‘Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans’ – John Lennon

My favorite quote. And with all the travel disruptions over the past two years, this never rang more true.
However, with restrictions easing worldwide, it seems that our pent-up wanderlust is kicking in big time. Carla’s travel bookings are soaring with trips being booked everywhere from Hawaii to Egypt. So, great news for those of us longing to get back on the road.

This particular trip was to check off a bucket-list experience. For a die-hard Yankee fan like Carla, a trip to Tampa for Spring Training promised to be a major event. So what happens? The players and owners get into a contractual dispute and the Spring Training games we planned to see were canceled!
So…a not so bad plan B. A trip to sunny Florida to set out and explore the Best of Tampa and The Gulf shores.

Stay and play
Staying at a Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is always fun. We love discovering the music memorabilia tucked into all the walls and hallways.

Like Elvis’ gold piano and Steven Tyler’s snakeskin suit.

We love the live music in the cafe.

We love the wide choice of restaurants and bars.

And we love relaxing by the pool when it’s time to chill.

Eats and drinks
There’s no shortage of interesting finds when it comes to restaurants and bars. During our short stay we discovered a few can’t miss standouts…

The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City is a historic landmark. Come here to take in the festive atmosphere, rich architectural details, sangria made at your table and a lively flamenco show.

Ulele – named for a legendary Florida Indian princess is located in the historic Tampa Heights Waterworks Building features native inspired dishes like alligator hush puppies and Freshwater Catfish “Chief Osceola”.

Water is everywhere in Tampa, and a waterside drinks are a must. We enjoyed an Aperol Spritz and shrimp cocktail at Anchor and Brine as we watched the boats pass by on the Garrison Channel.

Venturing out
Siesta Key. Just over an hours drive from downtown a different world awaits. Sitting at Tripadvisor’s no. 2 spot for best beach towns in America , this charming, laid back island boasts a powdery white-quartz sand beach and turquoise waters you’d expect in the Bahamas.

Siesta Key Village A short stroll from the beach is a colorful collection of Tiki Bars, restaurants and shops. This is also the perfect spot for enjoying Florida cuisine.

Check out Gilligans for a real island vibe and a killer Mai Tai.

The SKOB (Siesta Key Oyster Bar) cools thugs off with cold beer and live music.

The Cottage features an eclectic menu enjoyed in a tropical courtyard. Check out the tapas menu with short rib grilled cheese bites and Tina poke tostadas.

To start your day, brunch is the way to go… Crabcake Benedict at Another Broken Egg Cafe. Or an omelet La Parisienne at the Bonjour French Cafe.

Clearwater Beach. Drive across the causeway, take in the spectacular views of Old Tampa Bay on your way to another great beach destination. Catch an amazing sunset while sipping tropical drinks and a grouper sandwich at the Sandbar.

In the city
Stroll The Riverwalk. 2.4 miles of walkable, bikeable and Segway-able entertainment and culture along the Hillsborough River as it flows into Tampa Bay. Just a few of the walk’s highlights include…

The Florida Aquarium is home to tens of thousands of fish in the Coral Reef exhibit.

From Sail Pavilion take a water taxi, rent an SUP (Stand up Paddleboard) or take a sunset cruise to get out on the water.

Complete your day at the North End of the walk. Relax on the lawn from an Adirondack chair, after exploring the unique shopping, and seemingly endless choices of eateries at the Heights Public Market.

All that in just 5 days. So much to see, do, eat, drink…we almost forgot about baseball…almost! We’ll be back next Spring when the Boys of Summer return.

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