urricanes, Violence, Disney - if such headlines put you off visiting Florida, then I appeal to you - think again. The best kept secrets of this 'Sunshine State' are perhaps written between the lines by those who love this spot and wish to keep it to themselves! 

South West Florida's coast line offers some of the world's finest white sand beaches, combined with a winter climate, second to none, for most English tastes.  I suggest this just might be your dream holiday destination. Now overwhelmed by Florida's well publicised 'artificial entertainment' venues, the natural beauty of such places as Marco Island and Naples are too often understated. 

I defy anyone not to find 'Tiger Tail Beach' a breathtaking spot - this is Marco Island's Gulf Coast shore line.  The beach has 'National Park' status to protect many of its live sea shells, but you may experience hours of relaxing pleasure collecting empty shells upon this unique stretch of beach.  The warm, shallow waters of the Gulf entice even the least enthusiastic bather.  Blessed with fine weather, your visits to Marco Island will become wonderful memories for the rest of your life.   In the evenings, choose to dine at waterside restaurants, such as those to be found on Venetian Bay, and your halcyon days will be complete.

Discerning visitors to this coast will find a charm and magic not easily experienced elsewhere.  'Down-town' Naples offers a rare combination of exclusive and modest homes centred around the attractive Fifth Avenue shops.  Stylish homes, peacefully set in open gardens, are shadowed by Royal Palm trees leading down to the glorious beach. 

In the wider neighbourhood many spacious, elegant villas have only recently been built.  Often structured within landscaped communities, the rapid expansion of new homes proves the popularity of this delightful place  Easily found 'show houses' are open for viewing most days.  With the time to satisfy curiosity it is easy to be tempted into an investment.  Many British owners have discovered the virtues of buying such a second property.  By our own standards, prices are cheap and, if desired, rental income is certain. 

'Florida life' is different....the abiding memory is that it's little short of idyllic.  So experience Florida for everything England doesn't offer you.  Don't expect to find spectacular countryside or a real sense of history, but relax and enjoy the sophisticated, gentle lifestyle.  

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