach chair and umbrella on Amelia’s 13 miles of beautiful, pristine beaches, you’ll still have the gorgeous blue-green Atlantic waters as a constant companion.

Come sea for yourself.
 

Prestigious Palm Two Status Awarded To Amelia Island Plantation

Amelia Island Plantation was recently awarded the prestigious Palm Two status by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), becoming one of only 26 properties to achieve the designation. Amelia Island Plantation has shown a consistent devotion to cost-saving “green” practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources. In a continued effort toward receiving the Palm Three designation, the Plantation is utilizing biodegradable plastic, computerized energy-saving HVAC systems in its oceanfront Amelia Inn, low-energy and long-lasting fluorescent lighting resort wide, towel re-use programs, reclaimed water for irrigating its landscaping and golf courses, clean and green pest control and housekeeping products, and saving water and energy in laundry operations.

The New “Face of Travel”

Paco Saldaña, director of guest services at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, has been selected as the U.S. Travel Association’s national “Face of Travel.” With more than 16,000 votes cast, Saldaña was selected as the official industry spokesperson in June. He will share his message with media, policymakers, and other stakeholders as a travel ambassador. Saldaña has been with The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island since 1996. For more information on the “Faces of Travel” initiative and to download the winning video, visit meetings mean business

To find Saldaña on Twitter and follow him throughout his travels, visit  http://www.twitter.com/faceoftravel

Congratulations, Paco!

Great Southern Tailgate Cookoff

The inaugural Great Southern Tailgate Cookoff will be held October 30-31, 2009, along the waterfront in historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Cooking and preparation takes place on October 30 with the competition and awards ceremony being held October 31. Approximately 30 teams are expected for the competition – from “Shade Tree Cooks” to semi-pro teams. The event will be sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS), the world's largest organization of barbeque and grilling enthusiasts. KCBS sanctions almost 300 barbeque contests coast-to-coast throughout the United States.

How Sweet It Is!

Fernandina’s Fantastic Fudge has developed a new ice cream flavor using their homemade fudge. The new flavor, Fudgetastic, is a blend of vanilla ice cream with a caramel swirl, caramel cups and their incredible, homemade fudge. For more information on Fernandina’s Fantastic Fudge, visit their website http://www.fantasticfudge.com
 

Teacher’s Pet

To show her appreciation for the countless hours of tying shoelaces, creating lesson plans, grading quizzes and reading essays, Amelia Island is moving Florida’s teachers to the head of the class. Teachers can relax, unwind and take advantage of some amazing discounts and rates, exclusively for them. For more information, visit the specials here at our teacher deals page. Pencils down!
 

YouTube.com Amelia island on youtube tv….

In addition to souvenirs and lasting memories, visitors to Amelia Island often leave with gigabytes of video on their digital cameras and camcorders. Amelia has decided to create her own page on YouTube.com to give a little video preview of what she has to offer. Right now you can watch video clips of a reenactment at Fort Clinch State Park, and some fun at Fernandina’s Fantastic Fudge. Take a look at the Amelia Island CVB  website and check back for more clips to come. If you’ve got some video of your experience on Amelia Island you’d like to share, just send us a message through YouTube.com.

Pablo’s Mexican Restaurant

Opened in 2007 in historic downtown Fernandina, Pablo’s Grill and Cantina is fairly new to the island but has quickly built a hungry fan base. Pablo Madrigal and his brother Fernando serve up a mouthwatering menu of traditional Mexican dishes for lunch and dinner, including burritos, tacos and a local favorite, savory fajitas. The two frequently introduce new dishes, much to the delight of their patrons. Guests feel welcome and relaxed in the restaurant’s laid back atmosphere, where a large outdoor patio provide the perfect setting for large parties or warm Florida nights. Pablo’s also features a full bar and stays open late Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. It’s a great place to dine, dance and drink Margaritas late into the evening.

For more information, call (904) 261-0049.