Stepping on to the glistering white sand that lines Florida’s Anna Maria Island I had my first glimpse of what ‘paradise’ must be like.
Stretching as far as the eye can see and with waves crashing in, it’s not hard to understand why these beautiful beaches make America’s Gulf Island’s so popular with travellers all over the world.
With barefoot millionaires gracing island’s three cities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, and the chilled-out and laid back nature of those who live there it’s also easy to see why this has become one of the most expensive and sought-after areas to live or own a holiday home.
After just a few minutes walking along the shoreline with the clear, warm water lapping against my feet and the sun blazing down I was relaxed and revived from the nine-hour plane journey into Tampa.
The island is lined with resorts and guesthouses but unlike some European seaside destinations, there are no tower blocks overshadowing the scenery.
Instead, in this old-time Florida that feels – thankfully – like it hasn’t quite caught up with modern life, the accommodation is nestled away and fairly understated.
It’s that – and the relaxed way of life of the Floridian’s – that makes Anna Maria so seductive.
There are no fast food restaurants or loud karaoke bars on every corner. But you can find everything you want, including all manner of cuisine and bars which boast Happy Hours between 8pm and 11pm if you ask the locals to point you in the right destination.
Without doubt one of the biggest draws of the Gulf Coast is the breathtaking vibrant sunsets, which are something you can guarantee every single night all year round.
When it comes to food there’s no shortage of choice or helpings. Each of the three cities that complete the island are full of outstanding eateries.
The Island Creperie in historic Bridge Street is a must. With more than 35 variations in what can fill a pancake from fruits and whipped cream mixed with rum to ground stilton, sirloin steak and walnuts it’s no surprise that this little restaurant in Bradenton Beach has also been home to a long list of celebrity guests – not to mention a favourite haunt of Cameron Diaz.
At the beautiful, picturesque Harrington House, where you can book bed and breakfast on the edge of the beach, the first meal of the day can be anything you want, from a simple bowl of cereal and toast to a dish from the chef.
The more traditional holidaymakers should not visit Anna Maria without trying out the Rod & Reel Pier restaurant where you can order just about anything – it all costs you small change and get a stunning view of the water, and if you’re lucky some passing dolphins, as well.
Completely relaxed and incapable of doing much – a state I can guarantee you will be in within hours of arriving on Anna Maria – it was somewhat ironic that the next stage of my trip was going to be the complete opposite.
Flaked out in the back of a minibus simply the idea of Disney Orlando had me pining for an afternoon nap.
But from the moment you pull up at Disney’s resorts and see the beaming faces of the countless staff who want to wish you a ‘magical day’ you mysteriously summon an unknown energy for what lies ahead.
Once inside any of the grand and palacial hotels – we stayed at the Boardwalk Inn – you know you are somewhere magical.
Every tiny details has been Mickey’ed or Minnie’d, from the wake up call in your room to the waffles at breakfast.
For anyone still sceptical about whether they will enjoy “the greatest place on earth” the only advice is – you have to go. Catapulted back to my childhood, it wasn’t long before I could be seen racing, with scores of children towards Donald Duck, Goofy or Buzz Lightyear.
In Disney you quickly become enveloped in the magic and fantasy. Try as you will not to get caught up, you will find yourself as awestruck as any four-year-old after half an hour. We had around two days to take a peek at four parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and MGM Studios – and it’s amazing just what you can do when you’re racing against the clock.
I made it on no fewer than 15 thrilling rides – including the latest “Everest” heart stopper at Animal Kingdom and the raved about “Soarin” at Epcot – and packed in a handful of shows. The beauty of staying at one of the many resort hotels is the proximity of the parks – not to mention the “magic hours” that residents are given in the park when the rest of the visitors have to go home.
For families with young children there’s a chance for rest and recuperation in between – with a variety of swimming pools and activities like crazy golf if you need a break from the rides.
The magic of Florida is being able to do whatever you like, whenever you like. Combining the thrills and spills of the happiest place on earth with the most beautiful place on earth can’t be recommended highly enough.
Factfile:
My trip was arranged by Florida’s Gulf Islands and Disney. Visit www.annamariaisland-longboatkey.com and www.disneyparks.co.uk. I stayed at the Tortuga Inn Beach Resort, which boasts luxurious condominiums, breathtaking views and private pools. Visit www.tortugainn.com or www.floridaboutiquehotels.co.uk.
Flights to Tampa with BA start from £477 including tax, to book visit www.ba.com or call 0870 850 9850.
