We are going to Ft. Myers in December for couple of days, followed by couple of days in Everglades, then 4 days in Ft. Lauderdale. Now,because of Katrina damage, we are having to cancel our reservations at Flamingo. Question is where should we stay for those 2 days? Is Naples similar to Ft. Myers? (this is our first visit to Fl). Is there another place? We are travelling with our kids ages 14, 12 and 6.
Thanks

Naples is more "upscale" than Ft. Myers and a whole lot more expensive. If you want an Everglades experience, what about checking out Everglades City -- a couple of rather rustic places to stay -- the old Rod and Gun Club is interesting and there's a B&B in an old bank building. Boat and swamp tours from near there.

I would substitute Key Largo for Flamingo. I'd probably head straight to Key Largo from Ft. Myers. Plan on some kayaking and/or snorkelling at John Pennekamp State Park. Then explore the Everglades on your way back to Ft. Lauderdale. You'll enter at the Florida City entrance (just as if you were going to Flamingo). Check out the website to see what stops interest you (be sure to include the Anhinga Trail). Take a picnic with you as there are no food concessions in this part of the park (except for Flamingo - and I don't know what's open there)

what kind of damage at flamingo? assume you are talking about the accomodations in the everglades?

we are going in January.

I just called flamingo lodge. they hope to be open by Dec 2nd. Don't know if that helps you or not. you can stay in homestead or florida city and drive in and out of the park. the anhinga trail is near the entrance to the park and very worthwhile. flamingo itself is about 40 miles down, but can go in and out in a day and see echo lake/pond and other things on the way down.

the best western in homestead is probably the best of the bunch of motels in that area. nothing that fabulous. check out tripadvisor.com

one more thing. can stop at shark valley - on the way across lower florida from naples/fort myers. rt 41 I think. they have lots of birds, and a tram ride into the everglades.

everglades city is pretty tacky I hear. those rides on any boats that make noise mean you won't see very much!

also in naples - check out corkscrew swamp on line. that may appeal to you.

also holiday inn on the main st is nice and reasonable for naples.

Corkscrew Swamp, near Naples, is a very special place. Ask the volunteers to help you locate birds and other wildlife. You will love it.