Travel Tidbits: One More Faux European Hot Spot and Swinging Golf Savingsby Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger 06 May 2008 11:50 PM In a previous blog I provided tips on how you could save on your summer jaunt abroad (F.Y.I.--one British pound currently costs $2) by getting your Euro-fix in the States. From Wisconsin to Texas, New York to Michigan the good ol' US of A is chock full of destinations that are overflowing with European flair. One city that I failed to mention in my previous blog is Tarpon Springs, Florida. The sunny locale is oozing with Mediterranean charm. More than a century ago Greek immigrants traveled to Tarpon Springs and turned it into one of the leading areas for sponge diving. Today the sun-drenched city is a home away from home for Greeks and their colorful culture. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral--a miniature version of Istanbul's Hagia Sophia--is a hotspot in the area. If you are looking for authentic Greek dishes head over to Mama's, a restaurant founded by former sponge divers. It's where locals and tourists gather to watch belly dancers shake their groove things while dining on classic Mediterranean fare. Florida is also where golf lovers are packing fareways to take advantage of outstanding travel deals. For example, right now the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is offering a Girlfriends Getaway package. For $179 per room per night you will receive accommodations in a guest room featuring a furnished balcony overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, two reserved beach chairs, complimentary greens fees at the resort's championship golf course, unlimited playing time on six tennis courts, access to the resort's spa and fitness center (exercise room, whirlpool, sauna, and steam room), valet parking, and afternoon tea and cookies at 4 p.m. daily. The offer is good from May 27 through September 30, 2008. Meanwhile, in Palm Beach Gardens the entire family can get in on the action at the PGA National Resort and Spa, which is offering the "Unlimited Family Fun Fore All" package. For just $198 per room your family will receive unlimited golf for adults on a green that has hosted more golf tournaments than any other in the nation. The price also includes range balls, breakfast daily, and one 30-minute golf clinic per family. In addition, your children will be treated to two Cubs Club morning sessions, where they'll participate in outdoor games, swimming, crafts with professional staff. Kids under 12 can also play golf for free with an adult after 2 p.m., and they receive half-price meals. The deal also includes 20% off spa services. The package is good from May 1 through September 30, 2008. Related Articles: Travel Tips: Instead of Europe Consider... Part 2 Travel Tips: Instead of Europe Consider... New Payment Options for Tourist in New York Traveling Abroad with a Weak Dollar Staying Healthy on Trips Abroad What To Know Before You Visit---AUSTRIA, SPAIN and PORTUGAL What To Know Before You Visit--IRELAND, SWITZERLAND and POLAND What To Know Before You Visit--FRANCE Learn more about Michele Cheplic  Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism. Relevanttravel tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Community Tags Europe, florida, golf, Travel, travel deal Discuss this article
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