Naples is only two hours away from my home so I've had the pleasure of many weekend visits to the city. It's a sophisticated city with a resort atmosphere. It has a prime location near the Gulf of Mexico and a wonderful subtropical climate. It may be a smaller city but I experience a new adventure with each visit. Naples is widely known for it's sixteen miles of public beaches and shell gathering but you can add so much more to your itinerary during a visit.

If you like the idea of someone else doing the driving then try the tours that are available. Everglades Excursions provides half and full day trips to the Everglades. Naples Trolley Tours will provide narrated tours through the historic and shopping areas. You will have the chance to see one of the largest herds of manatees if you take a nature tour with 10,000 Islands Tour Company Inc. One of my favorites was a drive up to Babcock Wilderness for a swamp buggy tour to see the elusive panther and alligators. Naples even has it's own 52 acre zoo with a botanical garden.

If you have an interest in the culture of Naples then try visiting some the many art galleries to experience the sophistication of the area. The performing arts and theater community is very active. There are various museums including the Collier County Museum which can help enlighten you on the history of the area.

Many people go to Naples just to shop in it's upscale shops and trendy boutiques. If you become a regular visitor you will learn the names of shopping areas like Bayfront, Olde Naples 5th Avenue and The Village on Venetian Bay. There are plenty of stores to satisfy all shopping needs. Dining doesn't always have to be fine. The choices are abundant even if you prefer casual dining. There is a variety in food from pizza to fusion. So you can adjust your dining to your budget accordingly.

Naples does not leave out the nature lover or the active traveler. There's fishing any way you want it and boating. The golfing enthusiast can always find a nearby golf course or they could always stay at the Ritz Carlton Golf Resort. Then there are the miles of beach which has actually been voted the best beach in America by the Travel Channel. A great way to spend the day relaxing especially if you are staying at a resort that is beach front. Naples host a range of accommodations from high quality resorts to small scale motels and condominiums. It's an easy choice once you decide whether you want to walk to the beach or drive to the beach. So the next time you are in southwestern Florida consider Naples as a place to stay and play.

Learn more about this author, T Byrd.
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