St. Augustine, FL Review

Park your car: Florida's oldest city is a walking town
That is, of course, if you'd rather not be in a horse-drawn carriage!   We once had a carriage driver that looked just like Tom Petty.  We still talk about him.   In his carriage, we clip-clopped our way over to Flagler College, perhaps the prettiest campus in America.  Wow, what great architecture.   (Flagler was an industrialist who loved Florida;  he built a railroad all the way to Key West and lots of architectural icons).  Downtown St. Augustine, in its beautiful waterfront location, also has lots of great restaurants, bars, shopping and one very famous fort, for the history buffs in your clan.  Castillo San Marcos will hold their attention, as will the historic village, with its ancient school.   Pack your best walking shoes and just wander around, discovering one treausure after the next.   

Luxurious Casa Monica
If budget allows, make a reservation at Casa Monica.  This beautiful and luxurious hotel is within walking distance of historic downtown and the college.   It exudes Olde Florida glamour and makes a prrrr-fect home base.   Rooms run $250-$500 per night.  A less expensive option is the Hilton, which has wonderful balcony rooms overlooking the old part of town, for under $200 per night.   Just past the fort on the north end are even more affordable properties, and you can still walk to Old Town from them. 

The Fountain of Youth
What looks like a cheesy tourist trap is actually a really nice attraction.  The Fountain of Youth itself is anti-climactic,but the grounds are beautiful and wild peacocks are roaming around.   There are historical exhibits, places to picnic, and a little gift shop, plus a train ride.  This is a good value for the $8 or so that it costs to get in. 

Christmas in St. Augustine
Christmas is my favorite time to visit - temperatures are crisp but not painful.  Blankets feel nice during a carriage ride.  Best of all, the Lion's Bridge and whole town downtown area are festooned in twinkling lights - giving this historic setting a touch of magic.   If you feel a chill, nip into your favorite little bar or restaurant.  I found live jazz in a cozy cigar bar on the oldest street in town.   

Libby's Hot Tip:  In spring 2008, the Lions Bridge was under construction, and a large, temporary bridge has been put in.   There is some construction noise from the project;  light sleepers might want to book rooms that face inward, toward the town, rather than toward the water.  Inquire at your hotel.

The Bottom Line:  Libby Loves It!